“Your majesty does not mean that for me?” asked Philippe, laughing.
“Why not?” Then turning to the Comte d’Artois, “See, brother,” she said; “has not M. de Taverney the look of a hero?”
Philippe, seeing himself thus introduced to the young prince, bowed low. He returned it, and said, “I am most happy to make the acquaintance of such a gentleman. What are your intentions in returning to France, sir?”
“Monseigneur,” answered Philippe, “my sister is my first consideration; whatever she wishes, I shall do.”
“But she has a father, I believe,” said the count.
“Never mind him,” said the queen, quickly, “I prefer Andrée under her brother’s protection, and he under yours, count. You will take charge of M. de Taverney, will you not?”
The count bowed an assent.
“For, do you know,” continued she, “that a very strong link binds me to M. de Taverney?”
“What do you mean, sister?”
“That he was the first Frenchman who presented himself to my eyes when I arrived in this country; and I had taken a very sincere vow to promote the happiness of the first Frenchman I should meet.”