I made all possible haste, and when I entered the king's closet, he said:-- "Close the door, Clyde," but seemed unable for the moment to say more.
He could not hide his excitement, and presently began telling me in a peremptory manner that he had a very delicate piece of business for my hands.

He did not seem to feel sure of his ground, and spoke with a bravado altogether unnecessary, as though he would say I should do his will whether it suited me or not, rather than in words of respectful command.

I could see easily that his bravado was assumed for the purpose of forestalling any objection on my part.

Of course he did not suspect for one moment that I surmised what he wanted, or his words would have been: "Odds fish! To the Tower with him!" After several stammering efforts, he began: "I want you to see Du Boise, whom you will find at De Grammont's house, and tell him that I accept the offer he made this morning.

I understand he brings the treaties from France already written.