But their rejoicing was premature.
The horsemen were still within the lists. After having galloped each to the opposite end from that at which he had entered, they must return to their respective points of departure, and thus meet a second time.
But what danger was to be apprehended now? They would pass without coming in contact.
But whether because of his anxiety, whether it was by intention or by accident (for who besides God can tell the reason?), Gabriel, when he rode back, did not throw away, as the custom was, the broken shaft of the lance, which had been left in his hand. He carried it lowered in front of him.
As he rode along at a gallop, the shaft came in contact with Henri's head.
The visor of the casque was broken by the force of the blow, and the lance pierced the king's eye and came out at his ear.
Not more than half of the spectators, who were already rising to leave the lists, witnessed that fearful blow; but those who did gave utterance to a loud cry, which told the others.
Meanwhile Henri had let his reins drop from his hands, and clinging to his horse's neck, had reached the end of the arena, where Messieurs de Vieilleville and de Boisy were waiting to receive him.
"Ah, I am killed!" were the king's first words.
Then he muttered,—