She has certain prudish standards which I fear are too easily shocked, and is as self-willed as--well, as a beautiful woman--" "Ought to be," interrupted the king, laughing and finishing my sentence.
I wanted him to suspect that his gallant speeches would be repeated to me, hoping that the knowledge might temper them.
After talking a moment longer with him, I asked permission to withdraw, and at once sought Frances.

When I found her in the parlor of the duchess, I drew her to one side and told her of my interview with the king.
"You have tamed the lion," I said, "and you may accept the pension without harm to your sensitive dignity.

But please don't make a fool of yourself again by taking such a matter seriously.

Keep your head, keep your heart, keep your temper, and thrive.

Lose either, and have the whole court laughing at you.