"The day is not fixed," said Louise; "we must first obtain the
king's consent to our marriage."

"I shall take care it does not fail you," said the prince, quietly.

"I will strengthen your petition to the king. Now, madame, you must
forgive me for leaving you. Many greetings to your betrothed--I
shall be introduced to him to-morrow at the parade. Farewell,
madame!"

The prince made a slight bow, and, without glancing at her again,
left the room slowly and proudly.

Louise gazed after him with mournful eyes, but he did not see it; he
did not see how she fell, as if broken, to the floor, as if struck
by lightning; and when the door closed on him she held her hands to
Heaven pleadingly for mercy and forgiveness.

The portiere now opened, and the king entered; his countenance was
pale, his eyes tearful, but they sparkled with anger when he saw
Louise upon the floor. For him she was but a heartless coquette, and
he was angry with her because of the suffering she had caused his
brother, for whom he felt the deepest pity and compassion.

But that was now past; the brother could weep a tear of pity, the
king must be firm and relentless.

As he approached her, she raised herself from the ground and made a
profound and ceremonious bow.