 answered the King, »with time - such time as you
have taken to your draught of Champagne. - And now that it is finished, favour
me by putting the goblet in your bosom, and keeping it as a pledge of our
regard. It is not to every one that we would part with it. It belonged of yore
to that terror of France, Henry V. of England, and was taken when Rouen was
reduced, and those islanders expelled from Normandy by the joint arms of France
and Burgundy. It cannot be better bestowed than on a noble and valiant
Burgundian, who well knows that on the union of these two nations depends the
continuance of the freedom of the Continent from the English yoke.«
    The Count made a suitable answer, and Louis gave unrestrained way to the
satirical gaiety of disposition which sometimes enlivened the darker shades of
his character. Leading, of course, the conversation, his remarks, always shrewd
and caustic, and often actually witty, were seldom good-natured, and the
anecdotes with which he illustrated them were often more humorous than delicate;
but in no one word, syllable, or letter, did he betray the state of mind of one
who, apprehensive of assassination, hath in his apartment an armed soldier, with
his piece loaded, in order to prevent or anticipate an attack on his person.
    The Count of Crèvecoeur gave frankly into the King's humour; while the
smooth churchman laughed at every jest, and enhanced every ludicrous idea,
without exhibiting any shame at expressions which made the rustic young Scot
blush even in his place of concealment.31 In about an hour and a half the tables
were drawn; and the King, taking courteous leave of his guests, gave the signal
that it was his desire to be alone.
    So soon as all, even Oliver, had retired, he called Quentin from his place
of concealment; but with a voice so faint, that the youth could scarce believe
it to be the same which had so lately given animation to the jest, and zest to
the tale. As he approached, he saw an equal change in his countenance. The light
of assumed vivacity had left the King's eyes, the smile had deserted his face,
and he exhibited all the fatigue of a celebrated actor, when he has finished the
exhausting representation of some favourite character, in which, while upon the
stage, he had displayed the utmost vivacity.
    »Thy watch is not yet over,« said he to Quentin - »refresh thyself for an
instant - yonder table affords the means - I will then instruct
