CHAPTER XXVIII.
M.MALICORNE THE KEEPER OF THE RECORDS OF THE REALM OF FRANCE.
Two women, whose figures were completely concealed by their mantles, and whose masks effectually hid the upper portion of their faces, timidly followed Manicamp's steps.

On the first floor, behind curtains of red damask, the soft light of a lamp, placed upon a low table, faintly illumined the room, at the other extremity of which, on a large bedstead supported by spiral columns, around which curtains of the same color as those which deadened the rays of the lamp had been closely drawn, lay De Guiche, his head supported by pillows, his eyes looking as if the mists of death seemed gathering there; his long black hair, scattered over the pillow, set off the young man's hollowed and pale temples to great advantage.

It could be easily perceived that fever was the principal occupant of that chamber.

Guiche was dreaming.

His wandering mind was pursuing, through gloom and mystery, one of those wild creations which delirium engenders.