“Here comes the King,” said the hostess, rising to dismiss the pleader.
“Oh, won’t your ladyship let me throw myself at the royal feet to—— ”
“Ask for a special court to try the case? I am most willing,” replied the countess quickly. “Stay here and have your wish.”
Lady Bearn had hardly adjusted her headdress before the sovereign entered.
“Ha, you have visitors?” he exclaimed.
“It is my Lady Bearn,” said the other lady.
“Sire, I crave for justice,” squeaked the old dame, making a low courtsey. “Against the Parliament, which will do no acts of justice. Your Majesty, I beg for a special tribunal.”
“A royal special court?” said the monarch. “Why, this is almost a revolution, my lady.”
“It is the means to curb these rebels of whom you are the master. Your Majesty knows that they have no right to reply if you say ‘I will do this.’”
“The idea is grand,” said Lady Dubarry.