“I have mortgaged all my revenue for the ensuing year.”

“Then you have the money?”

“Certainly, for this payment; after that, I do not know what I shall do.”

“Oh, this payment will give you three quiet months; who knows what may happen in three months?”

“That is true; but she said that the king wished me to incur no more debt.”

“Two months in the ministry would set all straight.”

“Countess!”

“Oh, do not be fastidious; if you do not assist yourself, others will.”

“You are right. Where are you going now?”

“Back to the queen, to hear what she says of your interview.”