To seize it and kiss it gallantly, to spring to his feet and look about him were instinctive movements.

But he could see no one; and, in the hope of surprising the giver, he stole to the window.

The sound of the lute and the distant tinkle of laughter persisted.

The court, save for a page, who lay asleep on a bench in the gallery, was empty.

Tignonville scanned the boy suspiciously; a male disguise was often adopted by the court ladies, and if Madame would play a prank on him, this was a thing to be reckoned with.