I beg to say that I have delivered the entire message intrusted to me by my august master, and therefore crave your royal permission to withdraw." The king lifted his right hand in assent, and the Abbe moved backward, bowing himself from the room.

De Grammont, who had come with him, met him at the door, and immediately they went to the count's house.

When they were gone, the king dismissed all save his counsellors, and I being at liberty to leave, hastened to her Grace's anteroom.

As I passed the door, my hat in my hand, I bowed to Frances, who was watching me intently.

She smiled, glanced significantly toward my hat, nodded her head to let me know that she understood, and I passed by, glad that she had the courage which I so sadly lacked.
Evidently Frances lost no time in doing her part with the king, for two hours later a page came to me in the Wardrobe, saying that the king wished to see me immediately.