"Have done with your scruples," he said. "I am not going to assassinate Francis, or even do him ill, only to make sure." And he proceeded on his way, motioning to another officer, who came forward and saluted, to resume his post. Turning at right angles, and going some distance further on, the King stopped again. "It should be here," he said quietly, and he moved towards a wide arched door, but drew back suddenly, for a figure emerged from the shadow into the full light, naked sword in hand. "You cannot pass," said the sentry. "Who are you?" said Henry. "A follower of the noble Comte de la Seine," was the reply. "And he mounts guards at his chamber door?" said the King haughtily. "Yes; but by what right do you come here and question me?" Henry advanced into the light of a lamp overhead, and threw back his robe. "I have the right," he said. Denis drew back, but only a step. "The King!" he murmured. "The King!" Henry nodded quickly. "You know me? Good. I have another word I wish to say to your master to-night." "Sire," said Denis, dropping on one knee, "it is impossible." "Impossible!" thundered the King. "Impossible, Sire." "Impossible! To me! In to your master at once, and tell him I have words to say to him to-night. By Heaven, it is an honour I do him, I think!" "But, Sire--" cried Denis, who still barred the way. "You heard me, boy?" "Yes, Sire." "Then--obey!" "I regret to repeat to your Majesty that I cannot." "Cannot!" "No, Sire." The King burst into a harsh laugh, and turning to the chamberlain, pointed angrily at the boy, before facing him again frowningly. "Stand back, boy, and let me pass." "I regret, your Majesty. Order me to do something else far more difficult--I would cheerfully obey your commands." "But I have nothing else which I wish you to do--only this. Let me pass." "No, Sire." "Boy, it is the first time in my recollection that I have been refused obedience. Why do you stay me?" "My master, Sire, has ordered me to keep strict guard here." "Hurst, what am I to do to this obstinate fool?" The chamberlain stepped forward. "Boy," he said, "it is from sheer ignorance that you place yourself in such a position of danger. Sheathe your sword at once, sir, and let his Majesty pass. Do you not know that there are guards here at every turn? My royal master's guests will be well protected without your aid." Denis stood motionless, and made no attempt to stir. "Do you hear, sirrah!" roared the King. "I am in no humour to wait longer. Stand back." This was too much for the determination of the young esquire. It was a king who spoke, and drawing back slightly, he yielded to circumstances, feeling that his puny efforts were in vain, and guarding the door no longer, he thrust his sword back into its scabbard and stood aside.