cried she, with a hard, shrill voice. "It is well known that your
majesty loves to play comedies, and that you are sometimes content
with even the minor parts. Now, do not look at me, Mrs. Queen, with
such a withering look. Do not forget that you are playing the part
of Mademoiselle Oliva, and that you have come secretly from
Versailles to save your honor and your diamonds."

"Officer," cried the president, "if the accused allows herself to
speak a single word without being asked, lock her up and gag her."

The officer bowed in token of his unconditional obedience, and drew
out the wooden gag, which he showed the countess, going straight to
her chair.

"I will comply with your wish," said the president, turning to the
living portrait of the queen. "I will call you madame, if you will
promise me in return to answer all my questions faithfully."

"I promise you that, by my child," answered Mademoiselle Oliva,
bowing slightly.

"Tell me, then, do you know the person who sits in that chair?"

Mademoiselle Oliva cast a quick look at Lamotte, who glared at her
from her seat.

"Oh, yes, I know her," she said. "That is, I do not know her name, I
only know that she lives in a splendid palace, that she is very
rich, and has everything nice."