What a state of things that would be! So do pray rouse yourself; make an effort, pray do, and do it at once, too." It was difficult to display more persuasive eloquence than Saint-Aignan did, but something still more powerful and of a more energetic nature than this eloquence aroused La Valliere.

The king, who was kneeling before her, covered the palms of her hands with those burning kisses which are to the hands what a kiss upon the lips is to the face.

La Valliere's senses returned to her; she languidly opened her eyes, and, with a dying look, murmured, "Oh! sire, has your majesty pardoned me, then ?" The king did not reply, for he was still too much overcome.

Saint-Aignan thought it his duty again to retire, for he observed the passionate devotion which was displayed in the king's gaze.

La Valliere arose.
"And now, sire, that I have justified myself, at least I trust so in your majesty's eyes, grant me leave to retire into a convent.