The king's wife! The heart of the woman and the soul of the enthusiast both leaped at the thought.
But close at the heels of her joy there came a sudden revulsion to doubt and despondency.

Was not all this fine prospect a mere day-dream?
and how could these men be so sure that they held the king in the hollow of their hand?
The Jesuit read the fears which dulled the sparkle of her eyes, and answered her thoughts before she had time to put them into words.
"The Church redeems its pledges swiftly," said he.

"And you, my daughter, you must be as prompt when your own turn comes." "I have promised, father." "Then it is for us to perform.

You will remain in your room all evening." "Yes, father." "The king already hesitates.

I spoke with him this morning, and his mind was full of blackness and despair.