In an instant, as if the
arm of God had been extended and laid upon this raging sea, the
roaring ceased; then, as soon as the king was recognized, a
multitudinous shout went up, increasing every moment, and sending
its waves beyond the square, out into the adjoining streets.
"The king! Long live the king!"
Louis, pale with emotion and with tears in his eyes, went forward to
the very edge of the balcony, and, as a sign that he was going to
speak, raised both hands. The motion was understood, and the loud
cries were hushed which now and then burst from the mighty mass of
people. Then above the heads of the thousands there who gazed
breathlessly up, sounded the loud, powerful voice of the king.
"I will give my dear people the proof that my fatherly heart is
distrusted without reason. I will journey to-day with the queen and
my children to Paris, and there take up my residence. Return
thither, my children, I shall follow you in a few hours and come to
Paris!"
Then, while the people were breaking out into a cry of joy, and were
throwing arms, caps, and clothes up into the air, Louis stepped back
from the balcony into the hall.
Instantly there arose a new cry below. "The queen shall show
herself! We want to see the queen! The queen! the queen! the queen!"
And in tones louder, and more commanding, and more terrible every
moment, the summons came in through the balcony door.
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