"My nephew and myself will take our leave, then, of his Majesty and of you, Madame," said Montmorency.
He made a sign of encouragement, as he passed, to Diane, of which she seemed in no need, however.
For his part Coligny ventured to press Gabriel's hand; then he followed his uncle from the room.
The king and the favorite remained alone with Gabriel, who was in a state of alarm at the unexpected and mysterious protection accorded to him by Diane de Castro's mother.
CHAPTER IX
THE OTHER DIANE
In spite of his marvellous self-control, Gabriel could not prevent the blood from leaving his cheeks nor his voice from quivering when after a moment's pause he said to the king,—
"Sire, it is in fear and trembling, and yet with implicit confidence in your kingly word, that I venture, having only yesterday escaped from captivity, to recall to your Majesty's mind the solemn engagement that you deigned to enter into with me. The Comte de Montgommery still lives, Sire; otherwise you would long ago have stayed my voice."
He stopped with a terrible oppression at his heart. The king remained motionless and mute. Gabriel resumed:
"Well, then, Sire, since the Comte de Montgommery still lives, and since according to Monsieur l'Amiral's testimony, I did prolong the resistance of St. Quentin beyond the limit fixed by your Majesty, I have more than kept my promise; now I beg you to keep yours. Sire, give me back my father!"