It was obvious that the powerful appeals which had been made to him had shaken if they had failed to alter his resolution.
What would be the result if more were made?
And more would be made; that was as certain as that darkness follows light.

Some master-card must be played now which would bring the matter to a crisis at once, for every day of delay was in favour of their opponents.

To hesitate was to lose.

All must be staked upon one final throw.
The Bishop of Meaux was waiting in the ante-room, and Father la Chaise in a few brief words let him see the danger of the situation and the means by which they should meet it.

Together they sought Madame de Maintenon in her room.