M. de Fontelles raised his brows, and replied somewhat stiffly,
"You are free, madame, to consult whom you will, although I had hoped that the matter needed but little consideration."
She turned full on him in a fury.
"I thank you for your judgment of me, sir," she cried. "Or is it that you think me a fool to be blinded by this letter?"
"Before heaven——" began the puzzled gentleman.
"I know, sir, in what esteem a woman's honour is held in your country and at your King's Court."
"In as high, madame, as in your country and at your Court."
"Yes, that's true. God help me, that's true! But we are not at Court now, sir. Hasn't it crossed your mind that such an errand as yours may be dangerous?"
"I had not thought it," said he with a smile and a shrug. "But, pardon me, I do not fear the danger."
"Neither danger nor disgrace?" she sneered.