“By whom?” asked the King.
“By an old man, of courteous manners, who, though a little timid, has the air of a gentleman.”
“Ask him to come and speak to me,” said the King.
M. Valory transmitted the invitation to the gentleman.
He went to the carriage, showing signs of great apprehension.
The Queen followed him; her face, made visible by the light of the candle which he held, expressed supreme disdain.
“Your name, sir?” asked the King.
“De Préfontaine,” replied the interrogated, hesitatingly.
“Who are you?”