Page:Francesca Carrara 1.pdf/107

Rh come to this, had we not better go with a good grace to meet the King half-way?"

"And where the devil should I go!" ejaculated the Duke—and rising impetuously, went into an inner apartment.

The Duchess followed him, but returned a minute after—"His highness is at present disinclined for farther conference; but begs me to offer his thanks for your zeal in his cause." Saluting the company, she again withdrew; and for a moment there was a profound silence.

"It is vain, mon ami," said the President, De Bellicore; "however strong the arm, it cannot cut down a forest with a broken axe."

"Well," returned De Retz, "let the worst come to the worst; I am still Cardinal, and Archbishop of Paris—a temporary absence may be requisite, but that will be spent at Rome—I have made my reputation, and look to the future for its fruits."

"And I must retire into my shell," replied the President; "I have done with activity."

The council broke up: and Evelyn pursued his way to Bournonville's, fully resolved on leaving Paris. He found Francesca somewhat pale, but beautiful even as a painter's dream of beauty. Her picturesque costume, too, increased the effect,