"It is merely my nature, for the impatient blood of the South has place in my veins, yet whatsoever a lady of France may do, you can trust me to accomplish, Monsieur." Faith! but she had a way with her which ever left me helpless, and no doubt my face exhibited how abashed I felt at the regal manner in which she fronted me.

At least I spoke no word, yet the proud look faded from her eyes, and I felt her hand touch mine.
"Forgive me, Geoffrey," she whispered softly.

"We do not doubt each other, yet I was over hasty of speech with one who has proven so loyal a friend." "Nor have I aught to forgive, Madame, or more to say, except that my words meant no injustice," I responded.

Then to avoid longer facing her I turned to where the watchful Capuchin stood.
"And now, Sir Priest, I propose being perfectly frank with you, as I do not believe this a time for mincing of words.

I am of Protestant blood; those of my line have ridden at Cromwell's back, and one of my name stood unrepentant at the stake when Laud turned Scotland into a slaughter-house.