“Give me the rod, Agatha,” said the Countess, sternly.
“Nay, Cousin Meg, I pray you, let Agatha give it to me.”
“You’ll not lay on!” said the Countess, with a contortion of her lips which appeared to do duty for a smile.
“Trust me, I will do the right thing,” replied Queen Blanche, taking the rod which Mistress Underdone presented to her on the knee. “Now. Elaine, stand out here.”
Elaine, very pale and preternaturally grave, placed herself in the required position.
“Say after me. ‘I entreat pardon of my Lady for being so unhappy as to offend her.’”
Elaine faltered out the dictated words.
“Kiss the rod,” said the Queen.
She was immediately obeyed.
“Now, Cousin Meg, for my sake, I pray you, let that suffice.”