It had not occurred to him or indeed to anyone before; but now that he saw the chosen woman so plainly wounded, he felt a trifle hot against his King for having disappointed her.

He set his wits to work to dispel the disappointment.
"Your Highness, the truth is there are great matters brewing in Spain.
His Majesty was needed there most urgently.

He had to decide between Innspruck and Cadiz, and it seemed that he would honour your great confidence in him and at the same time serve you best--" Clementina would not allow him to complete the sentence.

Her cheek flushed, and she said quickly,-- "You are right, Mr.Wogan.The King is right.

Mine was a girl's thought.
I am ashamed of it;" and she frankly gave him her hand.