"We will speak no more of these matters.

They are too grave for us to wish to decide them in the presence of our gay young queen.

The heart of woman is always inclined to gentleness and forgiveness.

You should have borne that in mind, Gardiner, and not have spoken of these matters in the queen's presence." "Sire, it was, however, the hour that you appointed for consultation on these matters." "Was it the hour!" exclaimed the king, quickly.

"Well, then we did wrong to devote it to anything else than grave employments; and you will pardon me, queen, if I beg you to leave me alone with the bishop.
Affairs of state must not be postponed." He presented Catharine his hand, and with difficulty, and yet with a smiling countenance, conducted her to the door.