The crowd opened and shrank from him, as though his touch was odious to them.

In vain did he seek one glance of respect or welcome amongst all these gloomy visages.

As be approached the king's chamber, the courtiers and guards barred his entrance by turning their backs, and crowding together as if by accident, repulsed him: he entered the apartments of the queen, where the royal family's dinner was prepared.

"Look to the dishes," cried voices, as though some public and well-known poisoner had been seen to enter.

The indignant prince turned alternately pale and red, and imagined that these insults were offered him, at the instigation of the queen, and the order of the king.