"Perhaps I had better explain your Majesty's commands;" and then without waiting for an answer she went on, looking me straight in the face--
"Mademoiselle. In his thought for your welfare--a kindness you have not deserved--the King has been pleased to decide on your marriage. Circumstances necessitate the ceremony being performed at once, and I have to tell you that it will take place three hours hence. His Majesty will do you the honour of being himself present on the occasion."
This was beyond my worst fears. I was speechless, and glanced from one to the other in supplication; but I saw no ray of pity in their faces. Alas! These were the three iron hearts that had sat and planned the Massacre.
The Queen's face was as stone. The King half closed his eyes, and his lips curled into a smile as if he enjoyed the situation; but my uncle, within whose bluff exterior was a subtle, cruel heart, spoke out harshly:
"You hear, mademoiselle! Thank the King, and get you gone to make ready. I am sick of your endless flirtations, and there must be an end to them--there must be no more talk of your frivolities."
Anger brought back my courage, and half turning away from Tavannes, I said to the Queen:
"I thank the King, madame, for his kindness. Perhaps you will add to it by telling me the name of the gentleman who intends to honour me by making me his wife."
"Arnidieu! She makes a point," laughed the King.
"She shall marry a stick if I will it," said de Tavannes; but Madame the Queen Mother lifted her hand in deprecation.
"It is M. de Lorgnac," she said.