holding his daughter between his knees. "I did right to call you
Mary-full-of-grace. Coyctier, leave us! Now, then, what do you want
of me?" he said to his daughter the moment the doctor had gone. "After
sending me your--"

In this danger, Marie boldly put her hand on the king's lips and said
in his ear,--

"I always thought you cautious and penetrating."

"Saint-Vallier," said the king, laughing, "I think that Bridore has
something to say to you."

The count left the room; but he made a gesture with his shoulders well
known to his wife, who could guess the thoughts of the jealous man,
and knew she must forestall his cruel designs.

"Tell me, my child, how do you think I am,--hey? Do I seem changed to
you?"

"Sire, do you want me to tell you the real truth, or would you rather
I deceived you?"

"No," he said, in a low voice, "I want to know truly what to expect."

"In that case, I think you look very ill to-day; but you will not let
my truthfulness injure the success of my cause, will you?"

"What is your cause?" asked the king, frowning and passing a hand
across his forehead.