Page:Francesca Carrara 1.pdf/102

98, De Bellicore, stood near; and between him and Monsieur was the Coadjutor.

De Retz was now in the prime of life, and his heavy ecclesiastical dress could not disguise his light and even elegant figure, while his feet and hands were of feminine size and delicacy; but here ended his personal advantages. His face was plain, his brow was dark and knit, while the clear grey eye was deep-seated, stern, and piercing; his complexion was sallow, and the lines of his countenance at once harsh and worn. Monsieur was speaking when they entered, with much animation:

"War rests with myself—I have but to give the signal, and we shall fight with greater spirit than ever. Ask the Cardinal."

"Doubtlessly," said De Retz, bowing with the most passive politeness.

"The people are with me?"

"Yes."

"M. Le Prince would return at my request."

"Your wish would be his law."

"The Spanish army await but my bidding to advance."

"So we have every reason to suppose," replied the Cardinal, in the same uninterested tone of