Back of them stood a score of the king's courtiers.

Many questions of state were discussed; and then Hymbercourt presented Mary's offer to King Louis.

The king hesitated.
After a long pause he spoke, looking straight ahead, at nothing; as was his custom.
"We will consult with our friends and make answer soon," he said, speaking to nobody.
Louis seemed to think that if he looked at no one and addressed nobody, when he spoke, he might the more easily wriggle out of his obligations later on.
Mary had caused to be drawn up in duplicate a treaty in accordance with the terms that she had outlined at our little council.

It was handed to Oliver when the king rose to retire to a private room, to discuss the contents with his councillors.
At the moment when King Louis rose to his feet, a herald was announced at the great hall door.
"A message from His Majesty, King Edward of England," cried the Burgundian herald.

Louis resumed his seat as though his feet had slipped from under him.
"We are engaged," answered Mary, acting well a difficult part.