I made another bow, and, smiling easily, answered M.Colbert.
"I was remarking, sir," said I, "that the compliment paid to you by the King of England in bestowing on you the Star from His Majesty's own breast, could not fail to cause much gratification to the King of France." He looked me hard in the eyes, but his eyes fell to the ground before mine.

I warrant he took nothing by his searching glance, and did well to give up the conflict.

Without a word, and with a stiff little bow, he passed on his way to the hall.

The moment he was gone, Barbara was by me.

Her face was alight with merriment.
"Oh, Simon, Simon!" she whispered reprovingly.