I have nothing to save for your Majesty; you are only the victim of perfidious plots." "That is true, that is true, my child," said the queen, "you are right." "Give me then, that letter, madame; time presses." The queen ran to a little table, on which were ink, paper, and pens.

She wrote two lines, sealed the letter with her private seal, and gave it to Mme.Bonacieux.
"And now," said the queen, "we are forgetting one very necessary thing." "What is that, madame ?" "Money." Mme.Bonacieux blushed.
"Yes, that is true," said she, "and I will confess to your Majesty that my husband--" "Your husband has none.

Is that what you would say ?" "He has some, but he is very avaricious; that is his fault.
Nevertheless, let not your Majesty be uneasy, we will find means." "And I have none, either," said the queen.

Those who have read the MEMOIRS of Mme.de Motteville will not be astonished at this reply.

"But wait a minute." Anne of Austria ran to her jewel case.
"Here," said she, "here is a ring of great value, as I have been assured.