Leaning over to Henry's ear, he added:
"Now you will see the volcano send forth its fire."
"There are eight of you," said the taller of the two men, this time showing not only his arm but his face, "but were you a hundred, pass on!"
"Ah! ah! the Duc de Guise!" said Henry.
"Ah! our cousin from Lorraine," said the King; "at last you will meet! How fortunate!"
"The King!" cried the duke.
At these words the other man covered himself with his cloak and stood motionless, having first uncovered out of respect.
"Sire," said the Duc de Guise, "I have just been paying a visit to my sister-in-law, Madame de Condé."
"Yes—and you brought one of your gentlemen with you? Which one?"
"Sire," replied the duke, "your Majesty does not know him."