The looks he cast, from time to time at Madame, became colder by degrees at the chilling complexion of his thoughts.

He could hardly yet despair, but he was strong enough to impose silence upon the tumultuous outcries of his heart.

In exact proportion, however, as Madame suspected this change of feeling, she redoubled her activity to regain the ray of light she was about to lose; her timid and indecisive mind was displayed in brilliant flashes of wit and humor.

At any cost she felt that she must be remarked above everything and every one, even above the king himself.

And she was so, for the queens, notwithstanding their dignity, and the king, despite the respect which etiquette required, were all eclipsed by her.