Here it is that the kings of France have been buried for these eight hundred years, in the great Abbey.
"Nom Dieu!" said one of those who spoke with us.

"You might deem that our King is nowise pressed to see the place where his forefathers lie.
For D'Alencon is riding, now and again, to Senlis, to rouse the King, and make him march to St.Denis, with the army, that the assault may be given.

But if they were bidding him to his own funeral, instead of to a gentle passage of arms, he could not make more excuses.

There are skirmishes under Paris walls, and at the gates, day by day, and the Maid rides here and there, considering of the best place for the onslaught.
But the King tarries, and without him and the army they can venture on no great valiance.

Nevertheless, come he must, if they bring him bound in a cart.