The King frowned heavily, but did not speak. She went on, choking down a sob—ay, a true sob; the part she played moved her, and beneath her acting there was a reality. She fought for her power over him and now was the test of it.
"Will you take my friendships from me as well as my——? Oh, I won't endure it!"
She had given him his hint in the midst of what seemed her greatest wrath. His frown persisted, but a smile bent his lips again.
"Mr Dale," said he, "it is hard to reason with a lady before another gentleman. I was wrong to bid you go. But will you suffer me to retire to that room again?"
I bowed low.
"And," he went on, "will you excuse our hostess' presence for awhile?"
I bowed again.
"No, I won't go with you," cried Nell.
"Nay, but, Nelly, you will," said he, smiling now. "Come, I'm old and mighty ugly, and Mr Dale is a strapping fellow. You must be kind to the unfortunate, Nelly."
She was holding my hand still. The King took hers. Very slowly and reluctantly she let him draw her away. I did what seemed best to do; I sighed very heavily and plaintively, and bowed in sad submission.