This request was embarrassing; Louis scarcely ventured to refuse, and yet he dreaded the results of the meeting.
"Certainly, my lord Chancellor," he said, "we ardently desire an interview with your noble sovereign in order to renew our ancient friendship; but we fear lest it be interpreted in a manner entirely opposed to our present intentions."
"And in what might this erroneous interpretation consist?" asked Dassel, in his most submissive tone.
"I might be supposed to agree with the Emperor in his intention to depose Pope Alexander."
"But I scarcely think that judgment would be a false one," replied the Chancellor, smiling.
"What! you think, my lord, that we are capable of such an impious crime?" exclaimed Louis, who was astonished at Rinaldo's assurance.
"To keep one's solemn promise is not a crime, but a duty."
"Yes, when our envoys have not exceeded their powers," replied Louis, quickly. "The Count of Champagne had no authority whatever to pledge himself for us to take part against the Head of the Church."
The blood rushed to the Count of Champagne's face, and his lips moved convulsively, but he said nothing.
"Your Majesty is pledged only to a personal interview with the Emperor. The non-fulfilment of this promise would be a grave outrage. If you refuse, the Emperor will keep his engagements, and come in person with all his retinue."
This threat produced a marked effect upon the French nobles. The King hesitated a moment, but before he could reply, the Duke of Burgundy exclaimed,--
"If this be a menace, my lord Chancellor, you may tell your master that we will receive him and his followers as they deserve!"
"Let us have no violence, my dear Duke," said Louis. "We have already told you that we are ready to accept the Emperor's invitation, and have never had any intention of insulting him. Let him appoint the place and time for our meeting; we will be there."
If this were a trick to gain time, Dassel was prepared for it, and answered immediately,--
"Since your Majesty leaves everything to the Emperor's discretion, Frederic will expect you at the bridge over the Saône, on the 29th of this month."
Louis had no further excuse, and the Count of Dassel having terminated his mission, left the city after partaking of a banquet. The King's indecision, or rather his unexpected determination, amazed the Imperial faction. The Count of Champagne went to his sister's apartments, while Bishop Manasés paced the room in great agitation.