Hark, it is
striking three, that is the hour of changing guard. Farewell!"
He went quickly to the door, but there he stood still, and turned
once more around. His glance encountered that of his friend, and
Madame de Campan understood its silent language well, for she
hastened to him.
"You have something to say to me?"
"Yes," he whispered softly, "I have a presentiment that I shall not
survive the horrors of this night. I have one whom I love, who, as
you know, is betrothed to me. If I fall in the service of the king,
I ask you to see my Cecilia, and tell her that I died with her name
upon my lips! Tell her not to weep for me, but at the same time not
to forget me. Farewell."
He hurriedly opened the door and hastened away. Madame de Campan
repressed the tears which would fill her eyes, and turned to the two
maids.
"Now," said she, with decisive tones, "let us return to the waiting-
room and watch the door of the queen's chamber."
With a firm step she walked on, and the ladies followed. Without any
noise they entered the little hall, where in the mornings those
ladies of the court used to gather who had the right to be present
while the queen dressed herself. Madame de Campan locked the door
through which they had entered, behind her, drew out the key and hid
it in her pocket.
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