"I know it, I know it!" "I am glad, madame, that you have the grace to acknowledge it." "How could I speak to you so! How could I! Oh, that some blight may come upon this unhappy tongue! I, who have had nothing but good from you! I to insult you, who are the author of all my happiness! Oh, sire, forgive me, forgive me! for pity's sake forgive me!" Louis was by nature a kind-hearted man.

His feelings were touched, and his pride also was flattered by the abasement of this beautiful and haughty woman.

His other favourites had been amiable to all, but this one was so proud, so unyielding, until she felt his master-hand.
His face softened somewhat in its expression as he glanced at her, but he shook his head, and his voice was as firm as ever as he answered.
"It is useless, madame," said he.

"I have thought this matter over for a long time, and your madness to-day has only hurried what must in any case have taken place.

You must leave the palace." "I will leave the palace.