He said I was a Queen Regnant, and that made the difference.

'Not here,' I said--and I maintained my right.

Sir Robert then urged it upon _public grounds only_, but I said here I could not consent.

He then begged to be allowed to consult with the Duke upon such an important matter.

I expressed a wish also to see the Duke, if Sir Robert approved, which he said he did, and that he would return with the Duke, if I would then be prepared for the decision, which I said I would.