They denounced all persons who had counselled the scheme, as enemies of his Majesty and herself.

They protested their readiness to die at her feet in her defence, but besought her not to abandon the post of duty in the hour of peril.

While they were thus anxiously debating, Viglius entered the chamber.

With tears streaming down her cheeks, Margaret turned to the aged President, uttering fierce reproaches and desponding lamentations.

Viglius brought the news that the citizens had taken possession of the gates, and were resolved not to permit her departure from the city.