The door was closed, the lamp burned steadily, and we were alone.
I gave her a little Armagnac, which stood beside the bed for such an occasion, and she revived, and presently opened her eyes.

But I saw at once a great change in her.

The look of fear had passed altogether from her face, and one of sorrow, yet content, had taken its place.

She laid her hand in mine, and looked up at me, being too weak, as I thought, to speak.

But by-and-by, when the strong spirit had done its work, she signed to me to lower my head to her mouth.
'The King of Navarre,' she murmured-you are sure, Gaston--he will retain you is your--employments ?' Her pleading eyes were so close to mine, I felt no scruples such as some might have felt, seeing her so near death; but I answered firmly and cheerfully, 'Madame, I am assured of it.