In this way he avoided compromising himself, therefore, which is a very difficult matter in such a case.
When Henri III. required him to answer affirmatively or negatively to his question, "Whether the duke would live?" he replied,
"I will answer your majesty in three days."
"And when will you tell me?" said Catherine, in a low voice.
"You, madame, are very different; I answer you unhesitatingly."—"Well?"
"Your majesty has but to interrogate me."
"On what day will my son die, Miron?"
"To-morrow evening, madame."
"So soon?"
"Ah! madame," murmured the physician, "the dose was by no means a slight one."