And I hereby require you, and the persons whom I have
selected for tbe purpose, to employ every requisite care for
her accommodation and precious health."

As Elizabeth returned at a late hour in the night, she
was met at the gate of the palace by a guard who refused
her admittance, and directed her to retire immediately to
the old palace in the city. The rage of the queen was as
violent as it was impotent. She was by force conveyed to
the apartments provided for her, where she was held in
close confinement for six days. A circular letter to all the
foreign ministers announced her arrest. Assuming that at
tbe close of the six days her spirit was somewhat sub-
dued by confinement and disgrace, the French ambassador,
a man venerable in years and character, was sent to con-
verse with her. In the interview she frankly acknowl-
edged her frivolity, coquetry, and imprudence, but solemn-
ly denied any criminality. She entreated forgiveness, and
promised amendment.
The young king, whose aversion to her was invincible,
made an outward show of reconciliation. They met again
publicly aa if amicable relations were restored. The queen
kissed tbe hand of her husband, and he kissed her cheek.
But both kisses were alike cold. They occupied different
apartments, and lived no longer as husband and wife.
