"Let others henceforth wait for you." But she gently shook her head, as she replied: "Happiness hidden...
power concealed...

my pride should be as silent as my heart." The noise was again resumed.
"I hear Montalais's voice," she said, and she hurried up the staircase; the king followed her, unable to let her leave his sight, and covering her hand with his kisses.

"Yes, yes," repeated La Valliere, who had passed half-way through the opening.

"Yes, it is Montalais who is calling me; something important must have happened." "Go then, dearest love," said the king, "but return quickly." "No, no, not to-day, sire! Adieu! adieu!" she said, as she stooped down once more to embrace her lover--and escaped.

Montalais was, in fact, waiting for her, very pale and agitated.
"Quick, quick! _he_ is coming," she said.
"Who--who is coming ?" "Raoul," murmured Montalais.
"It is I--I," said a joyous voice, upon the last steps of the grand staircase.
La Valliere uttered a terrible shriek and threw herself back.
"I am here, dear Louise," said Raoul, running towards her.