The minister grew confused, for he was not willing to leave the papers. Although he was sure that the King would not read them he was cautious, and being afraid that something unexpected might happen, wished to finish the business at one blow. He looked at Guarini.
'Sire,' said the Jesuit softly, 'it is such a bitter pill that it is not worth while to taste it twice. Alcun pensier no paga mai debito. Why think it over?'
The King did not answer; presently he turned to Brühl and said: 'In the afternoon shooting at the target in the castle.'
The order was significant, Brühl was confounded.
'The last reindeer tired us,' added the King, 'but it was worthy of our efforts.'
He was silent again.
'And the last died,' he added sighing.
The clock pointed to the hour at which the King was accustomed to go to the Queen; he ordered a chamberlain to be called.
Brühl was dismissed, having gained nothing, and his efforts were frustrated. He did not know why the King resisted him. The King hastened off. They were obliged to leave him, and Brühl called the Padre into the next room.
He threw the papers on the table.