"I have already done so, to-day."
"Then do it again."
"But why?"
"Because he is in bad company, and needs your prayers!"
CHAPTER X.
THE TEMPTER.
Frederic awaited Dassel's return, in a state of feverish anxiety for the success of his mission. He had carefully pondered over his Chancellor's proposition, and he now dreaded lest the refusal of Henry to the contemplated divorce might interfere with the realization of his cherished projects. The very possibility of failure was painful to him, but when the Chamberlain announced the Duke's arrival, he dissembled his agitation and advanced cordially to meet him.
"Are you at last satisfied, my dear Duke," said he, motioning to a seat.
"Certainly, I must be satisfied," replied the Duke, who seemed uneasy and dispirited.
"The princes will be here shortly, and we will open the Council without delay, for the measures against Milan must be decided upon at once. This proud and rebellious city shall feel all the weight of our displeasure,--our own opinion is in favor of utterly destroying this hot-bed of treason, and we trust that your Grace thinks with us."