I have no hope of penetrating, sword in hand, to Paris, I know that well.

But this war may bring round a peace; this peace will require a negotiator; that negotiator will be me.

They will not dare to refuse me then; and I will return to Paris, and will see you again, and will be happy for an instant.

Thousands of men, it is true, will have to pay for my happiness with their lives; but what is that to me, provided I see you again! All this is perhaps folly--perhaps insanity; but tell me what woman has a lover more truly in love; what queen a servant more ardent ?" "My Lord, my Lord, you invoke in your defense things which accuse you more strongly.

All these proofs of love which you would give me are almost crimes." "Because you do not love me, madame! If you loved me, you would view all this otherwise.