Many questions of state were discussed; and then
Hymbercourt presented Mary's offer to King Louis. The king hesitated.
After a long pause he spoke, looking straight ahead, at nothing; as was
his custom.
"We will consult with our friends and make answer soon," he said,
speaking to nobody.
Louis seemed to think that if he looked at no one and addressed nobody,
when he spoke, he might the more easily wriggle out of his
obligations later on.
Mary had caused to be drawn up in duplicate a treaty in accordance with
the terms that she had outlined at our little council. It was handed to
Oliver when the king rose to retire to a private room, to discuss the
contents with his councillors.
At the moment when King Louis rose to his feet, a herald was announced
at the great hall door.
"A message from His Majesty, King Edward of England," cried the
Burgundian herald. Louis resumed his seat as though his feet had slipped
from under him.
"We are engaged," answered Mary, acting well a difficult part. "Let the
herald leave his packet, or deliver it later."
A whispered conversation took place between the Burgundian herald and
the Englishman. Then spoke the Burgundian:--
"Most Gracious Princess, the English herald has no packet. He bears a
verbal message to your late father, and insists that he must deliver it
to Your Highness at once."
"Must, indeed!" cried Mary, indignantly. Then turning to the king:
"These English grow arrogant, Your Majesty.
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