“Diable!” again said the king; but added: “Well, as you have denied yourself the necklace, I suppose I must let you go; but, on one condition.”
“What?”
“You must be accompanied by a princess of the blood.”
“Shall it be Madame de Lamballe?”
“Yes, if you like.”
“I promise.”
“Then I consent.”
“Thanks, sire.”
“And, now,” said the king, “I shall order my ship of the line, and call it the ‘Queen’s Necklace.’ You shall stand godmother, and then I will send it out to La Pérouse;” and, kissing his wife’s hand, he went away quite joyful.