Fyodor Dostoevsky: The Idiot

PART IV 4. CHAPTER IV. (continued)

"Le roi de Rome," whispered the general, trembling all over.

"What? What DO you mean? What roi de Rome?"

"I-I," the general continued to whisper, clinging more and more tightly to the boy's shoulder. "I--wish--to tell you--all--Maria-- Maria Petrovna--Su--Su--Su......."

Colia broke loose, seized his father by the shoulders, and stared into his eyes with frenzied gaze. The old man had grown livid-- his lips were shaking, convulsions were passing over his features. Suddenly he leant over and began to sink slowly into Colia's arms.

"He's got a stroke!" cried Colia, loudly, realizing what was the matter at last.