There was no danger, he said; it was merely the pain that frightened her. He retired to consult with the other doctors.
M. le Prince came to see her; she seemed pleased and tried to look at him, but he wore a black and gold brocade, and the candle light on it dazzled her. She half closed her eyes.
“I am dying,” she murmured.
M. le Prince was greatly moved; he tried to tell her that she was better.
She shook her head and asked what time it was.
“Nine o’clock, Madame,” he answered.
She asked if they might have the window open, and complained of the heat; but no one dared for fear of the doctor.
Then Madame caught hold of Monsieur le Prince’s arm so as to draw him down to her, and breathed the question she had so longed to ask.
“The King–does he know? Is he coming?”