106/117 The queen indignantly rejected it, and cast a look of contempt at the offer of protection from an enemy, then perceiving a deputy of the right, demanded his arm. So much degradation might depress, but could not overcome her. The dignity of the empire displayed itself unabated in the gesture and the heart of the woman. The excitement suspended the sitting for nearly half an hour. A deputy, rushing into the meeting, exclaimed that three _gardes du corps_ were in the hands of the people, who would rend them in pieces. |