For good or evil dissimulation is soon learnt.

With a great effort I repressed my agitation and hid my disgust.

King Louis smiled at me, deeming what he had suggested no insult.
"Your wedding shall take place at Calais," he said; and I (I wonder now to think of it) bowed and smiled.
"Be ready in a quarter of an hour," said he, and left me with a gracious smile.
I stood there where I was for the best part of the time still left to me.

I saw why Carford desired the mission on which I went, why Madame bade me practise the closing of my eyes, how my fortune was to come from the hand of King Louis.

An English gentleman and his wife would travel back with the King; the King would give his favour to both; and the lady was Barbara Quinton.
I turned at last, and made my final preparation.