; poisoning is done with gloves"--

Charles frowned; then by degrees his brow cleared.

"Yes," said he, as if speaking to himself. "It is the nature of wild
creatures to flee from death. Why, then, should not knowledge do what
instinct does?"

"Well, sire!" said Henry, "is your Majesty satisfied with my frankness,
and do you believe that I have told you everything?"

"Yes, Henriot, and you are a good fellow. Do you think that those who
hate you have grown weary, or will new attempts be made on your life?"

"Sire, every evening I am surprised to find myself still living."

"It is because they know I love you, Henriot, that they wish to kill
you. But do not worry. They shall be punished for their evil intentions.
Meanwhile you are free."

"Free to leave Paris, sire?" asked Henry.

"No; you well know that I cannot possibly do without you. In the name of
a thousand devils! I must have some one here who loves me."

"Then, sire, if your Majesty keep me with you, will you grant me a
favor"--

"What is it?"

"Not to keep me as a friend, but as a prisoner. Yes; does not your
Majesty see that it is your friendship for me that is my ruin?"

"Would you prefer my hatred?"

"Your apparent hatred, sire. It will save me. As soon as they think I am
in disgrace they will be less anxious for my death."

"Henriot," said Charles, "I know neither what you desire, nor what
object you seek; but if your wishes do not succeed, and if your object
is not accomplished, I shall be greatly surprised."

"I may, then, count on the severity of the King?"

"Yes."

"In that case I shall be less uneasy. Now what are your Majesty's
commands?"

"Return to your apartments, Henriot, I am in pain. I will see my dogs
and then go to bed."

"Sire," said Henry, "your Majesty ought to send for a physician. Your
trouble is perhaps more serious than you imagine."

"I have sent for Maitre Ambroise Pare, Henriot."

"Then I shall retire more satisfied."

"Upon my soul," said the King, "I believe that of all my family you are
the only one who really loves me."

"Is this indeed your opinion, sire?"

"On the word of a gentleman."

"Then commend me to Monsieur de Nancey as a man your deep anger may not
allow to live a month. By this means you will have me many years to love
you."

"Monsieur de Nancey!" cried Charles.

The captain of the guards entered.

"I commit into your hands the most guilty man of my kingdom. You will
answer for him