The queen shuddered; an invisible link connected this scene with her present situation. She understood that the time must not be lost in useless conversation.
"My good woman," said she, "allow me to pass, I entreat you; you can tell me all this by-and-by."
"No, now; you must pardon me, and I must assist you to escape, that he may save my daughter."
The queen turned as pale as death.
"My God!" murmured she, raising her eyes to heaven, then turning toward the municipal,—
"Sir," said she, "have the kindness to remove this woman; you see that she is mad."
"Come, come, mother," said the municipal; "decamp!"
But the woman clung to the wall, still reiterating,—
"She must pardon me, that he may save my daughter."