“Since his grace has passed his word I cannot withhold mine,” replied the ambassador. “But I give it with reluctance.”
“Your grace will not fail to attend the council to-morrow,” said Jane.
“If your highness desires it I will not, undoubtedly,” replied the Duke. “But since you decline to act upon my advice, there can be little need for my presence.”
“My wishes—my commands are, that you attend,” rejoined the Queen.
“Your wishes are commands,” rejoined the Duke. “I will be there.”
“Enough,” replied Jane. “M. Renard, you will accompany me to the palace.”
As the ambassador was preparing to depart, he perceived Northumberland’s cap lying at his feet.
“Your grace’s hat,” he observed, pointing to it. And glancing significantly at Jane, he added, in an audible whisper, “Would the head were in it!”
“Ha!” exclaimed the Duke, laying his hand upon his sword. “But you are safe till to-morrow.”
Renard made no reply, but with a smile of exultation followed the Queen out of the chapel.