I wish, therefore, that you would
be present at the interview which I shall have with my wife and
Campan, without the queen's knowing that you are near. You will be
convinced at once in this way of the impudent and shameless
deception that they have dared to play. Where does that door lead
to, Campan?" asked the king, pointing to the white, gold-bordered
door, at whose side two curtains of white satin, wrought with roses,
were secured.
"Sire, it leads to the small reception room."
"Will the queen pass that way when she comes?"
"No, your majesty, she is accustomed to take the same way which your
majesty took, through the antechamber."
"Good. Then, baron, go into the little saloon. Leave the door open,
and do you, Campan, loosen the curtains and let them fall over the
door, that the minister may hear without being seen."
A quarter of an hour had scarcely elapsed when the queen entered the
toilet-chamber, with glowing cheeks, and under visible excitement.
The king went hastily to her, took her hand and pressed it to his
lips.
"Forgiveness, Marie, that I have disturbed you in the midst of your
pleasures."
"Tell me, quickly," cried the queen, impatiently. "What is it? Is it
a great misfortune?"
"No, Marie, but a great annoyance, which is so far a misfortune in
that the name of your majesty is involved in a disagreeable and
absurd plot.
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