"And you ask nothing of me?" There was an odd little chill in her voice as she spoke.
Gilbert did not answer at once, for he was uncertain whether to press her with a question about Beatrix, or to ask nothing.
"If I asked anything," he said at last, "I should ask that I might understand your Grace, and why you bade me come in haste to one who is not even with you."
They were within a few steps of the abbey, and the Queen separated a little from him and walked nearer to the wall. Then she stopped short.
"Good-night," she said abruptly.
Gilbert came close to her and stood still in silence.
"Well?" She uttered the single word with a somewhat cold interrogation.
"Madam," said Gilbert, suddenly determined to know the truth, "is
Beatrix here with you or not? I have a right to know."
"A right?" There was no mistaking the tone now, but Gilbert was not awed by it.
"Yes," he answered; "you know I have."