In another moment they had drawn up before the grand entrance on the Court of Ministers.
If Claude had been wise, he would have entered the palace by the chapel, and so avoided the guards. But this adventure was not of his planning. Deborah's desires he could only conjecture, for she had not spoken during the drive. Therefore, tossing the coachman his golden coin, he helped his wife from the coach, and with her entered the great vestibule, which was filled with Suisses and extra King's guards. These saluted respectfully enough as the couple entered the doorway; but, when Claude proceeded towards the staircase, a musqueteer barred his way.
"Your order, monsieur?" he said, respectfully.
"My order? I have none!"
"It is not permitted to pass without, to-night. His Majesty's commands, monsieur," said the man.
Claude turned to his wife. "You hear?" he said.
For answer, Deborah herself turned towards the soldier. "We may wait here—in the vestibule?" she asked.
"Certainly, madame," answered the guard, at once moving out of the way.
Claude and Deborah turned reluctantly and walked towards the other side of the great vestibule. As they went Claude accosted another member of the royal guard. "My good man, I am a cousin of Mme. de Châteauroux. We come on a matter of the greatest importance. Will you not permit us to ascend?"
The man stared at them keenly, with a kind of smile. "Mme. de Châteauroux is not in the palace," said he.