"I had not observed it, but if it offends your Majesty--" "Take it away! take it away!" cried the king.

"Pah! it chokes and stifles me! Open the lower casement, Bontems.

No; never heed, now that he is gone.

Monsieur de St.Quentin, is not this our shaving morning ?" "Yes, sire; all is ready." "Then why not proceed?
It is three minutes after the accustomed time.
To work, sir; and you, Bontems, give word for the _grand lever_." It was obvious that the king was not in a very good humour that morning.
He darted little quick questioning glances at his brother and at his sons, but whatever complaint or sarcasm may have trembled upon his lips, was effectually stifled by De St.Quentin's ministrations.

With the nonchalance born of long custom, the official covered the royal chin with soap, drew the razor swiftly round it, and sponged over the surface with spirits of wine.