I had my revolver ready to cover Rischenheim in case he should be moved to make a dash for liberty.

But he was past that: Rupert's presence was a tonic that nerved him to effort and to confidence, but the force of the last dose was gone and the man was sunk again to his natural irresolution.
"My lord," she began gently, motioning him to sit, "I have desired to speak with you, because I do not wish a gentleman of your rank to think too much evil of his queen.

Heaven has willed that my secret should be to you no secret, and therefore I may speak plainly.

You may say my own shame should silence me; I speak to lessen my shame in your eyes, if I can." Rischenheim looked up with a dull gaze, not understanding her mood.

He had expected reproaches, and met low-voiced apology.
"And yet," she went on, "it is because of me that the king lies dead now; and a faithful humble fellow also, caught in the net of my unhappy fortunes, has given his life for me, though he didn't know it.