He fell silent for a moment, playing with a paper which lay before him on the table. That he really meant what he said—that he had in his heart many plans for the good of the people—I do not doubt. Ah, that he had been stronger and turned a deaf ear to those who led him from his purpose!
A tap on the door aroused him, and at his command an usher entered.
“What is it?” he asked, sharply.
“A deputation from the King of Sardinia to see Your Highness,” replied the man.
The regent’s face brightened and he straightened up in his chair. Evidently, the delegation was welcome.
“Ah, about the marriage,” and I bit my lips to repress the exclamation which would have burst from me. “How many are in the deputation?”
“Three, monsieur.”
“Then I will receive them here.” The usher bowed and withdrew. “Nay, stay, M. de Brancas,” he added to me, seeing that I made a movement to leave the room. “This is not a state secret, but merely a family affair, and one which I am quite willing for all the world to know. Besides, there may be something which I wish you especially to hear.”
I felt my face crimson under his glance, whose hidden meaning I could not doubt, but there was no time to protest, even had I dared to do so, for the usher was back in a moment with the deputation at his heels. As they approached the regent I gazed at them with astonishment, for I could have sworn that they were livid with fear.
“You come from the King of Sardinia, I believe, messieurs,” said the regent, graciously. “I trust that he is well.”