With an absent air he kissed his mother's hands, and sat himself down before receiving her permission to do so.

Considering the strict rules of etiquette established at the court of Anne of Austria, this forgetfulness of customary civilities was a sign of preoccupation, especially on Philip's part, who, of his own accord, observed a respect towards her of a somewhat exaggerated character.

If, therefore, he so notoriously failed in this regard, there must be a serious cause for it.
"What is the matter, Philip ?" inquired Anne of Austria, turning towards her son.
"A good many things," murmured the prince, in a doleful tone of voice.
"You look like a man who has a great deal to do," said the queen, laying down her pen.

Philip frowned, but did not reply.

"Among the various subjects which occupy your mind," said Anne of Austria, "there must surely be one that absorbs it more than others." "One has indeed occupied me more than any other." "Well, what is it?
I am listening." Philip opened his mouth as if to express all the troubles his mind was filled with, and which he seemed to be waiting only for an opportunity of declaring.