On reaching the saloon adjoining the private closet of the Queen, he found Madame Concini seated at the door with her head buried in her hands, evidently absorbed in thought.

She started up, however, when he addressed her; and in reply to his request that she would announce him to her royal mistress, she replied that she would do so willingly, although she apprehended that her Majesty would not receive him, as she had refused entrance to herself.

She had, however, no sooner raised the tapestry, and scratched upon the door, than Marie, on learning who was without, desired that M.de Sully should be instantly admitted.

When the Duke entered he found the Queen seated at a table, busily engaged in writing; and as he approached her with the customary obeisance, she hastily motioned to him to place himself upon a stool immediately in front of her.
"You are right welcome, M.le Ministre," she said in a tone that was not altogether steady, although she struggled to suppress all outward emotion.

"You are doubtless already apprised that the King has withdrawn from the capital in anger, but you have yet to learn that he has left me no whit more satisfied than himself.