"Well, monsieur, when you have taken them, return to me."

"Diana," said the count, who was growing visibly angry, "Diana,
do not make a jest of this sacred tie."

"Act so, monsieur, that I can have confidence in the husband,
and I will respect the marriage."

"Oh! this is too much!" cried the count. "I am in my own house,
you are my wife, and this night you shall be mine."

Bussy put his hand on his sword-hilt, and made a step forward,
but Diana did not give him time to appear.

"Stay," said she, drawing a poignard from her belt, "here is
my answer." And rushing into the room where Bussy was, she shut
the door and locked it, while Monsoreau exhausted himself in
menaces and in blows on the door.

"If you break this door you will find me dead on the threshold."

"And be easy, madame, you shall be revenged," said Bussy.

Diana was about to utter a cry, but her fear of her husband was
strong enough to restrain her. She remained pale and trembling,
but mute.

M. de Monsoreau struck violently with his foot, but convinced
that Diana would execute her menace, went out of the drawing-room,
shutting the door violently behind him. Then they heard him going