In the end Don Jose took his departure with a promise to the Count of Nullepart, Sir Richard Pendragon, and myself that he would represent this matter to the King his master in a spirit of forbearance. In spite of that, I think none of us reposed much faith in his assurances, which, in the face of madam’s arrogance, were given by no means heartily. Indeed, as he took his leave his eyes were furtive and lowering, and in his mien was neither kindness nor friendship. As for our mistress, surely there never was so much queenly insolence as when the ambassador made to withdraw.
“We take no leave of you, Don Jose de Fermosilla,” said she. “We make you and your master no compliments. You have incurred our highest displeasure.”
Don Jose de Fermosilla bowed stiffly, and with his retinue passed out at the door.
“Call him again!” cried the Countess Sylvia to those who were in attendance.
Don Jose returned, yet there was no abatement of his dark looks.
“I would have you proceed backwards, out of our presence, Don Jose de Fermosilla,” said madam insolently. “And do you inform our cousin that it is nothing to our pleasure that we must keep a school of manners for his emissaries.”
Don Jose de Fermosilla withdrew in the desired manner, biting at his lips with chagrin.
CHAPTER XIX
OF MADAM’S EMBASSY TO HER NEPHEW FRANCE
When the audience had terminated in this unfortunate manner, madam’s three councillors sat long together in anxious intercourse.
“If I comprehend the disposition of man,” said the Count of Nullepart gloomily, “and more particularly the temper of princes, the puissant Castilian will be before our gates in twenty days.”