“Let us understand each other, Bourbon,” he said. “I had no design to proceed to extremities with you. Had it been so, I should have ordered your immediate arrest on my arrival at the château. My wish, as you must have perceived, was to confer amicably with you. I do not desire your destruction--on the contrary, I am well disposed towards you--ay, well disposed. Abandon your fatal design--prove to me that you are faithful and loyal as heretofore, and you shall find me forgiving and generous. Be true to your sovereign, and we will be true to you. Whatever may be the decree of the Parliament, you shall keep your possessions. The utmost wish of your soaring ambition shall be gratified. You shall accompany me to Italy, and shall share with me the command of the army. Will this content you?” “Sire, it is far more than I could expect,” replied Bourbon. “I thought I had entirely forfeited your favour.”, “Ingrate!--how could you think so, when I but lately appointed you lieutenant-general of the kingdom? That appointment ought to have convinced you that, in spite of our misunderstanding, I still had the greatest regard for you. I know your merits as a leader, and am certain you will add to your renown in this campaign. You shall help me to re-conquer the Milanese, as you helped me at Marignan to win it.” “I hope to convince your majesty that I am worthy of the distinguished honour you propose to confer upon me,” said Bourbon. “The appointment shall be announced at once, and will set at rest all rumours to your disadvantage,” said François. “To-morrow you shall set out with me for Lyons.” “Alas! sire, I am utterly unable to travel in my present state. I could not even enter a litter. My physicians will tell you so.” “'Tis a strange disorder that afflicts you, cousin,” observed François, with an incredulous look. “You appear strong enough for service in the field.” “You must not judge me by my looks, sire. When the fit seizes me, I am utterly prostrated. But I shall be better in a few days.” “You think so?” cried the king. “Well, then, I will wait for you at Lyons.” “I would not have your majesty delay the expedition on my account. As soon as I am able to move, I will follow you to Italy.” “No, no, I will not start without you,” rejoined the king, suspiciously. “You shall join me at Lyons as speedily as you can.” At this moment a side-door was opened, and a young dame, richly attired, and of surpassing beauty, entered the chamber. VI. DIANE DE POITIERS. |On seeing the king, she would have instantly retreated, but he commanded her to stay. “Do not let my presence alarm you, fair lady,” he said. “And do not suppose you interrupt me, for I have finished my conference with the Lord Constable.”