sel, in his most submissive tone.

"I might be supposed to agree with the Emperor in his intention to
depose Pope Alexander."

"But I scarcely think that judgment would be a false one," replied the
Chancellor, smiling.

"What! you think, my lord, that we are capable of such an impious
crime?" exclaimed Louis, who was astonished at Rinaldo's assurance.

"To keep one's solemn promise is not a crime, but a duty."

"Yes, when our envoys have not exceeded their powers," replied Louis,
quickly. "The Count of Champagne had no authority whatever to pledge
himself for us to take part against the Head of the Church."

The blood rushed to the Count of Champagne's face, and his lips moved
convulsively, but he said nothing.

"Your Majesty is pledged only to a personal interview with the Emperor.
The non-fulfilment of this promise would be a grave outrage. If you
refuse, the Emperor will keep his engagements, and come in person with
all his retinue."

This threat produced a marked effect upon the French nobles. The King
hesitated a moment, but before he could reply, the Duke of Burgundy
exclaimed,--

"If this be a menace, my lord Chancellor, you may tell your master that
we will receive him and his followers as they deserve!"

"Let us have no violence, my dear Duke," said Louis. "We have already
told you that we are ready to accept the Emperor's invitation, and have
never had any intention of insulting him. Let him appoint the place and
time for our meeting; we will be there."

If this were a trick to gain time, Dassel was prepared for it, and
answered immediately,--

"Since your Majesty leaves everything to the Emperor's discretion,
Frederic will expect you at the bridge over the Saone, on the 29th of
this month."

Louis had no further excuse, and the Count of Dassel having terminated
his mission, left the city after partaking of a banquet. The King's
indecision, or rather his unexpected determination, amazed the Imperial
faction. The Count of Champagne went to his sister's apartments, while
Bishop Manases paced the room in great agitation.

"Cluny reconciled to Alexander!" he exclaimed; "the primate at the
Court and Louis more undecided than ever! All that is wanting to assure
our defeat, is an arrangement between the King and Henry of England. If
Alexander succeed, there will be nothing for us to do, but bow down and
submit to severe ecclesiastical penances. There is no time to lose. I
must act at once, and see t