"Yes,"said the royal lady with marked bitterness, "you only have the right to die for the Queen."
"It will be a great honor for me if God permits me to accomplish that duty," said the young man bowing.
"What has become of the countess?" she asked, returning after making a step to go, for a suspicion had stung her in the heart.
"She came past, ten minutes ago, and is having her bed made in your Majesty's ante-chamber."
The Queen bit her lip: it was impossible to surprise the Charnys in default in matters of duty: "Thank you, sir," she said with a winning nod and wave of the hand, "for so well guarding the Queen. Thank your brother from me for so well guarding the King."
In the ante-room Andrea was respectfully awaiting her.
"I thank you as I have thanked the viscount, and your husband through him."
Andrea made a courtesy and moved aside for her to go by. The Queen did not ask her to follow, for this cold devotion which lasted unto death put her ill at ease.
Gilbert had gone away with General Lafayette who had been twelve hours on horseback and was ready to drop. At the gates they saw Billet, who had come with the National Guards, ready to follow Gilbert like a dog, to the end of the world.
All was quiet, we repeat, up to three in the morning.