"Thou hast our word," and with a gesture gave the Duke his congé.
That very night just as the early moon began to whiten the Towers of old London, the key turned in the door of Lady Constance' cell; but turned so lazily—either from indolence or an unaccustomed hand—that her ladyship looked up and saw to her surprise a new gaoler. He smiled, thereby giving to the heart of its object a great thrill of joy, for it meant kindliness and kindliness is often predicated of selfishness or a desire for things one has not.
"What is thy name, fool?"
"Just plain Fool," and he gave her due obeisance.
"And why so?"
"Is it not enough to be so christened by so great a lady?"
"Then thou art not a subsidiary but chief factotum?"
"Aye, the other is ill and I have spent the afternoon in learning the—names."
"Thou shouldst be well paid for so short a season.—Is he serious?"
"I hope so, good lady."