"
In my words perchance there was no offensive meaning, but in my tone and in
the look which I bent upon the Cardinal there was that which told him that
I alluded to his own obscure and dubious origin. He grew livid, and for a
moment methought he would have struck me: had he done so, then, indeed, the
history of Europe would have been other than it is to-day! He restrained
himself, however, and drawing himself to the full height of his majestic
figure he extended his arm towards the door.
"Go," he said, in a voice that passion rendered hoarse. "Go, Monsieur. Go
quickly, while my clemency endures. Go before I summon the guard and deal
with you as your temerity deserves."
I bowed--not without a taint of mockery, for I cared little what might
follow; then, with head erect and the firm tread of defiance, I stalked out
of his apartment, along the corridor, down the great staircase, across the
courtyard, past the guard,--which, ignorant of my disgrace, saluted me,--
and out into the street.
Then at last my head sank forward on my breast, and deep in thought I
wended my way home, oblivious of all around me, even the chill bite of the
February wind.
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