The voice was so sad, so chilling, so deeply melancholy that Piétri's face, before calm and smiling, turned pale as if touched by deadly cold.
He sought for a reply; but a noise was heard, the portière was withdrawn, and on the upper step of the staircase appeared the emperor's groom of the chambers, who announced:
"M. Drouyn de Lhuys requests an audience."
At the first sound the emperor had withdrawn his arm from Piétri's shoulder, and his countenance had regained its usual calm, cold expression. He received the announcement with his ordinary manner, and replied:
"I will come."
The groom of the chambers withdrew.
"I know what he wants," said Napoleon, "he wishes me to put a spoke in the rolling wheel, to prevent hostilities. I often wish to do so--but is it possible? Shall I risk at this moment the great question? for if I speak and my word is not obeyed, the firebrand is kindled which will endanger the existence of France and of myself. If I permit things to go on, time at any rate is gained, and time brings favourable chances, and the possibility of strengthening the power and influence of France without a war. Well, let us hear what he wishes."
And he walked slowly towards the stairs. At the first step he paused, and returned several paces into the cabinet.
"Piétri," said he in a low tone, "what do you think of Drouyn de Lhuys?"
"Sire," he replied, "I admire his deep and extended information, and I have a great respect for his character."