Then, without bidding, they began
to disperse, and the King, baring his head in the presence of
Cardinal Bonpre, gave up his self-imposed charge of old Sovrani,
who, faint and feeble, grasped Aubrey Leigh's quickly proffered arm,
and leaned heavily upon it.
"He needs care," said Humbert gently,--"The shock has moved him
greatly!"
"Your Majesty is ever considerate of the sorrows of others," said
the venerable Felix with emotion, "And God will bless you as He
blesses all good men!"
The King bowed reverently to the benediction. Then he looked up with
a slight smile.
"It is not wise of your Eminence to say so,--in Rome!" he observed,-
-"But I thank you, and am grateful!"
His keen eyes rested for a moment on Manuel,--and the fair aspect of
the boy seemed to move him to a sense of wonder--but he did not
speak. With a light salute to all present he re-entered his carriage
and was driven away--and Aubrey Leigh led Prince Sovrani into his
own library where, when he was seated, they all waited upon him
eagerly, the fair Sylvie chafing his cold hands, and the Princesse
D'Agramont practically making him drink a glass of good wine.
Gradually, warmth and colour and animation came back to his pale
features,--his fears were soothed,--his heart relieved, and a smile
crossed his lips as he met Sylvie's earnest, anxious eyes.
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