But if she went to stay the King's coming, she was too late.

For he was in the doorway the instant she had passed through; he had heard Nell's last speech, and now he showed himself, asking easily, "Who's the gentleman of whose society you are so ready to be relieved ?" I turned, bowing low.

The King arched his brows.

It may well be that he had had enough of me already, and that he was not well pleased to stumble on me again and in this place.

But he said nothing, merely turning his eyes to Nell in question.
"You know him, Sir," said she, throwing herself into a chair.
"Yes, I know him," said the King.