"Yes, of a ladder nineteen feet long."
"Oh, yes, sire, I remember; but I spoke to M. Manicamp, and I should not have said a word had I known your majesty could have heard us."
"And why would you not have said a word?"
"Because I should not have liked to have got the gardener scolded who had left it there—poor fellow!"
"Don't make yourself uneasy on that account. What is this ladder like?"
"If your majesty wishes to see it, nothing is easier, for there it is."
"In that box-hedge?"
"Exactly."
"Show it to me."
Malicorne turned back and led the king up to the ladder, saying, "This is it, sire."