“Never!” said the queen, “never!”
“Your majesty is mistress,” said La Meilleraie, retreating a few steps.
“Where are you going, marechal?” asked the queen.
“To give your majesty’s reply to those who await it.”
“Stay, marechal; I will not appear to parley with rebels.”
“Madame, I have pledged my word, and unless you order me to be arrested I shall be forced to return.”
Anne of Austria’s eyes shot glances of fire.
“Oh! that is no impediment, sir,” said she; “I have had greater men than you arrested—Guitant!”
Mazarin sprang forward.
“Madame,” said he, “if I dared in my turn advise——”