noon
The populace thronged around the car , howled , groaned , sang ribald songs , clapped their hands , and pointed their fingers in derision at Madame Veto . The queen , however , remained calm , her gaze wandering coldly over the vast multitude ; only once did her eye flash on the route . It was as she passed the Palais Royal , where Philippe Egalite , once the Duke d'Orleans , lived , and read the inscription which he had caused to be placed over the main entrance of the palace . At noon the car reached its destination . It came to a halt at the foot of the scaffold ; Marie Antoinette dismounted , and then walked slowly and with erect head up the steps . Not once during her dreadful ride had her lips opened , not a complaint had escaped her , not a farewell had she spoken . The only adieu which she had to give on earth was a look -- one long , sad look - - directed toward the Tuileries ; and as she gazed at the great pile her cheeks grew paler , and a deep sigh escaped from her lips .