"
"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.
"Ah, sire," she replied, "the young man you have had arrested for
robbing your silversmith Cornelius, and who is now in the hands of the
grand provost, is innocent of the robbery."
"How do you know that?" asked the king. Marie lowered her head and
blushed.
"I need not ask if there is love in this business," said the king,
raising his daughter's head gently and stroking her chin.
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