You have yourself said as much." "But that is all over, sire.

Who is there who is without stain?
You have turned away from temptation.

Surely, then, you have earned your forgiveness." "I would that the queen were living once more.

She would find me a better man." "I would that she were, sire." "And she should know that it was to you that she owed the change.
Oh, Francoise, you are surely my guardian angel, who has taken bodily form! How can I thank you for what you have done for me ?" He leaned forward and took her hand, but at the touch a sudden fire sprang into his eyes, and he would have passed his other arm round her had she not risen hurriedly to avoid the embrace.
"Sire!" said she, with a rigid face and one finger upraised.
"You are right, you are right, Francoise.

Sit down, and I will control myself.