But now she was nervous and uncertain of herself.

Not only had Dolores escaped her, but Don John had disappeared also, and the Princess had not the least doubt but that the two were somewhere together, and she was very far from being sure that they had not already left the palace.
Antonio Perez had informed her that the King had promised not to see Don John that night, and for once she was foolish enough to believe the King's word.

Perez came up to her as she was debating what she should do.

She told him her thoughts, laughing gaily from time to time, as if she were telling him some very witty story, for she did not wish those who watched them to guess that the conversation was serious.

Perez laughed, too, and answered in low tones, with many gestures meant to deceive the court.
"The King did not take my advice," he said.