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diff --git a/old/tenyr11h.htm b/old/tenyr11h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index bff1811..0000000 --- a/old/tenyr11h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,40061 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> -<html> -<head> -<title>New File</title> -<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content= -"text/html; charset=iso-8859-1"> -<style type="text/css"> -<!-- -body {margin:10%; text-align:justify} -blockquote {font-size:14pt} -P {font-size:14pt} ---> -</style> -</head> -<body> -<div class="Section1"> -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Project Gutenberg Etext Ten Years Later, by -Alexandre Dumas, Pere</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>#8 in our series by Alexandre Dumas, -Pere</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Copyright laws are changing all over the -world, be sure to check</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>the copyright laws for your country before -posting these files!!</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Please take a look at the important -information in this header.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We encourage you to keep this file on your -own disk, keeping an</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>electronic path open for the next readers. -Do not remove this.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>**Welcome To The World of Free Plain Vanilla -Electronic Texts**</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>**Etexts Readable By Both Humans and By -Computers, Since 1971**</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>*These Etexts Prepared By Hundreds of -Volunteers and Donations*</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Information on contacting Project Gutenberg -to get Etexts, and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>further information is included below. We -need your donations.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Title: Ten Years Later</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Author: Alexandre Dumas, Pere</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>June, 2001 [Etext #2681]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Edition: 11</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Project Gutenberg Etext Ten Years Later, by -Alexandre Dumas, Pere</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>*******This file should be named tenyr11h.htm -or tenyr11h.zip******</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Corrected EDITIONS of our etexts get a new -NUMBER, tenyr12h.htm</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>VERSIONS based on separate sources get new -LETTER, tenyr11ha.htm</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Project Gutenberg Etexts are usually created -from multiple editions,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>all of which are in the Public Domain in the -United States, unless a</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>copyright notice is included. Therefore, we -usually do NOT keep any</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>of these books in compliance with any -particular paper edition.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We are now trying to release all our books -one month in advance</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>of the official release dates, leaving time -for better editing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Please note: neither this list nor its -contents are final till</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>midnight of the last day of the month of any -such announcement.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The official release date of all Project -Gutenberg Etexts is at</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Midnight, Central Time, of the last day of -the stated month. A</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>preliminary version may often be posted for -suggestion, comment</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>and editing by those who wish to do so. To -be sure you have an</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>up to date first edition [xxxxx10x.xxx] -please check file sizes</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>in the first week of the next month. Since -our ftp program has</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>a bug in it that scrambles the date [tried to -fix and failed] a</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>look at the file size will have to do, but we -will try to see a</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>new copy has at least one byte more or -less.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Information about Project Gutenberg (one -page)</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We produce about two million dollars for each -hour we work. The</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>time it takes us, a rather conservative -estimate, is fifty hours</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>to get any etext selected, entered, -proofread, edited, copyright</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>searched and analyzed, the copyright letters -written, etc. This</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>projected audience is one hundred million -readers. If our value</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>per text is nominally estimated at one dollar -then we produce $2</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>million dollars per hour this year as we -release thirty-six text</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>files per month, or 432 more Etexts in 1999 -for a total of 2000+</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>If these reach just 10% of the computerized -population, then the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>total should reach over 200 billion Etexts -given away this year.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Goal of Project Gutenberg is to Give Away -One Trillion Etext</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Files by December 31, 2001. [10,000 x -100,000,000 = 1 Trillion]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>This is ten thousand titles each to one -hundred million readers,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>which is only ~5% of the present number of -computer users.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>At our revised rates of production, we will -reach only one-third</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>of that goal by the end of 2001, or about -3,333 Etexts unless we</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>manage to get some real funding; currently -our funding is mostly</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>from Michael Hart's salary at Carnegie-Mellon -University, and an</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>assortment of sporadic gifts; this salary is -only good for a few</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>more years, so we are looking for something -to replace it, as we</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>don't want Project Gutenberg to be so -dependent on one person.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We need your donations more than -ever!</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>All donations should be made to "Project -Gutenberg/CMU": and are</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>tax deductible to the extent allowable by -law. (CMU = Carnegie-</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Mellon University).</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>For these and other matters, please mail -to:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Project Gutenberg</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>P. O. Box 2782</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Champaign, IL 61825</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>When all other email fails. . .try our -Executive Director:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Michael S. Hart -<hart@pobox.com></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>hart@pobox.com forwards to -hart@prairienet.org and archive.org</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>if your mail bounces from archive.org, I will -still see it, if</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>it bounces from prairienet.org, better resend -later on. . . .</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We would prefer to send you this information -by email.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>******</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>To access Project Gutenberg etexts, use any -Web browser</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>to view http://promo.net/pg. 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[to get a year's listing of -books, e.g., GUTINDEX.99]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>GET GUTINDEX.ALL [to get a listing of ALL -books]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>***</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>**Information prepared by the Project -Gutenberg legal advisor**</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>(Three Pages)</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>***START**THE SMALL PRINT!**FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN -ETEXTS**START***</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Why is this "Small Print!" statement here? -You know: lawyers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>They tell us you might sue us if there is -something wrong with</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>your copy of this etext, even if you got it -for free from</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>someone other than us, and even if what's -wrong is not our</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>fault. So, among other things, this "Small -Print!" statement</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>disclaims most of our liability to you. 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If you do -not, you can receive</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>a refund of the money (if any) you paid for -this etext by</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>sending a request within 30 days of receiving -it to the person</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>you got it from. If you received this etext -on a physical</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>medium (such as a disk), you must return it -with your request.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>ABOUT PROJECT GUTENBERG-TM ETEXTS</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>This PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm etext, like most -PROJECT GUTENBERG-</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>tm etexts, is a "public domain" work -distributed by Professor</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Michael S. Hart through the Project Gutenberg -Association at</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Carnegie-Mellon University (the "Project"). -Among other</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>things, this means that no one owns a United -States copyright</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>on or for this work, so the Project (and -you!) can copy and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>distribute it in the United States without -permission and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>without paying copyright royalties. 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Despite these efforts, the Project's -etexts and any</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>medium they may be on may contain "Defects". -Among other</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>things, Defects may take the form of -incomplete, inaccurate or</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>corrupt data, transcription errors, a -copyright or other</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>intellectual property infringement, a -defective or damaged</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>disk or other etext medium, a computer virus, -or computer</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>codes that damage or cannot be read by your -equipment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>LIMITED WARRANTY; DISCLAIMER OF -DAMAGES</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>But for the "Right of Replacement or Refund" -described below,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>[1] the Project (and any other party you may -receive this</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>etext from as a PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm etext) -disclaims all</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>liability to you for damages, costs and -expenses, including</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>legal fees, and [2] YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR -NEGLIGENCE OR</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>UNDER STRICT LIABILITY, OR FOR BREACH OF -WARRANTY OR CONTRACT,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO INDIRECT, -CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF YOU GIVE -NOTICE OF THE</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>If you discover a Defect in this etext within -90 days of</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>receiving it, you can receive a refund of the -money (if any)</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>you paid for it by sending an explanatory -note within that</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>time to the person you received it from. 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Among -other things, this</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> requires that you do not remove, alter -or modify the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> etext or this "small print!" statement. -You may however,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> if you wish, distribute this etext in -machine readable</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> binary, compressed, mark-up, or -proprietary form,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> including any form resulting from -conversion by word pro-</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> cessing or hypertext software, but only -so long as</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> *EITHER*:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> [*] The etext, when displayed, is -clearly readable, and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> does *not* contain characters other -than those</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> intended by the author of the work, -although tilde</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> (~), asterisk (*) and underline (_) -characters may</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> be used to convey punctuation -intended by the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> author, and additional characters -may be used to</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> indicate hypertext links; -OR</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> [*] The etext may be readily converted -by the reader at</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> no expense into plain ASCII, EBCDIC -or equivalent</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> form by the program that displays -the etext (as is</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> the case, for instance, with most -word processors);</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> OR</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> [*] You provide, or agree to also -provide on request at</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> no additional cost, fee or expense, -a copy of the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> etext in its original plain ASCII -form (or in EBCDIC</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> or other equivalent proprietary -form).</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>[2] Honor the etext refund and replacement -provisions of this</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Small Print!" statement.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>[3] Pay a trademark license fee to the -Project of 20% of the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> net profits you derive calculated using -the method you</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> already use to calculate your applicable -taxes. If you</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> don't derive profits, no royalty is -due. Royalties are</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> payable to "Project Gutenberg -Association/Carnegie-Mellon</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> University" within the 60 days following -each</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> date you prepare (or were legally -required to prepare)</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> your annual (or equivalent periodic) tax -return.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>WHAT IF YOU *WANT* TO SEND MONEY EVEN IF YOU -DON'T HAVE TO?</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Project gratefully accepts contributions -in money, time,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>scanning machines, OCR software, public -domain etexts, royalty</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>free copyright licenses, and every other sort -of contribution</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>you can think of. Money should be paid to -"Project Gutenberg</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Association / Carnegie-Mellon -University".</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We are planning on making some changes in our -donation structure</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>in 2000, so you might want to email me, -hart@pobox.com beforehand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>*END THE SMALL PRINT! FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN -ETEXTS*Ver.04.29.93*END*</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>As you may be aware, Project Gutenberg has -been involved with</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>the writings of both the Alexandre Dumases -for some time now,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>and since we get a few questions about the -order in which the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>books should be read, and in which they were -published, these</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>following comments should hopefully help most -of our readers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>***</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u> <span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>is the final volume of D'Artagnan -Romances:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>it is usually split into three or four parts, -and the final portion</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>is entitled <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>. -<u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u> we're</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>familiar with today is the last volume of the -four-volume edition.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>[Not all the editions split them in the same -manner, hence some of</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>the confusion. . .but wait. . .there's yet -more reason for confusion.]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>We intend to do ALL of <u>The Vicomte de -Bragelonne</u>, split into four etexts</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>entitled <u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>, -<u>Ten Years Later</u>, <u>Louise de la -Vallière</u>,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>and <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>; you WILL -be getting <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>One thing that may be causing confusion is -that the etext we have now,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>entitled <u>Ten Years Later</u>, says it's -the sequel to <u>The Three Musketeers</u>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>While this is technically true, there's -another book, <u>Twenty Years After</u>,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>that comes between. The confusion is -generated by the two facts that we</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>published <u>Ten Years Later</u> BEFORE we -published <u>Twenty Years After</u>, and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>that many people see those titles as meaning -Ten and Twenty Years "After"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>the original story. . .however, this is why -the different words "After" and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Later". . .the Ten Years "After" is ten -years after the Twenty Years later. . .as</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>per history. Also, the third book of the -D'Artagnan Romances, while entitled</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>, has the subtitle <u>Ten Years -Later</u>. These two</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>titles are also given to different volumes: -<u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u> can</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>refer to the whole book, or the first volume -of the three or four-volume</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>editions. <u>Ten Years Later</u> can, -similarly, refer to the whole book, or the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>second volume of the four-volume edition. To -add to the confusion, in</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>the case of our etexts, it refers to the -first 104 chapters of the whole book,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>covering material in the first and second -etexts in the new series. Here is a</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>guide to the series which may prove -helpful:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Three Musketeers</span></u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>: Etext 1257 - First book of the D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the years 1625-1628.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Twenty Years After</span></u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>: Etext 1259 - Second book of the D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the years 1648-1649.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>[Third in the order that we published, but -second in time sequence!!!]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Ten Years Later</span></u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>: Etext 1258 - First 104 chapters of the -third book of the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the years 1660-1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>: Etext 2609 (first in the new series) -- First 75 chapters</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>of the third book of the D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the year 1660.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Ten Years Later</span></u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>: Etext 2681 (our new etext) - Chapters -76-140 of that</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>third book of the D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the years 1660-1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>[In this particular editing of it]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Louise de la Vallière</span></u><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>: forthcoming (our next etext) - -Chapters 141-208 of the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>third book of the D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the year 1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Man in the Iron Mask</span></u><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>: forthcoming (following) - Chapters -209-269 of</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>the third book of the D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Covers the years 1661-1673.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>If we've calculated correctly, that fourth -text SHOULD correspond to the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>modern editions of <u>The Man in the Iron -Mask</u>, which is still widely</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>circulated, and comprises about the last 1/4 -of <u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Here is a list of the other Dumas Etexts we -have published so far:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Sep 1999 La Tulipe Noire, by Alexandre -Dumas[Pere#6/French][tlpnrxxx.xxx]1910</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>This is an abridged edition in French, also -see our full length English Etext</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Jul 1997 The Black Tulip, by Alexandre -Dumas[Pere][Dumas#1][tbtlpxxx.xxx] 965</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Jan 1998 The Count of Monte Cristo by -Alexandre Dumas[Pere][crstoxxx.xxx]1184</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Many thanks to Dr. David Coward, whose -editions of the D'Artagnan Romances have proved an invaluable -source of information.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Introduction:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'text-indent:.5in; punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>In the months of March-July in -1844, in the magazine <i>Le Siècle</i>, the first portion -of a story appeared, penned by the celebrated playwright -Alexandre Dumas. It was based, he claimed, on some manuscripts -he had found a year earlier in the Bibliotheque Nationale while -researching a history he planned to write on Louis XIV. They -chronicled the adventures of a young man named D'Artagnan who, -upon entering Paris, became almost immediately embroiled in court -intrigues, international politics, and ill-fated affairs between -royal lovers. Over the next six years, readers would enjoy the -adventures of this youth and his three famous friends, Porthos, -Athos, and Aramis, as their exploits unraveled behind the scenes -of some of the most momentous events in French and even English -history.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Eventually these serialized -adventures were published in novel form, and became the three -D'Artagnan Romances known today. Here is a brief summary of the -first two novels:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Three Musketeers</span></u> <span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>(serialized March - July, 1844): The year is -1625. The young D'Artagnan arrives in Paris at the tender age of -18, and almost immediately offends three musketeers, Porthos, -Aramis, and Athos. Instead of dueling, the four are attacked by -five of the Cardinal's guards, and the courage of the youth is -made apparent during the battle. The four become fast friends, -and, when asked by D'Artagnan's landlord to find his missing -wife, embark upon an adventure that takes them across both France -and England in order to thwart the plans of the Cardinal -Richelieu. Along the way, they encounter a beautiful young spy, -named simply Milady, who will stop at nothing to disgrace Queen -Anne of Austria before her husband, Louis XIII, and take her -revenge upon the four friends.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Twenty Years After</span></u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>(serialized January - August, 1845): The year -is now 1648, twenty years since the close of the last story. -Louis XIII has died, as has Cardinal Richelieu, and while the -crown of France may sit upon the head of Anne of Austria as -Regent for the young Louis XIV, the real power resides with the -Cardinal Mazarin, her secret husband. D'Artagnan is now a -lieutenant of musketeers, and his three friends have retired to -private life. Athos turned out to be a nobleman, the Comte de la -Fère, and has retired to his home with his son, Raoul de -Bragelonne. Aramis, whose real name is D'Herblay, has followed -his intention of shedding the musketeer's cassock for the -priest's robes, and Porthos has married a wealthy woman, who left -him her fortune upon her death. But trouble is stirring in both -France and England. Cromwell menaces the institution of royalty -itself while marching against Charles I, and at home the Fronde -is threatening to tear France apart. D'Artagnan brings his -friends out of retirement to save the threatened English monarch, -but Mordaunt, the son of Milady, who seeks to avenge his mother's -death at the musketeers' hands, thwarts their valiant efforts. -Undaunted, our heroes return to France just in time to help save -the young Louis XIV, quiet the Fronde, and tweak the nose of -Cardinal Mazarin.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The third novel, <u>The -Vicomte de Bragelonne</u> (serialized October, 1847 - January, -1850), has enjoyed a strange history in its English translation. -It has been split into three, four, or five volumes at various -points in its history. The five-volume edition generally does -not give titles to the smaller portions, but the others do. In -the three-volume edition, the novels are entitled <u>The Vicomte -de Bragelonne</u>, <u>Louise de la Vallière</u>, and -<u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>. For the purposes of this etext, -I have chosen to split the novel as the four-volume edition does, -with these titles: <u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>, <u>Ten Years -Later</u>, <u>Louise de la Vallière</u>, and <u>The Man in -the Iron Mask</u>. In the last etext:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><u><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u> <span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>(Etext 2609): It is the year 1660, and -D'Artagnan, after thirty-five years of loyal service, has become -disgusted with serving King Louis XIV while the real power -resides with the Cardinal Mazarin, and has tendered his -resignation. He embarks on his own project, that of restoring -Charles II to the throne of England, and, with the help of Athos, -succeeds, earning himself quite a fortune in the process. -D'Artagnan returns to Paris to live the life of a rich citizen, -and Athos, after negotiating the marriage of Philip, the king's -brother, to Princess Henrietta of England, likewise retires to -his own estate, La Fère. Meanwhile, Mazarin has finally -died, and left Louis to assume the reigns of power, with the -assistance of M. Colbert, formerly Mazarin's trusted clerk. -Colbert has an intense hatred for M. Fouquet, the king's -superintendent of finances, and has resolved to use any means -necessary to bring about his fall. With the new rank of -intendant bestowed on him by Louis, Colbert succeeds in having -two of Fouquet's loyal friends tried and executed. He then -brings to the king's attention that Fouquet is fortifying the -island of Belle-Île-en-Mer, and could possibly be planning -to use it as a base for some military operation against the -king. Louis calls D'Artagnan out of retirement and sends him to -investigate the island, promising him a tremendous salary and his -long-promised promotion to captain of the musketeers upon his -return. At Belle-Isle, D'Artagnan discovers that the engineer of -the fortifications is, in fact, Porthos, now the Baron du Vallon, -and that's not all. The blueprints for the island, although in -Porthos's handwriting, show evidence of another script that has -been erased, that of Aramis. D'Artagnan later discovers that -Aramis has become the bishop of Vannes, which is, coincidentally, -a parish belonging to M. Fouquet. Suspecting that D'Artagnan has -arrived on the king's behalf to investigate, Aramis tricks -D'Artagnan into wandering around Vannes in search of Porthos, and -sends Porthos on an heroic ride back to Paris to warn Fouquet of -the danger. Fouquet rushes to the king, and gives him Belle-Isle -as a present, thus allaying any suspicion, and at the same time -humiliating Colbert, just minutes before the usher announces -someone else seeking an audience with the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>And now, the second etext of <u>The Vicomte -de Bragelonne</u>. Enjoy!</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>John Bursey</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Mordaunt@aol.com</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>June, 2000</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Transcriber's note: There is one French -custom that may cause confusion. The Duc d'Orléans is -traditionally called "Monsieur" and his wife "Madame." Gaston, -the king's uncle, currently holds that title. Upon the event of -his death, it will be conferred upon the king's brother, Philip, -who is currently the Duc d'Anjou. The customary title of -"Monsieur" will go to him as well, and upon his future wife, -Henrietta of England, that of "Madame." Gaston's widow will be -referred to as the "Dowager Madame." - JB</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<b><i><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt;'>Ten Years -Later</span></u></i></b></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;'>by Alexandre -Dumas</span></i></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;'> </span></i></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter I:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>In which D'Artagnan finishes by -at Length placing his Hand upon his Captain's -Commission.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> </span> <span style= -'font-size: 20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he reader guesses beforehand whom the usher -preceded in announcing the courier from Bretagne. This messenger -was easily recognized. It was D'Artagnan, his clothes dusty, his -face inflamed, his hair dripping with sweat, his legs stiff; he -lifted his feet painfully at every step, on which resounded the -clink of his blood-stained spurs. He perceived in the doorway he -was passing through, the superintendent coming out. Fouquet -bowed with a smile to him who, an hour before, was bringing him -ruin and death. D'Artagnan found in his goodness of heart, and -in his inexhaustible vigor of body, enough presence of mind to -remember the kind reception of this man; he bowed then, also, -much more from benevolence and compassion, than from respect. He -felt upon his lips the word which had so many times been repeated -to the Duc de Guise: "Fly." But to pronounce that word would -have been to betray his cause; to speak that word in the cabinet -of the king, and before an usher, would have been to ruin himself -gratuitously, and could save nobody. D'Artagnan then, contented -himself with bowing to Fouquet and entered. At this moment the -king floated between the joy the last words of Fouquet had given -him, and his pleasure at the return of D'Artagnan. Without being -a courtier, D'Artagnan had a glance as sure and as rapid as if he -had been one. He read, on his entrance, devouring humiliation on -the countenance of Colbert. He even heard the king say these -words to him: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! Monsieur Colbert; you -have then nine hundred thousand livres at the intendance?" -Colbert, suffocated, bowed but made no reply. All this scene -entered into the mind of D'Artagnan, by the eyes and ears, at -once.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The first word of Louis to -his musketeer, as if he wished it to contrast with what he was -saying at the moment, was a kind "good day." His second was to -send away Colbert. The latter left the king's cabinet, pallid -and tottering, whilst D'Artagnan twisted up the ends of his -mustache.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I love to see one of my -servants in this disorder," said the king, admiring the martial -stains upon the clothes of his envoy.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought, sire, my presence -at the Louvre was sufficiently urgent to excuse my presenting -myself thus before you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You bring me great news, -then, monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, the thing is this, in -two words: Belle-Isle is fortified, admirably fortified; -Belle-Isle has a double <i>enceinte</i>, a citadel, two detached -forts; its ports contain three corsairs; and the side batteries -only await their cannon."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know all that, monsieur," -replied the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! your majesty knows all -that?" replied the musketeer, stupefied.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have the plan of the -fortifications of Belle-Isle," said the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty has the -plan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here it is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is really correct, sire: -I saw a similar one on the spot."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> D'Artagnan's brow became -clouded.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! I understand all. Your -majesty did not trust to me alone, but sent some other person," -said he in a reproachful tone.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of what importance is the -manner, monsieur, in which I have learnt what I know, so that I -know it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, sire," said the -musketeer, without seeking even to conceal his dissatisfaction; -"but I must be permitted to say to your majesty, that it is not -worth while to make me use such speed, to risk twenty times the -breaking of my neck, to salute me on my arrival with such -intelligence. Sire, when people are not trusted, or are deemed -insufficient, they should scarcely be employed." And D'Artagnan, -with a movement perfectly military, stamped with his foot, and -left upon the floor dust stained with blood. The king looked at -him, inwardly enjoying his first triumph.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," said he, at the -expiration of a minute, "not only is Belle-Isle known to me, but, -still further, Belle-Isle is mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is well! that is well, -sire, I ask but one thing more," replied D'Artagnan. - "My -discharge."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! your -discharge?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Without doubt I am too proud -to eat the bread of the king without earning it, or rather by -gaining it badly. - My discharge, sire!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I ask for my discharge, or I -will take it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are angry, -monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have reason, -<i>mordioux!</i> Thirty-two hours in the saddle, I ride day and -night, I perform prodigies of speed, I arrive stiff as the corpse -of a man who has been hung - and another arrives before me! -Come, sire, I am a fool! - My discharge, sire!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," said -Louis, leaning his white hand upon the dusty arm of the -musketeer, "what I tell you will not at all affect that which I -promised you. A king's word given must be kept." And the king -going straight to his table, opened a drawer, and took out a -folded paper. "Here is your commission of captain of musketeers; -you have won it, Monsieur d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> D'Artagnan opened the paper -eagerly, and scanned it twice. He could scarcely believe his -eyes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And this commission is given -you," continued the king, "not only on account of your journey to -Belle-Isle but, moreover, for your brave intervention at the -Place de Grève. There, likewise, you served me -valiantly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, ah!" said D'Artagnan, -without his self-command being able to prevent a blush from -mounting to his eyes - "you know that also, sire?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I know it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king possessed a piercing -glance and an infallible judgment when it was his object to read -men's minds. "You have something to say," said he to the -musketeer, "something to say which you do not say. Come, speak -freely, monsieur; you know that I told you, once and for all, -that you are to be always quite frank with me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, sire! what I have to -say is this, that I would prefer being made captain of the -musketeers for having charged a battery at the head of my -company, or taken a city, than for causing two wretches to be -hung."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is this quite true you tell -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And why should your majesty -suspect me of dissimulation, I ask?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I have known you -well, monsieur; you cannot repent of having drawn your sword for -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, in that your majesty -is deceived, and greatly; yes, I do repent of having drawn my -sword on account of the results that action produced; the poor -men who were hung, sire, were neither your enemies nor mine; and -they could not defend themselves."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king preserved silence -for a moment. "And your companion, M. d'Artagnan, does he -partake of your repentance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My companion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you were not alone, I -have been told."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alone, where?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At the Place de -Grève."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, sire, no," said -D'Artagnan, blushing at the idea that the king might have a -suspicion that he, D'Artagnan, had wished to engross to himself -all the glory that belonged to Raoul; "no, <i>mordioux!</i> and -as your majesty says, I had a companion, and a good companion, -too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A young man?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire; a young man. Oh! -your majesty must accept my compliments, you are as well informed -of things out of doors as things within. It is M. Colbert who -makes all these fine reports to the king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Colbert has said nothing -but good of you, M. d'Artagnan, and he would have met with a bad -reception if he had come to tell me anything else."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is -fortunate!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But he also said much good -of that young man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And with justice," said the -musketeer.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In short, it appears that -this young man is a fire-eater," said Louis, in order to sharpen -the sentiment which he mistook for envy.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A fire-eater! Yes, sire," -repeated D'Artagnan, delighted on his part to direct the king's -attention to Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not know his -name?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I think - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know him -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have known him nearly -five-and-twenty years, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, he is scarcely -twenty-five years old!" cried the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, sire! I have known -him ever since he was born, that is all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you affirm -that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," said D'Artagnan, -"your majesty questions me with a mistrust in which I recognize -another character than your own. M. Colbert, who has so well -informed you, has he not forgotten to tell you that this young -man is the son of my most intimate friend?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Vicomte de -Bragelonne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, sire. The father -of the Vicomte de Bragelonne is M. le Comte de la Fère, -who so powerfully assisted in the restoration of King Charles -II. Bragelonne comes of a valiant race, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then he is the son of that -nobleman who came to me, or rather to M. Mazarin, on the part of -King Charles II., to offer me his alliance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exactly, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the Comte de la -Fère is a great soldier, say you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, he is a man who has -drawn his sword more times for the king, your father, than there -are, at present, months in the happy life of your -majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was Louis XIV. who now bit -his lip.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is well, M. d'Artagnan, -very well! And M. le Comte de la Fère is your friend, say -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For about forty years; yes, -sire. Your majesty may see that I do not speak to you of -yesterday."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Should you be glad to see -this young man, M. d'Artagnan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Delighted, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king touched his bell, -and an usher appeared. "Call M. de Bragelonne," said the -king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! ah! he is here?" said -D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is on guard to-day, at -the Louvre, with the company of the gentlemen of monsieur le -prince."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king had scarcely ceased -speaking, when Raoul presented himself, and, on seeing -D'Artagnan, smiled on him with that charming smile which is only -found upon the lips of youth.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come," said -D'Artagnan, familiarly, to Raoul, "the king will allow you to -embrace me; only tell his majesty you thank him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul bowed so gracefully, -that Louis, to whom all superior qualities were pleasing when -they did not overshadow his own, admired his beauty, strength, -and modesty.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," said the king, -addressing Raoul, "I have asked monsieur le prince to be kind -enough to give you up to me; I have received his reply, and you -belong to me from this morning. Monsieur le prince was a good -master, but I hope you will not lose by the exchange."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, Raoul, be -satisfied; the king has some good in him," said D'Artagnan, who -had fathomed the character of Louis, and who played with his -self-love, within certain limits; always observing, be it -understood, the proprieties and flattering, even when he appeared -to be bantering.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," said Bragelonne, with -voice soft and musical, and with the natural and easy elocution -he inherited from his father; "Sire, it is not from to-day that I -belong to your majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! no, I know," said the -king, "you mean your enterprise of the Grève. That day, -you were truly mine, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, it is not of that day -I would speak; it would not become me to refer to so paltry a -service in the presence of such a man as M. d'Artagnan. I would -speak of a circumstance which created an epoch in my life, and -which consecrated me, from the age of sixteen, to the devoted -service of your majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! ah!" said the king, -"what was that circumstance? Tell me, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is it, sire. - When I -was setting out on my first campaign, that is to say, to join the -army of monsieur le prince, M. le Comte de la Fère came to -conduct me as far as Saint-Denis, where the remains of King Louis -XIII. wait, upon the lowest steps of the funeral -<i>basilique</i>, a successor, whom God will not send him, I -hope, for many years. Then he made me swear upon the ashes of -our masters, to serve royalty, represented by you - incarnate in -you, sire - to serve it in word, in thought, and in action. I -swore, and God and the dead were witnesses to my oath. During -ten years, sire, I have not so often as I desired had occasion to -keep it. I am a soldier of your majesty, and nothing else; and, -on calling me nearer to you, I do not change my master, I only -change my garrison."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul was silent and bowed. -Louis still listened after he had done speaking.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Mordioux!</i>" cried -D'Artagnan, "that was well spoken! was it not, your majesty? A -good race! a noble race!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," murmured the king, -without, however daring to manifest his emotion, for it had no -other cause than contact with a nature intrinsically noble. -"Yes, monsieur, you say truly: - wherever you were, you were the -king's. But in changing your garrison, believe me you will find -an advancement of which you are worthy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul saw that this ended -what the king had to say to him. And with the perfect tact which -characterized his refined nature, he bowed and -retired.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is there anything else, -monsieur, of which you have to inform me?" said the king, when he -found himself again alone with D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire, and I kept that -news for the last, for it is sad, and will clothe European -royalty in mourning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you tell -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, in passing through -Blois, a word, a sad word, echoed from the palace, struck my -ear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In truth, you terrify me, M. -d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, this word was -pronounced to me by a <i>piqueur</i>, who wore crape on his -arm."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My uncle, Gaston of -Orléans, perhaps."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, he has rendered his -last sigh."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I was not warned of it!" -cried the king, whose royal susceptibility saw an insult in the -absence of this intelligence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! do not be angry, sire," -said D'Artagnan; "neither the couriers of Paris, nor the couriers -of the whole world, can travel with your servant; the courier -from Blois will not be here these two hours, and he rides well, I -assure you, seeing that I only passed him on the thither side of -Orléans."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My uncle Gaston," murmured -Louis, pressing his hand to his brow, and comprising in those -three words all that his memory recalled of that symbol of -opposing sentiments.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Eh! yes, sire, it is thus," -said D'Artagnan, philosophically replying to the royal thought, -"it is thus the past flies away."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is true, monsieur, that -is true; but there remains for us, thank God! the future; and we -will try to make it not too dark."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I feel confidence in your -majesty on that head," said D'Artagnan, bowing, "and now - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, monsieur; I -had forgotten the hundred leagues you have just ridden. Go, -monsieur, take care of one of the best of soldiers, and when you -have reposed a little, come and place yourself at my -disposal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, absent or present, I -am always yours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> D'Artagnan bowed and -retired. Then, as if he had only come from Fontainebleau, he -quickly traversed the Louvre to rejoin Bragelonne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter II:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>A Lover and His -Mistress</span>.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>W</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>hilst the wax-lights were burning in -the castle of Blois, around the inanimate body of Gaston of -Orléans, that last representative of the past; whilst the -<i>bourgeois</i> of the city were thinking out his epitaph, which -was far from being a panegyric; whilst madame the dowager, no -longer remembering that in her young days she had loved that -senseless corpse to such a degree as to fly the paternal palace -for his sake, was making, within twenty paces of the funeral -apartment, her little calculations of interest and her little -sacrifices of pride; other interests and other prides were in -agitation in all the parts of the castle into which a living soul -could penetrate. Neither the lugubrious sounds of the bells, nor -the voices of the chanters, nor the splendor of the wax-lights -through the windows, nor the preparations for the funeral, had -power to divert the attention of two persons, placed at a window -of the interior court - a window that we are acquainted with, and -which lighted a chamber forming part of what were called the -little apartments. For the rest, a joyous beam of the sun, for -the sun appeared to care little for the loss France had just -suffered; a sunbeam, we say, descended upon them, drawing -perfumes from the neighboring flowers, and animating the walls -themselves. These two persons, so occupied, not by the death of -the duke, but by the conversation which was the consequence of -that death, were a young woman and a young man. The latter -personage, a man of from twenty-five to twenty-six years of age, -with a mien sometimes lively and sometimes dull, making good use -of two large eyes, shaded with long eye-lashes, was short of -stature and swart of skin; he smiled with an enormous, but -well-furnished mouth, and his pointed chin, which appeared to -enjoy a mobility nature does not ordinarily grant to that portion -of the countenance, leant from time to time very lovingly towards -his interlocutrix, who, we must say, did not always draw back so -rapidly as strict propriety had a right to require. The young -girl - we know her, for we have already seen her, at that very -same window, by the light of that same sun - the young girl -presented a singular mixture of shyness and reflection; she was -charming when she laughed, beautiful when she became serious; -but, let us hasten to say, she was more frequently charming than -beautiful. These two appeared to have attained the culminating -point of a discussion - half-bantering, half-serious.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, Monsieur Malicorne," -said the young girl, "does it, at length, please you that we -should talk reasonably?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You believe that that is -very easy, Mademoiselle Aure," replied the young man. "To do -what we like, when we can only do what we are able - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good! there he is bewildered -in his phrases."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who, I?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you; quit that lawyer's -logic, my dear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Another impossibility. -Clerk I am, Mademoiselle de Montalais."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Demoiselle I am, Monsieur -Malicorne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas, I know it well, and -you overwhelm me by your rank; so I will say no more to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, no, I don't overwhelm -you; say what you have to tell me - say it, I insist upon -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I obey -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is truly -fortunate."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur is -dead."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, <i>peste!</i> that's -news! And where do you come from, to be able to tell us -that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I come from Orléans, -mademoiselle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And is that all the news you -bring?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, no; I am come to tell -you that Madame Henrietta of England is coming to marry the -king's brother."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed, Malicorne, you are -insupportable with your news of the last century. Now, mind, if -you persist in this bad habit of laughing at people, I will have -you turned out."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, for really you -exasperate me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There, there. Patience, -mademoiselle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You want to make yourself of -consequence; I know well enough why. Go!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me, and I will answer -you frankly, yes, if the thing be true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know that I am anxious -to have that commission of lady of honor, which I have been -foolish enough to ask of you, and you do not use your -credit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who, I?" Malicorne cast -down his eyes, joined his hands, and assumed his sullen air. -"And what credit can the poor clerk of a procurer have, -pray?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your father has not twenty -thousand livres a year for nothing, M. Malicorne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A provincial fortune, -Mademoiselle de Montalais."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your father is not in the -secrets of monsieur le prince for nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An advantage which is -confined to lending monseigneur money."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In a word, you are not the -most cunning young fellow in the province for -nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You flatter me!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who, I?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since I maintain that I have -no credit, and you maintain I have."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, - my -commission?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, - your -commission?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Shall I have it, or shall I -not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall have -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ay, but when?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When you like."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where is it, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In my pocket."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How - in your -pocket?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And, with a smile, Malicorne -drew from his pocket a letter, upon which mademoiselle seized as -a prey, and which she read eagerly. As she read, her face -brightened.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Malicorne," cried she after -having read it, "In truth, you are a good lad."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What for, -mademoiselle?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because you might have been -paid for this commission, and you have not." And she burst into -a loud laugh, thinking to put the clerk out of countenance; but -Malicorne sustained the attack bravely.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not understand you," -said he. It was now Montalais who was disconcerted in her turn. -"I have declared my sentiments to you," continued Malicorne. -"You have told me three times, laughing all the while, that you -did not love me; you have embraced me once without laughing, and -that is all I want."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All?" said the proud and -coquettish Montalais, in a tone through which the wounded pride -was visible.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Absolutely all, -mademoiselle," replied Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" - And this monosyllable -indicated as much anger as the young man might have expected -gratitude. He shook his head quietly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen, Montalais," said he, -without heeding whether that familiarity pleased his mistress or -not; "let us not dispute about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And why not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because during the year -which I have known you, you might have had me turned out of doors -twenty times if I did not please you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed; and on what account -should I have had you turned out?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I have been -sufficiently impertinent for that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, that, - yes, that's -true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see plainly that you are -forced to avow it," said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur -Malicorne!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Don't let us be angry; if -you have retained me, then it has not been without -cause."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is not, at least, because -I love you," cried Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Granted. I will even say, -at this moment, I am certain that you hate me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, you have never spoken so -truly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, on my part, I detest -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! I take the -act."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take it. You find me brutal -and foolish; on my part I find you have a harsh voice, and your -face is too often distorted with anger. At this moment you would -allow yourself to be thrown out of that window rather than allow -me to kiss the tip of your finger; I would precipitate myself -from the top of the balcony rather than touch the hem of your -robe. But, in five minutes, you will love me, and I shall adore -you. Oh, it is just so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I doubt it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I swear it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Coxcomb!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And then, that is not the -true reason. You stand in need of me, Aure, and I of you. When -it pleases you to be gay, I make you laugh; when it suits me to -be loving, I look at you. I have given you a commission of lady -of honor which you wished for; you will give me, presently, -something I wish for."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you will; but, at this -moment, my dear Aure, I declare to you that I wish for absolutely -nothing, so be at ease."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a frightful man, -Malicorne; I was going to rejoice at getting this commission, and -thus you quench my joy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good; there is no time lost, -- you will rejoice when I am gone."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Go, then; and after - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So be it; but in the first -place, a piece of advice."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Resume your good-humor, - -you are ugly when you pout."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Coarse!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, let us tell the truth -to each other, while we are about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, Malicorne! Bad-hearted -man!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, Montalais! Ungrateful -girl!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young man leant with his -elbow upon the window-frame; Montalais took a book and opened -it. Malicorne stood up, brushed his hat with his sleeve, -smoothed down his black doublet; - Montalais, though pretending -to read, looked at him out of the corner of her eye.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good!" cried she, furious; -"he has assumed his respectful air - and he will pout for a -week."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A fortnight, mademoiselle," -said Malicorne, bowing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Montalais lifted up her -little doubled fist. "Monster!" said she; "oh! that I were a -man!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What would you do to -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I would strangle -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! very well, then," said -Malicorne; "I believe I begin to desire something."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what do you desire, -Monsieur Demon? That I should lose my soul from -anger?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne was rolling his hat -respectfully between his fingers; but, all at once, he let fall -his hat, seized the young girl by the shoulders, pulled her -towards him, and sealed her mouth with two lips that were very -warm, for a man pretending to so much indifference. Aure would -have cried out, but the cry was stifled in his kiss. Nervous -and, apparently, angry, the young girl pushed Malicorne against -the wall.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good!" said Malicorne, -philosophically, "that's enough for six weeks. Adieu, -mademoiselle, accept my very humble salutation." And he made -three steps towards the door.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! no, - you shall not -go!" cried Montalais, stamping with her little foot. "Stay where -you are! I order you!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You order me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; am I not -mistress?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of my heart and soul, -without doubt."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A pretty property! <i>ma -foi!</i> The soul is silly and the heart dry."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Beware, Montalais, I know -you," said Malicorne; "you are going to fall in love with your -humble servant."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, yes!" said she, -hanging round his neck with childish indolence, rather than with -loving abandonment. "Well, yes! for I must thank you at -least."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And for what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For the commission; is it -not my whole future?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Montalais looked at -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is frightful," said she, -"that one can never guess whether you are speaking seriously or -not."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I cannot speak more -seriously. I was going to Paris, - you are going there, - -<i>we</i> are going there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And so it was for that -motive only you have served me; selfish fellow!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What would you have me say, -Aure? I cannot live without you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! in truth, it is just -so with me; you are, nevertheless, it must be confessed, a very -bad-hearted young man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Aure, my dear Aure, take -care! if you take to calling me names again, you know the effect -they produce upon me, and I shall adore you." And so saying, -Malicorne drew the young girl a second time towards him. But at -that instant a step resounded on the staircase. The young people -were so close, that they would have been surprised in the arms of -each other, if Montalais had not violently pushed Malicorne, with -his back against the door, just then opening. A loud cry, -followed by angry reproaches, immediately resounded. It was -Madame de Saint-Rémy who uttered the cry and the angry -words. The unlucky Malicorne almost crushed her between the wall -and the door she was coming in at.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is again that -good-for-nothing!" cried the old lady. "Always here!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, madame!" replied -Malicorne, in a respectful tone; "it is eight long days since I -was here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter III:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>In Which We at Length See the -True Heroine of this History Appear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>B</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>ehind Madame de Saint-Rémy stood -Mademoiselle de la Vallière. She heard the explosion of -maternal anger, and as she divined the cause of it, she entered -the chamber trembling, and perceived the unlucky Malicorne, whose -woeful countenance might have softened or set laughing whoever -observed it coolly. He had promptly intrenched himself behind a -large chair, as if to avoid the first attacks of Madame de -Saint-Rémy; he had no hopes of prevailing with words, for -she spoke louder than he, and without stopping; but he reckoned -upon the eloquence of his gestures. The old lady would neither -listen to nor see anything; Malicorne had long been one of her -antipathies. But her anger was too great not to overflow from -Malicorne on his accomplice. Montalais had her turn.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you, mademoiselle; you -may be certain I shall inform madame of what is going on in the -apartment of one of her ladies of honor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, dear mother!" cried -Mademoiselle de la Vallière, "for mercy's sake, spare - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hold your tongue, -mademoiselle, and do not uselessly trouble yourself to intercede -for unworthy people; that a young maid of honor like you should -be subjected to a bad example is, certes, a misfortune great -enough; but that you should sanction it by your indulgence is -what I will not allow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But in truth," said -Montalais, rebelling again, "I do not know under what pretense -you treat me thus. I am doing no harm, I suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And that great -good-for-nothing, mademoiselle," resumed Madame de -Saint-Rémy, pointing to Malicorne, "is he here to do any -good, I ask you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is neither here for good -nor harm, madame; he comes to see me, that is all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is all very well! all -very well!" said the old lady. "Her royal highness shall be -informed of it, and she will judge."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events, I do not see -why," replied Montalais, "it should be forbidden M. Malicorne to -have intentions towards me, if his intentions are -honorable."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Honorable intentions with -such a face!" cried Madame de Saint-Rémy.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thank you in the name of -my face, madame," said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, my daughter, come," -continued Madame de Saint-Rémy; "we will go and inform -madame that at the very moment she is weeping for her husband, at -the moment when we are all weeping for a master in this old -castle of Blois, the abode of grief, there are people who amuse -themselves with flirtations!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" cried both the accused, -with one voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A maid of honor! a maid of -honor!" cried the old lady, lifting her hands towards -heaven.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! it is there you are -mistaken, madame," said Montalais, highly exasperated; "I am no -longer a maid of honor, of madame's at least."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you given in your -resignation, mademoiselle? That is well! I cannot but applaud -such a determination, and I do applaud it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not give in my -resignation, madame; I take another service, - that is -all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the <i>bourgeoisie</i> or -in the <i>robe?</i>" asked Madame de Saint-Rémy, -disdainfully.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Please to learn, madame, -that I am not a girl to serve either <i>bourgeoises</i> or -<i>robines;</i> and that instead of the miserable court at which -you vegetate, I am going to reside in a court almost -royal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ha, ha! a royal court," said -Madame de Saint-Rémy, forcing a laugh; "a royal court! -What do you think of that, my daughter?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And she turned towards -Mademoiselle de la Vallière, whom she would by main force -have dragged away from Montalais, and who instead of obeying the -impulse of Madame de Saint-Rémy, looked first at her -mother and then at Montalais with her beautiful conciliatory -eyes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not say a royal court, -madame," replied Montalais; "because Madame Henrietta of England, -who is about to become the wife of S. A. R. Monsieur, is not a -queen. I said <i>almost</i> royal, and I spoke correctly, since -she will be sister-in-law to the king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A thunderbolt falling upon -the castle of Blois would not have astonished Madame de -Saint-Rémy more than the last sentence of -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you say? of Son -Altesse Royale Madame Henrietta?" stammered out the old -lady.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I say I am going to belong -to her household, as maid of honor; that is what I -say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As maid of honor!" cried, at -the same time, Madame de Saint-Rémy with despair, and -Mademoiselle de la Vallière with delight.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame, as maid of -honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The old lady's head sank down -as if the blow had been too severe for her. But, almost -immediately recovering herself, she launched a last projectile at -her adversary.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! oh!" said she; "I have -heard of many of these sorts of promises beforehand, which often -lead people to flatter themselves with wild hopes, and at the -last moment, when the time comes to keep the promises, and have -the hopes realized, they are surprised to see the great credit -upon which they reckoned vanish like smoke."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! madame, the credit of my -protector is incontestable and his promises are as good as -deeds."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And would it be indiscreet -to ask you the name of this powerful protector?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! <i>mon Dieu!</i> no! it -is that gentleman there," said Montalais, pointing to Malicorne, -who, during this scene, had preserved the most imperturbable -coolness, and the most comic dignity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur!" cried Madame de -Saint-Rémy, with an explosion of hilarity, "monsieur is -your protector! Is the man whose credit is so powerful, and -whose promises are as good as deeds, Monsieur -Malicorne!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As to Montalais, as her sole -reply, she drew the <i>brevet</i> from her pocket, and showed it -to the old lady.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here is the <i>brevet</i>," -said she.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At once all was over. As -soon as she had cast a rapid glance over this fortunate -<i>brevet</i>, the good lady clasped her hands, an unspeakable -expression of envy and despair contracted her countenance, and -she was obliged to sit down to avoid fainting. Montalais was not -malicious enough to rejoice extravagantly at her victory, or to -overwhelm the conquered enemy, particularly when that enemy was -the mother of her friend; she used then, but did not abuse her -triumph. Malicorne was less generous; he assumed noble -<i>poses</i> in his <i>fauteuil</i> and stretched himself out -with a familiarity which, two hours earlier, would have drawn -upon him threats of a caning.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Maid of honor to the young -madame!" repeated Madame de Saint-Rémy, still but half -convinced.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame, and through the -protection of M. Malicorne, moreover."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is incredible!" repeated -the old lady: "is it not incredible, Louise?" But Louise did not -reply; she was sitting, thoughtfully, almost sad; passing one had -over her beautiful brow, she sighed heavily.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, but, monsieur," said -Madame de Saint-Rémy, all at once, "how did you manage to -obtain this post?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I asked for it, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of whom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One of my -friends."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you have friends -sufficiently powerful at court to give you such proofs of their -credit?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It appears so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And may one ask the name of -these friends?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not say I had many -friends, madame, I said I had one friend."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And that friend is -called?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Peste!</i> madame, you go -too far! When one has a friend as powerful as mine, we do not -publish his name in that fashion, in open day, in order that he -may be stolen from us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, monsieur, to -be silent as to that name; for I think it would be pretty -difficult for you to tell it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events," said -Montalais, "if the friend does not exist, the <i>brevet</i> does, -and that cuts short the question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then, I conceive," said -Madame de Saint-Rémy, with the gracious smile of the cat -who is going to scratch, "when I found monsieur here just now - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He brought you the -<i>brevet</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exactly, madame; you have -guessed rightly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, nothing can be -more moral or proper."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think so, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I have been wrong, as it -appears, in reproaching you, mademoiselle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very wrong, madame; but I am -so accustomed to your reproaches, that I pardon you -these."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, let us begone, -Louise; we have nothing to do but retire. Well!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame!" said La -Vallière starting, "did you speak?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not appear to be -listening, my child."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, madame, I was -thinking."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "About what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A thousand -things."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You bear me no ill-will, at -least, Louise?" cried Montalais, pressing her hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And why should I, my dear -Aure?" replied the girl in a voice soft as a flute.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Dame!</i>" resumed Madame -de Saint-Rémy; "if she did bear you a little ill-will, -poor girl, she could not be much blamed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And why should she bear me -ill-will, good gracious?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It appears to me that she is -of as good a family, and as pretty as you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mother! mother!" cried -Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Prettier a hundred times, -madame - not of a better family; but that does not tell me why -Louise should bear me ill-will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you think it will be very -amusing for her to be buried alive at Blois, when you are going -to shine at Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, madame, it is not I who -prevent Louise following me thither; on the contrary, I should -certainly be most happy if she came there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But it appears that M. -Malicorne, who is all-powerful at court - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! so much the worse, -madame," said Malicorne, "every one for himself in this poor -world."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Malicorne! Malicorne!" said -Montalais. Then stooping towards the young man: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Occupy Madame de -Saint-Rémy, either in disputing with her, or making it up -with her; I must speak to Louise." And, at the same time, a soft -pressure of the hand recompensed Malicorne for his future -obedience. Malicorne went grumbling towards Madame de -Saint-Rémy, whilst Montalais said to her friend, throwing -one arm around her neck: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter? Tell -<i>me</i>. Is it true that you would not love me if I were to -shine, as your mother says?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, no!" said the young -girl, with difficulty restraining her tears; "on the contrary, I -rejoice at your good fortune."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Rejoice! why, one would say -you are ready to cry!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do people never weep except -from envy?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! yes, I understand; I am -going to Paris and that word Paris recalls to your mind a certain -cavalier - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Aure!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A certain cavalier who -formerly lived near Blois, and who now resides at -Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In truth, I know not what -ails me, but I feel stifled."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Weep, then, weep, as you -cannot give me a smile!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Louise raised her sweet face, -which the tears, rolling down one after the other, illumined like -diamonds.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, confess," said -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What shall I -confess?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What makes you weep; people -don't weep without cause. I am your friend; whatever you would -wish me to do, I will do. Malicorne is more powerful than you -would think. Do you wish to go to Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas!" sighed -Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you wish to come to -Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To remain here alone, in -this old castle, I who have enjoyed the delightful habit of -listening to your songs, of pressing your hand, of running about -the park with you. Oh! how I shall be <i>ennuyée!</i> how -quickly I shall die!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you wish to come to -Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Louise breathed another -sigh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not answer -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What would you that I should -reply?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes or no; that is not very -difficult, I think."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! you are very fortunate, -Montalais!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is to say you would -like to be in my place."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Louise was silent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Little obstinate thing!" -said Montalais; "did ever any one keep her secrets from her -friend thus? But, confess that you would like to come to Paris; -confess that you are dying with the wish to see Raoul -again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I cannot confess -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then you are -wrong."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because - do you not see -this <i>brevet</i>?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To be sure I do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I would have got you a -similar one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By whose means?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Malicorne's."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Aure, are you telling the -truth? Is that possible?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Malicorne is there; and what -he has done for me, he surely can do for you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne had heard his name -pronounced twice; he was delighted at having an opportunity of -coming to a conclusion with Madame de Saint-Rémy, and he -turned round: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the question, -mademoiselle?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come hither, Malicorne," -said Montalais, with an imperious gesture. Malicorne -obeyed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A <i>brevet</i> like this," -said Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A <i>brevet</i> like this; -that is plain enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I want one - I must have -one!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! oh! you must have -one!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is impossible, is it not, -M. Malicorne?" said Louise, with her sweet, soft -voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If it is for <i>you</i>, -mademoiselle - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For me. Yes, Monsieur -Malicorne, it <i>would</i> be for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And if Mademoiselle de -Montalais asks it at the same time - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de Montalais -does not ask it, she requires it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! we will endeavor to -obey you, mademoiselle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you will have her -named?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We will try."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No evasive answers, Louise -de la Vallière shall be maid of honor to Madame Henrietta -within a week."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How you talk!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Within a week, or else - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! or else?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You may take back your -<i>brevet</i>, Monsieur Malicorne; I will not leave my -friend."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dear Montalais!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is right. Keep your -<i>brevet;</i> Mademoiselle de la Vallière shall be a maid -of honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that true?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I may then hope to go to -Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Depend on it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Monsieur Malicorne, -what joy!" cried Louise, clapping her hands, and bounding with -pleasure.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Little dissembler!" said -Montalais, "try again to make me believe you are not in love with -Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Louise blushed like a rose in -June, but instead of replying, she ran and embraced her mother. -"Madame," said she, "do you know that M. Malicorne is going to -have me appointed maid of honor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Malicorne is a prince in -disguise," replied the old lady, "he is all-powerful, -seemingly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Should you also like to be a -maid of honor?" asked Malicorne of Madame de Saint-Rémy. -"Whilst I am about it, I might as well get everybody -appointed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And upon that he went away, -leaving the poor lady quite disconcerted.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Humph!" murmured Malicorne -as he descended the stairs, - "Humph! there goes another note of -a thousand livres! but I must get through as well as I can; my -friend Manicamp does nothing for nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter IV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Malicorne and -Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he introduction of these two new -personages into this history and that mysterious affinity of -names and sentiments, merit some attention on the part of both -historian and reader. We will then enter into some details -concerning Messieurs Malicorne and Manicamp. Malicorne, we know, -had made the journey to Orléans in search of the -<i>brevet</i> destined for Mademoiselle de Montalais, the arrival -of which had produced such a strong feeling at the castle of -Blois. At that moment, M. de Manicamp was at Orléans. A -singular person was this M. de Manicamp; a very intelligent young -fellow, always poor, always needy, although he dipped his hand -freely into the purse of M. le Comte de Guiche, one of the best -furnished purses of the period. M. le Comte de Guiche had had, -as the companion of his boyhood, this De Manicamp, a poor -gentleman, vassal-born, of the house of Gramont. M. de Manicamp, -with his tact and talent had created himself a revenue in the -opulent family of the celebrated maréchal. From his -infancy he had, with calculation beyond his age, lent his mane -and complaisance to the follies of the Comte de Guiche. If his -noble companion had stolen some fruit destined for Madame la -Maréchale, if he had broken a mirror, or put out a dog's -eye, Manicamp declared himself guilty of the crime committed, and -received the punishment, which was not made the milder for -falling on the innocent. But this was the way this system of -abnegation was paid for: instead of wearing such mean habiliments -as his paternal fortunes entitled him to, he was able to appear -brilliant, superb, like a young noble of fifty thousand livres a -year. It was not that he was mean in character or humble in -spirit; no, he was a philosopher, or rather he had the -indifference, the apathy, the obstinacy which banish from man -every sentiment of the supernatural. His sole ambition was to -spend money. But, in this respect, the worthy M. de Manicamp was -a gulf. Three or four times every year he drained the Comte de -Guiche, and when the Comte de Guiche was thoroughly drained, when -he had turned out his pockets and his purse before him, when he -declared that it would be at least a fortnight before paternal -munificence would refill those pockets and that purse, Manicamp -lost all his energy, he went to bed, remained there, ate nothing -and sold his handsome clothes, under the pretense that, remaining -in bed, he did not want them. During this prostration of mind -and strength, the purse of the Comte de Guiche was getting full -again, and when once filled, overflowed into that of De Manicamp, -who bought new clothes, dressed himself again, and recommenced -the same life he had followed before. The mania of selling his -new clothes for a quarter of what they were worth, had rendered -our hero sufficiently celebrated in Orléans, a city where, -in general, we should be puzzled to say why he came to pass his -days of penitence. Provincial <i>débauches, -petits-maîtres</i> of six hundred livres a year, shared the -fragments of his opulence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Among the admirers of these -splendid toilettes, our friend Malicorne was conspicuous; he was -the son of a syndic of the city, of whom M. de Condé, -always needy as a De Condé, often borrowed money at -enormous interest. M. Malicorne kept the paternal money-chest; -that is to say, that in those times of easy morals, he had made -for himself, by following the example of his father, and lending -at high interest for short terms, a revenue of eighteen hundred -livres, without reckoning six hundred livres furnished by the -generosity of the syndic; so that Malicorne was the king of the -gay youth of Orléans, having two thousand four hundred -livres to scatter, squander, and waste on follies of every kind. -But, quite contrary to Manicamp, Malicorne was terribly -ambitious. He loved from ambition; he spent money out of -ambition; and he would have ruined himself for ambition. -Malicorne had determined to rise, at whatever price it might -cost, and for this, whatever price it did cost, he had given -himself a mistress and a friend. The mistress, Mademoiselle de -Montalais, was cruel, as regarded love; but she was of a noble -family, and that was sufficient for Malicorne. The friend had -little or no friendship, but he was the favorite of the Comte de -Guiche, himself the friend of Monsieur, the king's brother; and -that was sufficient for Malicorne. Only, in the chapter of -charges, Mademoiselle de Montalais cost <i>per annum:</i> - -ribbons, gloves, and sweets, a thousand livres. De Manicamp cost -- money lent, never returned - from twelve to fifteen hundred -livres <i>per annum</i>. So that there was nothing left for -Malicorne. Ah! yes, we are mistaken; there was left the paternal -strong box. He employed a mode of proceeding, upon which he -preserved the most profound secrecy, and which consisted in -advancing to himself, from the coffers of the syndic, half a -dozen year's profits, that is to say, fifteen thousand livres, -swearing to himself - observe, quite to himself - to repay this -deficiency as soon as an opportunity should present itself. The -opportunity was expected to be the concession of a good post in -the household of Monsieur, when that household would be -established at the period of his marriage. This juncture had -arrived, and the household was about to be established. A good -post in the family of a prince of the blood, when it is given by -the credit, and on the recommendation of a friend, like the Comte -de Guiche, is worth at least twelve thousand livres <i>per -annum;</i> and by the means which M. Malicorne had taken to make -his revenues fructify, twelve thousand livres might rise to -twenty thousand. Then, when once an incumbent of this post, he -would marry Mademoiselle de Montalais. Mademoiselle de -Montalais, of a half noble family, not only would be dowered, but -would ennoble Malicorne. But, in order that Mademoiselle de -Montalais, who had not a large patrimonial fortune, although an -only daughter, should be suitably dowered, it was necessary that -she should belong to some great princess, as prodigal as the -dowager Madame was covetous. And in order that the wife should -not be of one party whilst the husband belonged to the other, a -situation which presents serious inconveniences, particularly -with characters like those of the future consorts - Malicorne had -imagined the idea of making the central point of union the -household of Monsieur, the king's brother. Mademoiselle de -Montalais would be maid of honor to Madame. M. Malicorne would -be officer to Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It is plain the plan was -formed by a clear head; it is plain, also, that it had been -bravely executed. Malicorne had asked Manicamp to ask a -<i>brevet</i> of maid of honor of the Comte de Guiche; and the -Comte de Guiche had asked this <i>brevet</i> of Monsieur, who had -signed it without hesitation. The constructive plan of Malicorne -- for we may well suppose that the combinations of a mind as -active as his were not confined to the present, but extended to -the future - the constructive plan of Malicorne, we say, was -this: - To obtain entrance into the household of Madame Henrietta -for a woman devoted to himself, who was intelligent, young, -handsome, and intriguing; to learn, by means of this woman, all -the feminine secrets of the young household; whilst he, -Malicorne, and his friend Manicamp, should, between them, know -all the male secrets of the young community. It was by these -means that a rapid and splendid fortune might be acquired at one -and the same time. Malicorne was a vile name; he who bore it had -too much wit to conceal this truth from himself; but an estate -might be purchased; and Malicorne of some place, or even De -Malicorne itself, for short, would ring more nobly on the -ear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was not improbable that a -most aristocratic origin might be hunted up by the heralds for -this name of Malicorne; might it not come from some estate where -a bull with mortal horns had caused some great misfortune, and -baptized the soil with the blood it had spilt? Certes, this plan -presented itself bristling with difficulties: but the greatest of -all was Mademoiselle de Montalais herself. Capricious, variable, -close, giddy, free, prudish, a virgin armed with claws, Erigone -stained with grapes, she sometimes overturned, with a single dash -of her white fingers, or with a single puff from her laughing -lips, the edifice which had exhausted Malicorne's patience for a -month.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Love apart, Malicorne was -happy; but this love, which he could not help feeling, he had the -strength to conceal with care; persuaded that at the least -relaxing of the ties by which he had bound his Protean female, -the demon would overthrow and laugh at him. He humbled his -mistress by disdaining her. Burning with desire, when she -advanced to tempt him, he had the art to appear ice, persuaded -that if he opened his arms, she would run away laughing at him. -On her side, Montalais believed she did not love Malicorne; -whilst, on the contrary, in reality she did. Malicorne repeated -to her so often his protestation of indifference, that she -finished, sometimes, by believing him; and then she believed she -detested Malicorne. If she tried to bring him back by coquetry, -Malicorne played the coquette better than she could. But what -made Montalais hold to Malicorne in an indissoluble fashion, was -that Malicorne always came cram full of fresh news from the court -and the city; Malicorne always brought to Blois a fashion, a -secret, or a perfume; that Malicorne never asked for a meeting, -but, on the contrary, required to be supplicated to receive the -favors he burned to obtain. On her side, Montalais was no miser -with stories. By her means, Malicorne learnt all that passed at -Blois, in the family of the dowager Madame; and he related to -Manicamp tales that made him ready to die with laughing, which -the latter, out of idleness, took ready-made to M. de Guiche, who -carried them to Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Such, in two words, was the -woof of petty interests and petty conspiracies which united Blois -with Orléans, and Orléans with Pairs; and which was -about to bring into the last named city where she was to produce -so great a revolution, the poor little La Vallière, who -was far from suspecting, as she returned joyfully, leaning on the -arm of her mother, for what a strange future she was reserved. -As to the good man, Malicorne - we speak of the syndic of -Orléans - he did not see more clearly into the present -than others did into the future; and had no suspicion as he -walked, every day, between three and five o'clock, after his -dinner, upon the Place Sainte-Catherine, in his gray coat, cut -after the fashion of Louis XIII. and his cloth shoes with great -knots of ribbon, that it was he who was paying for all those -bursts of laughter, all those stolen kisses, all those -whisperings, all those little keepsakes, and all those bubble -projects which formed a chain of forty-five leagues in length, -from the palais of Blois to the Palais Royal.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter V:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Manicamp and -Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>M</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>alicorne, then, left Blois, as we have -said, and went to find his friend, Manicamp, then in temporary -retreat in the city of Orléans. It was just at the moment -when that young nobleman was employed in selling the last decent -clothing he had left. He had, a fortnight before, extorted from -the Comte de Guiche a hundred pistoles, all he had, to assist in -equipping him properly to go and meet Madame, on her arrival at -Le Havre. He had drawn from Malicorne, three days before, fifty -pistoles, the price of the <i>brevet</i> obtained for Montalais. -He had then no expectation of anything else, having exhausted all -his resources, with the exception of selling a handsome suit of -cloth and satin, embroidered and laced with gold, which had been -the admiration of the court. But to be able to sell this suit, -the last he had left, - as we have been forced to confess to the -reader - Manicamp had been obliged to take to his bed. No more -fire, no more pocket-money, no more walking-money, nothing but -sleep to take the place of repasts, companies and balls. It has -been said - "He who sleeps, dines;" but it has never been -affirmed - He who sleeps, plays - or, He who sleeps, dances. -Manicamp, reduced to this extremity of neither playing nor -dancing, for a week at least, was, consequently, very sad; he was -expecting a usurer, and saw Malicorne enter. A cry of distress -escaped him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Eh! what!" said he, in a -tone which nothing can describe, "is that you again, dear -friend?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Humph! you are very polite!" -said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ay, but look you, I was -expecting money, and, instead of money, I see -<i>you</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And suppose I brought you -some money?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! that would be quite -another thing. You are very welcome, my dear friend!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And he held out his hand, not -for the hand of Malicorne, but for the purse. Malicorne -pretended to be mistaken, and gave him his hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the money?" said -Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear friend, if you wish -to have it, earn it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What must be done for -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Earn it, -<i>parbleu!</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And after what -fashion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! that is rather trying, I -warn you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The devil!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You must get out of bed, and -go immediately to M. le Comte de Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I get up!" said Manicamp, -stretching himself in his bed, complacently, "oh, no, thank -you!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have sold all your -clothes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, I have one suit left, -the handsomest even, but I expect a purchaser."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the -<i>chausses?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, if you look, you will -see them on that chair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well! since you have -some <i>chausses</i> and a <i>pourpoint</i> left, put your legs -into the first and your back into the other; have a horse -saddled, and set off."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not I."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And why not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Morbleu!</i> don't you -know, then, that M. de Guiche is at Étampes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, I thought he was at -Paris. You will then only have fifteen leagues to go, instead of -thirty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a wonderfully clever -fellow! If I were to ride fifteen leagues in these clothes, they -would never be fit to put on again; and, instead of selling them -for thirty pistoles, I should be obliged to take -fifteen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sell them for whatever you -like, but I must have a second commission of maid of -honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good! for whom? Is -Montalais doubled, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Vile fellow! - It is you who -are doubled. You swallow up two fortunes - mine, and that of M. -le Comte de Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You should say, that of M. -le Comte de Guiche and yours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is true; honor where it -is due; but I return to my <i>brevet</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are -wrong."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Prove me that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My friend, there will only -be twelve maids of honor for madame; I have already obtained for -you what twelve hundred women are trying for, and for that I was -forced to employ all my diplomacy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! yes, I know you have -been quite heroic, my dear friend."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We know what we are about," -said Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To whom do you tell that? -When I am king, I promise you one thing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What? To call yourself -Malicorne the First?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; to make you -superintendent of my finances; but that is not the question -now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unfortunately."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The present affair is to -procure for me a second place of maid of honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My friend, if you were to -promise me the price of heaven, I would decline to disturb myself -at this moment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'text-indent:.5in; punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Malicorne chinked the money in -his pocket.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There are twenty pistoles -here," said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what would you do with -twenty pistoles, <i>mon Dieu!</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well!" said Malicorne, a -little angry, "suppose I were to add them to the five hundred you -already owe me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right," replied -Manicamp, stretching out his hand again, "and from that point of -view I can accept them. Give them to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An instant, what the devil! -it is not only holding out your hand that will do; if I give you -the twenty pistoles, shall I have my <i>brevet?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To be sure you -shall."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Soon?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To-day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! take care! Monsieur de -Manicamp; you undertake much, and I do not ask that. Thirty -leagues in a day is too much, you would kill -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think nothing impossible -when obliging a friend."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are quite -heroic."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where are the twenty -pistoles?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here they are," said -Malicorne, showing them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That's well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but my dear M. -Manicamp, you would consume them in post-horses -alone!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, make yourself easy -on that score."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pardon me. Why, it is -fifteen leagues from this place to Étampes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fourteen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoBodyText"> "Well! fourteen be it; -fourteen leagues makes seven posts; at twenty sous the post, -seven livres; seven livres the courier, fourteen; as many for -coming back, twenty-eight! as much for bed and supper, that makes -sixty livres this complaisance would cost."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp stretched himself -like a serpent in his bed, and fixing his two great eyes upon -Malicorne, "You are right," said he; "I could not return before -to-morrow;" and he took the twenty pistoles.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, then, be -off!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, as I cannot be back -before to-morrow, we have time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Time for what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Time to play."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you wish to play -with?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your twenty pistoles, -<i>pardieu!</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; you always -win."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will wager them, -then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Against what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Against twenty -others."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what shall be the object -of the wager?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This. We have said it was -fourteen leagues to Étampes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And fourteen leagues -back?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Doubtless."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well; for these twenty-eight -leagues you cannot allow less than fourteen hours?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is agreed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One hour to find the Comte -de Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Go on."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And an hour to persuade him -to write a letter to Monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Just so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sixteen hours in -all?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You reckon as well as M. -Colbert."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is now twelve -o'clock."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Half-past."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Hein!</i> - you have a -handsome watch!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What were you saying?" said -Malicorne, putting his watch quickly back into his -fob.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! true; I was offering to -lay you twenty pistoles against these you have lent me, that you -will have the Comte de Guiche's letter in - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How soon?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In eight hours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you a winged horse, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is no matter. Will you -bet?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall have the comte's -letter in eight hours?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In hand?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In hand."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, be it so; I lay," said -Malicorne, curious enough to know how this seller of clothes -would get through.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it agreed?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pass me the pen, ink, and -paper."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here they are."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp raised himself with -a sigh, and leaning on his left elbow, in his best hand, traced -the following lines: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good for an order for a -place of maid of honor to Madame, which M. le Comte de Guiche -will take upon him to obtain at sight.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>DE MANICAMP."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> This painful task -accomplished, he laid himself down in bed again.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well!" asked Malicorne, -"what does this mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That means that if you are -in a hurry to have the letter from the Comte de Guiche for -Monsieur, I have won my wager."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How the devil is -that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is transparent enough, -I think; you take that paper."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you set out instead of -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You put your horses to their -best speed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In six hours you will be at -Étampes; in seven hours you have the letter from the -comte, and I shall have won my wager without stirring from my -bed, which suits me and you too, at the same time, I am very -sure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Decidedly, Manicamp, you are -a great man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Hein!</i> I know -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am to start then for -Étampes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Directly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am to go to the Comte de -Guiche with this order?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will give you a similar -one for Monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur will -approve?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Instantly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I shall have my -<i>brevet?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I hope I behave -genteely?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Adorably."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do as you please, then, -with the Comte de Guiche, Manicamp?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Except making money of him - -everything?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Diable!</i> the exception -is annoying; but then, if instead of asking him for money, you -were to ask - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Something -important."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you call -important?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! suppose one of your -friends asked you to render him a service?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I would not render it to -him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Selfish fellow!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Or at least I would ask him -what service he would render me in exchange."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! that, perhaps, is fair. -Well, that friend speaks to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, you, -Malicorne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; I."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! ah! you are rich, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have still fifty pistoles -left."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exactly the sum I want. -Where are those fifty pistoles?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here," said Malicorne, -slapping his pocket.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then speak, my friend; what -do you want?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne took up the pen, -ink, and paper again, and presented them all to Manicamp. -"Write!" said he.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dictate!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An order for a place in the -household of Monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Manicamp, laying -down the pen, "a place in the household of Monsieur for fifty -pistoles?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You mistook me, my friend; -you did not hear plainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did you say, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I said five -hundred."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the five -hundred?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here they are."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp devoured the -<i>rouleau</i> with his eyes; but this time Malicorne held it at -a distance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Eh! what do you say to -that? Five hundred pistoles."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I say it is for nothing, my -friend," said Manicamp, taking up the pen again, "and you exhaust -my credit. Dictate."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne -continued:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Which my friend the Comte de -Guiche will obtain for my friend Malicorne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That's it," said -Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pardon me, you have -forgotten to sign."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! that is true. The five -hundred pistoles?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here are two hundred and -fifty of them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the other two hundred -and fifty?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When I am in possession of -my place."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp made a -face.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case give me the -recommendation back again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What to do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To add two words to -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Two words?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; two words -only."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What are they?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In haste."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne returned the -recommendation; Manicamp added the words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good," said Malicorne, -taking back the paper.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp began to count out -the pistoles.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There want twenty," said -he.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The twenty I have -won."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By laying that you would -have the letter from the Comte de Guiche in eight -hours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! that's fair," and he -gave him the twenty pistoles.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp began to scoop up -his gold by handfuls, and pour it in cascades upon his -bed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This second place," murmured -Malicorne, whilst drying his paper, "which, at first glance -appears to cost me more than the first, but - " He stopped, took -up the pen in his turn, and wrote to Montalais: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "MADEMOISELLE, - Announce to -your friend that her commission will not be long before it -arrives; I am setting out to get it signed: that will be -twenty-eight leagues I shall have gone for the love of -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Then with his sardonic smile, -taking up the interrupted sentence: - "This place," said he, "at -first glance, appears to have cost more than the first; but - the -benefit will be, I hope, in proportion with the expense, and -Mademoiselle de la Vallière will bring me back more than -Mademoiselle de Montalais, or else, - or else my name is not -Malicorne. Farewell, Manicamp," and he left the room.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter VI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Courtyard of the Hôtel -Grammont.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>O</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>n Malicorne's arrival at -Orléans, he was informed that the Comte de Guiche had just -set out for Paris. Malicorne rested himself for a couple of -hours, and then prepared to continue his journey. He reached -Paris during the night, and alighted at a small hotel, where, in -his previous journeys to the capital, he had been accustomed to -put up, and at eight o'clock the next morning presented himself -at the Hôtel Grammont. Malicorne arrived just in time, for -the Comte de Guiche was on the point of taking leave of Monsieur -before setting out for Le Havre, where the principal members of -the French nobility had gone to await Madame's arrival from -England. Malicorne pronounced the name of Manicamp, and was -immediately admitted. He found the Comte de Guiche in the -courtyard of the Hôtel Grammont, inspecting his horses, -which his trainers and equerries were passing in review before -him. The count, in the presence of his tradespeople and of his -servants, was engaged in praising or blaming, as the case seemed -to deserve, the appointments, horses, and harness that were being -submitted to him; when, in the midst of this important -occupation, the name of Manicamp was announced.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Manicamp!" he exclaimed; -"let him enter by all means." And he advanced a few steps toward -the door.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne slipped through the -half-open door, and looking at the Comte de Guiche, who was -surprised to see a face he did not recognize, instead of the one -he expected, said: "Forgive me, monsieur le comte, but I believe -a mistake has been made. M. Manicamp himself was announced to -you, instead of which it is only an envoy from him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" exclaimed De Guiche, -coldly; "and what do you bring me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A letter, monsieur le -comte." Malicorne handed him the first document, and narrowly -watched the count's face, who, as he read it, began to -laugh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What!" he exclaimed, -"another maid of honor? Are all the maids of honor in France, -then, under his protection?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'text-indent:.5in; punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"Why does he not come himself?" -he inquired.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is confined to his -bed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The deuce! he has no money -then, I suppose," said De Guiche, shrugging his shoulders. "What -does he do with his money?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne made a movement, to -indicate that upon this subject he was as ignorant as the count -himself. "Why does he not make use of his credit, then?" -continued De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With regard to that, I think -- "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That Manicamp has credit -with no one but yourself, monsieur le comte!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will not be at Le Havre, -then?" Whereupon Malicorne made another movement.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But every one will be -there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I trust, monsieur le comte, -that he will not neglect so excellent an opportunity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He should be at Paris by -this time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will take the direct road -perhaps to make up for lost time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where is he now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At -Orléans."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," said De Guiche, -"you seem to me a man of very good taste."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne was wearing some of -Manicamp's old-new clothes. He bowed in return, saying, "You do -me a very great honor, monsieur le comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whom have I the pleasure of -addressing?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My name is Malicorne, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Malicorne, what do you -think of these pistol-holsters?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne was a man of great -readiness and immediately understood the position of affairs. -Besides, the "de" which had been prefixed to his name, raised him -to the rank of the person with whom he was conversing. He looked -at the holsters with the air of a connoisseur and said, without -hesitation: "Somewhat heavy, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see," said De Guiche to -the saddler, "this gentleman, who understands these matters well, -thinks the holsters heavy, a complaint I had already made." The -saddler was full of excuses.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you think," asked De -Guiche, "of this horse, which I have just purchased?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To look at it, it seems -perfect, monsieur le comte; but I must mount it before I give you -my opinion."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do so, M. de Malicorne, and -ride him round the court two or three times."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The courtyard of the hotel -was so arranged, that whenever there was any occasion for it, it -could be used as a riding-school. Malicorne, with perfect ease, -arranged the bridle and snaffle-reins, placed his left hand on -the horse's mane, and, with his foot in the stirrup, raised -himself and seated himself in the saddle. At first, he made the -horse walk the whole circuit of the court-yard at a foot-pace; -next at a trot; lastly at a gallop. He then drew up close to the -count, dismounted, and threw the bridle to a groom standing by. -"Well," said the count, "what do you think of it, M. de -Malicorne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This horse, monsieur le -comte, is of the Mecklenburg breed. In looking whether the bit -suited his mouth, I saw that he was rising seven, the very age -when the training of a horse intended for a charger should -commence. The forehand is light. A horse which holds its head -high, it is said, never tires his rider's hand. The withers are -rather low. The drooping of the hind-quarters would almost make -me doubt the purity of its German breed, and I think there is -English blood in him. He stands well on his legs, but he trots -high, and may cut himself, which requires attention to be paid to -his shoeing. He is tractable; and as I made him turn round and -change his feet, I found him quick and ready in doing -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well said, M. de Malicorne," -exclaimed the comte; "you are a judge of horses, I perceive;" -then, turning towards him again, he continued, "you are most -becomingly dressed, M. de Malicorne. That is not a provincial -cut, I presume. Such a style of dress is not to be met with at -Tours or Orléans."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monsieur le comte; my -clothes were made at Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no doubt about -that. But let us resume our own affair. Manicamp wishes for the -appointment of a second maid of honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You perceive what he has -written, monsieur le comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For whom was the first -appointment?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne felt the color rise -in his face as he answered hurriedly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A charming maid of honor, -Mademoiselle de Montalais."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, ah! you are acquainted -with her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We are affianced, or nearly -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is quite another thing, -then; a thousand compliments," exclaimed De Guiche, upon whose -lips a courtier's jest was already fitting, but to whom the word -"affianced," addressed by Malicorne with respect to Mademoiselle -de Montalais, recalled the respect due to women.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And for whom is the second -appointment destined?" asked De Guiche; "is it for anyone to whom -Manicamp may happen to be affianced? In that case I pity her, -poor girl! for she will have a sad fellow for a -husband."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monsieur le comte; the -second appointment is for Mademoiselle de la Baume le Blanc de la -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unknown," said De -Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unknown? yes, monsieur," -said Malicorne, smiling in his turn.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good. I will speak to -Monsieur about it. By the by, she is of gentle -birth?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She belongs to a very good -family and is maid of honor to Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That's well. Will you -accompany me to Monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly, if I may be -permitted the honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you your -carriage?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; I came here on -horseback."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dressed as you -are?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monsieur; I posted from -Orléans, and I changed my traveling suit for the one I -have on, in order to present myself to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "True, you already told me -you had come from Orléans;" saying which he crumpled -Manicamp's letter in his hand, and thrust it in his -pocket.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon," said -Malicorne, timidly; "but I do not think you have read -all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not read all, do you -say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; there were two letters -in the same envelope."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! are you -sure?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite sure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us look, then," said the -count, as he opened the letter again.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! you are right," he said -opening the paper which he had not yet read.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I suspected it," he -continued - "another application for an appointment under -Monsieur. This Manicamp is a regular vampire: - he is carrying -on a trade in it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monsieur le comte, he -wishes to make a present of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To whom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To myself, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why did you not say so at -once, my dear M. Mauvaisecorne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Malicorne, monsieur le -comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me; it is that Latin -that bothers me - that terrible mine of etymologies. Why the -deuce are young men of family taught Latin? <i>Mala</i> and -<i>mauvaise</i> - you understand it is the same thing. You will -forgive me, I trust, M. de Malicorne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your kindness affects me -much, monsieur: but it is a reason why I should make you -acquainted with one circumstance without any delay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That I was not born a -gentleman. I am not without courage, and not altogether -deficient in ability; but my name is Malicorne -simply."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You appear to me, monsieur!" -exclaimed the count, looking at the astute face of his companion, -"to be a most agreeable man. Your face pleases me, M. Malicorne, -and you must possess some indisputably excellent qualities to -have pleased that egotistical Manicamp. Be candid and tell me -whether you are not some saint descended upon the -earth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For the simple reason that -he makes you a present of anything. Did you not say that he -intended to make you a present of some appointment in the king's -household?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon, count; -but, if I succeed in obtaining the appointment, you, and not he, -will have bestowed it on me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides he will not have -given it to you for nothing, I suppose. Stay, I have it; - there -is a Malicorne at Orléans who lends money to the -prince."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think that must be my -father, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! the prince has the -father, and that terrible dragon of a Manicamp has the son. Take -care, monsieur, I know him. He will fleece you -completely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The only difference is, that -I lend without interest," said Malicorne, smiling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was correct in saying you -were either a saint or very much resembled one. M. Malicorne, -you shall have the post you want, or I will forfeit my -name."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! monsieur le comte, what -a debt of gratitude shall I not owe you?" said Malicorne, -transported.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us go to the prince, my -dear M. Malicorne." And De Guiche proceeded toward the door, -desiring Malicorne to follow him. At the very moment they were -about to cross the threshold, a young man appeared on the other -side. He was from twenty-four to twenty-five years of age, of -pale complexion, bright eyes and brown hair and eyebrows. -"Good-day," said he, suddenly, almost pushing De Guiche back into -the courtyard again.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that you, De Wardes? - -What! and booted, spurred and whip in hand, too?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The most befitting costume -for a man about to set off for Le Havre. There will be no one -left in Paris to-morrow." And hereupon he saluted Malicorne with -great ceremony, whose handsome dress gave him the appearance of a -prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Malicorne," said De -Guiche to his friend. De Wardes bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Wardes," said Guiche -to Malicorne, who bowed in return. "By the by, De Wardes," -continued De Guiche, "you who are so well acquainted with these -matters, can you tell us, probably, what appointments are still -vacant at the court; or rather in the prince's -household?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the prince's household," -said De Wardes looking up with an air of consideration, "let me -see - the appointment of the master of the horse is vacant, I -believe."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh," said Malicorne, "there -is no question of such a post as that, monsieur; my ambition is -not nearly so exalted,"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes had a more -penetrating observation than De Guiche, and fathomed Malicorne -immediately. "The fact is," he said, looking at him from head to -foot, "a man must be either a duke or a peer to fill that -post."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All I solicit," said -Malicorne, "is a very humble appointment; I am of little -importance, and I do not rank myself above my -position."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Malicorne, whom you see -here," said De Guiche to De Wardes, "is a very excellent fellow, -whose only misfortune is that of not being of gentle birth. As -far as I am concerned, you know, I attach little value to those -who have but gentle birth to boast of."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Assuredly," said De Wardes; -"but will you allow me to remark, my dear count, that, without -rank of some sort, one can hardly hope to belong to his royal -highness's household?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right," said the -count, "court etiquette is absolute. The devil! - we never so -much as gave it a thought."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas! a sad misfortune for -me, monsieur le comte," said Malicorne, changing -color.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet not without remedy, I -hope," returned De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The remedy is found easily -enough," exclaimed De Wardes; "you can be created a gentleman. -His Eminence, the Cardinal Mazarin, did nothing else from morning -till night."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush, hush, De Wardes," said -the count; "no jests of that kind; it ill becomes us to turn such -matters into ridicule. Letters of nobility, it is true, are -purchasable; but that is a sufficient misfortune without the -nobles themselves laughing at it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my word, De Guiche, -you're quite a Puritan, as the English say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment the Vicomte de -Bragelonne was announced by one of the servants in the courtyard, -in precisely the same manner as he would have done in a -room.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come here, my dear Raoul. -What! you, too, booted and spurred? You are setting off, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Bragelonne approached the -group of young men, and saluted them with that quiet and serious -manner peculiar to him. His salutation was principally addressed -to De Wardes, with whom he was unacquainted, and whose features, -on his perceiving Raoul, had assumed a strange sternness of -expression. "I have come, De Guiche," he said, "to ask your -companionship. We set off for Le Havre, I presume."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is admirable - -delightful. We shall have a most enjoyable journey. M. -Malicorne, M. Bragelonne - ah! M. de Wardes, let me present -you." The young men saluted each other in a restrained manner. -Their very natures seemed, from the beginning, disposed to take -exception to each other. De Wardes was pliant, subtle, full of -dissimulation; Raoul was calm, grave, and upright. "Decide -between us - between De Wardes and myself, Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon what -subject?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon the subject of noble -birth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who can be better informed -on that subject than a De Gramont?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No compliments; it is your -opinion I ask."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At least, inform me of the -subject under discussion."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "De Wardes asserts that the -distribution of titles is abused; I, on the contrary, maintain -that a title is useless to the man on whom it is -bestowed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are correct," said -Bragelonne, quietly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, monsieur le vicomte," -interrupted De Wardes, with a kind of obstinacy, "I affirm that -it is I who am correct."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What was your opinion, -monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was saying that everything -is done in France at the present moment, to humiliate men of -family."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And by whom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By the king himself. He -surrounds himself with people who cannot show four -quarterings."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nonsense," said De Guiche, -"where could you possibly have seen that, De Wardes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One example will suffice," -he returned, directing his look fully upon Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "State it then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know who has just -been nominated captain-general of the musketeers? - an -appointment more valuable than a peerage; for it gives precedence -over all the maréchals of France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul's color mounted in his -face; for he saw the object De Wardes had in view. "No; who has -been appointed? In any case it must have been very recently, for -the appointment was vacant eight days ago; a proof of which is, -that the king refused Monsieur, who solicited the post for one of -his <i>protégés</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, the king refused it to -Monsieur's <i>protégé</i>, in order to bestow it -upon the Chevalier d'Artagnan, a younger brother of some Gascon -family, who has been trailing his sword in the ante-chambers -during the last thirty years."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me if I interrupt -you," said Raoul, darting a glance full of severity at De Wardes; -"but you give me the impression of being unacquainted with the -gentleman of whom you are speaking."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I not acquainted with M. -d'Artagnan? Can you tell me, monsieur, who does <i>not</i> know -him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Those who <i>do</i> know -him, monsieur," replied Raoul, with still greater calmness and -sternness of manner, "are in the habit of saying, that if he is -not as good a gentleman as the king - which is not his fault - he -is the equal of all the kings of the earth in courage and -loyalty. Such is my opinion, monsieur; and I thank heaven I have -known M. d'Artagnan from my birth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes was about to reply, -when De Guiche interrupted him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter VII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Portrait of -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he discussion was becoming full of -bitterness. De Guiche perfectly understood the whole matter, for -there was in Bragelonne's face a look instinctively hostile, -while in that of De Wardes there was something like a -determination to offend. Without inquiring into the different -feelings which actuated his two friends, De Guiche resolved to -ward off the blow which he felt was on the point of being dealt -by one of them, and perhaps by both. "Gentlemen," he said, "we -must take our leave of each other, I must pay a visit to -Monsieur. You, De Wardes, will accompany me to the Louvre, and -you, Raoul, will remain here master of the house; and as all that -is done here is under your advice, you will bestow the last -glance upon my preparations for departure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul, with the air of one -who neither seeks nor fears a quarrel, bowed his head in token of -assent, and seated himself upon a bench in the sun. "That is -well," said De Guiche, "remain where you are, Raoul, and tell -them to show you the two horses I have just purchased; you will -give me your opinion, for I only bought them on condition that -you ratified the purchase. By the by, I have to beg your pardon -for having omitted to inquire after the Comte de la -Fère." While pronouncing these latter words, he closely -observed De Wardes, in order to perceive what effect the name of -Raoul's father would produce upon him. "I thank you," answered -the young man, "the count is very well." A gleam of deep hatred -passed into De Wardes's eyes. De Guiche, who appeared not to -notice the foreboding expression, went up to Raoul, and grasping -him by the hand, said, - "It is agreed, then, Bragelonne, is it -not, that you will rejoin us in the courtyard of the Palais -Royal?" He then signed to De Wardes to follow him, who had been -engaged in balancing himself first on one foot, then on the -other. "We are going," said he, "come, M. Malicorne." This name -made Raoul start; for it seemed that he had already heard it -pronounced before, but he could not remember on what occasion. -While trying to recall it half-dreamily, yet half-irritated at -his conversation with De Wardes, the three young men set out on -their way towards the Palais Royal, where Monsieur was residing. -Malicorne learned two things; the first, that the young men had -something to say to each other; and the second, that he ought not -to walk in the same line with them; and therefore he walked -behind. "Are you mad?" said De Guiche to his companion, as soon -as they had left the Hôtel de Grammont; "you attack M. -d'Artagnan, and that, too, before Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said De Wardes, "what -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by 'what -then?'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, is there any -prohibition against attacking M. d'Artagnan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But you know very well that -M. d'Artagnan was one of those celebrated and terrible four men -who were called the musketeers."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That they may be; but I do -not perceive why, on that account, I should be forbidden to hate -M. d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What cause has he given -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Me! personally, -none."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why hate him, -therefore?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ask my dead father that -question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, my dear De Wardes, -you surprise me. M. d'Artagnan is not one to leave unsettled any -<i>enmity</i> he may have to arrange, without completely clearing -his account. Your father, I have heard, carried matters with a -high hand. Moreover, there are no enmities so bitter that they -cannot be washed away by blood, by a good sword-thrust loyally -given."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen to me, my dear De -Guiche, this inveterate dislike existed between my father and M. -d'Artagnan, and when I was quite a child, he acquainted me with -the reason for it, and, as forming part of my inheritance, I -regard it as a particular legacy bestowed upon me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And does this hatred concern -M. d'Artagnan alone?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As for that, M. d'Artagnan -was so intimately associated with his three friends, that some -portion of the full measure of my hatred falls to their lot, and -that hatred is of such a nature, whenever the opportunity occurs, -they shall have no occasion to complain of their -allowance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche had kept his eyes -fixed on De Wardes, and shuddered at the bitter manner in which -the young man smiled. Something like a presentiment flashed -across his mind; he knew that the time had passed away for -<i>grands coups entre gentilshommes;</i> but that the feeling of -hatred treasured up in the mind, instead of being diffused -abroad, was still hatred all the same; that a smile was sometimes -as full of meaning as a threat; and, in a word, that to the -fathers who had hated with their hearts and fought with their -arms, would now succeed the sons, who would indeed hate with -their hearts, but would no longer combat their enemies save by -means of intrigue or treachery. As, therefore, it certainly was -not Raoul whom he could suspect either of intrigue or treachery, -it was on Raoul's account that De Guiche trembled. However, -while these gloomy forebodings cast a shade of anxiety over De -Guiche's countenance, De Wardes had resumed the entire mastery -over himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events," he observed, -"I have no personal ill-will towards M. de Bragelonne; I do not -know him even."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In any case," said De -Guiche, with a certain amount of severity in his tone of voice, -"do not forget one circumstance, that Raoul is my most intimate -friend;" a remark at which De Wardes bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The conversation terminated -there, although De Guiche tried his utmost to draw out his secret -from him; but, doubtless, De Wardes had determined to say nothing -further, and he remained impenetrable. De Guiche therefore -promised himself a more satisfactory result with Raoul. In the -meantime they had reached the Palais Royal, which was surrounded -by a crowd of lookers-on. The household belonging to Monsieur -awaited his command to mount their horses, in order to form part -of the escort of the ambassadors, to whom had been intrusted the -care of bringing the young princess to Paris. The brilliant -display of horses, arms, and rich liveries, afforded some -compensation in those times, thanks to the kindly feelings of the -people, and to the traditions of deep devotion to their -sovereigns, for the enormous expenses charged upon the taxes. -Mazarin had said: "Let them sing, provided they pay;" while Louis -XIV.'s remark was, "Let them look." Sight had replaced the -voice; the people could still look but they were no longer -allowed to sing. De Guiche left De Wardes and Malicorne at the -bottom of the grand staircase, while he himself, who shared the -favor and good graces of Monsieur with the Chevalier de Lorraine, -who always smiled at him most affectionately, though he could not -endure him, went straight to the prince's apartments, whom he -found engaged in admiring himself in the glass, and rouging his -face. In a corner of the cabinet, the Chevalier de Lorraine was -extended full length upon some cushions, having just had his long -hair curled, with which he was playing in the same manner a woman -would have done. The prince turned round as the count entered, -and perceiving who it was, said: "Ah! is that you, De Guiche; -come here and tell me the truth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know, my lord, it is one -of my defects to speak the truth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will hardly believe, De -Guiche, how that wicked chevalier has annoyed me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The chevalier shrugged his -shoulders.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, he pretends," continued -the prince, "that Mademoiselle Henrietta is better looking as a -woman than I am as a man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not forget, my lord," -said De Guiche, frowning slightly, "you require me to speak the -truth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly," said the prince, -tremblingly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, and I shall tell it -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not be in a hurry, -Guiche," exclaimed the prince, "you have plenty of time; look at -me attentively, and try to recollect Madame. Besides, her -portrait is here. Look at it." And he held out to him a -miniature of the finest possible execution. De Guiche took it, -and looked at it for a long time attentively.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my honor, my lord, this -is indeed a most lovely face."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But look at me, count, look -at <i>me</i>," said the prince, endeavoring to direct upon -himself the attention of the count, who was completely absorbed -in contemplation of the portrait.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is wonderful," murmured -Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really one would imagine you -had never seen the young lady before."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is true, my lord, I have -seen her but it was five years ago; there is a great difference -between a child twelve years old, and a girl of -seventeen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, what is your -opinion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My opinion is that the -portrait must be flattering, my lord."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of that," said the prince -triumphantly, "there can be no doubt; but let us suppose that it -is not, what would your opinion be?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My lord, that your highness -is exceedingly happy to have so charming a bride."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Chevalier de Lorraine -burst out laughing. The prince understood how severe towards -himself this opinion of the Comte de Guiche was, and he looked -somewhat displeased, saying, "My friends are not over -indulgent." De Guiche looked at the portrait again, and, after -lengthened contemplation, returned it with apparent -unwillingness, saying, "Most decidedly, my lord, I should rather -prefer to look ten times at your highness, than to look at Madame -once again." It seemed as if the chevalier had detected some -mystery in these words, which were incomprehensible to the -prince, for he exclaimed: "Very well, get married yourself." -Monsieur continued painting himself, and when he had finished, -looked at the portrait again once more, turned to admire himself -in the glass, and smiled, and no doubt was satisfied with the -comparison. "You are very kind to have come," he said to Guiche, -"I feared you would leave without bidding me adieu."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness knows me too -well to believe me capable of so great a disrespect."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides, I suppose you have -something to ask from me before leaving Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness has indeed -guessed correctly, for I have a request to make."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good, what is -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Chevalier de Lorraine -immediately displayed the greatest attention, for he regarded -every favor conferred upon another as a robbery committed against -himself. And, as Guiche hesitated, the prince said: "If it be -money, nothing could be more fortunate, for I am in funds; the -superintendent of the finances has sent me 500,000 -pistoles."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thank your highness; but -is not an affair of money."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it, then? Tell -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The appointment of a maid of -honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! oh! Guiche, what a -protector you have become of young ladies," said the prince, "you -never speak of any one else now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Chevalier de Lorraine -smiled, for he knew very well that nothing displeased the prince -more than to show any interest in ladies. "My lord," said the -comte, "it is not I who am directly interested in the lady of -whom I have just spoken; I am acting on behalf of one of my -friends."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! that is different; what -is the name of the young lady in whom your friend is so -interested?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mlle. de la Baume le Blanc -de la Vallière; she is already maid of honor to the -dowager princess."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, she is lame," said the -Chevalier de Lorraine, stretching himself on his -cushions.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Lame," repeated the prince, -"and Madame to have her constantly before her eyes? Most -certainly not; it may be dangerous for her when in an interesting -condition."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Chevalier de Lorraine -burst out laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Chevalier," said Guiche, -"your conduct is ungenerous; while I am soliciting a favor, you -do me all the mischief you can."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me, comte," said the -Chevalier de Lorraine, somewhat uneasy at the tone in which -Guiche had made his remark, "but I had no intention of doing so, -and I begin to believe that I have mistaken one young lady for -another."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no doubt of it, -monsieur; and I do not hesitate to declare that such is the -case."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you attach much -importance to it, Guiche?" inquired the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do, my lord."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, you shall have it; but -ask me for no more appointments, for there are none to give -away."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" exclaimed the -chevalier, "midday already, that is the hour fixed for the -departure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You dismiss me, monsieur?" -inquired Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, count, you treat me -very ill to-day," replied the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For heaven's sake, count, -for heaven's sake, chevalier," said Monsieur, "do you not see how -you are distressing me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness's signature?" -said Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take a blank appointment -from that drawer, and give it to me." Guiche handed the prince -the document indicated, and at the same time presented him with a -pen already dipped in ink; whereupon the prince signed. "Here," -he said, returning him the appointment, "but I give it on one -condition."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Name it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you make friends with -the chevalier."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Willingly," said Guiche. -And he held out his hand to the chevalier with an indifference -amounting to contempt.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Adieu, count," said the -chevalier, without seeming in any way to have noticed the count's -slight; "adieu, and bring us back a princess who will not talk -with her own portrait too much."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, set off and lose no -time. By the by, who will accompany you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bragelonne and De -Wardes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Both excellent and fearless -companions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Too fearless," said the -chevalier; "endeavor to bring them both back, count."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A bad heart, bad!" murmured -De Guiche; "he scents mischief everywhere, and sooner than -anything else." And taking leave of the prince, he quitted the -apartment. As soon as he reached the vestibule, he waved in the -air the paper which the prince had signed. Malicorne hurried -forward, and received it, trembling with delight. When, however, -he held in his hand, Guiche observed that he still awaited -something further.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Patience, monsieur," he -said; "the Chevalier de Lorraine was there, and I feared an utter -failure if I asked too much at once. Wait until I return. -Adieu."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Adieu, monsieur le comte; a -thousand thanks," said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Send Manicamp to me. By the -way, monsieur, is it true that Mlle. de la Vallière is -lame?" As he said this, he noticed that Bragelonne, who had just -at that moment entered the courtyard, turned suddenly pale. The -poor lover had heard the remark, which, however, was not the case -with Malicorne, for he was already beyond the reach of the -count's voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why is Louise's name spoken -of here," said Raoul to himself; "oh! let not De Wardes, who -stands smiling yonder, even say a word about her in my -presence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, gentlemen," exclaimed -the Comte de Guiche, "prepare to start."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment the prince, -who had complete his toilette, appeared at the window, and was -immediately saluted by the acclamations of all who composed the -escort, and ten minutes afterwards, banners, scarfs, and feathers -were fluttering and waving in the air, as the cavalcade galloped -away.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter VIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Le Havre.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>his brilliant and animated company, the -members of which were inspired by various feelings, arrived at Le -Havre four days after their departure from Paris. It was about -five o'clock in the afternoon, and no intelligence had yet been -received of Madame. They were soon engaged in quest of -apartments; but the greatest confusion immediately ensued among -the masters, and violent quarrels among their attendants. In the -midst of this disorder, the Comte de Guiche fancied he recognized -Manicamp. It was, indeed, Manicamp himself; but as Malicorne had -taken possession of his very best costume, he had not been able -to get any other than a suit of violet velvet, trimmed with -silver. Guiche recognized him as much by his dress as by his -features, for he had very frequently seen Manicamp in his violet -suit, which was his last resource. Manicamp presented himself to -the count under an arch of torches, which set in a blaze, rather -than illuminated, the gate by which Le Havre is entered, and -which is situated close to the tower of Francis I. The count, -remarking the woe-begone expression of Manicamp's face, could not -resist laughing. "Well, my poor Manicamp," he exclaimed, "how -violet you look; are you in mourning?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," replied Manicamp; "I -am in mourning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For whom, or for -what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For my blue-and-gold suit, -which has disappeared, and in the place of which I could find -nothing but this; and I was even obliged to economize from -compulsion, in order to get possession of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is singular you should be -astonished at that, since you leave me without any -money."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events, here you are, -and that is the principal thing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By the most horrible -roads."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where are you -lodging?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Lodging?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am not lodging -anywhere."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche began to laugh. -"Well," said he, "where do you intend to lodge?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the same place you -do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I don't know, -myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by saying -you don't know?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, how is it likely -I should know where I should stay?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you not retained an -hotel?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you or the -prince."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Neither of us has thought of -it. Le Havre is of considerable size, I suppose; and provided I -can get a stable for a dozen horses, and a suitable house in a -good quarter - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, there are some -very excellent houses."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well then - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But not for us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by saying -not for us? - for whom, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For the English, of -course."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For the English?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; the houses are all -taken."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By whom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By the Duke of -Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon?" said -Guiche, whose attention this name had awakened.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, by the Duke of -Buckingham. His Grace was preceded by a courier, who arrived -here three days ago, and immediately retained all the houses fit -for habitation the town possesses."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, Manicamp, let us -understand each other."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, what I have told you -is clear enough, it seems to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But surely Buckingham does -not occupy the whole of Le Havre?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He certainly does not occupy -it, since he has not yet arrived; but, once disembarked, he will -occupy it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! oh!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is quite clear you are -not acquainted with the English; they have a perfect rage for -monopolizing everything."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That may be; but a man who -has the whole of one house, is satisfied with it, and does not -require two."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but two -men?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be it so; for two men, two -houses, or four or six, or ten, if you like; but there are a -hundred houses at Le Havre."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, and all the hundred are -let."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What an obstinate fellow you -are. I tell you Buckingham has hired all the houses surrounding -the one which the queen dowager of England and the princess her -daughter will inhabit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is singular enough, -indeed," said De Wardes, caressing his horse's neck.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Such is the case, however, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are quite sure of it, -Monsieur de Manicamp?" and as he put this question, he looked -slyly at De Guiche, as though to interrogate him upon the degree -of confidence to be placed in his friend's state of mind. During -this discussion the night had closed in, and the torches, pages, -attendants, squires, horses, and carriages, blocked up the gate -and the open place; the torches were reflected in the channel, -which the rising tide was gradually filling, while on the other -side of the jetty might be noticed groups of curious lookers-on, -consisting of sailors and townspeople, who seemed anxious to miss -nothing of the spectacle. Amidst all this hesitation of purpose, -Bragelonne, as though a perfect stranger to the scene, remained -on his horse somewhat in the rear of Guiche, and watched the rays -of light reflected on the water, inhaling with rapture the sea -breezes, and listening to the waves which noisily broke upon the -shore and on the beach, tossing the spray into the air with a -noise that echoed in the distance. "But," exclaimed De Guiche, -"what is Buckingham's motive for providing such a supply of -lodgings?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes," said De Wardes; -"what reason has he?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A very excellent one," -replied Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know what it is, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I fancy I do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell us, then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bend your head down towards -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! may it not be spoken -except in private?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall judge of that -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well." De Guiche bent -down.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love," said -Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not understand you at -all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Say rather, you cannot -understand me <i>yet</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Explain -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; it is quite -certain, count, that his royal highness will be the most -unfortunate of husbands."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Duke of Buckingham - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a name of ill omen to -the princes of the house of France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And so the duke is madly in -love with Madame, so the rumor runs, and will have no one -approach her but himself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche colored. "Thank -you, thank you," said he to Manicamp, grasping his hand. Then, -recovering himself, added, "Whatever you do, Manicamp, be careful -that this project of Buckingham's is not made known to any -Frenchman here; for, if so, many a sword would be unsheathed in -this country that does not fear English steel."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But after all," said -Manicamp, "I have had no satisfactory proof given me of the love -in question, and it may be no more than an idle tale."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," said De Guiche, "it -must be the truth;" and despite his command over himself, he -clenched his teeth.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said Manicamp, "after -all, what does it matter to you? What does it matter to me -whether the prince is to be what the late king was? Buckingham -the father for the queen, Buckingham the son for the -princess."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Manicamp! -Manicamp!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a fact, or at least, -everybody says so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Silence!" cried the -count.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But why, silence?" said De -Wardes; "it is a highly creditable circumstance for the French -nation. Are not you of my opinion, Monsieur de -Bragelonne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To what circumstance do you -allude?" inquired De Bragelonne with an abstracted -air.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That the English should -render homage to the beauty of our queens and our -princesses."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me, but I have not -been paying attention to what has passed; will you oblige me by -explaining."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no doubt it was -necessary that Buckingham the father should come to Paris in -order that his majesty, King Louis XIII., should perceive that -his wife was one of the most beautiful women of the French court; -and it seems necessary, at the present time, that Buckingham the -son should consecrate, by the devotion of his worship, the beauty -of a princess who has French blood in her veins. The fact of -having inspired a passion on the other side of the Channel will -henceforth confer a title to beauty on this."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sir," replied De Bragelonne, -"I do not like to hear such matters treated so lightly. -Gentlemen like ourselves should be careful guardians of the honor -of our queens and our princesses. If we jest at them, what will -our servants do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How am I to understand -that?" said De Wardes, whose ears tingled at the -remark.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In any way you chose, -monsieur," replied De Bragelonne, coldly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bragelonne, Bragelonne," -murmured De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Wardes," exclaimed -Manicamp, noticing that the young man had spurred his horse close -to the side of Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Gentlemen, gentlemen," said -De Guiche, "do not set such an example in public, in the street -too. De Wardes, you are wrong."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wrong; in what way, may I -ask you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are wrong, monsieur, -because you are always speaking ill of someone or something," -replied Raoul, with undisturbed composure.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be indulgent, Raoul," said -De Guiche, in an undertone.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray do not think of -fighting, gentlemen!" said Manicamp, "before you have rested -yourselves; for in that case you will not be able to do -much."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come," said De Guiche, -"forward, gentlemen!" and breaking through the horses and -attendants, he cleared the way for himself towards the center of -the square, through the crowd, followed by the whole cavalcade. -A large gateway looking out upon a courtyard was open; Guiche -entered the courtyard, and Bragelonne, De Wardes, Manicamp, and -three or four other gentlemen, followed him. A sort of council -of war was held, and the means to be employed for saving the -dignity of the embassy were deliberated upon. Bragelonne was of -the opinion that the right of priority should be respected, while -De Wardes suggested that the town should be sacked. This latter -proposition appearing to Manicamp rather premature, he proposed -instead that they should first rest themselves. This was the -wisest thing to do, but, unhappily, to follow his advice, two -things were wanting; namely, a house and beds. De Guiche -reflected for awhile, and then said aloud, "Let him who loves me, -follow me!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The attendants also?" -inquired a page who had approached the group.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Every one," exclaimed the -impetuous young man. "Manicamp, show us the way to the house -destined for her royal highness's residence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Without in any way divining -the count's project, his friends followed him, accompanied by a -crowd of people, whose acclamations and delight seemed a happy -omen for the success of that project with which they were yet -unacquainted. The wind was blowing strongly from the harbor, and -moaning in fitful gusts.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter IX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>At Sea.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he following day was somewhat calmer, -although the gale still continued. The sun had, however, risen -through a bank of orange clouds, tingeing with its cheerful rays -the crests of the black waves. Watch was impatiently kept from -the different look-outs. Towards eleven o'clock in the morning a -ship, with sails full set, was signalled as in view; two others -followed at the distance of about half a knot. They approached -like arrows shot from the bow of a skillful archer; and yet the -sea ran so high that their speed was as nothing compared to the -rolling of the billows in which the vessels were plunging first -in one direction and then in another. The English fleet was soon -recognized by the line of the ships, and by the color of their -pennants; the one which had the princess on board and carried the -admiral's flag preceded the others.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The rumor now spread that the -princess was arriving. The whole French court ran to the harbor, -while the quays and jetties were soon covered by crowds of -people. Two hours afterwards, the other vessels had overtaken -the flagship, and the three, not venturing perhaps to enter the -narrow entrance of the harbor, cast anchor between Le Havre and -La Hève. When the maneuver had been completed, the vessel -which bore the admiral saluted France by twelve discharges of -cannon, which were returned, discharge for discharge, from Fort -Francis I. Immediately afterwards a hundred boats were launched; -they were covered with the richest stuffs, and destined for the -conveyance of the different members of the French nobility -towards the vessels at anchor. But when it was observed that -even inside the harbor the boats were tossed to and fro, and that -beyond the jetty the waves rose mountains high, dashing upon the -shore with a terrible uproar, it was readily believed that not -one of those frail boats would be able with safety to reach a -fourth part of the distance between the shore and the vessels at -anchor. A pilot-boat, however, notwithstanding the wind and the -sea, was getting ready to leave the harbor, for the purpose of -placing itself at the admiral's disposal.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche, who had been -looking among the different boats for one stronger than the -others, which might offer a chance of reaching the English -vessels, perceiving the pilot-boat getting ready to start, said -to Raoul: "Do you not think, Raoul, that intelligent and vigorous -men, as we are, ought to be ashamed to retreat before the brute -strength of wind and waves?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is precisely the very -reflection I was silently making to myself," replied -Bragelonne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Shall we get into that boat, -then, and push off? Will you come, De Wardes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, or you will get -drowned," said Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And for no purpose," said De -Wardes, "for with the wind in your teeth, as it will be, you will -never reach the vessels."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You refuse, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Assuredly I do; I would -willingly risk and lose my life in an encounter against men," he -said, glancing at Bragelonne, "but as to fighting with oars -against waves, I have no taste for that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And for myself," said -Manicamp, "even were I to succeed in reaching the ships, I should -not be indifferent to the loss of the only good dress which I -have left, - salt water would spoil it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You, then, refuse also?" -exclaimed De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Decidedly I do; I beg you to -understand that most distinctly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," exclaimed De Guiche, -"look, De Wardes - look, Manicamp - look yonder, the princesses -are looking at us from the poop of the admiral's -vessel."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An additional reason, my -dear fellow, why we should not make ourselves ridiculous by being -drowned while they are looking on."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that your last word, -Manicamp?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And then yours, De -Wardes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then I go alone."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not so," said Raoul, "for I -shall accompany you; I thought it was understood I should do -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The fact is, that Raoul, -uninfluenced by devotion, measuring the risk they run, saw how -imminent the danger was, but he willingly allowed himself to -accept a peril which De Wardes had declined.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The boat was about to set off -when De Guiche called to the pilot. "Stay," said he: "we want -two places in your boat;" and wrapping five or six pistoles in -paper, he threw them from the quay into the boat.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It seems you are not afraid -of salt water, young gentlemen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We are afraid of nothing," -replied De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come along, -then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The pilot approached the side -of the boat, and the two young men, one after the other, with -equal vivacity, jumped into the boat. "Courage, my men," said De -Guiche; "I have twenty pistoles left in this purse, and as soon -as we reach the admiral's vessel they shall be yours." The -sailors bent themselves to their oars, and the boat bounded over -the crest of the waves. The interest taken in this hazardous -expedition was universal; the whole population of Le Havre -hurried towards the jetties and every look was directed towards -the little bark; at one moment it flew suspended on the crest of -the foaming waves, then suddenly glided downwards towards the -bottom of a raging abyss, where it seemed utterly lost. At the -expiration of an hour's struggling with the waves, it reached the -spot where the admiral's vessel was anchored, and from the side -of which two boats had already been dispatched towards their -aid. Upon the quarter-deck of the flagship, sheltered by a -canopy of velvet and ermine, which was suspended by stout -supports, Henriette, the queen dowager, and the young princess - -with the admiral, the Duke of Norfolk, standing beside them - -watched with alarm this slender bark, at one moment tossed to the -heavens, and the next buried beneath the waves, and against whose -dark sail the noble figures of the two French gentlemen stood -forth in relief like two luminous apparitions. The crew, leaning -against the bulwarks and clinging to the shrouds, cheered the -courage of the two daring young men, the skill of the pilot, and -the strength of the sailors. They were received at the side of -the vessel by a shout of triumph. The Duke of Norfolk, a -handsome young man, from twenty-six to twenty-eight years of age, -advanced to meet them. De Guiche and Bragelonne lightly mounted -the ladder on the starboard side, and, conducted by the Duke of -Norfolk, who resumed his place near them, they approached to -offer their homage to the princess. Respect, and yet more, a -certain apprehension, for which he could not account, had -hitherto restrained the Comte de Guiche from looking at Madame -attentively, who, however, had observed him immediately, and had -asked her mother, "Is not that Monsieur in the boat yonder?" -Madame Henriette, who knew Monsieur better than her daughter did, -smiled at the mistake her vanity had led her into, and had -answered, "No; it is only M. de Guiche, his favorite." The -princess, at this reply, was constrained to check an instinctive -tenderness of feeling which the courage displayed by the count -had awakened. At the very moment the princess had put this -question to her mother, De Guiche had, at last, summoned courage -to raise his eyes towards her and could compare the original with -the portrait he had so lately seen. No sooner had he remarked -her pale face, her eyes so full of animation, her beautiful -nut-brown hair, her expressive lips, and her every gesture, -which, while betokening royal descent, seemed to thank and to -encourage him at one and the same time, than he was, for a -moment, so overcome, that, had it not been for Raoul, on whose -arm he leant, he would have fallen. His friend's amazed look, -and the encouraging gesture of the queen, restored Guiche to his -self-possession. In a few words he explained his mission, -explained in what way he had become envoy of his royal highness; -and saluted, according to their rank and the reception they gave -him, the admiral and several of the English noblemen who were -grouped around the princess.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul was then presented, and -was most graciously received; the share that the Comte de la -Fère had had in the restoration of Charles II. was known -to all; and, more than that, it was the comte who had been -charged with the negotiation of the marriage, by means of which -the granddaughter of Henry IV. was now returning to France. -Raoul spoke English perfectly, and constituted himself his -friend's interpreter with the young English noblemen, who were -indifferently acquainted with the French language. At this -moment, a young man came forward, of extremely handsome features, -and whose dress and arms were remarkable for their extravagance -of material. He approached the princesses, who were engaged in -conversation with the Duke of Norfolk, and, in a voice which ill -concealed his impatience, said, "It is now time to disembark, -your royal highness." The younger of the princesses rose from -her seat at this remark, and was about to take the hand which the -young nobleman extended to her, with an eagerness which arose -from a variety of motives, when the admiral intervened between -them, observing: "A moment, if you please, my lord; it is not -possible for ladies to disembark just now, the sea is too rough; -it is probable the wind may abate before sunset, and the landing -will not be effected, therefore, until this evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Allow me to observe, my -lord," said Buckingham, with an irritation of manner which he did -not seek to disguise, "you detain these ladies, and you have no -right to do so. One of them, unhappily, now belongs to France, -and you perceive that France claims them by the voice of her -ambassadors;" and at the same moment he indicated Raoul and -Guiche, whom he saluted.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I cannot suppose that these -gentlemen intend to expose the lives of their royal highnesses," -replied the admiral.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "These gentlemen," retorted -Buckingham, "arrived here safely, notwithstanding the wind; allow -me to believe that the danger will not be greater for their royal -highnesses when the wind will be in their favor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "These envoys have shown how -great their courage is," said the admiral. "You may have -observed that there was a great number of persons on shore who -did <i>not</i> venture to accompany them. Moreover, the desire -which they had to show their respect with the least possible -delay to Madame and her illustrious mother, induced them to brave -the sea, which is very tempestuous to-day, even for sailors. -These gentlemen, however, whom I recommend as an example for my -officers to follow, can hardly be so for these -ladies."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame glanced at the Comte -de Guiche, and perceived that his face was burning with -confusion. This look had escaped Buckingham, who had eyes for -nothing but Norfolk, of whom he was evidently very jealous; he -seemed anxious to remove the princesses from the deck of a vessel -where the admiral reigned supreme. "In that case," returned -Buckingham, "I appeal to Madame herself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I, my lord," retorted -the admiral, "I appeal to my own conscience, and to my own sense -of responsibility. I have undertaken to convey Madame safe and -sound to France, and I shall keep my promise."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, sir - " continued -Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My lord, permit me to remind -you that I command here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you aware what you are -saying, my lord?" replied Buckingham, haughtily.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly so; I therefore -repeat it: I alone command here, all yield obedience to me; the -sea and the winds, the ships and men too." This remark was made -in a dignified and authoritative manner. Raoul observed its -effect upon Buckingham, who trembled with anger from head to -foot, and leaned against one of the poles of the tent to prevent -himself falling; his eyes became suffused with blood, and the -hand which he did not need for his support wandered towards the -hilt of his sword.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My lord," said the queen, -"permit me to observe that I agree in every particular with the -Duke of Norfolk; if the heavens, instead of being clouded as they -are at the present moment, were perfectly serene and propitious, -we can still afford to bestow a few hours upon the officer who -has conducted us so successfully, and with such extreme -attention, to the French coast, where he is to take leave of -us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham, instead of -replying, seemed to seek counsel from the expression of Madame's -face. She, however, half-concealed beneath the thick curtains of -the velvet and gold which sheltered her, had not listened to the -discussion, having been occupied in watching the Comte de Guiche, -who was conversing with Raoul. This was a fresh misfortune for -Buckingham, who fancied he perceived in Madame Henrietta's look a -deeper feeling than that of curiosity. He withdrew, almost -tottering in his gait, and nearly stumbled against the mainmast -of the ship.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The duke has not acquired a -steady footing yet," said the queen-mother, in French, "and that -may possibly be his reason for wishing to find himself on firm -land again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young man overheard this -remark, turned suddenly pale, and, letting his hands fall in -great discouragement by his side, drew aside, mingling in one -sigh his old affection and his new hatreds. The admiral, -however, without taking any further notice of the duke's -ill-humor, led the princesses into the quarter-deck cabin, where -dinner had been served with a magnificence worthy in every -respect of his guests. The admiral seated himself at the right -hand of the princess, and placed the Comte de Guiche on her -left. This was the place Buckingham usually occupied; and when -he entered the cabin, how profound was his unhappiness to see -himself banished by etiquette from the presence of his sovereign, -to a position inferior to that which, by rank, he was entitled -to. De Guiche, on the other hand, paler still perhaps from -happiness, than his rival was from anger, seated himself -tremblingly next to the princess, whose silken robe, as it -lightly touched him, caused a tremor of mingled regret and -happiness to pass through his whole frame. The repast finished, -Buckingham darted forward to hand Madame Henrietta from the -table; but this time it was De Guiche's turn to give the duke a -lesson. "Have the goodness, my lord, from this moment," said he, -"not to interpose between her royal highness and myself. From -this moment, indeed, her royal highness belongs to France, and -when she deigns to honor me by touching my hand it is the hand of -Monsieur, the brother of the king of France, she -touches."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And saying this, he presented -his hand to Madame Henrietta with such marked deference, and at -the same time with a nobleness of mien so intrepid, that a murmur -of admiration rose from the English, whilst a groan of despair -escaped from Buckingham's lips. Raoul, who loved, comprehended -it all. He fixed upon his friend one of those profound looks -which a bosom friend or mother can alone extend, either as -protector or guardian, over the one who is about to stray from -the right path. Towards two o'clock in the afternoon the sun -shone forth anew, the wind subsided, the sea became smooth as a -crystal mirror, and the fog, which had shrouded the coast, -disappeared like a veil withdrawn before it. The smiling hills -of France appeared in full view, with their numerous white houses -rendered more conspicuous by the bright green of the trees or the -clear blue sky.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter X:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Tents.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he admiral, as we have seen, was -determined to pay no further attention to Buckingham's -threatening glances and fits of passion. In fact, from the -moment they quitted England, he had gradually accustomed himself -to his behavior. De Guiche had not yet in any way remarked the -animosity which appeared to influence that young nobleman against -him, but he felt, instinctively, that there could be no sympathy -between himself and the favorite of Charles II. The -queen-mother, with greater experience and calmer judgment, -perceived the exact position of affairs, and, as she discerned -its danger, was prepared to meet it, whenever the proper moment -should arrive. Quiet had been everywhere restored, except in -Buckingham's heart; he, in his impatience, addressed himself to -the princess, in a low tone of voice: "For Heaven's sake, madame, -I implore you to hasten your disembarkation. Do you not perceive -how that insolent Duke of Norfolk is killing me with his -attentions and devotions to you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Henrietta heard this remark; -she smiled, and without turning her head towards him, but giving -only to the tone of her voice that inflection of gentle reproach, -and languid impertinence, which women and princesses so well know -how to assume, she murmured, "I have already hinted, my lord, -that you must have taken leave of your senses."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Not a single detail escaped -Raoul's attention; he heard both Buckingham's entreaty and the -princess's reply; he remarked Buckingham retire, heard his deep -sigh, and saw him pass a hand over his face. He understood -everything, and trembled as he reflected on the position of -affairs, and the state of the minds of those about him. At last -the admiral, with studied delay, gave the last orders for the -departure of the boats. Buckingham heard the directions given -with such an exhibition of delight that a stranger would really -imagine the young man's reason was affected. As the Duke of -Norfolk gave his commands, a large boat or barge, decked with -flags, and capable of holding about twenty rowers and fifteen -passengers, was slowly lowered from the side of the admiral's -vessel. The barge was carpeted with velvet and decorated with -coverings embroidered with the arms of England, and with garlands -of flowers; for, at that time, ornamentation was by no means -forgotten in these political pageants. No sooner was this really -royal boat afloat, and the rowers with oars uplifted, awaiting, -like soldiers presenting arms, the embarkation of the princess, -than Buckingham ran forward to the ladder in order to take his -place. His progress was, however, arrested by the queen. "My -lord," she said, "it is hardly becoming that you should allow my -daughter and myself to land without having previously ascertained -that our apartments are properly prepared. I beg your lordship -to be good enough to precede us ashore, and to give directions -that everything be in proper order on our arrival."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> This was a fresh -disappointment for the duke, and, still more so, since it was so -unexpected. He hesitated, colored violently, but could not -reply. He had thought he might be able to keep near Madame -during the passage to the shore, and, by this means, to enjoy to -the very last moment the brief period fortune still reserved for -him. The order, however, was explicit; and the admiral, who -heard it given, immediately called out, "Launch the ship's gig." -His directions were executed with that celerity which -distinguishes every maneuver on board a man-of-war.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham, in utter -hopelessness, cast a look of despair at the princess, of -supplication towards the queen, and directed a glance full of -anger towards the admiral. The princess pretended not to notice -him, while the queen turned aside her head, and the admiral -laughed outright, at the sound of which Buckingham seemed ready -to spring upon him. The queen-mother rose, and with a tone of -authority said, "Pray set off, sir."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young duke hesitated, -looked around him, and with a last effort, half-choked by -contending emotions, said, "And you, gentlemen, M. de Guiche and -M. de Bragelonne, do not you accompany me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche bowed and said, -"Both M. de Bragelonne and myself await her majesty's orders; -whatever the commands she imposes on us, we shall obey them." -Saying this, he looked towards the princess, who cast down her -eyes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your grace will remember," -said the queen, "that M. de Guiche is here to represent Monsieur; -it is he who will do the honors of France, as you have done those -of England; his presence cannot be dispensed with; besides, we -owe him this slight favor for the courage he displayed in -venturing to seek us in such a terrible stress of -weather."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham opened his lips, -as if he were about to speak, but, whether thoughts or -expressions failed him, not a syllable escaped them, and turning -away, as though out of his mind, he leapt from the vessel into -the boat. The sailors were just in time to catch hold of him to -steady themselves; for his weight and the rebound had almost -upset the boat.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "His grace cannot be in his -senses," said the admiral aloud to Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am uneasy on the Duke's -account," replied Bragelonne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> While the boat was advancing -towards the shore, the duke kept his eyes immovably fixed on the -admiral's ship, like a miser torn away from his coffers, or a -mother separated from her child, about to be lead away to death. -No one, however, acknowledged his signals, his frowns, or his -pitiful gestures. In very anguish of mind, he sank down in the -boat, burying his hands in his hair, whilst the boat, impelled by -the exertions of the merry sailors, flew over the waves. On his -arrival he was in such a state of apathy, that, had he not been -received at the harbor by the messenger whom he had directed to -precede him, he would hardly have had strength to ask his way. -Having once, however, reached the house which had been set apart -for him, he shut himself up, like Achilles in his tent. The -barge bearing the princess quitted the admiral's vessel at the -very moment Buckingham landed. It was followed by another boat -filled with officers, courtiers, and zealous friends. Great -numbers of the inhabitants of Le Havre, having embarked in -fishing-cobles and boats of every description, set off to meet -the royal barge. The cannon from the forts fired salutes, which -were returned by the flagship and the two other vessels, and the -flashes from the open mouths of the cannon floated in white fumes -over the waves, and disappeared in the clear blue sky.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The princess landed at the -decorated quay. Bands of gay music greeted her arrival, and -accompanied her every step she took. During the time she was -passing through the center of town, and treading beneath her -delicate feet the richest carpets and the gayest flowers, which -had been strewn upon the ground, De Guiche and Raoul, escaping -from their English friends, hurried through the town and hastened -rapidly towards the place intended for the residence of -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us hurry forward," said -Raoul to De Guiche, "for if I read Buckingham's character aright, -he will create some disturbance, when he learns the result of our -deliberations of yesterday."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never fear," said De Guiche, -"De Wardes is there, who is determination itself, while Manicamp -is the very personification of the artless -gentleness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche was not, however, -the less diligent on that account, and five minutes afterwards -they were within sight of the Hôtel de Ville. The first -thing which struck them was the number of people assembled in the -square. "Excellent," said De Guiche; "our apartments, I see, are -prepared."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> In fact, in front of the -Hôtel de Ville, upon the wide open space before it, eight -tents had been raised, surmounted by the flags of France and -England united. The hotel was surrounded by tents, as by a -girdle of variegated colors; ten pages and a dozen mounted -troopers, for an escort, mounted guard before the tents. It had -a singularly curious effect, almost fairy-like in its -appearance. These tents had been constructed during the -night-time. Fitted up, within and without, with the richest -materials that De Guiche had been able to procure in Le Havre, -they completely encircled the Hôtel de Ville. The only -passage which led to the steps of the hotel, and which was not -inclosed by the silken barricade, was guarded by two tents, -resembling two pavilions, the doorways of both of which opened -towards the entrance. These two tents were destined for De -Guiche and Raoul; in whose absence they were intended to be -occupied, that of De Guiche by De Wardes, and that of Raoul by -Manicamp. Surrounding these two tents, and the six others, a -hundred officers, gentlemen, and pages, dazzling in their display -of silk and gold, thronged like bees buzzing about a hive. Every -one of them, their swords by their sides, was ready to obey the -slightest sign either of De Guiche or Bragelonne, the leaders of -the embassy.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At the very moment the two -young men appeared at the end of one of the streets leading to -the square, they perceived, crossing the square at full gallop, a -young man on horseback, whose costume was of surprising -richness. He pushed hastily thorough the crowd of curious -lookers-on, and, at the sight of these unexpected erections, -uttered a cry of anger and dismay. It was Buckingham, who had -awakened from his stupor, in order to adorn himself with a -costume perfectly dazzling from its beauty, and to await the -arrival of the princess and the queen-mother at the Hôtel -de Ville. At the entrance to the tents, the soldiers barred his -passage, and his further progress was arrested. Buckingham, -hopelessly infuriated, raised his whip; but his arm was seized by -a couple of officers. Of the two guardians of the tent, only one -was there. De Wardes was in the interior of the Hôtel de -Ville, engaging in attending to the execution of some orders by -De Guiche. At the noise made by Buckingham, Manicamp, who was -indolently reclining upon the cushions at the doorway of one of -the tents, rose with his usual indifference, and, perceiving that -the disturbance continued, made his appearance from underneath -the curtains. "What is the matter?" he said, in a gentle tone of -voice, "and who is making this disturbance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It so happened, that, at the -moment he began to speak, silence had just been restored, and, -although his voice was very soft and gentle in its touch, every -one heard his question. Buckingham turned round, and looked at -the tall thin figure, and the listless expression of countenance -of his questioner. Probably the personal appearance of Manicamp, -who was dressed very plainly, did not inspire him with much -respect, for he replied disdainfully, "Who may you be, -monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp, leaning on the arm -of a gigantic trooper, as firm as the pillar of a cathedral, -replied in his usual tranquil tone of voice, - "And <i>you</i>, -monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, monsieur, am the Duke of -Buckingham; I have hired all the houses which surround the -Hôtel de Ville, where I have business to transact; and as -these houses are let, they belong to me, and, as I hired them in -order to preserve the right of free access to the Hôtel de -Ville, you are not justified in preventing me passing to -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But who prevents you -passing, monsieur?" inquired Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your sentinels."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because you wish to pass on -horseback, and orders have been given to let only persons on foot -pass."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No one has any right to give -orders here, except myself," said Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On what grounds?" inquired -Manicamp, with his soft tone. "Will you do me the favor to -explain this enigma to me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because, as I have already -told you, I have hired all the houses looking on the -square."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We are very well aware of -that, since nothing but the square itself has been left for -us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are mistaken, monsieur; -the square belongs to me, as well as the houses in -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me, monsieur, but -you are mistaken there. In <i>our</i> country, we say, the -highway belongs to the king, therefore this square is his -majesty's; and, consequently, as we are the king's ambassadors, -the square belongs to us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have already asked you who -you are, monsieur," exclaimed Buckingham, exasperated at the -coolness of his interlocutor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My name is Manicamp," -replied the young man, in a voice whose tones were as harmonious -and sweet as the notes of an Æolian harp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham shrugged his -shoulders contemptuously, and said, "When I hired these houses -which surround the Hôtel de Ville, the square was -unoccupied; these barracks obstruct my sight; I hereby order them -to be removed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A hoarse and angry murmur ran -through the crowd of listeners at these words. De Guiche arrived -at this moment; he pushed through the crowd which separated him -from Buckingham, and, followed by Raoul, arrived on the scene of -action from one side, just as De Wardes came up from the other. -"Pardon me, my lord; but if you have any complaint to make, have -the goodness to address it to me, inasmuch as it was I who -supplied the plans for the construction of these -tents."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Moreover, I would beg you to -observe, monsieur, that the term 'barrack' is a highly -objectionable one!" added Manicamp, graciously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You were saying, monsieur - -" continued De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was saying, monsieur le -comte," resumed Buckingham, in a tone of anger more marked than -ever, although in some measure moderated by the presence of an -equal, "I was saying that it is impossible these tents can remain -where they are."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Impossible!</i>" -exclaimed De Guiche, "and why?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I object to -them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A movement of impatience -escaped De Guiche, but a warning glance from Raoul restrained -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You should the less object -to them, monsieur, on account of the abuse of priority you have -permitted yourself to exercise."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Abuse!</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most assuredly. You -commission a messenger, who hires in your name the whole of the -town of Le Havre, without considering the members of the French -court, who would be sure to arrive here to meet Madame. Your -Grace will admit that this is hardly friendly conduct in the -representative of a friendly nation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The right of possession -belongs to him who is first on the ground."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not in France, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not in -France?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because France is a country -where politeness is observed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Which means?" exclaimed -Buckingham, in so violent a manner that those who were present -drew back, expecting an immediate collision.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Which means, monsieur," -replied De Guiche, now rather pale, "that I caused these tents to -be raised as habitations for myself and my friends, as a shelter -for the ambassadors of France, as the only place of refuge which -your exactions have left us in the town; and that I and those who -are with me, shall remain in them, at least, until an authority -more powerful, and more supreme, than your own shall dismiss me -from them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In other words, until we are -ejected, as the lawyers say," observed Manicamp, -blandly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know an authority, -monsieur, which I trust is such as you will respect," said -Buckingham, placing his hand on his sword.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment, and as the -goddess of Discord, inflaming all minds, was about to direct -their swords against each other, Raoul gently placed his hand on -Buckingham's shoulder. "One word, my lord," he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My right, my right, first of -all," exclaimed the fiery young man.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is precisely upon that -point I wish to have the honor of addressing a word to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, monsieur, but let -your remarks be brief."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One question is all I ask; -you can hardly expect me to be briefer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Speak, monsieur, I am -listening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you, or is the Duke of -Orléans, going to marry the granddaughter of Henry -IV.?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean?" exclaimed -Buckingham, retreating a few steps, bewildered.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have the goodness to answer -me," persisted Raoul tranquilly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you mean to ridicule me, -monsieur?" inquired Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your question is a -sufficient answer for me. You admit, then, that it is not you -who are going to marry the princess?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know it perfectly well, -monsieur, I should imagine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon, but your -conduct has been such as to leave it not altogether -certain."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Proceed, monsieur, what do -you mean to convey?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul approached the duke. -"Are you aware, my lord," he said, lowering his voice, "that your -extravagances very much resemble the excesses of jealousy? These -jealous fits, with respect to any woman, are not becoming in one -who is neither her lover nor her husband; and I am sure you will -admit that my remark applies with still greater force, when the -lady in question is a princess of the blood royal!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," exclaimed -Buckingham, "do you mean to insult Madame Henrietta?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be careful, my lord," -replied Bragelonne, coldly, "for it is you who insult her. A -little while since, when on board the admiral's ship, you wearied -the queen, and exhausted the admiral's patience. I was -observing, my lord; and, at first, I concluded you were not in -possession of your senses, but I have since surmised the real -significance of your madness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur!" exclaimed -Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One moment more, for I have -yet another word to add. I trust I am the only one of my -companions who has guessed it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you aware, monsieur," -said Buckingham, trembling with mingled feelings of anger and -uneasiness, "are you aware that you are holding language towards -me which requires to be checked?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Weigh your words well, my -lord," said Raoul, haughtily; "my nature is not such that its -vivacities need checking; whilst you, on the contrary, are -descended from a race whose passions are suspected by all true -Frenchmen; I repeat, therefore, for the second time, be -careful!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Careful of what, may I ask? -Do you presume to threaten me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am the son of the Comte de -la Fère, my lord, and I never threaten, because I strike -first. Therefore, understand me well, the threat that I hold out -to you is this - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham clenched his -hands, but Raoul continued, as though he had not observed the -gesture. "At the very first word, beyond the respect and -deference due to her royal highness, which you permit yourself to -use towards her, - be patient my lord, for I am perfectly -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Undoubtedly. So long as -Madame remained on English territory, I held my peace; but from -the very moment she stepped on French ground, and now that we -have received her in the name of the prince, I warn you, that at -the first mark of disrespect which you, in your insane -attachment, exhibit towards the royal house of France, I shall -have one of two courses to follow; - either I declare, in the -presence of every one, the madness with which you are now -affected, and I get you ignominiously ordered back to England; or -if you prefer it, I will run my dagger through your throat in the -presence of all here. This second alternative seems to me the -least disagreeable, and I think I shall hold to it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham had become paler -than the lace collar around his neck. "M. de Bragelonne," he -said, "is it, indeed, a gentleman who is speaking to -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; only the gentleman is -speaking to a madman. Get cured, my lord, and he will hold quite -another language to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, M. de Bragelonne," -murmured the duke, in a voice, half-choked, and putting his hand -to his neck, - "Do you not see I am choking?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If your death were to take -place at this moment, my lord," replied Raoul, with unruffled -composure, "I should, indeed, regard it as a great happiness, for -this circumstance would prevent all kinds of evil remarks; not -alone about yourself, but also about those illustrious persons -whom your devotion is compromising in so absurd a -manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, you are -right," said the young man, almost beside himself. "Yes, yes; -better to die, than to suffer as I do at this moment." And he -grasped a beautiful dagger, the handle of which was inlaid with -precious stones; and which he half drew from his -breast.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul thrust his hand aside. -"Be careful what you do," he said; "if you do not kill yourself, -you commit a ridiculous action; and if you were to kill yourself, -you sprinkle blood upon the nuptial robe of the princess of -England."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham remained a minute -gasping for breath; during this interval, his lips quivered, his -fingers worked convulsively, and his eyes wandered, as though in -delirium. Then suddenly, he said, "M. de Bragelonne, I know -nowhere a nobler mind than yours; you are, indeed, a worthy son -of the most perfect gentleman that ever lived. Keep your -tents." And he threw his arms round Raoul's neck. All who were -present, astounded at this conduct, which was the very reverse of -what was expected, considering the violence of the one adversary -and the determination of the other, began immediately to clap -their hands, and a thousand cheers and joyful shouts arose from -all sides. De Guiche, in his turn, embraced Buckingham somewhat -against his inclination; but, at all events, he did embrace him. -This was the signal for French and English to do the same; and -they who, until that moment, had looked at each other with -restless uncertainty, fraternized on the spot. In the meantime, -the procession of the princess arrived, and had it not been for -Bragelonne, two armies would have been engaged together in -conflict, and blood would have been shed upon the flowers with -which the ground was covered. At the appearance, however, of the -banners borne at the head of the procession, complete order was -restored.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Night.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>C</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>oncord returned to its place amidst the -tents. English and French rivaled each other in their devotion -and courteous attention to the illustrious travelers. The -English forwarded to the French baskets of flowers, of which they -had made a plentiful provision to greet the arrival of the young -princess; the French in return invited the English to a supper, -which was to be given the next day. Congratulations were poured -in upon the princess everywhere during her journey. From the -respect paid her on all sides, she seemed like a queen; and from -the adoration with which she was treated by two or three; she -appeared an object of worship. The queen-mother gave the French -the most affectionate reception. France was her native country, -and she had suffered too much unhappiness in England for England -to have made her forget France. She taught her daughter, then, -by her own affection for it, that love for a country where they -had both been hospitably received, and where a brilliant future -opened before them. After the public entry was over, and the -spectators in the streets had partially dispersed, and the sound -of the music and cheering of the crowd could be heard only in the -distance; when the night had closed in, wrapping with its -star-covered mantle the sea, the harbor, the town, and -surrounding country, De Guiche, still excited by the great events -of the day, returned to his tent, and seated himself upon one of -the stools with so profound an expression of distress that -Bragelonne kept his eyes fixed upon him, until he heard him sigh, -and then he approached him. The count had thrown himself back on -his seat, leaning his shoulders against the partition of the -tent, and remained thus, his face buried in his hands, with -heaving chest and restless limbs.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are suffering?" asked -Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Cruelly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bodily, I -suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; bodily."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This has indeed been a -harassing day," continued the young man, his eyes fixed upon his -friend.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; a night's rest will -probably restore me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Shall I leave -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; I wish to talk to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall not speak to me, -Guiche, until you have first answered my questions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Proceed then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will be frank with -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I always am."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Can you imagine why -Buckingham has been so violent?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I suspect."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because he is in love with -Madame, is it not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One could almost swear to -it, to observe him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are mistaken; there is -nothing of the kind."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is you who are mistaken, -Raoul; I have read his distress in his eyes, in his every gesture -and action the whole day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a poet, my dear -count, and find subjects for your muse everywhere."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I can perceive love clearly -enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where it does not -exist?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, where it does -exist."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not think you are -deceiving yourself, Guiche?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am convinced of what I -say," said the count.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, inform me, count," said -Raoul, fixing a penetrating look upon him, "what happened to -render you so clear-sighted."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Guiche hesitated for a -moment, and then answered, "Self-love, I suppose."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Self-love is a pedantic -word, Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I mean that, generally, you -are less out of spirits than seems to be the case this -evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am fatigued."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen to me, Guiche; we -have been campaigners together; we have been on horseback for -eighteen hours at a time, and our horses dying from exhaustion, -or hunger, have fallen beneath us, and yet we have laughed at our -mishaps. Believe me, it is not fatigue that saddens you -to-night."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is annoyance, -then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What annoyance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That of this -evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The mad conduct of the Duke -of Buckingham, do you mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course; is it not -vexations for us, the representatives of our sovereign master, to -witness the devotion of an Englishman to our future mistress, the -second lady in point of rank in the kingdom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you are right; but I do -not think any danger is to be apprehended from -Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; still he is intrusive. -Did he not, on his arrival here, almost succeed in creating a -disturbance between the English and ourselves; and, had it not -been for you, for your admirable presence, for your singular -decision of character, swords would have been drawn in the very -streets of the town."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You observe, however, that -he has changed his tactics."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, certainly; but this is -the very thing that amazes me so much. You spoke to him in a low -tone of voice, what did you say to him? You think he loves her; -you admit that such a passion does not give way readily. He does -not love her, then!" De Guiche pronounced the latter with so -marked an expression that Raoul raised his head. The noble -character of the young man's countenance expressed a displeasure -which could easily be read.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What I said to him, count," -replied Raoul, "I will repeat to you. Listen to me. I said, -'You are regarding with wistful feelings, and most injurious -desire, the sister of your prince, - her to whom you are not -affianced, who is not, who can never be anything to you; you are -outraging those who, like ourselves, have come to seek a young -lady to escort her to her husband.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You spoke to him in that -manner?" asked Guiche, coloring.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In those very terms; I even -added more. 'How would you regard us,' I said, 'if you were to -perceive among us a man mad enough, disloyal enough, to entertain -other than sentiments of the most perfect respect for a princess -who is the destined wife of our master?'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> These words were so -applicable to De Guiche that he turned pale, and, overcome by a -sudden agitation, was barely able to stretch out one hand -mechanically towards Raoul, as he covered his eyes and face with -the other.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," continued Raoul, not -interrupted by this movement of his friend, "Heaven be praised, -the French, who are pronounced to be thoughtless and indiscreet, -reckless, even, are capable of bringing a calm and sound judgment -to bear on matters of such high importance. I added even more, -for I said, 'Learn, my lord, that we gentlemen of France devote -ourselves to our sovereigns by sacrificing them our affections, -as well as our fortunes and our lives; and whenever it may chance -to happen that the tempter suggests one of those vile thoughts -that set the heart on fire, we extinguish the flame, even if it -has to be done by shedding our blood for the purpose. Thus it is -that the honor of three is saved: our country's, our master's, -and our own. It is thus that we act, your Grace; it is thus that -every man of honor ought to act.' In this manner, my dear -Guiche," continued Bragelonne, "I addressed the Duke of -Buckingham; and he admitted I was right, and resigned himself -unresistingly to my arguments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche, who had hitherto -sat leaning forward while Raoul was speaking, drew himself up, -his eyes glancing proudly; he seized Raoul's hand, his face, -which had been as cold as ice, seemed on fire. "And you spoke -magnificently," he said, in a half-choked voice; "you are indeed -a friend, Raoul. But now, I entreat you, leave me to -myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you wish it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; I need repose. Many -things have agitated me to-day, both in mind and body; when you -return to-morrow I shall no longer be the same man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I leave you, then," said -Raoul, as he withdrew. The count advanced a step towards his -friend, and pressed him warmly in his arms. But in this friendly -pressure Raoul could detect the nervous agitation of a great -internal conflict.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The night was clear, starlit, -and splendid; the tempest had passed away, and the sweet -influences of the evening had restored life, peace and security -everywhere. A few fleecy clouds were floating in the heavens, -and indicated from their appearance a continuance of beautiful -weather, tempered by a gentle breeze from the east. Upon the -large square in front of the hotel, the shadows of the tents, -intersected by the golden moonbeams, formed as it were a huge -mosaic of jet and yellow flagstones. Soon, however, the entire -town was wrapped in slumber; a feeble light still glimmered in -Madame's apartment, which looked out upon the square, and the -soft rays from the expiring lamp seemed to be the image of the -calm sleep of a young girl, hardly yet sensible of life's -anxieties, and in whom the flame of existence sinks placidly as -sleep steals over the body.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Bragelonne quitted the tent -with the slow and measured step of a man curious to observe, but -anxious not to be seen. Sheltered behind the thick curtains of -his own tent, embracing with a glance the whole square, he -noticed that, after a few moments' pause, the curtains of De -Guiche's tent were agitated, and then drawn partially aside. -Behind them he could perceive the shadow of De Guiche, his eyes, -glittering in the obscurity, fastened ardently upon the -princess's sitting apartment, which was partially lighted by the -lamp in the inner room. The soft light which illumined the -windows was the count's star. The fervent aspirations of his -nature could be read in his eyes. Raoul, concealed in the -shadow, divined the many passionate thoughts that established, -between the tent of the young ambassador and the balcony of the -princess, a mysterious and magical bond of sympathy - a bond -created by thoughts imprinted with so much strength and -persistence of will, that they must have caused happy and loving -dreams to alight upon the perfumed couch, which the count, with -the eyes of his soul, devoured so eagerly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> But De Guiche and Raoul were -not the only watchers. The window of one of the houses looking -on the square was opened too, the casement of the house where -Buckingham resided. By the aid of the rays of light which issued -from this latter, the profile of the duke could be distinctly -seen, as he indolently reclined upon the carved balcony with its -velvet hangings; he also was breathing in the direction of the -princess's apartment his prayers and the wild visions of his -love.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul could not resist -smiling, as thinking of Madame, he said to himself, "Hers is, -indeed, a heart well besieged;" and then added, compassionately, -as he thought of Monsieur, "and he is a husband well threatened -too; it is a good thing for him that he is a prince of such high -rank, that he has an army to safeguard for him that which is his -own." Bragelonne watched for some time the conduct of the two -lovers, listened to the loud and uncivil slumbers of Manicamp, -who snored as imperiously as though he was wearing his blue and -gold, instead of his violet suit.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Then he turned towards the -night breeze which bore towards him, he seemed to think, the -distant song of the nightingale; and, after having laid in a due -provision of melancholy, another nocturnal malady, he retired to -rest thinking, with regard to his own love affair, that perhaps -four or even a larger number of eyes, quite as ardent as those of -De Guiche and Buckingham, were coveting his own idol in the -château at Blois. "And Mademoiselle de Montalais is by no -means a very conscientious garrison," said he to himself, sighing -aloud.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>From Le Havre to -Paris.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he next day the <i>fêtes</i> took -place, accompanied by all the pomp and animation that the -resources of the town and the cheerful disposition of men's minds -could supply. During the last few hours spent in Le Havre, every -preparation for the departure had been made. After Madame had -taken leave of the English fleet, and, once again, had saluted -the country in saluting its flags, she entered her carriage, -surrounded by a brilliant escort. De Guiche had hoped that the -Duke of Buckingham would accompany the admiral to England; but -Buckingham succeeded in demonstrating to the queen that there -would be great impropriety in allowing Madame to proceed to -Paris, almost unprotected. As soon as it had been settled that -Buckingham was to accompany Madame, the young duke selected a -corps of gentlemen and officers to form part of his own suite, so -that it was almost an army that now set out towards Paris, -scattering gold, and exciting the liveliest demonstrations as -they passed through the different towns and villages on the -route. The weather was very fine. France is a beautiful -country, especially along the route by which the procession -passed. Spring cast its flowers and its perfumed foliage on -their path. Normandy, with its vast variety of vegetation, its -blue skies and silver rivers, displayed itself in all the -loveliness of a paradise to the new sister of the king. -<i>Fêtes</i> and brilliant displays received them -everywhere along the line of march. De Guiche and Buckingham -forgot everything; De Guiche in his anxiety to prevent any fresh -attempts on the part of the duke, and Buckingham, in his desire -to awaken in the heart of the princess a softer remembrance of -the country to which the recollection of many happy days -belonged. But, alas! the poor duke could perceive that the image -of that country so cherished by himself became, from day to day, -more and more effaced in Madame's mind, in exact proportion as -her affection for France became more deeply engraved on her -heart. In fact, it was not difficult to perceive that his most -devoted attention awakened no acknowledgement, and that the grace -with which he rode one of his most fiery horses was thrown away, -for it was only casually and by the merest accident that the -princess's eyes were turned towards him. In vain did he try, in -order to fix upon himself one of those looks, which were thrown -carelessly around, or bestowed elsewhere, to produce in the -animal he rode its greatest display of strength, speed, temper -and address; in vain did he, by exciting his horse almost to -madness, spur him, at the risk of dashing himself in pieces -against the trees, or of rolling in the ditches, over the gates -and barriers which they passed, or down the steep declivities of -the hills. Madame, whose attention had been aroused by the -noise, turned her head for a moment to observe the cause of it, -and then, slightly smiling, again entered into conversation with -her faithful guardians, Raoul and De Guiche, who were quietly -riding at her carriage doors. Buckingham felt himself a prey to -all the tortures of jealousy; an unknown, unheard of anguish -glided through his veins, and laid siege to his heart; and then, -as if to show that he knew the folly of his conduct, and that he -wished to correct, by the humblest submission, his flights of -absurdity, he mastered his horse, and compelled him, reeking with -sweat and flecked with foam, to champ his bit close beside the -carriage, amidst the crowd of courtiers. Occasionally he -obtained a word from Madame as a recompense, and yet her speech -seemed almost a reproach.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is well, my lord," she -said, "now you are reasonable."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Or from Raoul, "Your Grace is -killing your horse."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham listened patiently -to Raoul's remarks, for he instinctively felt, without having had -any proof that such was the case, that Raoul checked the display -of De Guiche's feelings, and that, had it not been for Raoul, -some mad act or proceeding, either of the count, or of Buckingham -himself, would have brought about an open rupture, or a -disturbance - perhaps even exile itself. From the moment of that -excited conversation the two young men had held in front of the -tents at Le Havre, when Raoul made the duke perceive the -impropriety of his conduct, Buckingham felt himself attracted -towards Raoul almost in spite of himself. He often entered into -conversation with him, and it was nearly always to talk to him -either of his father or of D'Artagnan, their mutual friend, in -whose praise Buckingham was nearly as enthusiastic as Raoul. -Raoul endeavored, as much as possible, to make the conversation -turn upon this subject in De Wardes's presence, who had, during -the whole journey, been exceedingly annoyed at the superior -position taken by Bragelonne, and especially by his influence -over De Guiche. De Wardes had that keen and merciless -penetration most evil natures possess; he had immediately -remarked De Guiche's melancholy, and divined the nature of his -regard for the princess. Instead, however, of treating the -subject with the same reserve which Raoul practiced; instead of -regarding with that respect, which was their due, the obligations -and duties of society, De Wardes resolutely attacked in the count -the ever-sounding chord of juvenile audacity and pride. It -happened one evening, during a halt at Mantes, that while De -Guiche and De Wardes were leaning against a barrier, engaged in -conversation, Buckingham and Raoul were also talking together as -they walked up and down. Manicamp was engaged in devoted -attendance on the princess, who already treated him without -reserve, on account of his versatile fancy, his frank courtesy of -manner, and conciliatory disposition.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Confess," said De Wardes, -"that you are really ill, and that your pedagogue of a friend has -not succeeded in curing you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not understand you," -said the count.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet it is easy enough; -you are dying of love."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are mad, De -Wardes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madness it would be, I -admit, if Madame were really indifferent to your martyrdom; but -she takes so much notice of it, observes it to such an extent, -that she compromises herself, and I tremble lest, on our arrival -at Paris, M. de Bragelonne may not denounce both of -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For shame, De Wardes, again -attacking De Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, a truce to -child's play," replied the count's evil genius, in an undertone; -"you know as well as I do what I mean. Besides, you must have -observed how the princess's glance softens as she looks at you; - -you can tell, by the very inflection of her voice, what pleasure -she takes in listening to you, and can feel how thoroughly she -appreciates the verses you recite to her. You cannot deny, too, -that every morning she tells you how indifferently she slept the -previous night."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "True, De Wardes, quite true; -but what good is there in your telling me all that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it not important to know -the exact position of affairs?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no; not when I am a -witness of things that are enough to drive one mad."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay, stay," said De Wardes; -"look, she calls you, - do you understand? Profit by the -occasion, while your pedagogue is absent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche could not resist; -an invincible attraction drew him towards the princess. De -Wardes smiled as he saw him withdraw.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are mistaken, monsieur," -said Raoul, suddenly stepping across the barrier against which -the previous moment the two friends had been leaning. "The -pedagogue is here, and has overheard you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes, at the sound of -Raoul's voice, which he recognized without having occasion to -look at him, half drew his sword.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Put up your sword," said -Raoul; "you know perfectly well that, until our journey is at an -end, every demonstration of that nature is useless. Why do you -distill into the heart of the man you term your friend all the -bitterness that infects your own? As regards myself, you wish to -arouse a feeling of deep dislike against a man of honor - my -father's friend and my own; and as for the count you wish him to -love one who is destined for your master. Really, monsieur, I -should regard you as a coward, and a traitor too, if I did not, -with greater justice, regard you as a madman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," exclaimed De -Wardes, exasperated, "I was deceived, I find, in terming you a -pedagogue. The tone you assume, and the style which is -peculiarly your own, is that of a Jesuit, and not of a -gentleman. Discontinue, I beg, whenever I am present, this style -I complain of, and the tone also. I hate M. d'Artagnan, because -he was guilty of a cowardly act towards my father."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You lie, monsieur," said -Raoul, coolly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You give me the lie, -monsieur?" exclaimed De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not, if what you assert -is untrue?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You give me the lie, and -will not draw your sword?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have resolved, monsieur, -not to kill you until Madame shall have been delivered safely -into her husband's hands."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Kill me! Believe me, -monsieur, your schoolmaster's rod does not kill so -easily."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," replied Raoul, sternly, -"but M. d'Artagnan's sword kills; and, not only do I possess his -sword, but he has himself taught me how to use it; and with that -sword, when a befitting time arrives, I will avenge his name - a -name you have dishonored."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, monsieur," -exclaimed De Wardes; "if you do not immediately give me -satisfaction, I will avail myself of every means to revenge -myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed, monsieur," said -Buckingham, suddenly, appearing upon the scene of action, "that -is a threat which savors of assassination, and therefore, ill -becomes a gentleman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did you say, my lord?" -said De Wardes, turning round towards him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I said, monsieur, that the -words you have just spoken are displeasing to my English -ears."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, monsieur, if what -you say is true," exclaimed De Wardes, thoroughly incensed, "I at -least find in you one who will not escape me. Understand my -words as you like."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I take them in the manner -they cannot but be understood," replied Buckingham, with that -haughty tone which characterized him, and which, even in ordinary -conversation, gave a tone of defiance to everything he said; "M. -de Bragelonne is my friend, you insult M. de Bragelonne, and you -shall give me satisfaction for that insult."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes cast a look upon De -Bragelonne, who, faithful to the character he had assumed, -remained calm and unmoved, even after the duke's -defiance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It would seem that I did not -insult M. de Bragelonne, since M. de Bragelonne, who carries a -sword by his side, does not consider himself -insulted."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events you insult -someone."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I insulted M. -d'Artagnan," resumed De Wardes, who had observed that this was -the only means of stinging Raoul, so as to awaken his -anger.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That, then," said -Buckingham, "is another matter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely so," said De -Wardes; "it is the province of M. d'Artagnan's friends to defend -him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am entirely of your -opinion," replied the duke, who had regained all his indifference -of manner; "if M. de Bragelonne were offended, I could not -reasonably be expected to espouse his quarrel, since he is -himself here; but when you say that it is a quarrel of M. -d'Artagnan - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will of course leave me -to deal with the matter," said De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, on the contrary, for I -draw my sword," said Buckingham, unsheathing it as he spoke; "for -if M. d'Artagnan injured your father, he rendered, or at least -did all that he could to render, a great service to -mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes was -thunderstruck.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. d'Artagnan," continued -Buckingham, "is the bravest gentleman I know. I shall be -delighted, as I owe him many personal obligations, to settle them -with you, by crossing my sword with yours." At the same moment -Buckingham drew his sword from its scabbard, saluted Raoul, and -put himself on guard.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes advanced a step to -meet him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay, gentlemen," said -Raoul, advancing towards them, and placing his own drawn sword -between the combatants, "the affair is hardly worth the trouble -of blood being shed almost in the presence of the princess. M. -de Wardes speaks ill of M. d'Artagnan, with whom he is not even -acquainted."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, monsieur," said De -Wardes, setting his teeth hard together, and resting the point of -his sword on the toe of his boot, "do you assert that I do not -know M. d'Artagnan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly not; you do not -know him," replied Raoul, coldly, "and you are even not aware -where he is to be found."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not know where he -is?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Such must be the case, since -you fix your quarrel with him upon strangers, instead of seeking -M. d'Artagnan where he is to be found." De Wardes turned pale. -"Well, monsieur," continued Raoul, "I will tell you where M. -d'Artagnan is: he is now in Paris; when on duty he is to be met -with at the Louvre, - when not on duty, in the Rue des Lombards. -M. d'Artagnan can easily be discovered at either of those two -places. Having, therefore, as you assert, so many causes of -complaint against him, show your courage in seeking him out, and -afford him an opportunity of giving you that satisfaction you -seem to ask of every one but of himself." De Wardes passed his -hand across his forehead, which was covered with perspiration. -"For shame, M. de Wardes! so quarrelsome a disposition is hardly -becoming after the publication of the edicts against duels. Pray -think of that; the king will be incensed at our disobedience, -particularly at such a time, - and his majesty will be in the -right."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Excuses," murmured De -Wardes; "mere pretexts."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, M. De Wardes," -resumed Raoul, "such remarks are the idlest bluster. You know -very well that the Duke of Buckingham is a man of undoubted -courage, who has already fought ten duels, and will probably -fight eleven. His name alone is significant enough. As far as I -am concerned, you are well aware that I can fight also. I fought -at Lens, at Bléneau, at the Dunes in front of the -artillery, a hundred paces in front of the line, while you - I -say this parenthetically - were a hundred paces behind it. True -it is, that on that occasion there was far too great a concourse -of persons present for your courage to be observed, and on that -account perhaps you did not reveal it; while here, it would be a -display, and would excite remark - you wish that others should -talk about you, in what manner you do not care. Do not depend -upon me, M. de Wardes to assist you in your designs, for I shall -certainly not afford you that pleasure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sensibly observed," said -Buckingham, putting up his sword, "and I ask your forgiveness, M. -de Bragelonne, for having allowed myself to yield to a first -impulse."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes, however, on the -contrary, perfectly furious, bounded forward and raised his -sword, threateningly, against Raoul, who had scarcely enough time -to put himself in a posture of defense.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, monsieur," said -Bragelonne, tranquilly, "or you will put out one of my -eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will not fight, then?" -said De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not at this moment; but this -I promise to do; immediately on our arrival at Paris I will -conduct you to M. d'Artagnan, to whom you shall detail all the -causes of complaint you have against him. M d'Artagnan will -solicit the king's permission to measure swords with you. The -king will yield his consent, and when you shall have received the -sword-thrust in due course, you will consider, in a calmer frame -of mind, the precepts of the Gospel, which enjoin forgetfulness -of injuries."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" exclaimed De Wardes, -furious at this imperturbable coolness, "one can clearly see you -are half a bastard, M. de Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul became as pale as -death; his eyes flashed lightning, causing De Wardes -involuntarily to fall back. Buckingham, also, who had perceived -their expression, threw himself between the two adversaries, whom -he had expected to see precipitate themselves on each other. De -Wardes had reserved this injury for the last; he clasped his -sword firmly in his hand, and awaited the encounter. "You are -right, monsieur," said Raoul, mastering his emotion, "I am only -acquainted with my father's name; but I know too well that the -Comte de la Fère is too upright and honorable a man to -allow me to fear for a single moment that there is, as you -insinuate, any stain upon my birth. My ignorance, therefore, of -my mother's name is a misfortune for me, and not a reproach. You -are deficient in loyalty of conduct; you are wanting in courtesy, -to reproach me with misfortune. It matters little, however, the -insult has been given, and I consider myself insulted -accordingly. It is quite understood, then, that after you shall -have received satisfaction from M. d'Artagnan, you will settle -your quarrel with me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I admire your prudence, -monsieur," replied De Wardes with a bitter smile; "a little while -ago you promised me a sword-thrust from M. d'Artagnan, and now, -after I shall have received his, you offer me one from -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not disturb yourself," -replied Raoul, with concentrated anger; "in all affairs of that -nature, M. d'Artagnan is exceedingly skillful, and I will beg him -as a favor to treat you as he did your father; in other words, to -spare your life at least, so as to leave me the pleasure, after -your recovery, of killing you outright; for you have the heart of -a viper, M. de Wardes, and in very truth, too many precautions -cannot be taken against you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall take my precautions -against you," said De Wardes, "be assured of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Allow me, monsieur," said -Buckingham, "to translate your remark by a piece of advice I am -about to give M. de Bragelonne; M. de Bragelonne, wear a -cuirass."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes clenched his -hands. "Ah!" said he, "you two gentlemen intend to wait until -you have taken that precaution before you measure your swords -against mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, monsieur," said -Raoul, "since you positively will have it so, let us settle the -affair now." And, drawing his sword, he advanced towards De -Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What are you going to do?" -said Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be easy," said Raoul, "it -will not be very long."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes placed himself on -his guard; their swords crossed. De Wardes flew upon Raoul with -such impetuosity, that at the first clashing of the steel blades -Buckingham clearly saw that Raoul was only trifling with his -adversary. Buckingham stepped aside, and watched the combat. -Raoul was as calm as if he were handling a foil instead of a -sword; having retreated a step, he parried three or four fierce -thrusts which De Wardes made at him, caught the sword of the -latter with within his own, and sent it flying twenty paces the -other side of the barrier. Then as De Wardes stood disarmed and -astounded at his defeat, Raoul sheathed his sword, seized him by -the collar and the waist band, and hurled his adversary to the -other end of the barrier, trembling, and mad with -rage.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We shall meet again," -murmured De Wardes, rising from the ground and picking up his -sword.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have done nothing for the -last hour," said Raoul, rising from the ground, "but say the same -thing." Then, turning towards the duke, he said, "I entreat you -to be silent about this affair; I am ashamed to have gone so far, -but my anger carried me away, and I ask your forgiveness for it; -- forget it, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dear viscount," said the -duke, pressing with his own the vigorous and valiant hand of his -companion, "allow me, on the contrary, to remember it, and to -look after your safety; that man is dangerous, - he will kill -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My father," replied Raoul, -"lived for twenty years under the menace of a much more -formidable enemy, and he still lives."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your father had good -friends, viscount."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," sighed Raoul, "such -friends, indeed, that none are now left like them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not say that, I beg, at -the very moment I offer you my friendship;" and Buckingham opened -his arms to embrace Raoul, who delightedly received the proffered -alliance. "In my family," added Buckingham, "you are aware, M. -de Bragelonne, we die to save our friends."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know it well, duke," -replied Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>An Account of what the Chevalier -de Lorraine Thought of Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>N</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>othing further interrupted the -journey. Under a pretext that was little remarked, M. de Wardes -went forward in advance of the others. He took Manicamp with -him, for his equable and dreamy disposition acted as a -counterpoise to his own. It is a subject of remark, that -quarrelsome and restless characters invariably seek the -companionship of gentle, timorous dispositions, as if the former -sought, in the contrast, a repose for their own ill-humor, and -the latter a protection for their weakness. Buckingham and -Bragelonne, admitting De Guiche into their friendship, in concert -with him, sang the praises of the princess during the whole of -the journey. Bragelonne, had, however, insisted that their three -voices should be in concert, instead of singing in solo parts, as -De Guiche and his rival seemed to have acquired a dangerous habit -of doing. This style of harmony pleased the queen-mother -exceedingly, but it was not perhaps so agreeable to the young -princess, who was an incarnation of coquetry, and who, without -any fear as far as her own voice was concerned, sought -opportunities of so perilously distinguishing herself. She -possessed one of those fearless and incautious dispositions that -find gratification in an excess of sensitiveness of feeling, and -for whom, also, danger has a certain fascination. And so her -glances, her smiles, her toilette, an inexhaustible armory of -weapons of offense, were showered on the three young men with -overwhelming force; and, from her well-stored arsenal issued -glances, kindly recognitions, and a thousand other little -charming attentions which were intended to strike at long range -the gentlemen who formed the escort, the townspeople, the -officers of the different cities she passed through, pages, -populace, and servants; it was wholesale slaughter, a general -devastation. By the time Madame arrived at Paris, she had -reduced to slavery about a hundred thousand lovers: and brought -in her train to Paris half a dozen men who were almost mad about -her, and <i>two</i> who were, indeed, literally out of their -minds. Raoul was the only person who divined the power of this -woman's attraction, and as his heart was already engaged, he -arrived in the capital full of indifference and distrust. -Occasionally during the journey he conversed with the queen of -England respecting the power of fascination which Madame -possessed, and the mother, whom so many misfortunes and -deceptions had taught experience, replied: "Henrietta was sure to -be illustrious in one way or another, whether born in a palace or -born in obscurity; for she is a woman of great imagination, -capricious and self-willed." De Wardes and Manicamp, in their -self-assumed character of courtiers, had announced the princess's -arrival. The procession was met at Nanterre by a brilliant -escort of cavaliers and carriages. It was Monsieur himself, -followed by the Chevalier de Lorraine and by his favorites, the -latter being themselves followed by a portion of the king's -military household, who had arrived to meet his affianced bride. -At St. Germain, the princess and her mother had changed their -heavy traveling carriage, somewhat impaired by the journey, for a -light, richly decorated chariot drawn by six horses with white -and gold harness. Seated in this open carriage, as though upon a -throne, and beneath a parasol of embroidered silk, fringed with -feathers, sat the young and lovely princess, on whose beaming -face were reflected the softened rose-tints which suited her -delicate skin to perfection. Monsieur, on reaching the carriage, -was struck by her beauty; he showed his admiration in so marked a -manner that the Chevalier de Lorraine shrugged his shoulders as -he listened to his compliments, while Buckingham and De Guiche -were almost heart-broken. After the usual courtesies had been -rendered, and the ceremony completed, the procession slowly -resumed the road to Paris. The presentations had been carelessly -made, and Buckingham, with the rest of the English gentlemen, had -been introduced to Monsieur, from whom they had received but very -indifferent attention. But, during their progress, as he -observed that the duke devoted himself with his accustomed -eagerness to the carriage-door, he asked the Chevalier de -Lorraine, his inseparable companion, "Who is that -cavalier?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He was presented to your -highness a short while ago; it is the handsome Duke of -Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, yes, I -remember."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame's knight," added the -favorite, with an inflection of the voice which envious minds can -alone give to the simplest phrases.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you say?" replied -the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I said 'Madame's -knight'."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Has she a recognized knight, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One would think you can -judge of that for yourself; look, only, how they are laughing and -flirting. All three of them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by <i>all -three?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not see that De -Guiche is one of the party?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I see. But what does -that prove?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That Madame has two admirers -instead of one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You poison the simplest -thing!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I poison nothing. Ah! your -royal highness's mind is perverted. The honors of the kingdom of -France are being paid to your wife and you are not -satisfied."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Duke of Orléans -dreaded the satirical humor of the Chevalier de Lorraine whenever -it reached a certain degree of bitterness, and he changed the -conversation abruptly. "The princess is pretty," said he, very -negligently, as if he were speaking of a stranger.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," replied the chevalier, -in the same tone.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You say 'yes' like a 'no'. -She has very beautiful black eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but small."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is so, but they are -brilliant. She is tall, and of a good figure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I fancy she stoops a little, -my lord."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not deny it. She has a -noble appearance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but her face is -thin."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought her teeth -beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They can easily be seen, for -her mouth is large enough. Decidedly, I was wrong, my lord; you -are certainly handsomer than your wife."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But do you think me as -handsome as Buckingham?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, and he thinks so, -too; for look, my lord, he is redoubling his attentions to Madame -to prevent your effacing the impression he has made."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Monsieur made a movement of -impatience, but as he noticed a smile of triumph pass across the -chevalier's lips, he drew up his horse to a foot-pace. "Why," -said he, "should I occupy myself any longer about my cousin? Do -I not already know her? Were we not brought up together? Did I -not see her at the Louvre when she was quite a child?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A great change has taken -place in her since then, prince. At the period you allude to, -she was somewhat less brilliant, and scarcely so proud, either. -One evening, particularly, you may remember, my lord, the king -refused to dance with her, because he thought her plain and badly -dressed!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> These words made the Duke of -Orléans frown. It was by no means flattering for him to -marry a princess of whom, when young, the king had not thought -much. He would probably have retorted, but at this moment De -Guiche quitted the carriage to join the prince. He had remarked -the prince and the chevalier together, and full of anxious -attention he seemed to try and guess the nature of the remarks -which they had just exchanged. The chevalier, whether he had -some treacherous object in view, or from imprudence, did not take -the trouble to dissimulate. "Count," he said, "you're a man of -excellent taste."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you for the -compliment," replied De Guiche; "but why do you say -that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well I appeal to his -highness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt of it," said -Monsieur; "and Guiche knows perfectly well that I regard him as a -most finished cavalier."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, since that is decided, -I resume. You have been in the princess's society, count, for -the last eight days, have you not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," replied De Guiche, -coloring in spite of himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well then, tell us frankly, -what do you think of her personal appearance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of her personal appearance?" -returned De Guiche, stupefied.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; of her appearance, of -her mind, of herself, in fact."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Astounded by this question, -De Guiche hesitated answering.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, De Guiche," -resumed the chevalier, laughingly, "tell us your opinion frankly; -the prince commands it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes," said the prince, -"be frank."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche stammered out a few -unintelligible words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am perfectly well aware," -returned Monsieur, "that the subject is a delicate one, but you -know you can tell me everything. What do you think of -her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> In order to avoid betraying -his real thoughts, De Guiche had recourse to the only defense -which a man taken by surprise really has, and accordingly told an -untruth. "I do not find Madame," he said, "either good or bad -looking, yet rather good than bad looking."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! count," exclaimed the -chevalier, "you who went into such ecstasies and uttered so many -exclamations at the sight of her portrait."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche colored violently. -Very fortunately, his horse, which was slightly restive, enabled -him by a sudden plunge to conceal his agitation. "What -portrait?" he murmured, joining them again. The chevalier had -not taken his eyes off him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, the portrait. Was not -the miniature a good likeness?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not remember. I had -forgotten the portrait; it quite escaped my -recollection."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet it made a very -marked impression upon you," said the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is not -unlikely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is she witty, at all -events?" inquired the duke.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe so, my -lord."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is M. de Buckingham witty, -too?" said the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not know."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My own opinion is that he -must be," replied the chevalier, "for he makes Madame laugh, and -she seems to take no little pleasure in his society, which never -happens to a clever woman when in the company of a -simpleton."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course, then, he must be -clever," said De Guiche, simply.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment Raoul -opportunely arrived, seeing how De Guiche was pressed by his -dangerous questioner, to whom he addressed a remark, and in that -way changed the conversation. The <i>entrée</i> was -brilliant and joyous.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, in honor of his -brother, had directed that the festivities should be on a scale -of the greatest possible magnificence. Madame and her mother -alighted at the Louvre, where, during their exile they had so -gloomily submitted to obscurity, misery, and privations of every -description. That palace, which had been so inhospitable a -residence for the unhappy daughter of Henry IV., the naked walls, -the uneven floorings, the ceilings matted with cobwebs, the vast -dilapidated chimney-places, the cold hearths on which the charity -extended to them by parliament hardly permitted a fire to glow, -was completely altered in appearance. The richest hangings and -the thickest carpets, glistening flagstones, and pictures, with -their richly gilded frames; in every direction could be seen -candelabra, mirrors, and furniture and fittings of the most -sumptuous character; in every direction, also, were guards of the -proudest military bearing, with floating plumes, crowds of -attendants and courtiers in the ante-chambers and upon the -staircases. In the courtyards, where the grass had formerly been -allowed to luxuriate, as if the ungrateful Mazarin had thought it -a good idea to let the Parisians perceive the solitude and -disorder were, with misery and despair, the fit accompaniments of -fallen monarchy; the immense courtyards, formerly silent and -desolate, were now thronged with courtiers whose horses were -pacing and prancing to and fro. The carriages were filled with -young and beautiful women, who awaited the opportunity of -saluting, as she passed, the daughter of that daughter of France -who, during her widowhood and exile, had sometimes gone without -wood for her fire, and bread for her table, whom the meanest -attendant at the château had treated with indifference and -contempt. And so, the Madame Henriette once more returned to the -Louvre, with her heart more swollen with bitter recollections -than her daughter's, whose disposition was fickle and forgetful, -with triumph and delight. She knew but too well this brilliant -reception was paid to the happy mother of a king restored to his -throne, a throne second to none in Europe, while the worse than -indifferent reception she had before met with was paid to her, -the daughter of Henry IV., as a punishment for having been -unfortunate. After the princess had been installed in their -apartments and had rested, the gentlemen who had formed their -escort, having, in like manner, recovered from their fatigue, -they resumed their accustomed habits and occupations. Raoul -began by setting off to see his father, who had left for Blois. -He then tried to see M. d'Artagnan, who, however, being engaged -in the organization of a military household for the king, could -not be found anywhere. Bragelonne next sought out De Guiche, but -the count was occupied in a long conference with his tailors and -with Manicamp, which consumed his whole time. With the Duke of -Buckingham he fared still worse, for the duke was purchasing -horses after horses, diamonds upon diamonds. He monopolized -every embroiderer, jeweler, and tailor that Paris could boast -of. Between De Guiche and himself a vigorous contest ensued, -invariably a courteous one, in which, in order to insure success, -the duke was ready to spend a million; while the Maréchal -de Gramont had only allowed his son sixty thousand francs. So -Buckingham laughed and spent his money. Guiche groaned in -despair, and would have shown it more violently, had it not been -for the advice De Bragelonne gave him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A million!" repeated De -Guiche daily; "I must submit. Why will not the maréchal -advance me a portion of my patrimony?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because you would throw it -away," said Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What can that matter to -him? If I am to die of it, I shall die of it, and then I shall -need nothing further."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But what need is there to -die?" said Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not wish to be -conquered in elegance by an Englishman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear count," said -Manicamp, "elegance is not a costly commodity, it is only a very -difficult accomplishment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but difficult things -cost a good deal of money, and I have only got sixty thousand -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A very embarrassing state of -things, truly," said De Wardes; "even if you spent as much as -Buckingham, there is only nine hundred and forty thousand francs -difference."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where am I to find -them?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Get into debt."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am in debt -already."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A greater reason for getting -further."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Advice like this resulted in -De Guiche becoming excited to such an extent that he committed -extravagances where Buckingham only incurred expenses. The rumor -of this extravagant profuseness delighted the hearts of all the -shopkeepers in Paris; from the hotel of the Duke of Buckingham to -that of the Comte de Gramont nothing but miracles was attempted. -While all this was going on, Madame was resting herself, and -Bragelonne was engaged in writing to Mademoiselle de la -Vallière. He had already dispatched four letters, and not -an answer to any one of them had been received, when, on the very -morning fixed for the marriage ceremony, which was to take place -in the chapel at the Palais Royal, Raoul, who was dressing, heard -his valet announce M. de Malicorne. "What can this Malicorne -want with me?" thought Raoul; and then said to his valet, "Let -him wait."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a gentleman from -Blois," said the valet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Admit him at once," said -Raoul, eagerly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne entered as -brilliant as a star, and wearing a superb sword at his side. - After having saluted Raoul most gracefully, he said: "M. de -Bragelonne, I am the bearer of a thousand compliments from a lady -to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul colored. "From a -lady," said he, "from a lady of Blois?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur; from -Mademoiselle de Montalais."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you, monsieur; I -recollect you now," said Raoul. "And what does Mademoiselle de -Montalais require of me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne drew four letters -from his pocket, which he offered to Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My own letters, is it -possible?" he said, turning pale; "my letters, and the seals -unbroken?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur, your letters did -not find at Blois the person to whom they were addressed, and so -they are now returned to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de la -Vallière has left Blois, then?" exclaimed -Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Eight days ago."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where is she, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How is it known that these -letters were from me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de Montalais -recognized your handwriting and your seal," said -Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul colored and smiled. -"Mademoiselle de Montalais is exceedingly amiable," he said; "she -is always kind and charming."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Always, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Surely she could have given -me some precise information about Mademoiselle de la -Vallière. I never could find her in this immense -city."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne drew another packet -from his pocket. "You may possibly find in this letter what you -are anxious to learn."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul hurriedly broke the -seal. The writing was that of Mademoiselle Aure, and inclosed -were these words: - "Paris, Palais Royal. The day of the nuptial -blessing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What does this mean?" -inquired Raoul of Malicorne; "you probably know?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For pity's sake, tell me, -then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because Mademoiselle Aure -has forbidden me to do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul looked at his strange -visitor, and remained silent; - "At least, tell me whether it is -fortunate or unfortunate."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you will -see."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are very severe in your -reservations."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will you grant me one favor, -monsieur?" said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In exchange for that you -refuse me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have the greatest desire -to see the ceremony, and I have no ticket to admit me, in spite -of all the steps I have taken to secure one. Could you get me -admitted?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do me this kindness, then, I -entreat."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most willingly, monsieur; -come with me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am exceedingly indebted to -you, monsieur," said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought you were a friend -of M. de Manicamp."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am, monsieur; but this -morning I was with him as he was dressing, and I let a bottle of -blacking fall over his new dress, and he flew at me sword in -hand, so that I was obliged to make my escape. That is the -reason I could not ask him for a ticket. He wanted to kill -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I can well believe it," -laughed Raoul. "I know Manicamp is capable of killing a man who -has been unfortunate enough to commit the crime you have to -reproach yourself with, but I will repair the mischief as far as -you are concerned. I will but fasten my cloak, and shall then be -ready to serve you, not only as a guide, but as your introducer, -too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XIV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>A Surprise for Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>M</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>adame's marriage was celebrated in the -chapel of the Palais Royal, in the presence of a crowd of -courtiers, who had been most scrupulously selected. However, -notwithstanding the marked favor which an invitation indicated, -Raoul, faithful to his promise to Malicorne, who was so anxious -to witness the ceremony, obtained admission for him. After he -had fulfilled this engagement, Raoul approached De Guiche, who, -as if in contrast with his magnificent costume, exhibited a -countenance so utterly dejected, that the Duke of Buckingham was -the only one present who could contend with him as far as pallor -and discomfiture were concerned.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, count," said -Raoul, approaching his friend, and preparing to support him at -the moment the archbishop blessed the married couple. In fact, -the Prince of Condé was attentively scrutinizing these two -images of desolation, standing like caryatides on either side of -the nave of the church. The count, after that, kept a more -careful watch over himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At the termination of the -ceremony, the king and queen passed onward towards the grand -reception-room, where Madame and her suite were to be presented -to them. It was remarked that the king, who had seemed more than -surprised at his sister-in-law's appearance, was most flattering -in his compliments to her. Again, it was remarked that the -queen-mother, fixing a long and thoughtful gaze upon Buckingham, -leaned towards Madame de Motteville as though to ask her, "Do you -not see how much he resembles his father?" and finally it was -remarked that Monsieur watched everybody, and seemed quite -discontented. After the reception of the princess and -ambassadors, Monsieur solicited the king's permission to present -to him as well as to Madame the persons belonging to their new -household.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you aware, vicomte," -inquired the Prince de Condé of Raoul, "whether the -household has been selected by a person of taste, and whether -there are any faces worth looking at?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have not the slightest -idea, monseigneur," replied Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You affect ignorance, -surely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what way, -monseigneur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a friend of De -Guiche, who is one of the friends of the prince."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That may be so, monseigneur; -but the matter having no interest whatever for me, I have never -questioned De Guiche on the subject; and De Guiche, on his part, -never having been questioned, did not communicate any particulars -to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But Manicamp?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is true I saw Manicamp at -Le Havre, and during the journey here, but I was no more -inquisitive with him than I had been towards De Guiche. Besides, -is it likely that Manicamp should know anything of such matters? -for he is a person of only secondary importance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear vicomte, do you not -know better than that?" said the prince; "why, it is these -persons of secondary importance, who, on such occasions, have all -the influence; and the truth is, that nearly everything has been -done through Manicamp's presentations to De Guiche, and through -De Guiche to Monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I assure you, monseigneur, I -was ignorant of that," said Raoul, "and what your highness does -me the honor to impart is perfectly new to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will most readily believe -you, although it seems incredible; besides we shall not have long -to wait. See, the flying squadron is advancing, as good Queen -Catherine used to say. Ah! ah! what pretty faces!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A bevy of young girls at this -moment entered the <i>salon</i>, conducted by Madame de -Navailles, and to Manicamp's credit be it said, if indeed he had -taken that part in their selection which the Prince de -Condé assigned him, it was a display calculated to dazzle -those who, like the prince, could appreciate every character and -style of beauty. A young, fair-complexioned girl, from twenty to -one-and-twenty years of age, and whose large blue eyes flashed, -as she opened them, in the most dazzling manner, walked at the -head of the band and was the first presented.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente," said Madame de Navailles to Monsieur, who, as -he saluted his wife, repeated "Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! ah!" said the Prince de -Condé to Raoul, "<i>she</i> is presentable -enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Raoul, "but has -she not a somewhat haughty style?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! we know these airs very -well, vicomte; three months hence she will be tame enough. But -look, there, indeed, is a pretty face."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Raoul, "and one I -am acquainted with."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle Aure de -Montalais," said Madame de Navailles. The name and Christian -name were carefully repeated by Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Great heavens!" exclaimed -Raoul, fixing his bewildered gaze upon the entrance -doorway.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What's the matter?" inquired -the prince; "was it Mademoiselle Aure de Montalais who made you -utter such a 'Great heavens'?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monseigneur, no," -replied Raoul, pale and trembling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, if it be not -Mademoiselle Aure de Montalais, it is that pretty <i>blonde</i> -who follows her. What beautiful eyes! She is rather thin, but -has fascinations without number."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de la Baume le -Blanc de la Vallière!" said Madame de Navailles; and, as -this name resounded through his whole being, a cloud seemed to -rise from his breast to his eyes, so that he neither saw nor -heard anything more; and the prince, finding him nothing more -than a mere echo which remained silent under his railleries, -moved forward to inspect somewhat closer the beautiful girls whom -his first glance had already particularized.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Louise here! Louise a maid -of honor to Madame!" murmured Raoul, and his eyes, which did not -suffice to satisfy his reason, wandered from Louise to -Montalais. The latter had already emancipated herself from her -assumed timidity, which she only needed for the presentation and -for her reverences.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Mademoiselle de Montalais, -from the corner of the room to which she had retired, was looking -with no slight confidence at the different persons present; and, -having discovered Raoul, she amused herself with the profound -astonishment which her own and her friend's presence there caused -the unhappy lover. Her waggish and malicious look, which Raoul -tried to avoid meeting, and which yet he sought inquiringly from -time to time, placed him on the rack. As for Louise, whether -from natural timidity, or some other reason for which Raoul could -not account, she kept her eyes constantly cast down; intimidated, -dazzled, and with impeded respiration, she withdrew herself as -much as possible aside, unaffected even by the nudges Montalais -gave her with her elbow. The whole scene was a perfect enigma -for Raoul, the key to which he would have given anything to -obtain. But no one was there who could assist him, not even -Malicorne; who, a little uneasy at finding himself in the -presence of so many persons of good birth, and not a little -discouraged by Montalais's bantering glances, had described a -circle, and by degrees succeeded in getting a few paces from the -prince, behind the group of maids of honor, and nearly within -reach of Mademoiselle Aure's voice, she being the planet around -which he, as her attendant satellite, seemed constrained to -gravitate. As he recovered his self-possession, Raoul fancied he -recognized voices on his right hand side that were familiar to -him, and he perceived De Wardes, De Guiche, and the Chevalier de -Lorraine conversing together. It is true they were talking in -tones so low, that the sound of their words could hardly be heard -in the vast apartment. To speak in that manner from any -particular place without bending down, or turning round, or -looking at the person with whom one may be engaged in -conversation, is a talent that cannot be immediately acquired by -newcomers. Long study is needed for such conversations, which, -without a look, gesture, or movement of the head, seem like the -conversation of a group of statues. In fact, the king's and -queen's grand assemblies, while their majesties were speaking, -and while every one present seemed to be listening in the midst -of the most profound silence, some of these noiseless -conversations took place, in which adulation was not the -prevailing feature. But Raoul was one among others exceedingly -clever in this art, so much a matter of etiquette, that from the -movement of the lips, he was often able to guess the sense of the -words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who is that Montalais?" -inquired De Wardes, "and that La Vallière? What -country-town have we had sent here?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Montalais?" said the -chevalier, - "oh, I know her; she is a good sort of girl, whom we -shall find amusing enough. La Vallière is a charming -girl, slightly lame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! bah!" said De -Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not be absurd, De Wardes, -there are some very characteristic and ingenious Latin axioms -about lame ladies."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Gentlemen, gentlemen," said -De Guiche, looking at Raoul with uneasiness, "be a little -careful, I entreat you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> But the uneasiness of the -count, in appearance at least, was not needed. Raoul had -preserved the firmest and most indifferent countenance, although -he had not lost a word that passed. He seemed to keep an account -of the insolence and license of the two speakers in order to -settle matters with them at the earliest opportunity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes seemed to guess -what was passing in his mind, and continued:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who are these young ladies' -lovers?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Montalais's lover?" said the -chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, Montalais -first."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You, I, or De Guiche, - -whoever likes, in fact."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the other?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de la -Vallière?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, gentlemen," -exclaimed De Guiche, anxious to put a stop to the chevalier's -reply; "take care, Madame is listening to us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul had thrust his hand up -to the wrist into his <i>justaucorps</i> in great agitation. But -the very malignity which he saw was excited against these poor -girls made him take a serious resolution. "Poor Louise," he -thought, "has come here only with an honorable object in view, -and under honorable protection; and I must learn what that object -is which she has in view, and who it is that protects her." And -following Malicorne's maneuver, he made his way toward the group -of the maids of honor. The presentations were soon over. The -king, who had done nothing but look at and admire Madame, shortly -afterwards left the reception-room, accompanied by the two -queens. The Chevalier de Lorraine resumed his place beside -Monsieur, and, as he accompanied him, insinuated a few drops of -the venom he had collected during the last hour, while looking at -some of the faces in the court, and suspecting that some of their -hearts might be happy. A few of the persons present followed the -king as he quitted the apartment; but such of the courtiers as -assumed an independence of character, and professed a gallantry -of disposition, began to approach the ladies of the court. The -prince paid his compliments to Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, -Buckingham devoted himself to Madame Chalais and Mademoiselle de -Lafayette, whom Madame already distinguished by her notice, and -whom she held in high regard. As for the Comte de Guiche, who -had abandoned Monsieur as soon as he could approach Madame alone, -he conversed, with great animation, with Madame de Valentinois, -and with Mademoiselle de Créquy and de -Châtillon.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Amid these varied political, -and amorous interests, Malicorne was anxious to gain Montalais's -attention; but the latter preferred talking with Raoul, even if -it were only to amuse herself with his innumerable questions and -his astonishment. Raoul had gone directly to Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, and had saluted her with the profoundest -respect, at which Louise blushed, and could not say a word. -Montalais, however, hurried to her assistance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, monsieur le vicomte, -here we are, you see."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do, indeed, see you," said -Raoul smiling, "and it is exactly because you are here that I -wish to ask for some explanation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne approached the -group with his most fascinating smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Go away, Malicorne; really -you are exceedingly indiscreet." At this remark Malicorne bit -his lips and retired a few steps, without making any reply. His -smile, however, changed its expression, and from its former -frankness, became mocking in its expression.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You wished for an -explanation, M. Raoul?" inquired Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is surely worth one, I -think; Mademoiselle de la Vallière is a maid of honor to -Madame!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why should she not be a maid -of honor, as well as myself?" inquired Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray accept my compliments, -young ladies," said Raoul, who fancied he perceived they were not -disposed to answer him in a direct manner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your remark was not made in -a very complimentary manner, vicomte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mine?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly; I appeal to -Louise."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Bragelonne probably -thinks the position is above my condition," said Louise, -hesitatingly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Assuredly not," replied -Raoul, eagerly, "you know very well that such is not my feeling; -were you called upon to occupy a queen's throne, I should not be -surprised; how much greater reason, then, such a position as -this? The only circumstance that amazes me is, that I should -have learned it only to-day, and that by the merest -accident."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is true," replied -Montalais, with her usual giddiness; "you know nothing about it, -and there is no reason you should. M. de Bragelonne had written -several letters to you, but your mother was the only person who -remained behind at Blois, and it was necessary to prevent these -letters from falling into her hands; I intercepted them, and -returned them to M. Raoul, so that he believed you were still at -Blois while you were here in Paris, and had no idea whatever, -indeed, how high you had risen in rank."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you not inform M. Raoul, -as I begged you to do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why should I? to give him -opportunity of making some of his severe remarks and moral -reflections, and to undo what we have had so much trouble in -effecting? Certainly not."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Am I so very severe, then?" -said Raoul, inquiringly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides," said Montalais, -"it is sufficient to say that it suited me. I was about setting -off for Paris - you were away; Louise was weeping her eyes out; -interpret that as you please; I begged a friend, a protector of -mine, who had obtained the appointment for me, to solicit one for -Louise; the appointment arrived. Louise left in order to get her -costume prepared; as I had my own ready, I remained behind; I -received your letters, and returned them to you, adding a few -words, promising you a surprise. Your surprise is before you, -monsieur, and seems to be a fair one enough; you have nothing -more to ask. Come, M. Malicorne, it is now time to leave these -young people together: they have many things to talk about; give -me your hand; I trust that you appreciate the honor conferred -upon you, M. Malicorne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me," said Raoul, -arresting the giddy girl, and giving to his voice an intonation, -the gravity of which contrasted with that of Montalais; "forgive -me, but may I inquire the name of the protector you speak of; for -if protection be extended towards you, Mademoiselle de Montalais, -- for which, indeed, so many reasons exist," added Raoul, bowing, -"I do not see that the same reasons exist why Mademoiselle de la -Vallière should be similarly cared for."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, M. Raoul," said Louise, -innocently, "there is no difference in the matter, and I do not -see why I should not tell it you myself; it was M. Malicorne who -obtained it for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul remained for a moment -almost stupefied, asking himself if they were trifling with him; -he then turned round to interrogate Malicorne, but he had been -hurried away by Montalais, and was already at some distance from -them. Mademoiselle de la Vallière attempted to follow her -friend, but Raoul, with gentle authority, detained -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Louise, one word, I -beg."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, M. Raoul, " said -Louise, blushing, "we are alone. Every one has left. They will -become anxious, and will be looking for us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fear nothing," said the -young man, smiling, "we are neither of us of sufficient -importance for our absence to be remarked."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I have my duty to -perform, M. Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not be alarmed, I am -acquainted with these usages of the court; you will not be on -duty until to-morrow; a few minutes are at your disposal, which -will enable you to give me the information I am about to have the -honor to ask you for."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How serious you are, M. -Raoul!" said Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because the circumstances -are serious. Are you listening?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am listening; I would only -repeat, monsieur, that we are quite alone."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right," said Raoul, -and, offering her his hand, he led the young girl into the -gallery adjoining the reception-room, the windows of which looked -out upon the courtyard. Every one hurried towards the middle -window, which had a balcony outside, from which all the details -of the slow and formal preparations for departure could be seen. -Raoul opened one of the side windows, and then, being alone with -Louise, said to her: "You know, Louise, that from my childhood I -have regarded you as my sister, as one who has been the -confidante of all my troubles, to whom I have entrusted all my -hopes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, M. Raoul," she answered -softly; "yes, M. Raoul, I know that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You used, on your side, to -show the same friendship towards me, and had the same confidence -in me; why have you not, on this occasion, been my friend, - why -have you shown suspicion of me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Mademoiselle de la -Vallière did not answer. "I fondly thought you loved me," -said Raoul, whose voice became more and more agitated; "I fondly -thought you consented to all the plans we had, together, laid -down for our own happiness, at the time when we wandered up and -down the walks of Cour-Cheverny, under the avenue of poplar trees -leading to Blois. You do not answer me, Louise. Is it -possible," he inquired, breathing with difficulty, "that you no -longer love me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not say so," replied -Louise, softly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! tell me the truth, I -implore you. All my hopes in life are centered in you. I chose -you for your gentle and simple tastes. Do not suffer yourself to -be dazzled, Louise, now that you are in the midst of a court -where all that is pure too soon becomes corrupt - where all that -is young too soon grows old. Louise, close your ears, so as not -to hear what may be said; shut your eyes, so as not to see the -examples before you; shut your lips, that you may not inhale the -corrupting influences about you. Without falsehood or -subterfuge, Louise, am I to believe what Mademoiselle de -Montalais stated? Louise, did you come to Paris because I was no -longer at Blois?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière blushed -and concealed her face in her hands.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, it was so, then!" -exclaimed Raoul, delightedly; "that was, then, your reason for -coming here. I love you as I never yet loved you. Thanks, -Louise, for this devotion; but measures must be taken to place -you beyond all insult, to shield you from every lure. Louise, a -maid of honor, in the court of a young princess in these days of -free manners and inconstant affections - a maid of honor is -placed as an object of attack without having any means of defence -afforded her; this state of things cannot continue; you must be -married in order to be respected."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Married?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, here is my hand, -Louise; will you place yours within it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But your father?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My father leaves me -perfectly free."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I understand your scruples, -Louise; I will consult my father."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Reflect, M. Raoul; -wait."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wait! it is impossible. -Reflect, Louise, when <i>you</i> are concerned! it would be -insulting, - give me your hand, dear Louise; I am my own master. -My father will consent, I know; give me your hand, do not keep me -waiting thus. One word in answer, one word only; if not, I shall -begin to think that, in order to change you forever, nothing more -was needed than a single step in the palace, a single breath of -favor, a smile from the queen, a look from the king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul had no sooner -pronounced this latter word, than La Vallière became as -pale as death, no doubt from fear at seeing the young man excite -himself. With a movement as rapid as thought, she placed both -her hands in those of Raoul, and then fled, without adding a -syllable; disappearing without casting a look behind her. Raoul -felt his whole frame tremble at the contact of her hand; he -received the compact as a solemn bargain wrung by affection from -her child-like timidity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Consent of Athos.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>R</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>aoul quitted the Palais Royal full of -ideas that admitted no delay in execution. He mounted his horse -in the courtyard, and followed the road to Blois, while the -marriage festivities of Monsieur and the princess of England were -being celebrated with exceeding animation by the courtiers, but -to the despair of De Guiche and Buckingham. Raoul lost no time -on the road, and in sixteen hours he arrived at Blois. As he -traveled along, he marshaled his arguments in the most becoming -manner. Fever is an argument that cannot be answered, and Raoul -had an attack. Athos was in his study, making additions to his -memoirs, when Raoul entered, accompanied by Grimaud. -Keen-sighted and penetrating, a mere glance at his son told him -that something extraordinary had befallen him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You seem to come on a matter -of importance," said he to Raoul, after he had embraced him, -pointing to a seat.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur," replied the -young man; "and I entreat you to give me the same kind attention -that has never yet failed me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Speak, Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I present the case to you, -monsieur, free from all preface, for that would be unworthy of -you. Mademoiselle de la Vallière is in Paris as one of -Madame's maids of honor. I have pondered deeply on the matter; I -love Mademoiselle de la Vallière above everything; and it -is not proper to leave her in a position where her reputation, -her virtue even, may be assailed. It is my wish, therefore, to -marry her, monsieur, and I have come to solicit your consent to -my marriage."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> While this communication was -being made to him, Athos maintained the profoundest silence and -reserve. Raoul, who had begun his address with an assumption of -self-possession, finished it by allowing a manifest emotion to -escape him at every word. Athos fixed upon Bragelonne a -searching look, overshadowed indeed by a slight -sadness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have reflected well upon -it?" he inquired.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe you are already -acquainted with my views respecting this alliance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur," replied -Raoul, in a low tone of voice; "but you added, that if I -persisted - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do persist, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul stammered out an almost -unintelligible assent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your passion," continued -Athos, tranquilly, "must indeed be very great, since, -notwithstanding my dislike to this union, you persist in wanting -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul passed his hand -trembling across his forehead to remove the perspiration that -collected there. Athos looked at him, and his heart was touched -by pity. He rose and said, -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is no matter. My own -personal feelings are not to be taken into consideration since -yours are concerned; I am ready to give it. Tell me what you -want."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your kind indulgence, first -of all, monsieur," said Raoul, taking hold of his -hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have mistaken my -feelings, Raoul, I have more than mere indulgence for you in my -heart."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul kissed as devotedly as -a lover could have done the hand he held in his own.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come," said Athos, "I -am quite ready; what do you wish me to sign?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing whatever, monsieur, -only it would be very kind if you would take the trouble to write -to the king, to whom I belong, and solicit his majesty's -permission for me to marry Mademoiselle de la -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well thought, Raoul! After, -or rather before myself, you have a master to consult, that -master being the king; it is loyal in you to submit yourself -voluntarily to this double proof; I will grant your request -without delay, Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The count approached the -window, and leaning out, called to Grimaud, who showed his head -from an arbor covered with jasmine, which he was occupied in -trimming.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My horses, Grimaud," -continued the count.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why this order, monsieur?" -inquired Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We shall set off in a few -hours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whither?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Paris, monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is not the king at -Paris?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, ought we not to go -there?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur," said Raoul, -almost alarmed by this kind condescension. "I do not ask you to -put yourself to such inconvenience, and a letter merely - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You mistake my position, -Raoul; it is not respectful that a simple gentleman, such as I -am, should write to his sovereign. I wish to speak, I ought to -speak, to the king, and I will do so. We will go together, -Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You overpower me with your -kindness, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you think his majesty -is affected?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Towards me, -monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Excellently well -disposed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You <i>know</i> that to be -so?" continued the count.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king has himself told me -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On what -occasion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon the recommendation of -M. d'Artagnan, I believe, and on account of an affair in the -Place de Grève, when I had the honor to draw my sword in -the king's service. I have reason to believe that, vanity apart, -I stand well with his majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the -better."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I entreat you, -monsieur," pursued Raoul, "not to maintain towards me your -present grave and serious manner. Do not make me bitterly regret -having listened to a feeling stronger than anything -else."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is the second time you -have said so, Raoul; it was quite unnecessary; you require my -formal consent, and you have it. We need talk no more on the -subject, therefore. Come and see my new plantations, -Raoul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young man knew very well, -that, after the expression of his father's wish, no opportunity -of discussion was left him. He bowed his head, and followed his -father into the garden. Athos slowly pointed out to him the -grafts, the cuttings, and the avenues he was planting. This -perfect repose of manner disconcerted Raoul extremely; the -affection with which his own heart was filled seemed so great -that the whole world could hardly contain it. How, then, could -his father's heart remain void, and closed to its influence? -Bragelonne, therefore, collecting all his courage, suddenly -exclaimed, -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is impossible, monsieur, -you can have any reason to reject Mademoiselle de la -Vallière! In Heaven's name, she is so good, so gentle and -pure, that your mind, so perfect in its penetration, ought to -appreciate her accordingly. Does any secret repugnance, or any -hereditary dislike, exist between you and her family?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Look, Raoul, at that -beautiful lily of the valley," said Athos; "observe how the shade -and the damp situation suit it, particularly the shadow which -that sycamore-tree casts over it, so that the warmth, and not the -blazing heat of the sun, filters through its leaves."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul stopped, bit his lips, -and then, with the blood mantling in his face, he said, -courageously, - "One word of explanation, I beg, monsieur. You -cannot forget that your son is a man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case," replied -Athos, drawing himself up with sternness, "prove to me that you -are a man, for you do not show yourself a son. I begged you to -wait the opportunity of forming an illustrious alliance. I would -have obtained a wife for you from the first ranks of the rich -nobility. I wish you to be distinguished by the splendor which -glory and fortune confer, for nobility of descent you have -already."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," exclaimed Raoul, -carried away by a first impulse. "I was reproached the other day -for not knowing who my mother was."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Athos turned pale; then, -knitting his brows like the greatest of all the heathen deities: -- "I am waiting to learn the reply you made," he demanded, in an -imperious manner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me! oh, forgive me," -murmured the young man, sinking at once from the lofty tone he -had assumed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What was your reply, -monsieur?" inquired the count, stamping his feet upon the -ground.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur, my sword was in my -hand immediately, my adversary placed himself on guard, I struck -his sword over the palisade, and threw him after it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why did you suffer him to -live?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king has prohibited -duelling, and, at the moment, I was an ambassador of the -king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said Athos, "but -all the greater reason I should see his majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you intend to ask -him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Authority to draw my sword -against the man who has inflicted this injury upon -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If I did not act as I ought -to have done, I beg you to forgive me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did I reproach you, -Raoul?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Still, the permission you -are going to ask from the king?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will implore his majesty -to sign your marriage-contract, but on one condition."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are conditions necessary -with me, monsieur? Command, and you shall be obeyed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the condition, I repeat," -continued Athos; "that you tell me the name of the man who spoke -of your mother in that way."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What need is there that you -should know his name; the offense was directed against myself, -and the permission once obtained from his majesty, to revenge it -is my affair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me his name, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will not allow you to -expose yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you take me for a Don -Diego? His name, I say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You insist upon -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I demand it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Vicomte de -Wardes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said Athos, -tranquilly, "I know him. But our horses are ready, I see; and, -instead of delaying our departure for a couple of hours, we will -set off at once. Come, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XVI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Monsieur Becomes Jealous of the -Duke of Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>W</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>hile the Comte de la Fère was -proceeding on his way to Pairs, accompanied by Raoul, the Palais -Royal was the theatre wherein a scene of what Molière -would have called excellent comedy, was being performed. Four -days had elapsed since his marriage, and Monsieur, having -breakfasted very hurriedly, passed into his ante-chamber, -frowning and out of temper. The repast had not been -over-agreeable. Madame had had breakfast served in her own -apartment, and Monsieur had breakfasted almost alone; the -Chevalier de Lorraine and Manicamp were the only persons present -at the meal, which lasted three-quarters of an hour without a -single syllable having been uttered. Manicamp, who was less -intimate with his royal highness than the Chevalier de Lorraine, -vainly endeavored to detect, from the expression of the prince's -face, what had made him so ill-humored. The Chevalier de -Lorraine, who had no occasion to speculate about anything, -inasmuch as he knew all, ate his breakfast with that -extraordinary appetite which the troubles of one's friends but -stimulates, and enjoyed at the same time both Monsieur's -ill-humor and the vexation of Manicamp. He seemed delighted, -while he went on eating, to detain a prince, who was very -impatient to move, still at table. Monsieur at times repented -the ascendency which he had permitted the Chevalier de Lorraine -to acquire over him, and which exempted the latter from any -observance of etiquette towards him. Monsieur was now in one of -those moods, but he dreaded as much as he liked the chevalier, -and contented himself with nursing his anger without betraying -it. Every now and then Monsieur raised his eyes to the ceiling, -then lowered them towards the slices of <i>pâté</i> -which the chevalier was attacking, and finally, not caring to -betray the resentment, he gesticulated in a manner which -Harlequin might have envied. At last, however, Monsieur could -control himself no longer, and at the dessert, rising from the -table in excessive wrath, as we have related, he left the -Chevalier de Lorraine to finish his breakfast as he pleased. -Seeing Monsieur rise from the table, Manicamp, napkin in hand, -rose also. Monsieur ran rather than walked, towards the -ante-chamber, where, noticing an usher in attendance, he gave him -some directions in a low tone of voice. Then, turning back -again, but avoiding passing through the breakfast apartment, he -crossed several rooms, with the intention of seeking the -queen-mother in her oratory, where she usually -remained.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was about ten o'clock in -the morning. Anne of Austria was engaged in writing as Monsieur -entered. The queen-mother was extremely attached to her son, for -he was handsome in person and amiable in disposition. He was, in -fact, more affectionate, and it might be, more effeminate than -the king. He pleased his mother by those trifling sympathizing -attentions all women are glad to receive. Anne of Austria, who -would have been rejoiced to have had a daughter, almost found in -this, her favorite son, the attentions, solicitude, and playful -manners of a child of twelve years of age. All the time he -passed with his mother he employed in admiring her arms, in -giving his opinion upon her cosmetics, and recipes for -compounding essences, in which she was very particular; and then, -too, he kissed her hands and cheeks in the most childlike and -endearing manner, and had always some sweetmeats to offer her, or -some new style of dress to recommend. Anne of Austria loved the -king, or rather the regal power in her eldest son; Louis XIV. -represented legitimacy by right divine. With the king, her -character was that of the queen-mother, with Philip she was -simply the mother. The latter knew that, of all places, a -mother's heart is the most compassionate and surest. When quite -a child he always fled there for refuge when he and his brother -quarreled, often, after having struck him, which constituted the -crime of high treason on his part, after certain engagements with -hands and nails, in which the king and his rebellious subject -indulged in their night-dresses respecting the right to a -disputed bed, having their servant Laporte as umpire, - Philip, -conqueror, but terrified at victory, used to flee to his mother -to obtain reinforcements from her, or at least the assurance of -forgiveness, which Louis XIV. granted with difficulty, and after -an interval. Anne, from this habit of peaceable intervention, -succeeded in arranging the disputes of her sons, and in sharing, -at the same time, all their secrets. The king, somewhat jealous -of that maternal solicitude which was bestowed particularly on -his brother, felt disposed to show towards Anne of Austria more -submission and attachment than his character really dictated. -Anne of Austria had adopted this line of conduct especially -towards the young queen. In this manner she ruled with almost -despotic sway over the royal household, and she was already -preparing her batteries to govern with the same absolute -authority the household of her second son. Anne experienced -almost a feeling of pride whenever she saw any one enter her -apartment with woe-begone looks, pale cheeks, or red eyes, -gathering from appearances that assistance was required either by -the weakest or the most rebellious. She was writing, we have -said, when Monsieur entered her oratory, not with red eyes or -pale cheeks, but restless, out of temper, and annoyed. With an -absent air he kissed his mother's hands, and sat himself down -before receiving her permission to do so. Considering the strict -rules of etiquette established at the court of Anne of Austria, -this forgetfulness of customary civilities was a sign of -preoccupation, especially on Philip's part, who, of his own -accord, observed a respect towards her of a somewhat exaggerated -character. If, therefore, he so notoriously failed in this -regard, there must be a serious cause for it.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter, Philip?" -inquired Anne of Austria, turning towards her son.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A good many things," -murmured the prince, in a doleful tone of voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You look like a man who has -a great deal to do," said the queen, laying down her pen. Philip -frowned, but did not reply. "Among the various subjects which -occupy your mind," said Anne of Austria, "there must surely be -one that absorbs it more than others."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One has indeed occupied me -more than any other."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, what is it? I am -listening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Philip opened his mouth as if -to express all the troubles his mind was filled with, and which -he seemed to be waiting only for an opportunity of declaring. -But he suddenly became silent, and a sigh alone expressed all -that his heart was overflowing with.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, Philip, show a little -firmness," said the queen-mother. "When one has to complain of -anything, it is generally an individual who is the cause of it. -Am I not right?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not say no, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whom do you wish to speak -about? Come, take courage."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In fact, madame, what I -might possibly have to say must be kept a profound secret; for -when a lady is in the case - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! you are speaking of -Madame, then?" inquired the queen-mother, with a feeling of the -liveliest curiosity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, if you wish to -speak of Madame, do not hesitate to do so. I am your mother, and -she is no more than a stranger to me. Yet, as she is my -daughter-in-law, rest assured I shall be interested, even were it -for your own sake alone, in hearing all you may have to say about -her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray tell me, madame, in -your turn, whether you have not remarked something?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "'Something'! Philip? Your -words almost frighten me, from their want of meaning. What do -you mean by 'something?'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame is pretty, -certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet not altogether -beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, but as she grows older, -she will probably become strikingly beautiful. You must have -remarked the change which a few years have already made in her. -Her beauty will improve more and more; she is now only sixteen -years of age. At fifteen I was, myself, very thin; but even as -she is at present, Madame is very pretty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And consequently others have -remarked it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Undoubtedly, for a woman of -ordinary rank is noticed - and with still greater reason a -princess."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She has been well brought -up, I suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame Henriette, her -mother, is a woman somewhat cold in manner, slightly pretentious, -but full of noble thoughts. The princess's education may have -been neglected, but her principles, I believe, are good. Such at -least was the opinion I formed of her when she resided in France; -but she afterwards returned to England, and I am ignorant what -may have occurred there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Simply that there are some -heads naturally giddy, which are easily turned by -prosperity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is the very word, -madame. I think the princess rather giddy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We must not exaggerate, -Philip; she is clever and witty, and has a certain amount of -coquetry very natural in a young woman; but this defect in -persons of high rank and position, is a great advantage at a -court. A princess who is tinged with coquetry usually forms a -brilliant court; her smile stimulates luxury, arouses wit, and -even courage; the nobles, too, fight better for a prince whose -wife is beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you extremely, -madame," said Philip, with some temper; "you really have drawn -some very alarming pictures for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what respect?" asked the -queen, with pretended simplicity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know, madame," said -Philip, dolefully, "whether I had or had not a very great dislike -to getting married."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, indeed, you alarm me. -You have some serious cause of complaint against -Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not precisely say it is -serious."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, then, throw -aside your doleful looks. If you show yourself to others in your -present state, people will take you for a very unhappy -husband."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact is," replied -Philip, "I am not altogether satisfied as a husband, and I shall -not be sorry if others know it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For shame, -Philip."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, madame, I will -tell you frankly that I do not understand the life I am required -to lead."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Explain -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My wife does not seem to -belong to me; she is always leaving me for some reason or -another. In the mornings there are visits, correspondences, and -toilettes; in the evenings, balls and concerts."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are jealous, -Philip."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I! Heaven forbid. Let -others act the part of a jealous husband, not I. But I <i>am</i> -annoyed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All these things you -reproach your wife with are perfectly innocent, and, so long as -you have nothing of greater importance - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet, listen; without being -very blamable, a woman can excite a good deal of uneasiness. -Certain visitors may be received, certain preferences shown, -which expose young women to remark, and which are enough to drive -out of their senses even those husbands who are least disposed to -be jealous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! now we are coming to the -real point at last, and not without some difficulty. You speak -of frequent visits, and certain preferences - very good; for the -last hour we have been beating about the bush, and at last you -have broached the true question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'text-indent:.5in; punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"Well then, yes - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'text-indent:.5in; punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"This is more serious than I -thought. It is possible, then, that Madame can have given you -grounds for these complaints against her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, your wife, married -only four days ago, prefers some other person to yourself? Take -care, Philip, you exaggerate your grievances; in wishing to prove -everything, you prove nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The prince, bewildered by his -mother's serious manner, wished to reply, but he could only -stammer out some unintelligible words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You draw back, then?" said -Anne of Austria. "I prefer that, as it is an acknowledgement of -your mistake."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No!" exclaimed Philip, "I do -not draw back, and I will prove all I asserted. I spoke of -preference and of visits, did I not? Well, listen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria prepared -herself to listen, with that love of gossip which the best woman -living and the best mother, were she a queen even, always finds -in being mixed up with the petty squabbles of a -household.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said Philip, "tell me -one thing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why does my wife retain an -English court about her?" said Philip, as he crossed his arms and -looked his mother steadily in the face, as if he were convinced -that she could not answer the question.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For a very simple reason," -returned Anne of Austria; "because the English are her -countrymen, because they have expended large sums in order to -accompany her to France, and because it would hardly be polite - -not politic, certainly - to dismiss abruptly those members of the -English nobility who have not shrunk from any devotion or -sacrifice."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A wonderful sacrifice -indeed," returned Philip, "to desert a wretched country to come -to a beautiful one, where a greater effect can be produced for a -guinea that can be procured elsewhere for four! Extraordinary -devotion, really, to travel a hundred leagues in company with a -woman one is in love with!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In love, Philip! think what -you are saying. Who is in love with Madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Duke of Buckingham. -Perhaps you will defend him, too?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria blushed and -smiled at the same time. The name of the Duke of Buckingham -recalled certain recollections of a very tender and melancholy -nature. "The Duke of Buckingham?" she murmured.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; one of those arm-chair -soldiers - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Buckinghams are loyal -and brave," said Anne of Austria, courageously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is too bad; my own -mother takes the part of my wife's lover against me," exclaimed -Philip, incensed to such an extent that his weak organization was -affected almost to tears.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Philip, my son," exclaimed -Anne of Austria, "such an expression is unworthy of you. Your -wife has no lover; and, had she one, it would not be the Duke of -Buckingham. The members of that family, I repeat, are loyal and -discreet, and the rights of hospitality are sure to be respected -by them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Duke of Buckingham is an -Englishman, madame," said Philip, "and may I ask if the English -so very religiously respect what belongs to princes of -France?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne blushed a second time, -and turned aside under the pretext of taking her pen from her -desk again, but in reality to conceal her confusion from her -son. "Really, Philip," she said, "you seem to discover -expressions for the purpose of embarrassing me, and your anger -blinds you while it alarms me; reflect a little."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no need for -reflection, madame. I can see with my own eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, and what do you -see?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That Buckingham never quits -my wife. He presumes to make presents to her, and she ventures -to accept them. Yesterday she was talking about <i>sauchets -à la violette;</i> well, our French perfumers, you know -very well, madame, for you have over and over again asked for it -without success - our French perfumers, I say, have never been -able to procure this scent. The duke, however, wore about him a -<i>sachet à la violette</i>, and I am sure that the one my -wife has came from him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed, monsieur," said Anne -of Austria, "you build your pyramids on needle points; be -careful. What harm, I ask you, can there be in a man giving to -his countrywoman a recipe for a new essence? These strange -ideas, I protest, painfully recall your father to me; he who so -frequently and so unjustly made me suffer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Duke of Buckingham's -father was probably more reserved and more respectful than his -son," said Philip, thoughtlessly, not perceiving how deeply he -had wounded his mother's feelings. The queen turned pale, and -pressed her clenched hands upon her bosom; but, recovering -herself immediately, she said," You came here with some intention -or another, I suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What was it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I came, madame, intending to -complain energetically, and to inform you that I will not submit -to such behavior from the Duke of Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you intend to do, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall complain to the -king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what do you expect the -king to reply?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, then," said -Monsieur, with an expression of stern determination on his -countenance, which offered a singular contrast to its usual -gentleness. "Very well. I will right myself!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you call righting -yourself?" inquired Anne of Austria, in alarm.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will have the Duke of -Buckingham quit the princess, I will have him quit France, and I -will see that my wishes are intimated to him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will intimate nothing of -the kind, Philip," said the queen, "for if you act in that -manner, and violate hospitality to that extent, I will invoke the -severity of the king against you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you threaten me, madame?" -exclaimed Philip, almost in tears; "do you threaten me in the -midst of my complaints?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not threaten you; I do -but place an obstacle in the path of your hasty anger. I -maintain, that, to adopt towards the Duke of Buckingham, or any -other Englishman, any rigorous measure - to take even a -discourteous step towards him, would be to plunge France and -England into the most disastrous disagreement. Can it be -possible that a prince of the blood, the brother of the king of -France, does not know how to hide an injury, even did it exist in -reality, where political necessity requires it?" Philip made a -movement. "Besides," continued the queen, "the injury is neither -true nor possible, and it is merely a matter of silly -jealousy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame, I know what I -know."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whatever you may know, I can -only advise you to be patient."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am not patient by -disposition, madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The queen rose, full of -severity, and with an icy ceremonious manner. "Explain what you -really require, monsieur," she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not require anything, -madame; I simply express what I desire. If the Duke of -Buckingham does not, of his own accord, discontinue his visits to -my apartments I shall forbid him entrance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is a point you will -refer to the king," said Anne of Austria, her heart swelling as -she spoke, and her voice trembling with emotion.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, madame," exclaimed -Philip, striking his hands together, "act as my mother and not as -the queen, since I speak to you as a son; it is simply a matter -of a few minutes' conversation between the duke and -myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is that very conversation -I forbid," said the queen, resuming her authority, "because it is -unworthy of you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be it so; I will not appear -in the matter, but I shall intimate my will to -Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said the queen-mother, -with a melancholy arising from reflection, "never tyrannize over -a wife - never behave too haughtily or imperiously towards your -own. A woman unwillingly convinced, is unconvinced."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is to be done, then? - -I will consult my friends about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, your double-dealing -advisers, your Chevalier de Lorraine - your De Wardes. Intrust -the conduct of this affair to me. You wish the Duke of -Buckingham to leave, do you not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As soon as possible, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Send the duke to me, then; -smile upon your wife, behave to her, to the king, to every one, -as usual. But follow no advice but mine. Alas! I too well know -what any household comes to, that is troubled by -advisers."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall be obeyed, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you will be satisfied at -the result. Send the duke to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That will not be -difficult."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where do you suppose him to -be?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At my wife's door, whose -<i>levée</i> he is probably awaiting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said Anne of -Austria, calmly. "Be good enough to tell the duke that I shall -be charmed if he will pay me a visit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Philip kissed his mother's -hand, and started off to find the Duke of Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XVII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Forever!</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he Duke of Buckingham, obedient to the -queen-mother's invitation, presented himself in her apartments -half an hour after the departure of the Duc d'Orléans. -When his name was announced by the gentleman-usher in attendance, -the queen, who was sitting with her elbow resting on a table, and -her head buried in her hands, rose, and smilingly received the -graceful and respectful salutation which the duke addressed to -her. Anne of Austria was still beautiful. It is well known that -at her then somewhat advanced age, her long auburn hair, -perfectly formed hands, and bright ruby lips, were still the -admiration of all who saw her. On the present occasion, -abandoned entirely to a remembrance which evoked all the past in -her heart, she looked almost as beautiful as in the days of her -youth, when her palace was open to the visits of the Duke of -Buckingham's father, then a young and impassioned man, as well as -an unfortunate prince, who lived for her alone, and died with her -name upon his lips. Anne of Austria fixed upon Buckingham a look -so tender in its expression, that it denoted, not alone the -indulgence of maternal affection, but a gentleness of expression -like the coquetry of a woman who loves.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty," said -Buckingham, respectfully, "desired to speak to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, duke," said the queen, -in English; "will you be good enough to sit down?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The favor which Anne of -Austria thus extended to the young man, and the welcome sound of -the language of a country from which the duke had been estranged -since his stay in France, deeply affected him. He immediately -conjectured that the queen had a request to make of him. After -having abandoned the first few moments to the irrepressible -emotions she experienced, the queen resumed the smiling air with -which she had received him. "What do you think of France?" she -said, in French.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a lovely country, -madame," replied the duke.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Had you ever seen it -before?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Once only, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, like all true -Englishmen, you prefer England?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I prefer my own native land -to France," replied the duke; "but if your majesty were to ask me -which of the two cities, London or Pairs, I should prefer as a -residence, I should be forced to answer Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria observed the -ardent manner with which these words had been pronounced. "I am -told, my lord, you have rich possessions in your own country, and -that you live in a splendid and time-honored place."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was my father's -residence," replied Buckingham, casting down his eyes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Those are indeed great -advantages and <i>souvenirs</i>," replied the queen, alluding, in -spite of herself, to recollections from which it is impossible -voluntarily to detach one's self.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In fact," said the duke, -yielding to the melancholy influence of this opening -conversation, "sensitive persons live as much in the past or the -future, as in the present."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is very true," said the -queen, in a low tone of voice. "It follows, then, my lord," she -added, "that you, who are a man of feeling, will soon quit France -in order to shut yourself up with your wealth and your relics of -the past."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham raised his head -and said, "I think not, madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, I think of -leaving England in order to take up my residence in -France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was now Anne of Austria's -turn to exhibit surprise. "Why?" she said. "Are you not in -favor with the new king?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly so, madame, for -his majesty's kindness to me is unbounded."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It cannot," said the queen, -"be because your fortune has diminished, for it is said to be -enormous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My income, madame, has never -been so large."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is some secret cause, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, madame," said -Buckingham, eagerly, "there is nothing secret in my reason for -this determination. I prefer residence in France; I like a court -so distinguished by its refinement and courtesy; I like the -amusements, somewhat serious in their nature, which are not the -amusements of my own country, and which are met with in -France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria smiled -shrewdly. "Amusements of a serious nature?" she said. "Has your -Grace well reflected on their seriousness?" The duke hesitated. -"There is no amusement so serious," continued the queen, "as to -prevent a man of your rank - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty seems to insist -greatly on that point," interrupted the duke.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you think so, my -lord?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If you will forgive me for -saying so, it is the second time you have vaunted the attractions -of England at the expense of the delight which all experience who -live in France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria approached -the young man, and placing her beautiful hand upon his shoulder, -which trembled at the touch, said, "Believe me, monsieur, nothing -can equal a residence in one's own native country. I have very -frequently had occasion to regret Spain. I have lived long, my -lord, very long for a woman, and I confess to you, that not a -year has passed I have not regretted Spain."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not one year, madame?" said -the young duke coldly. "Not one of those years when you reigned -Queen of Beauty - as you still are, indeed?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A truce to flattery, duke, -for I am old enough to be your mother." She emphasized these -latter words in a manner, and with a gentleness, which penetrated -Buckingham's heart. "Yes," she said, "I am old enough to be your -mother; and for this reason, I will give you a word of -advice."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That advice being that I -should return to London?" he exclaimed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, my lord."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke clasped his hands -with a terrified gesture, which could not fail of its effect upon -the queen, already disposed to softer feelings by the tenderness -of her own recollections. "It must be so," added the -queen.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What!" he again exclaimed, -"am I seriously told that I <i>must</i> leave, - that I must -exile myself, - that I am to flee at once?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exile yourself, did you -say? One would fancy France was your native country."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame, the country of those -who love is the country of those whom they love."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not another word, my lord; -you forget whom you are addressing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham threw himself on -his knees. "Madame, you are the source of intelligence, of -goodness, and of compassion; you are the first person in this -kingdom, not only by your rank, but the first person in the world -on account of your angelic attributes. I have said nothing, -madame. Have I, indeed, said anything you should answer with -such a cruel remark? What have I betrayed?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have betrayed yourself," -said the queen, in a low tone of voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have said nothing, - I -know nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You forget you have spoken -and thought in the presence of a woman; and besides - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides," said the duke, "no -one knows you are listening to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, it is -known; you have all the defects and all the qualities of -youth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have been betrayed or -denounced, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By whom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By those who, at Le Havre, -had, with infernal perspicacity, read my heart like an open -book."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not know whom you -mean."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Bragelonne, for -instance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know the name without -being acquainted with the person to whom it belongs. M. de -Bragelonne has said nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who can it be, then? If any -one, madame, had had the boldness to notice in me that which I do -not myself wish to behold - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What would you do, -duke?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There are secrets which kill -those who discover them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He, then, who has discovered -your secret, madman that you are, still lives; and, what is more, -you will not slay him, for he is armed on all sides, - he is a -husband, a jealous man, - he is the second gentleman in France, - -he is my son, the Duc du Orléans."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke turned pale as -death. "You are very cruel, madame," he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see, Buckingham," said -Anne of Austria, sadly, "how you pass from one extreme to -another, and fight with shadows, when it would seem so easy to -remain at peace with yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If we fight, madame, we die -on the field of battle," replied the young man, gently, -abandoning himself to the most gloomy depression.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne ran towards him and took -him by the hand. "Villiers," she said, in English, with a -vehemence of tone which nothing could resist, "what is it you -ask? Do you ask a mother to sacrifice her son, - a queen to -consent to the dishonor of her house? Child that you are, do not -dream of it. What! in order to spare your tears am I to commit -these crimes? Villiers! you speak of the dead; the dead, at -least, were full of respect and submission; they resigned -themselves to an order of exile; they carried their despair away -with them in their hearts, like a priceless possession, because -the despair was caused by the woman they loved, and because -death, thus deceptive, was like a gift of a favor conferred upon -them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham rose, his features -distorted, and his hands pressed against his heart. "You are -right, madame," he said, "but those of whom you speak had -received their order of exile from the lips of the one whom they -loved; they were not driven away; they were entreated to leave, -and were not laughed at."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," murmured Anne of -Austria, "they were not forgotten. But who says you are driven -away, or that you are exiled? Who says that your devotion will -not be remembered? I do not speak on any one's behalf but my -own, when I tell you to leave. Do me this kindness, - grant me -this favor; let me, for this also, be indebted to one of your -name."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is for your sake, then, -madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For mine alone."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No one whom I shall leave -behind me will venture to mock, - no prince even who shall say, -'I required it.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen to me, duke," and -hereupon the dignified features of the queen assumed a solemn -expression. "I swear to you that no one commands in this matter -but myself. I swear to you that, not only shall no one either -laugh or boast in any way, but no one even shall fail in the -respect due to your rank. Rely upon me, duke, as I rely upon -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not explain yourself, -madame; my heart is full of bitterness, and I am in utter -despair; no consolation, however gentle and affectionate, can -afford me relief."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you remember your mother, -duke?" replied the queen, with a winning smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very slightly, madame; yet I -remember how she used to cover me with her caresses and her tears -whenever I wept."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Villiers," murmured the -queen, passing her arm round the young man's neck, "look upon me -as your mother, and believe that no one shall ever make my son -weep."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thank you, madame," said -the young man affected and almost suffocated by his emotion; "I -feel there is still room in my heart for a gentler and nobler -sentiment than love."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The queen-mother looked at -him and pressed his hand. "Go," she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When must I leave? Command -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At any time that may suit -you, my lord," resumed the queen; "you will choose your own day -of departure. Instead, however, of setting off to-day, as you -would doubtless wish to do, or to-morrow, as others may have -expected, leave the day after to-morrow, in the evening; but -announce to-day that it is your wish to leave."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My wish?" murmured the young -duke.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, duke."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And shall I never return to -France?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria reflected for -a moment, seemingly absorbed in sad and serious thought. "It -would be a consolation for me," she said, "if you were to return -on the day when I shall be carried to my final resting-place at -Saint-Dennis beside the king, my husband."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame, you are goodness -itself; the tide of prosperity is setting in on you; your cup -brims over with happiness, and many long years are yet before -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case you will not -come for some time, then," said the queen, endeavoring to -smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall not return," said -Buckingham, "young as I am. Death does not reckon by years; it -is impartial; some die young, some reach old age."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will not harbor any -sorrowful ideas, duke. Let me comfort you; return in two years. -I perceive from your face that the very idea which saddens you so -much now, will have disappeared before six months have passed, -and will be not only dead but forgotten in the period of absence -I have assigned you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think you judged me better -a little while ago, madame," replied the young man, "when you -said that time is powerless against members of the family of -Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Silence," said the queen, -kissing the duke upon the forehead with an affection she could -not restrain. "Go, go; spare me and forget yourself no longer. -I am the queen; you are the subject of the king of England; King -Charles awaits your return. Adieu, Villiers, - -farewell."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forever!" replied the young -man, and he fled, endeavoring to master his emotions.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne leaned her head upon her -hands, and then looking at herself in the glass, murmured, "It -has been truly said, that a woman who has truly loved is always -young, and that the bloom of the girl of twenty years ever lies -concealed in some secret cloister of the heart." -<b><sup>1</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XVIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>King Louis XIV. does not think -Mademoiselle de la Vallière either rich enough or pretty -enough for a Gentleman of the Rank of the Vicomte de -Bragelonne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>R</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>aoul and the Comte de la Fère -reached Paris the evening of the same day on which Buckingham had -held the conversation with the queen-mother. The count had -scarcely arrived, when, through Raoul, he solicited an audience -of the king. His majesty had passed a portion of the morning in -looking over, with madame and the ladies of the court, various -goods of Lyons manufacture, of which he had made his -sister-in-law a present. A court dinner had succeeded, then -cards, and afterwards, according to his usual custom, the king, -leaving the card-tables at eight o'clock, passed into his cabinet -in order to work with M. Colbert and M. Fouquet. Raoul entered -the ante-chamber at the very moment the two ministers quitted it, -and the king, perceiving him through the half-closed door, said, -"What do you want, M. de Bragelonne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young man approached: "An -audience, sire," he replied, "for the Comte de la Fère, -who has just arrived from Blois, and is most anxious to have an -interview with your majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have an hour to spare -between cards and supper," said the king. "Is the Comte de la -Fère at hand?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is below, and awaits your -majesty's permission."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let him come up at once," -said the king, and five minutes afterwards Athos entered the -presence of Louis XIV. He was received by the king with that -gracious kindness of manner which Louis, with a tact beyond his -years, reserved for the purpose of gaining those who were not to -be conquered by ordinary favors. "Let me hope, comte," said the -king, "that you have come to ask me for something."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will not conceal from your -majesty," replied the comte, "that I am indeed come for that -purpose."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is well," said the -king, joyously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is not for myself, -sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the worse; but, at -least, I will do for your <i>protégé</i> what you -refuse to permit me to do for you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty encourages me. -I have come to speak on behalf of the Vicomte de -Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is the same as if you -spoke on your own behalf, comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not altogether so, sire. I -am desirous of obtaining from your majesty that which I cannot -ask for myself. The vicomte thinks of marrying."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is still very young; but -that does not matter. He is an eminently distinguished man; I -will choose a wife for him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He has already chosen one, -sire, and only awaits your consent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is only a question, then, -of signing the marriage-contract?" Athos bowed. "Has he chose a -wife whose fortune and position accord with your own -anticipation?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Athos hesitated for a -moment. "His affirmed wife is of good birth, but has no -fortune."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is a misfortune we can -remedy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You overwhelm me with -gratitude, sire; but your majesty will permit me to offer a -remark?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do so, comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty seems to -intimate an intention of giving a marriage-portion to this young -lady."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should regret, sire, if -the step I have taken towards your majesty should be attended by -this result."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No false delicacy, comte; -what is the bride's name?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de la Baume le -Blanc de la Vallière," said Athos, coldly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I seem to know that name," -said the king, as if reflecting; "there was a Marquis de la -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire, it is his -daughter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But he died, and his widow -married again M. de Saint-Rémy, I think, steward of the -dowager Madame's household."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty is correctly -informed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "More than that, the young -lady has lately become one of the princess's maids of -honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty is better -acquainted with her history than am I."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king again reflected, and -glancing at the comte's anxious countenance, said: "The young -lady does not seem to me to be very pretty, comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am not quite sure," -replied Athos.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have seen her, but she -hardly struck me as being so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She seems to be a good and -modest girl, but has little beauty, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Beautiful fair hair, -however."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And her blue eyes are -tolerably good."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With regard to her beauty, -then, the match is but an ordinary one. Now for the money side -of the question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fifteen to twenty thousand -francs dowry at the very outset, sire; the lovers are -disinterested enough; for myself, I care little for -money."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For superfluity, you mean; -but a needful amount is of importance. With fifteen thousand -francs, without landed property, a woman cannot live at court. -We will make up the deficiency; I will do it for De Bragelonne." -The king again remarked the coldness with which Athos received -the remark.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us pass from the -question of money to that of rank," said Louis XIV.; "the -daughter of the Marquis de la Vallière, that is well -enough; but there is that excellent Saint-Rémy, who -somewhat damages the credit of the family; and you, comte, are -rather particular, I believe, about your own family."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, I no longer hold to -anything but my devotion to your majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king again paused. "A -moment, comte. You have surprised me in no little degree from -the beginning of your conversation. You came to ask me to -authorize a marriage, and you seem greatly disturbed in having to -make the request. Nay, pardon me, comte, but I am rarely -deceived, young as I am; for while with some persons I place my -friendship at the disposal of my understanding, with others I -call my distrust to my aid, by which my discernment is -increased. I repeat, that you do not prefer your request as -though you wished it success."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, sire, that is -true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not understand you, -then; refuse."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, sire; I love De -Bragelonne with my whole heart; he is smitten with Mademoiselle -de la Vallière, he weaves dreams of bliss for the future; -I am not one who is willing to destroy the illusions of youth. -This marriage is objectionable to me, but I implore your majesty -to consent to it forthwith, and thus make Raoul -happy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me, comte, is she in -love with him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If your majesty requires me -to speak candidly, I do not believe in Mademoiselle de la -Vallière's affection; the delight at being at court, the -honor of being in the service of Madame, counteract in her head -whatever affection she may happen to have in her heart; it is a -marriage similar to many others which already exist at court; but -De Bragelonne wishes it, and so let it be."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet you do not resemble -those easy-tempered fathers who volunteer as stepping-stones for -their children," said the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am determined enough -against the viciously disposed, but not so against men of upright -character. Raoul is suffering; he is in great distress of mind; -his disposition, naturally light and cheerful, has become gloomy -and melancholy. I do not wish to deprive your majesty of the -services he may be able to render."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I understand you," said the -king; "and what is more, I understand your heart, too, -comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no occasion, -therefore," replied the comte, "to tell your majesty that my -object is to make these children, or rather Raoul, -happy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I, too, as much as -yourself, comte, wish to secure M. de Bragelonne's -happiness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I only await your majesty's -signature. Raoul will have the honor of presenting himself -before your majesty to receive your consent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are mistaken, comte," -said the king, firmly; "I have just said that I desire to secure -M. de Bragelonne's happiness, and from the present moment, -therefore, I oppose his marriage."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, sire," exclaimed Athos, -"your majesty has promised!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not so, comte, I did not -promise you, for it is opposed to my own views."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I appreciate your majesty's -considerate and generous intentions on my behalf; but I take the -liberty of recalling to you that I undertook to approach you as -an ambassador."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An ambassador, comte, -frequently asks, but does not always obtain what he -asks."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, sire, it will be such a -blow for De Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My hand shall deal the blow; -I will speak to the vicomte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love, sire, is overwhelming -in its might."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love can be resisted, -comte. I myself can assure you of that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When one has the soul of a -king, - your own, for instance, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not make yourself uneasy -on the subject. I have certain views for De Bragelonne. I do -not say that he shall not marry Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, but I do not wish him to marry so young; I do -not wish him to marry her until she has acquired a fortune; and -he, on his side, no less deserves favor, such as I wish to confer -upon him. In a word, comte, I wish them to wait."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet once more, -sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Comte, you told me you came -here to request a favor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Assuredly, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Grant me one, then, instead; -let us speak no longer upon this matter. It is probable that, -before long, war may be declared. I require men about me who are -unfettered. I should hesitate to send under fire a married man, -or a father of a family. I should hesitate also, on De -Bragelonne's account, to endow with a fortune, without some sound -reason for it, a young girl, a perfect stranger; such an act -would sow jealousy amongst my nobility." Athos bowed, and -remained silent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that all you wished to -ask me?" added Louis XIV.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Absolutely all, sire; and I -take my leave of your majesty. Is it, however, necessary that I -should inform Raoul?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Spare yourself the trouble -and annoyance. Tell the vicomte that at my <i>levée</i> -to-morrow morning I will speak to him. I shall expect you this -evening, comte, to join my card-table."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am in traveling-costume, -sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A day will come, I hope, -when you will leave me no more. Before long, comte, the monarchy -will be established in such a manner as to enable me to offer a -worthy hospitality to men of your merit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Provided, sire, a monarch -reigns grandly in the hearts of his subjects, the palace he -inhabits matters little, since he is worshipped in a temple." -With these words Athos left the cabinet, and found De Bragelonne, -who was awaiting him anxiously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, monsieur?" said the -young man.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king, Raoul, is well -intentioned towards us both; not, perhaps, in the sense you -suppose, but he is kind, and generously disposed to our -house."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have bad news to -communicate to me, monsieur," said the young man, turning very -pale.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king himself will inform -you to-morrow morning that it is not bad news."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king has not signed, -however?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king wishes himself to -settle the terms of the contract, and he desires to make it so -grand that he requires time for consideration. Throw the blame -rather on your own impatience, than on the king's good feelings -towards you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul, in utter -consternation, on account of his knowledge of the count's -frankness as well as his diplomacy, remained plunged in dull and -gloomy stupor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will you not go with me to -my lodgings?" said Athos.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon, monsieur; -I will follow you," he stammered out, following Athos down the -staircase.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since I am here," said -Athos, suddenly, "cannot I see M. d'Artagnan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Shall I show you his -apartments?" said De Bragelonne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They are on the opposite -staircase."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> They altered their course, -but on reaching the landing of the grand staircase, Raoul -perceived a servant in the Comte de Guiche's livery, who ran -towards him as soon as he heard his voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?" said -Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This note, monsieur. My -master heard of your return and wrote to you without delay; I -have been looking for you for the last half-hour."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul approached Athos as he -unsealed the letter, saying, "With your permission, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dear Raoul," wrote the Comte -de Guiche, "I have an affair in hand which requires immediate -attention; I know you have returned; come to me as soon as -possible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Hardly had he finished -reading it, when a servant in the livery of the Duke of -Buckingham, turning out of the gallery, recognized Raoul, and -approached him respectfully, saying, "From his Grace, -monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, Raoul, as I see you -are already as busy as a general of an army, I shall leave you, -and will find M. d'Artagnan myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will excuse me, I -trust," said Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, I excuse you; -adieu, Raoul; you will find me at my apartments until to-morrow; -during the day I may set out for Blois, unless I have orders to -the contrary."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall present my respects -to you to-morrow, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As soon as Athos had left, -Raoul opened Buckingham's letter.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"Monsieur de Bragelonne," it ran, -"You are, of all the Frenchmen I have known, the one with whom I -am most pleased; I am about to put your friendship to the proof. -I have received a certain message, written in very good French. -As I am an Englishman, I am afraid of not comprehending it very -clearly. The letter has a good name attached to it, and that is -all I can tell you. Will you be good enough to come and see me? -for I am told you have arrived from Blois.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"Your devoted</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"VILLIERS, Duke of -Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am going now to see your -master," said Raoul to De Guiche's servant, as he dismissed him; -"and I shall be with the Duke of Buckingham in an hour," he -added, dismissing with these words the duke's -messenger.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XIX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Sword-Thrusts in the -Water.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>R</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>aoul, on betaking himself to De Guiche, -found him conversing with De Wardes and Manicamp. De Wardes, -since the affair of the barricade, had treated Raoul as a -stranger; they behaved as if they were not acquainted. As Raoul -entered, De Guiche walked up to him; and Raoul, as he grasped his -friend's hand, glanced rapidly at his two companions, hoping to -be able to read on their faces what was passing in their minds. -De Wardes was cold and impenetrable; Manicamp seemed absorbed in -the contemplation of some trimming to his dress. De Guiche led -Raoul to an adjoining cabinet, and made him sit down, saying, -"How well you look!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is singular," replied -Raoul, "for I am far from being in good spirits."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is your case, then, -Raoul, as it is my own, - our love affairs do not -progress."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the better, count, -as far as <i>you</i> are concerned; the worst news would be good -news."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case do not distress -yourself, for, not only am I very unhappy, but, what is more, I -see others about me who are happy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, I do not understand -you," replied Raoul; "explain yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will soon learn. I have -tried, but in vain, to overcome the feeling you saw dawn in me, -increase, and take entire possession of me. I have summoned all -your advice and my own strength to my aid. I have well weighed -the unfortunate affair in which I have embarked; I have sounded -its depths; that it is an abyss, I am aware, but it matters -little for <i>I</i> shall pursue my own course."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is madness, De Guiche! -you cannot advance another step without risking your own ruin -to-day, perhaps your life to-morrow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whatever may happen, I have -done with reflections; listen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you hope to succeed; you -believe that Madame will love you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Raoul, I believe nothing; I -hope, because hope exists in man, and never abandons him until -death."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, admitting that you -obtain the happiness you covet, even then, you are more certainly -lost than if you had failed in obtaining it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beseech you, Raoul, not to -interrupt me any more; you could never convince me, for I tell -you beforehand, I do not wish to be convinced; I have gone so far -I cannot recede; I have suffered so much, death itself would be a -boon. I no longer love to madness, Raoul, I am being engulfed by -a whirlpool of jealousy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul struck his hands -together with an expression resembling anger. "Well?" said -he.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well or ill matters little. -This is what I claim from you, my friend, my almost brother. -During the last three days Madame has been living in a perfect -intoxication of gayety. On the first day, I dared not look at -her; I hated her for not being as unhappy as myself. The next -day I could not bear her out of my sight; and she, Raoul - at -least I thought I remarked it - she looked at me, if not with -pity, at least with gentleness. But between her looks and mine, -a shadow intervened; another's smile invited hers. Beside her -horse another's always gallops, which is not mine; in her ear -another's caressing voice, not mine, unceasingly vibrates. -Raoul, for three days past my brain has been on fire; flame, not -blood, courses through my veins. That shadow must be driven -away, that smile must be quenched; that voice must be -silenced."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You wish Monsieur's death," -exclaimed Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, I am not jealous of -the husband; I am jealous of the lover."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of the <i>lover?</i>" said -Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you not observed it, -you who were formerly so keen-sighted?"<br> - "Are you jealous of the Duke of -Buckingham?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To the very -death."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Again jealous?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This time the affair will be -easy to arrange between us; I have taken the initiative, and have -sent him a letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was you, then, who wrote -to him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you know -that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know it, because he told -me so. Look at this;" and he handed De Guiche the letter he had -received nearly at the same moment as his own. De Guiche read it -eagerly, and said, "He is a brave man, and more than that, a -gallant man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly the duke is a -gallant man; I need not ask if you wrote to him in a similar -style."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will show you my letter -when you call on him on my behalf."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But that is almost out of -the question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That I shall call on him for -that purpose."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The duke consults me as you -do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I suppose you will give -<i>me</i> the preference! Listen to me, Raoul, I wish you to -tell his Grace - it is a very simple matter - that to-day, -to-morrow, the following day, or any other day he may choose, I -will meet him at Vincennes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Reflect, De -Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought I told you I have -reflected."<br> - "The duke is a stranger here; he is on a mission -which renders his person inviolable.... Vincennes is close to -the Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The consequences concern -<i>me</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But the motive for this -meeting? What motive do you wish me to assign?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be perfectly easy on that -score, he will not ask any. The duke must be as sick of me as I -am of him. I implore you, therefore, seek the duke, and if it is -necessary to entreat him, to accept my offer, I will do -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is useless. The duke -has already informed me that he wishes to speak to me. The duke -is now playing cards with the king. Let us both go there. I -will draw him aside in the gallery; you will remain aloof. Two -words will be sufficient."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is well arranged. I -will take De Wardes to keep me in countenance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not Manicamp? De Wardes -can join us at any time; we can leave him here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, that is -true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He knows -nothing?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Positively nothing. You -continue still on an unfriendly footing, then?"<br> - "Has he not told you anything?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not like the man, and, -as I <i>never</i> liked him, the result is, that I am on no worse -terms with him to-day than I was yesterday."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us go, then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The four descended the -stairs. De Guiche's carriage was waiting at the door, and took -them to the Palais Royal. As they were going along, Raoul was -engaged in devising his scheme of action. The sole depositary of -two secrets, he did not despair of concluding some arrangement -between the two parties. He knew the influence he exercised over -Buckingham, and the ascendency he had acquired over De Guiche, -and affairs did not look utterly hopeless. On their arrival in -the gallery, dazzling with the blaze of light, where the most -beautiful and illustrious women of the court moved to and fro, -like stars in their own atmosphere, Raoul could not prevent -himself for a moment forgetting De Guiche in order to seek out -Louise, who, amidst her companions, like a dove completely -fascinated, gazed long and fixedly upon the royal circle, which -glittered with jewels and gold. All its members were standing, -the king alone being seated. Raoul perceived Buckingham, who was -standing a few paces from Monsieur, in a group of French and -English, who were admiring his aristocratic carriage and the -incomparable magnificence of his costume. Some of the older -courtiers remembered having seen his father, but their -recollections were not prejudicial to the son.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham was conversing -with Fouquet, who was talking with him aloud about Belle-Isle. -"I cannot speak to him at present," said Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wait, then, and choose your -opportunity, but finish everything speedily. I am on -thorns."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "See, our deliverer -approaches," said Raoul, perceiving D'Artagnan, who, -magnificently dressed in his new uniform of captain of the -musketeers, had just made his entry in the gallery; and he -advanced towards D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Comte de la Fère -has been looking for you, chevalier," said Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," replied D'Artagnan, "I -have just left him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought you would have -passed a portion of the evening together."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We have arranged to meet -again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As he answered Raoul, his -absent looks were directed on all sides, as if seeking some one -in the crowd or looking for something in the room. Suddenly his -gaze became fixed, like that of an eagle on its prey. Raoul -followed the direction of his glance, and noticed that De Guiche -and D'Artagnan saluted each other, but he could not distinguish -at whom the captain's lingering and haughty glance was -aimed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Chevalier," said Raoul, -"there is no one here but yourself who can render me a -service."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it, my dear -vicomte?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is simply to go and -interrupt the Duke of Buckingham, to whom I wish to say two -words, and, as the duke is conversing with M. Fouquet, you -understand that it would not do for <i>me</i> to throw myself -into the middle of the conversation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, ah, is M. Fouquet -there?" inquired D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not see -him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, now I do. But do you -think I have a greater right than you have?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a more important -personage."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you're right; I am -captain of the musketeers; I have had the post promised me so -long, and have enjoyed it for so brief a period, that I am always -forgetting my dignity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will do me this service, -will you not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Fouquet - the -deuce!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you not on good terms -with him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is rather he who may not -be on good terms with me; however, since it must be done some day -or another - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay; I think he is looking -at you; or is it likely that it might be - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no; don't deceive -yourself, it is indeed me for whom this honor is -intended."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The opportunity is a good -one, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you think so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray go."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche had not removed his -eyes from Raoul, who made a sign to him that all was arranged. -D'Artagnan walked straight up to the group, and civilly saluted -M. Fouquet as well as the others.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good evening, M. d'Artagnan; -we were speaking of Belle-Isle," said Fouquet, with that usage of -society, and that perfect knowledge of the language of looks, -which require half a lifetime thoroughly to acquire, and which -some persons, notwithstanding all their study, never -attain.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of Belle-Île-en-Mer! -Ah!" said D'Artagnan. "It belongs to you, I believe, M. -Fouquet?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Fouquet has just told us -that he had presented it to the king," said -Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know Belle-Isle, -chevalier?" inquired Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have only been there -once," replied D'Artagnan, with readiness and -good-humor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you remain there -long?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Scarcely a day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you see much of it while -you were there?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All that could be seen in a -day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A great deal can be seen -with observation as keen as yours," said Fouquet; at which -D'Artagnan bowed.<br> - During this Raoul made a sign to Buckingham. "M. -Fouquet," said Buckingham, "I leave the captain with you, he is -more learned than I am in bastions, scarps, and counter-scarps, -and I will join one of my friends, who has just beckoned me." -Saying this, Buckingham disengaged himself from the group, and -advanced towards Raoul, stopping for a moment at the table where -the queen-mother, the young queen, and the king were playing -together.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, Raoul," said De Guiche, -"there he is; be firm and quick."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham, having made some -complimentary remark to Madame, continued his way towards Raoul, -who advanced to meet him, while De Guiche remained in his place, -though he followed him with his eyes. The maneuver was so -arranged that the young men met in an open space which was left -vacant, between the groups of players and the gallery, where they -walked, stopping now and then for the purpose of saying a few -words to some of the graver courtiers who were walking there. At -the moment when the two lines were about to unite, they were -broken by a third. It was Monsieur who advanced towards the Duke -of Buckingham. Monsieur had his most engaging smile on his red -and perfumed lips.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear duke," said he, with -the most affectionate politeness; "is it really true what I have -just been told?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham turned round; he -had not noticed Monsieur approach; but had merely heard his -voice. He started in spite of his command over himself, and a -slight pallor overspread his face. "Monseigneur," he asked, -"what has been told you that surprises you so much?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That which throws me into -despair, and will, in truth, be a real cause of mourning for the -whole court."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness is very kind, -for I perceive that you allude to my departure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Guiche had overheard the -conversation from where he was standing, and started in his -turn. "His departure," he murmured. "What does he -say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Philip continued with the -same gracious air, "I can easily conceive, monsieur, why the king -of Great Britain recalls you; we all know that King Charles II., -who appreciates true gentlemen, cannot dispense with you. But it -cannot be supposed we can let you go without great regret; and I -beg you to receive the expression of my own."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Believe me, monseigneur," -said the duke, "that if I quit the court of France - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because you are recalled; -but, if you suppose the expression of my own wish on the subject -might possibly have any influence with the king, I will gladly -volunteer to entreat his majesty Charles II. to leave you with us -a little while longer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am overwhelmed, -monseigneur, by so much kindness," replied Buckingham; "but I -have received positive commands. My residence in France was -limited; I have prolonged it at the risk of displeasing my -gracious sovereign. It is only this very day that I recollected -I ought to have set off four days ago."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed," said -Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but," added Buckingham, -raising his voice in such a manner that the princess could hear -him, - "but I resemble that dweller in the East, who turned mad, -and remained so for several days, owing to a delightful dream -that he had had, but who one day awoke, if not completely cured, -in some respects rational at least. The court of France has its -intoxicating properties, which are not unlike this dream, my -lord; but at last I wake and leave it. I shall be unable, -therefore, to prolong my residence, as your highness has so -kindly invited me to do."<br> - "When do you leave?" inquired Philip, with an -expression full of interest.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To-morrow, monseigneur. My -carriages have been ready for three days."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Duc d'Orléans made -a movement of the head, which seemed to signify, "Since you are -determined, duke, there is nothing to be said." Buckingham -returned the gesture, concealing under a smile a contraction of -his heart; and then Monsieur moved away in the same direction by -which he had approached. At the same moment, however, De Guiche -advanced from the opposite direction. Raoul feared that the -impatient young man might possibly make the proposition himself, -and hurried forth before him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, Raoul, all is -useless now," said Guiche, holding both his hands towards the -duke, and leading him behind a column. "Forgive me, duke, for -what I wrote to you, I was mad; give me back my -letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is true," said the duke, -"you cannot owe me a grudge any longer now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me, duke; my -friendship, my lasting friendship is yours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is certainly no reason -why you should bear me any ill-will from the moment I leave her -never to see her again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul heard these words, and -comprehending that his presence was now useless between the young -men, who had now only friendly words to exchange, withdrew a few -paces; a movement which brought him closer to De Wardes, who was -conversing with the Chevalier de Lorraine respecting the -departure of Buckingham. "A strategic retreat," said De -Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because the dear duke saves -a sword-thrust by it." At which reply both laughed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul, indignant, turned -round frowningly, flushed with anger and his lip curling with -disdain. The Chevalier de Lorraine turned on his heel, but De -Wardes remained and waited.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will not break yourself -of the habit," said Raoul to De Wardes, "of insulting the absent; -yesterday it was M. d'Artagnan, to-day it is the Duke of -Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know very well, -monsieur," returned De Wardes, "that I sometimes insult those who -are present."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes was close to Raoul, -their shoulders met, their faces approached, as if to mutually -inflame each other by the fire of their looks and of their -anger. It could be seen that the one was at the height of fury, -the other at the end of his patience. Suddenly a voice was heard -behind them full of grace and courtesy, saying, "I believe I -heard my name pronounced."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> They turned round and saw -D'Artagnan, who, with a smiling eye and a cheerful face, had just -placed his hand on De Wardes's shoulder. Raoul stepped back to -make room for the musketeer. De Wardes trembled from head to -foot, turned pale, but did not move. D'Artagnan, still with the -same smile, took the place which Raoul had abandoned to -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you, my dear Raoul," -he said. "M. de Wardes, I wish to talk with you. Do not leave -us, Raoul; every one can hear what I have to say to M. de -Wardes." His smile immediately faded away, and his glace became -cold and sharp as a sword.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am at your orders, -monsieur," said De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For a very long time," -resumed D'Artagnan, "I have sought an opportunity of conversing -with you; to-day is the first time I have found it. The place is -badly chosen, I admit, but you will perhaps have the goodness to -accompany me to my apartments, which are on the staircase at the -end of this gallery."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I follow you, monsieur," -said De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you alone here?" said -D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; I have M. Manicamp and -M. de Guiche, two of my friends."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That's well," said -D'Artagnan; "but two persons are not sufficient; you will be able -to find a few others, I trust."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly," said the young -man, who did not know what object D'Artagnan had in view. "As -many as you please."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are they -friends?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Real friends?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, get a good -supply, then. Do you come, too, Raoul; bring M. de Guiche and -the Duke of Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What a disturbance," replied -De Wardes, attempting to smile. The captain slightly signed to -him with his hand, as though to recommend him to be patient, and -then led the way to his apartments. -<b><sup>2</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Sword-Thrusts in the Water -(concluded).</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>D</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>'Artagnan's apartment was not -unoccupied; for the Comte de la Fère, seated in the recess -of a window, awaited him. "Well," said he to D'Artagnan, as he -saw him enter.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said the latter, "M. -de Wardes has done me the honor to pay me a visit, in company -with some of his own friends, as well as of ours." In fact, -behind the musketeer appeared De Wardes and Manicamp, followed by -De Guiche and Buckingham, who looked surprised, not knowing what -was expected of them. Raoul was accompanied by two or three -gentlemen; and, as he entered, glanced round the room, and -perceiving the count, he went and placed himself by his side. -D'Artagnan received his visitors with all the courtesy he was -capable of; he preserved his unmoved and unconcerned look. All -the persons present were men of distinction, occupying posts of -honor and credit at the court. After he had apologized to each -of them for any inconvenience he might have put them to, he -turned towards De Wardes, who, in spite of his customary -self-command, could not prevent his face betraying some surprise -mingled with not a little uneasiness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, monsieur," said -D'Artagnan, "since we are no longer within the precincts of the -king's palace, and since we can speak out without failing in -respect to propriety, I will inform you why I have taken the -liberty to request you to visit me here, and why I have invited -these gentlemen to be present at the same time. My friend, the -Comte de la Fère, has acquainted me with the injurious -reports you are spreading about myself. You have stated that you -regard me as your mortal enemy, because I was, so you affirm, -that of your father."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly true, monsieur, I -have said so," replied De Wardes, whose pallid face became -slightly tinged with color.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You accuse me, therefore, of -a crime, or a fault, or of some mean and cowardly act. Have the -goodness to state your charge against me in precise -terms."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the presence of -witnesses?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly in the -presence of witnesses; and you see I have selected them as being -experienced in affairs of honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not appreciate my -delicacy, monsieur. I have accused you, it is true; but I have -kept the nature of the accusation a perfect secret. I entered -into no details; but have rested satisfied by expressing my -hatred in the presence of those on whom a duty was almost imposed -to acquaint you with it. You have not taken the discreetness I -have shown into consideration, although you were interested in -remaining silent. I can hardly recognize your habitual prudence -in that, M. d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> D'Artagnan, who was quietly -biting the corner of his moustache, said, "I have already had the -honor to beg you to state the particulars of the grievances you -say you have against me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Aloud?"<br> - "Certainly, aloud."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, I will -speak."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Speak, monsieur," said -D'Artagnan, bowing; "we are all listening to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, monsieur, it is not a -question of a personal injury towards myself, but one towards my -father."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you have already -stated."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but there are certain -subjects which are only approached with hesitation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If that hesitation, in your -case, really does exist, I entreat you to overcome -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Even if it refer to a -disgraceful action?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; in every and any -case."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Those who were present at -this scene had, at first, looked at each other with a good deal -of uneasiness. They were reassured, however, when they saw that -D'Artagnan manifested no emotion whatever.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes still maintained -the same unbroken silence. "Speak, monsieur," said the -musketeer; "you see you are keeping us waiting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen, then: - My father -loved a lady of noble birth, and this lady loved my father." -D'Artagnan and Athos exchanged looks. De Wardes continued: "M. -d'Artagnan found some letters which indicated a rendezvous, -substituted himself, under disguise, for the person who was -expected, and took advantage of the darkness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is perfectly true," -said D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A slight murmur was heard -from those present. "Yes, I was guilty of that dishonorable -action. You should have added, monsieur, since you are so -impartial, that, at the period when the circumstance which you -have just related happened, I was not one-and-twenty years of -age."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A renewed murmur was heard, -but this time of astonishment, and almost of doubt.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was a most shameful -deception, I admit," said D'Artagnan, "and I have not waited for -M. de Wardes's reproaches to reproach myself for it, and very -bitterly, too. Age has, however, made me more reasonable, and, -above all, more upright; and this injury has been atoned for by a -long and lasting regret. But I appeal to you, gentlemen; this -affair took place in 1626, at a period, happily for yourselves, -known to you by tradition only, at a period when love was not -over-scrupulous, when consciences did not distill, as in the -present day, poison and bitterness. We were young soldiers, -always fighting, or being attacked, our swords always in our -hands, or at least ready to be drawn from their sheaths. Death -then always stared us in the face, war hardened us, and the -cardinal pressed us sorely. I have repented of it, and more than -that - I still repent it, M. de Wardes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I can well understand that, -monsieur, for the action itself needed repentance; but you were -not the less the cause of that lady's disgrace. She, of whom you -have been speaking, covered with shame, borne down by the affront -you brought upon her, fled, quitted France, and no one ever knew -what became of her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay," said the Comte de la -Fère, stretching his hand towards De Wardes, with a -peculiar smile upon his face, "you are mistaken; she was seen; -and there are persons even now present, who, having often heard -her spoken of, will easily recognize her by the description I am -about to give. She was about five-and-twenty years of age, -slender in form, of a pale complexion, and fair-haired; she was -married in England."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Married?" exclaimed De -Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So, you were not aware she -was married? You see we are far better informed than yourself. -Do you happen to know she was usually styled 'My Lady,' without -the addition of any name to that description?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I know -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good Heavens!" murmured -Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, monsieur. That -woman, who came from England, returned to England after having -thrice attempted M. d'Artagnan's life. That was but just, you -will say, since M. d'Artagnan had insulted her. But that which -was not just was, that, when in England, this woman, by her -seductions, completely enslaved a young man in the service of -Lord de Winter, by name Felton. You change color, my lord," said -Athos, turning to the Duke of Buckingham, "and your eyes kindle -with anger and sorrow. Let your Grace finish the recital, then, -and tell M. de Wardes who this woman was who placed the knife in -the hand of your father's murderer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A cry escaped from the lips -of all present. The young duke passed his handkerchief across -his forehead, which was covered with perspiration. A dead -silence ensued among the spectators.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see, M. de Wardes," said -D'Artagnan, whom this recital had impressed more and more, as his -own recollection revived as Athos spoke, "you see that my crime -did not cause the destruction of any one's soul, and that the -soul in question may fairly be considered to have been altogether -lost before my regret. It is, however, an act of conscience on -my part. Now this matter is settled, therefore, it remains for -me to ask, with the greatest humility, your forgiveness for this -shameless action, as most certainly I should have asked it of -your father, if he were still alive, and if I had met him after -my return to France, subsequent to the death of King Charles -I."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is too much, M. -d'Artagnan," exclaimed many voices, with animation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, gentlemen," said the -captain. "And now, M. de Wardes, I hope all is finished between -us, and that you will have no further occasion to speak ill of me -again. Do you consider it completely settled?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes bowed, and muttered -to himself inarticulately.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I trust also," said -D'Artagnan, approaching the young man closely, "that you will no -longer speak ill of any one, as it seems you have the unfortunate -habit of doing; for a man so puritanically conscientious as you -are, who can reproach an old soldier for a youthful freak -five-and-thirty years after it happened, will allow me to ask -whether you, who advocate such excessive purity of conscience, -will undertake on your side to do nothing contrary either to -conscience or the principle of honor. And now, listen -attentively to what I am going to say, M. de Wardes, in -conclusion. Take care that no tale, with which your name may be -associated, reaches my ear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," said De Wardes, -"it is useless threatening to no purpose."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have not yet finished, M. -de Wardes, and you must listen to me still further." The circle -of listeners, full of eager curiosity, drew closer. "You spoke -just now of the honor of a woman, and of the honor of your -father. We were glad to hear you speak in that manner; for it is -pleasing to think that such a sentiment of delicacy and -rectitude, and which did not exist, it seems, in <i>our</i> -minds, lives in our children; and it is delightful, too, to see a -young man, at an age when men from habit become the destroyers of -the honor of women, respect and defend it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes bit his lip and -clenched his hands, evidently much disturbed to learn how this -discourse, the commencement of which was announced in so -threatening a manner, would terminate.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How did it happen, then, -that you allowed yourself to say to M. de Bragelonne that he did -not know who his mother was?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul's eyes flashed, as, -darting forward, he exclaimed, - "Chevalier, this is a personal -affair of my own!" At which exclamation, a smile, full of -malice, passed across De Wardes's face.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> D'Artagnan put Raoul aside, -saying, - "Do not interrupt me, young man." And looking at De -Wardes in an authoritative manner, he continued: - "I am now -dealing with a matter which cannot be settled by means of the -sword. I discuss it before men of honor, all of whom have more -than once had their swords in their hands in affairs of honor. I -selected them expressly. These gentlemen well know that every -secret for which men fight ceases to be a secret. I again put my -question to M. de Wardes. What was the subject of conversation -when you offended this young man, in offending his father and -mother at the same time?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It seems to me," returned De -Wardes, "that liberty of speech is allowed, when it is supported -by every means which a man of courage has at his -disposal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me what the means are -by which a man of courage can sustain a slanderous -expression."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The sword."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You fail, not only in logic, -in your argument, but in religion and honor. You expose the -lives of many others, without referring to your own, which seems -to be full of hazard. Besides, fashions pass away, monsieur, and -the fashion of duelling has passed away, without referring in any -way to the edicts of his majesty which forbid it. Therefore, in -order to be consistent with your own chivalrous notions, you will -at once apologize to M. de Bragelonne; you will tell him how much -you regret having spoken so lightly, and that the nobility and -purity of his race are inscribed, not in his heart alone, but -still more in every action of his life. You will do and say -this, M. de Wardes, as I, an old officer, did and said just now -to your boy's moustache."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And if I refuse?" inquired -De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case the result will -be - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That which you think you -will prevent," said De Wardes, laughing; "the result will be that -your conciliatory address will end in a violation of the king's -prohibition."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not so," said the captain, -"you are quite mistaken."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What will be the result, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The result will be that I -shall go to the king, with whom I am on tolerably good terms, to -whom I have been happy enough to render certain services, dating -from a period when you were not born, and who, at my request, has -just sent me an order in blank for M. Baisemeaux de Montlezun, -governor of the Bastile; and I shall say to the king: 'Sire, a -man has in a most cowardly way insulted M. de Bragelonne by -insulting his mother; I have written this man's name upon the -<i>lettre de cachet</i> which your majesty has been kind enough -to give me, so that M. de Wardes is in the Bastile for three -years." And D'Artagnan, drawing the order signed by the king -from his pocket, held it towards De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Remarking that the young man -was not quite convinced, and received the warning as an idle -threat, he shrugged his shoulders and walked leisurely towards -the table, upon which lay a writing-case and a pen, the length of -which would have terrified the topographical Porthos. De Wardes -then saw that nothing could well be more seriously intended than -the threat in question, for the Bastile, even at that period, was -already held in dread. He advanced a step towards Raoul, and, in -an almost unintelligible voice, said, - "I offer my apologies in -the terms which M. d'Artagnan just now dictated, and which I am -forced to make to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One moment, monsieur," said -the musketeer, with the greatest tranquillity, "you mistake the -terms of the apology. I did not say, 'and which I am forced to -make'; I said, 'and which my conscience induces me to make.' -This latter expression, believe me, is better than the former; -and it will be far preferable, since it will be the most truthful -expression of your own sentiments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I subscribe to it," said De -Wardes; "but submit, gentlemen, that a thrust of the sword -through the body, as was the custom formerly, was far better than -tyranny like this."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monsieur," replied -Buckingham; "for the sword-thrust, when received, was no -indication that a particular person was right or wrong; it only -showed that he was more or less skillful in the use of the -weapon."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur!" exclaimed De -Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There, now," interrupted -D'Artagnan, "you are going to say something very rude, and I am -rendering a service by stopping you in time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that all, monsieur?" -inquired De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Absolutely everything," -replied D'Artagnan; "and these gentlemen, as well as myself, are -quite satisfied with you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Believe me, monsieur, that -your reconciliations are not successful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because, as we are now about -to separate, I would wager that M. de Bragelonne and myself are -greater enemies than ever."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are deceived, monsieur, -as far as I am concerned," returned Raoul; "for I do not retain -the slightest animosity in my heart against you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> This last blow overwhelmed De -Wardes. He cast his eyes around him like a man bewildered. -D'Artagnan saluted most courteously the gentlemen who had been -present at the explanation; and every one, on leaving the room, -shook hands with him; but not one hand was held out towards De -Wardes. "Oh!" exclaimed the young man, "can I not find some one -on whom to wreak my vengeance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You can, monsieur, for I am -here," whispered a voice full of menace in his ear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes turned round, and -saw the Duke of Buckingham, who, having probably remained behind -with that intention, had just approached him. "You, monsieur?" -exclaimed De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I! I am no subject of -the king of France; I am not going to remain on the territory, -since I am about setting off for England. I have accumulated in -my heart such a mass of despair and rage, that I, too, like -yourself, need to revenge myself upon some one. I approve M. -d'Artagnan's principles profoundly, but I am not bound to apply -them to you. I am an Englishman, and, in my turn, I propose to -you what you proposed to others to no purpose. Since you, -therefore, are so terribly incensed, take me as a remedy. In -thirty-four hours' time I shall be at Calais. Come with me; the -journey will appear shorter if together, than if alone. We will -fight, when we get there, upon the sands which are covered by the -rising tide, and which form part of the French territory during -six hours of the day, but belong to the territory of Heaven -during the other six."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I accept willingly," said De -Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I assure you," said the -duke, "that if you kill me, you will be rendering me an infinite -service."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will do my utmost to make -myself agreeable to you, duke," said De Wardes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is agreed, then, that I -carry you off with me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall be at your -commands. I needed some real danger and some mortal risk to run, -to tranquilize me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, I think you -have met with what you are looking for. Farewell, M. de Wardes; -to-morrow morning, my valet will tell you the exact hour of our -departure; we can travel together like two excellent friends. I -generally travel as fast as I can. Adieu."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham saluted De Wardes, -and returned towards the king's apartments; De Wardes, irritated -beyond measure, left the Palais Royal, and hurried through the -streets homeward to the house where he lodged.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Baisemeaux de -Montlezun.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>fter the austere lesson administered to -De Wardes, Athos and D'Artagnan together descended the staircase -which led to the courtyard of the Palais Royal. "You perceive," -said Athos to D'Artagnan, "that Raoul cannot, sooner or later, -avoid a duel with De Wardes, for De Wardes is as brave as he is -vicious and wicked."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know such fellows well," -replied D'Artagnan; "I had an affair with the father. I assure -you that, although at that time I had good muscles and a sort of -brute courage - I assure you that the father did me some -mischief. But you should have seen how I fought it out with -him. Ah, Athos, such encounters never take place in these -times! I had a hand which could never remain at rest, a hand -like quicksilver, - you knew its quality, for you have seen me at -work. My sword was no longer than a piece of steel; it was a -serpent that assumed every form and every length, seeking where -it might thrust its head; in other words, where it might fix its -bite. I advanced half a dozen paces, then three, and then, body -to body, I pressed my antagonist closely, then I darted back -again ten paces. No human power could resist that ferocious -ardor. Well, De Wardes the father, with the bravery of his race, -with his dogged courage, occupied a good deal of my time; and my -fingers, at the end of the engagement, were, I well remember, -tired enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is, then, as I said," -resumed Athos, "the son will always be looking out for Raoul, and -will end by meeting him; and Raoul can easily be found when he is -sought for."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Agreed; but Raoul calculates -well; he bears no grudge against De Wardes, - he has said so; he -will wait until he is provoked, and in that case his position is -a good one. The king will not be able to get out of temper about -the matter; besides we shall know how to pacify his majesty. But -why so full of these fears and anxieties? You don't easily get -alarmed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will tell you what makes -me anxious; Raoul is to see the king to-morrow, when his majesty -will inform him of his wishes respecting a certain marriage. -Raoul, loving as he does, will get out of temper, and once in an -angry mood, if he were to meet De Wardes, the shell would -explode."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We will prevent the -explosion."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not I," said Athos, "for I -must return to Blois. All this gilded elegance of the court, all -these intrigues, sicken me. I am no longer a young man who can -make terms with the meanness of the day. I have read in the -Great Book many things too beautiful and too comprehensive to -longer take any interest in the trifling phrases which these men -whisper among themselves when they wish to deceive others. In -one word, I am weary of Paris wherever and whenever you are not -with me; and as I cannot have you with me always, I wish to -return to Blois."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How wrong you are, Athos; -how you gainsay your origin and the destiny of your noble -nature. Men of your stamp are created to continue, to the very -last moment, in full possession of their great faculties. Look -at my sword, a Spanish blade, the one I wore at La Rochelle; it -served me for thirty years without fail; one day in the winter it -fell upon the marble floor on the Louvre and was broken. I had a -hunting-knife made of it which will last a hundred years yet. -You, Athos, with your loyalty, your frankness, your cool courage, -and your sound information, are the very man kings need to warn -and direct them. Remain here; Monsieur Fouquet will not last as -long as my Spanish blade."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it possible," said Athos, -smiling, "that my friend, D'Artagnan, who, after having raised me -to the skies, making me an object of worship, casts me down from -the top of Olympus, and hurls me to the ground? I have more -exalted ambition, D'Artagnan. To be a minister - to be a slave, -- never! Am I not still greater? I am nothing. I remember -having heard you occasionally call me 'the great Athos'; I defy -you, therefore, if I were minister, to continue to bestow that -title upon me. No, no; I do not yield myself in this -manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We will not speak of it any -more, then; renounce everything, even the brotherly feeling which -unites us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is almost cruel what you -say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> D'Artagnan pressed Athos's -hand warmly. "No, no; renounce everything without fear. Raoul -can get on without you. I am at Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case I shall return -to Blois. We will take leave of each other to-night; to-morrow -at daybreak I shall be on my horse again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You cannot return to your -hotel alone; why did you not bring Grimaud with you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Grimaud takes his rest now; -he goes to bed early, for my poor old servant gets easily -fatigued. He came from Blois with me, and I compelled him to -remain within doors; for if, in retracing the forty leagues which -separate us from Blois, he needed to draw breath even, he would -die without a murmur. But I don't want to lose -Grimaud."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall have one of my -musketeers to carry a torch for you. <i>Holà!</i> some -one there," called out D'Artagnan, leaning over the gilded -balustrade. The heads of seven or eight musketeers appeared. "I -wish some gentleman, who is so disposed, to escort the Comte de -la Fère," cried D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you for your -readiness, gentlemen," said Athos; "I regret to have occasion to -trouble you in this manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I would willingly escort the -Comte de la Fère," said some one, "if I had not to speak -to Monsieur d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who is that?" said -D'Artagnan, looking into the darkness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, Monsieur -d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Heaven forgive me, if that -is not Monsieur Baisemeaux's voice."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What are you doing in the -courtyard, my dear Baisemeaux?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am waiting your orders, my -dear Monsieur d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wretch that I am," thought -D'Artagnan; "true, you have been told, I suppose, that some one -was to be arrested, and have come yourself, instead of sending an -officer?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I came because I had -occasion to speak to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You did not send to -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I waited until you were -disengaged," said Monsieur Baisemeaux, timidly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I leave you, D'Artagnan," -said Athos.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not before I have present -Monsieur Baisemeaux de Montlezun, the governor of the -Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Baisemeaux and Athos saluted -each other.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Surely you must know each -other," said D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have an indistinct -recollection of Monsieur Baisemeaux," said Athos.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You remember, my dear, -Baisemeaux, the king's guardsman with whom we used formerly to -have such delightful meetings in the cardinal's time?"<br> - "Perfectly," said Athos, taking leave of him with -affability.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur le Comte de la -Fère, whose <i>nom de guerre</i> was Athos," whispered -D'Artagnan to Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, a brave man, one -of the celebrated four."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely so. But, my dear -Baisemeaux, shall we talk now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If you please."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the first place, as for -the orders - there are none. The king does not intend to arrest -the person in question.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the worse," said -Baisemeaux with a sigh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by so much -the worse?" exclaimed D'Artagnan, laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt of it," returned -the governor, "my prisoners are my income."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon, I did not -see it in that light."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And so there are no orders," -repeated Baisemeaux with a sigh. "What an admirable situation -yours is, captain," he continued, after a pause; -"captain-lieutenant of the musketeers."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, it is good enough; but I -don't see why you should envy me; you, governor of the Bastile, -the first castle in France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am well aware of that," -said Baisemeaux, in a sorrowful tone of voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You say that like a man -confessing his sins. I would willingly exchange my profits for -yours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Don't speak of profits to -me, if you wish to save me the bitterest anguish of -mind."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why do you look first on one -side and then on the other, as if you were afraid of being -arrested yourself, you whose business it is to arrest -others?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was looking to see whether -any one could see or listen to us; it would be safer to confer -more in private, if you would grant me such a favor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Baisemeaux, you seem to -forget we are acquaintances of five and thirty years' standing. -Don't assume such sanctified airs; make yourself quite -comfortable; I don't eat governors of the Bastile -raw."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Heaven be -praised!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come into the courtyard with -me; it's a beautiful moonlit night; we will walk up and down, arm -in arm, under the trees, while you tell me your pitiful tale." -He drew the doleful governor into the courtyard, took him by the -arm as he had said, and, in his rough, good-humored way, cried: -"Out with it, rattle away, Baisemeaux; what have you got to -say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It's a long -story."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You prefer your own -lamentations, then; my opinion is, it will be longer than ever. -I'll wager you are making fifty thousand francs out of your -pigeons in the Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Would to heaven that were -the case, M. d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You surprise me, Baisemeaux; -just look at you, acting the anchorite. I should like to show -you your face in a glass, and you would see how plump and -florid-looking you are, as fat and round as a cheese, with eyes -like lighted coals; and if it were not for that ugly wrinkle you -try to cultivate on your forehead, you would hardly look fifty -years old, and you are sixty, if I am not mistaken."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All quite true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course I knew it was -true, as true as the fifty thousand francs profit you make;" at -which remark Baisemeaux stamped on the ground.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, well," said -D'Artagnan, "I will add up your accounts for you: you were -captain of M. Mazarin's guards; and twelve thousand francs a year -would in twelve years amount to one hundred and forty thousand -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Twelve thousand francs! Are -you mad?" cried Baisemeaux; "the old miser gave me no more than -six thousand, and the expenses of the post amounted to six -thousand five hundred francs. M. Colbert, who deducted the other -six thousand francs, condescended to allow me to take fifty -thousand francs as a gratification; so that, if it were not for -my little estate at Montlezun, which brings me in twelve thousand -francs a year, I could not have met my engagements."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, how about the -fifty thousand francs from the Bastile? There, I trust, you are -boarded and lodged, and get your six thousand francs salary -besides."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Admitted!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whether the year be good or -bad, there are fifty prisoners, who, on the average, bring you in -a thousand francs a year each."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I don't deny it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, there is at once an -income of fifty thousand francs; you have held the post three -years, and must have received in that time one hundred and fifty -thousand francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You forget one circumstance, -dear M. d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That while you received your -appointment as captain from the king himself, I received mine as -governor from Messieurs Tremblay and Louvière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite right, and Tremblay -was not a man to let you have the post for nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nor Louvière either: -the result was, that I gave seventy-five thousand francs to -Tremblay as his share."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very agreeable that! and to -Louvière?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The very same."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Money down?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No: that would have been -impossible. The king did not wish, or rather M. Mazarin did not -wish, to have the appearance of removing those two gentlemen, who -had sprung from the barricades; he permitted them, therefore, to -make certain extravagant conditions for their -retirement."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What were those -conditions?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tremble... three years' -income for the good-will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The deuce! so that the one -hundred and fifty thousand francs have passed into their -hands."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And beyond that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A sum of one hundred and -fifty thousand francs, or fifteen thousand pistoles, whichever -you please, in three payments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exorbitant."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but that is not -all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What besides?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In default of the -fulfillment by me of any one of those conditions, those gentlemen -enter upon their functions again. The king has been induced to -sign that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is monstrous, -incredible!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Such is the fact, -however."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do indeed pity you, -Baisemeaux. But why, in the name of fortune, did M. Mazarin -grant you this pretended favor? It would have been far better to -have refused you altogether."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, but he was -strongly persuaded to do so by my protector."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who is he?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One of your own friends, -indeed; M. d'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. d'Herblay! -Aramis!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Just so; he has been very -kind towards me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Kind! to make you enter into -such a bargain!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen! I wished to leave -the cardinal's service. M. d'Herblay spoke on my behalf to -Louvière and Tremblay - they objected; I wished to have -the appointment very much, for I knew what it could be made to -produce; in my distress I confided in M. d'Herblay, and he -offered to become my surety for the different -payments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You astound me! Aramis -became your surety?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Like a man of honor; he -procured the signature; Tremblay and Louvière resigned -their appointments; I have paid every year twenty-five thousand -francs to these two gentlemen; on the thirty-first of May, every -year, M. d'Herblay himself comes to the Bastile, and brings me -five thousand pistoles to distribute between my -crocodiles."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You owe Aramis one hundred -and fifty thousand francs, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is the very thing which -is the cause of my despair, for I only owe him one hundred -thousand."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I don't quite understand -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He came and settled with the -vampires only two years. To-day, however, is the thirty-first of -May, and he has not been yet, and to-morrow, at midday, the -payment falls due; if, therefore, I don't pay to-morrow, those -gentlemen can, by the terms of the contract, break off the -bargain; I shall be stripped of everything; I shall have worked -for three years, and given two hundred and fifty thousand francs -for nothing, absolutely for nothing at all, dear M. -d'Artagnan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is very strange," -murmured D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You can now imagine that I -may well have wrinkles on my forehead, can you not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, indeed!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you can imagine, too, -that notwithstanding I may be as round as a cheese, with a -complexion like an apple, and my eyes like coals on fire, I may -almost be afraid that I shall not have a cheese or an apple left -me to eat, and that my eyes will be left me only to weep -with."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is really a very grievous -affair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have come to you, M. -d'Artagnan, for you are the only man who can get me out of my -trouble."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are acquainted with the -Abbé d'Herblay, and you know that he is a somewhat -mysterious gentleman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, you can, perhaps, give -me the address of his presbytery, for I have been to -Noisy-le-Sec, and he is no longer there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should think not, indeed. -He is Bishop of Vannes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! Vannes in -Bretagne?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The little man began to tear -his hair, saying, "How can I get to Vannes from here by midday -to-morrow? I am a lost man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your despair quite -distresses me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Vannes, Vannes!" cried -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But listen; a bishop is not -always a resident. M. d'Herblay may not possibly be so far away -as you fear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray tell me his -address."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I really don't know -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case I am lost. I -will go and throw myself at the king's feet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, Baisemeaux, I can -hardly believe what you tell me; besides, since the Bastile is -capable of producing fifty thousand francs a year, why have you -not tried to screw one hundred thousand out of it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I am an honest man, -M. d'Artagnan, and because my prisoners are fed like -ambassadors."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, you're in a fair way -to get out of your difficulties; give yourself a good attack of -indigestion with your excellent living, and put yourself out of -the way between this and midday to-morrow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How can you be hard-hearted -enough to laugh?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, you really afflict me. -Come, Baisemeaux, if you can pledge me your word of honor, do so, -that you will not open your lips to any one about what I am going -to say to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never, never!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You wish to put your hands -on Aramis?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At any cost!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, go and see where M. -Fouquet is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, what connection can -there be - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How stupid you are! Don't -you know that Vannes is in the diocese of Belle-Isle, or -Belle-Isle in the diocese of Vannes? Belle-Isle belongs to M. -Fouquet, and M. Fouquet nominated M. d'Herblay to that -bishopric!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I see, I see; you restore me -to life again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the better. Go and -tell M. Fouquet very simply that you wish to speak to M. -d'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course, of course," -exclaimed Baisemeaux, delightedly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," said D'Artagnan, -checking him by a severe look, "your word of honor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I give you my sacred word of -honor," replied the little man, about to set off -running.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where are you -going?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To M. Fouquet's -house."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is useless doing that; M. -Fouquet is playing at cards with the king. All you can do is to -pay M. Fouquet a visit early to-morrow morning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will do so. Thank -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good luck attend you," said -D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is a strange affair," -murmured D'Artagnan, as he slowly ascended the staircase after he -had left Baisemeaux. "What possible interest can Aramis have in -obliging Baisemeaux in this manner? Well, I suppose we shall -learn some day or another."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The King's Card-Table.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>F</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>ouquet was present, as D'Artagnan had -said, at the king's card-table. It seemed as if Buckingham's -departure had shed a balm on the lacerated hearts of the previous -evening. Monsieur, radiant with delight, made a thousand -affectionate signs to his mother. The Count de Guiche could not -separate himself from Buckingham, and while playing, conversed -with him upon the circumstance of his projected voyage. -Buckingham, thoughtful, and kind in his manner, like a man who -has adopted a resolution, listened to the count, and from time to -time cast a look full of regret and hopeless affection at -Madame. The princess, in the midst of her elation of spirits, -divided her attention between the king, who was playing with her, -Monsieur, who quietly joked her about her enormous winnings, and -De Guiche, who exhibited an extravagant delight. Of Buckingham -she took but little notice; for her, this fugitive, this exile, -was now simply a remembrance, no longer a man. Light hearts are -thus constituted; while they themselves continue untouched, they -roughly break off with every one who may possibly interfere with -their little calculations of self comfort. Madame had received -Buckingham's smiles and attentions and sighs while he was -present; but what was the good of sighing, smiling, and kneeling -at a distance? Can one tell in what direction the winds in the -Channel, which toss mighty vessels to and fro, carry such sighs -as these? The duke could not fail to mark this change, and his -heart was cruelly hurt. Of a sensitive character, proud and -susceptible of deep attachment, he cursed the day on which such a -passion had entered his heart. The looks he cast, from time to -time at Madame, became colder by degrees at the chilling -complexion of his thoughts. He could hardly yet despair, but he -was strong enough to impose silence upon the tumultuous outcries -of his heart. In exact proportion, however, as Madame suspected -this change of feeling, she redoubled her activity to regain the -ray of light she was about to lose; her timid and indecisive mind -was displayed in brilliant flashes of wit and humor. At any cost -she felt that she must be remarked above everything and every -one, even above the king himself. And she was so, for the -queens, notwithstanding their dignity, and the king, despite the -respect which etiquette required, were all eclipsed by her. The -queens, stately and ceremonious, were softened and could not -restrain their laughter. Madame Henriette, the queen-mother, was -dazzled by the brilliancy which cast distinction upon her family, -thanks to the wit of the grand-daughter of Henry IV. The king, -jealous, as a young man and as a monarch, of the superiority of -those who surrounded him, could not resist admitting himself -vanquished by a petulance so thoroughly French in its nature, -whose energy more than ever increased by English humor. Like a -child, he was captivated by her radiant beauty, which her wit -made still more dazzling. Madame's eyes flashed like lightning. -Wit and humor escaped from her scarlet lips like persuasion from -the lips of Nestor of old. The whole court, subdued by her -enchanting grace, noticed for the first time that laughter could -be indulged in before the greatest monarch in the world, like -people who merited their appellation of the wittiest and most -polished people in Europe.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame, from that evening, -achieved and enjoyed a success capable of bewildering all not -born to those altitudes termed thrones; which, in spite of their -elevation, are sheltered from such giddiness. From that very -moment Louis XIV. acknowledged Madame as a person to be -recognized. Buckingham regarded her as a <i>coquette</i> -deserving the cruelest tortures, and De Guiche looked upon her as -a divinity; the courtiers as a star whose light might some day -become the focus of all favor and power. And yet Louis XIV., a -few years previously, had not even condescended to offer his hand -to that "ugly girl" for a ballet; and Buckingham had worshipped -this <i>coquette</i> "on both knees." De Guiche had once looked -upon this divinity as a mere woman; and the courtiers had not -dared to extol this star in her upward progress, fearful to -disgust the monarch whom such a dull star had formerly -displeased.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Let us see what was taking -place during this memorable evening at the king's card-table. -The young queen, although Spanish by birth, and the niece of Anne -of Austria, loved the king, and could not conceal her affection. -Anne of Austria, a keen observer, like all women, and imperious, -like every queen, was sensible of Madame's power, and acquiesced -in it immediately, a circumstance which induced the young queen -to raise the siege and retire to her apartments. The king hardly -paid any attention to her departure, notwithstanding the -pretended symptoms of indisposition by which it was accompanied. -Encouraged by the rules of etiquette, which he had begun to -introduce at the court as an element of every relation of life, -Louis XIV. did not disturb himself; he offered his hand to Madame -without looking at Monsieur his brother, and led the young -princess to the door of her apartments. It was remarked, that at -the threshold of the door, his majesty, freed from every -restraint, or not equal to the situation, sighed very deeply. -The ladies present - nothing escapes a woman's glance - -Mademoiselle Montalais, for instance - did not fail to say to -each other, "the king sighed," and "Madame sighed too." This had -been indeed the case. Madame had sighed very noiselessly, but -with an accompaniment very far more dangerous for the king's -repose. Madame had sighed, first closing her beautiful black -eyes, next opening them, and then, laden, as they were, with an -indescribable mournfulness of expression, she had raised them -towards the king, whose face at that moment visibly heightened in -color. The consequence of these blushes, of those interchanged -sighs, and of this royal agitation, was, that Montalais had -committed an indiscretion which had certainly affected her -companion, for Mademoiselle de la Vallière, less clear -sighted, perhaps, turned pale when the king blushed; and her -attendance being required upon Madame, she tremblingly followed -the princess without thinking of taking the gloves, which court -etiquette required her to do. True it is that the young country -girl might allege as her excuse the agitation into which the king -seemed to be thrown, for Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -busily engaged in closing the door, had involuntarily fixed her -eyes upon the king, who, as he retired backwards, had his face -towards it. The king returned to the room where the card-tables -were set out. He wished to speak to the different persons there, -but it was easy to see that his mind was absent. He jumbled -different accounts together, which was taken advantage of by some -of the noblemen who had retained those habits since the time of -Monsieur Mazarin - who had a poor memory, but was a good -calculator. In this way, Monsieur Manicamp, with a thoughtless -and absent air - for M. Manicamp was the honestest man in the -world, appropriated twenty thousand francs, which were littering -the table, and which did not seem to belong to any person in -particular. In the same way, Monsieur de Wardes, whose head was -doubtless a little bewildered by the occurrences of the evening, -somehow forgot to leave behind him the sixty double louis which -he had won for the Duke of Buckingham, and which the duke, -incapable, like his father, of soiling his hands with coin of any -sort, had left lying on the table before him. The king only -recovered his attention in some degree at the moment that -Monsieur Colbert, who had been narrowly observant for some -minutes, approached, and, doubtless, with great respect, yet with -much perseverance, whispered a counsel of some sort into the -still tingling ears of the king. The king, at the suggestion, -listened with renewed attention and immediately looking around -him, said, "Is Monsieur Fouquet no longer here?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire, I am here," -replied the superintendent, till then engaged with Buckingham, -and approached the king, who advanced a step towards him with a -smiling yet negligent air. "Forgive me," said Louis, "if I -interrupt your conversation; but I claim your attention wherever -I may require your services."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am always at the king's -service," replied Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And your cash-box, too," -said the king, laughing with a false smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My cash-box more than -anything else," said Fouquet, coldly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact is, I wish to give -a <i>fête</i> at Fontainebleau - to keep open house for -fifteen days, and I shall require - " and he stopped, glancing at -Colbert. Fouquet waited without showing discomposure; and the -king resumed, answering Colbert's icy smile, "four million -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Four million," repeated -Fouquet, bowing profoundly. And his nails, buried in his bosom, -were thrust into his flesh, but the tranquil expression of his -face remained unaltered. "When will they be required, -sire?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take your time, - I mean - -no, no; as soon as possible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A certain time will be -necessary, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Time!" exclaimed Colbert, -triumphantly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The time, monsieur," said -the superintendent, with the haughtiest disdain, "simply to -<i>count the money;</i> a million can only be drawn and weighed -in a day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Four days, then," said -Colbert.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My clerks," replied Fouquet, -addressing himself to the king, "will perform wonders on his -majesty's service, and the sum shall be ready in three -days."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was for Colbert now to -turn pale. Louis looked at him astonished. Fouquet withdrew -without any parade or weakness, smiling at his numerous friends, -in whose countenances alone he read the sincerity of their -friendship - an interest partaking of compassion. Fouquet, -however, should not be judged by his smile, for, in reality, he -felt as if he had been stricken by death. Drops of blood beneath -his coat stained the fine linen that clothed his chest. His -dress concealed the blood, and his smile the rage which devoured -him. His domestics perceived, by the manner in which he -approached his carriage, that their master was not in the best of -humors: the result of their discernment was, that his orders were -executed with that exactitude of maneuver which is found on board -a man-of-war, commanded during a storm by an ill-tempered -captain. The carriage, therefore, did not simply roll along - it -flew. Fouquet had hardly time to recover himself during the -drive; on his arrival he went at once to Aramis, who had not yet -retired for the night. As for Porthos, he had supped very -agreeably off a roast leg of mutton, two pheasants, and a perfect -heap of cray-fish; he then directed his body to be anointed with -perfumed oils, in the manner of the wrestlers of old; and when -this anointment was completed, he had himself wrapped in flannels -and placed in a warm bed. Aramis, as we have already said, had -not retired. Seated at his ease in a velvet dressing-gown, he -wrote letter after letter in that fine and hurried handwriting, a -page of which contained a quarter of a volume. The door was -thrown hurriedly open, and the superintendent appeared, pale, -agitated, anxious. Aramis looked up: "Good-evening," said he; -and his searching look detected his host's sadness and disordered -state of mind. "Was your play as good as his majesty's?" asked -Aramis, by way of beginning the conversation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet threw himself upon a -couch, and then pointed to the door to the servant who had -followed him; when the servant had left he said, -"Excellent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis, who had followed -every movement with his eyes, noticed that he stretched himself -upon the cushions with a sort of feverish impatience. "You have -lost as usual?" inquired Aramis, his pen still in his -hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Even more than usual," -replied Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know how to support -losses?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sometimes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, Monsieur Fouquet a bad -player!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is play and play, -Monsieur d'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How much have you lost?" -inquired Aramis, with a slight uneasiness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet collected himself a -moment, and then, without the slightest emotion, said, "The -evening has cost me four millions," and a bitter laugh drowned -the last vibration of these words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis, who did not expect -such an amount, dropped his pen. "Four millions," he said; "you -have lost four millions, - impossible!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur Colbert held my -cards for me," replied the superintendent, with a similar bitter -laugh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, now I understand; so, -so, a new application for funds?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, and from the king's own -lips. It was impossible to ruin a man with a more charming -smile. What do you think of it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is clear that your -destruction is the object in view."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is your -opinion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Still. Besides, there is -nothing in it which should astonish you, for we have foreseen it -all along."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but I did not expect -four millions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt the amount is -serious, but, after all, four millions are not quite the death of -a man, especially when the man in question is Monsieur -Fouquet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear D'Herblay, if you -knew the contents of my coffers, you would be less easy."<br> - "And you promised?"<br> - "What could I <i>do?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That's true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The very day I refuse, -Colbert will procure the money; whence I know not, but he -<i>will</i> procure it: and I shall be lost."<br> - "There is no doubt of that. In how many days did -you promise the four millions?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In three days. The king -seemed exceedingly pressed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>In three -days?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When I think," resumed -Fouquet, "that just now as I passed along the streets, the people -cried out, 'There is the rich Monsieur Fouquet,' it is enough to -turn my brain."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay, monsieur, the matter -is not worth so much trouble," said Aramis, calmly, sprinkling -some sand over the letter he had just written.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Suggest a remedy, then, for -this evil without a remedy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is only one remedy for -you, - pay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But it is very uncertain -whether I have the money. Everything must be exhausted; -Belle-Isle is paid for; the pension has been paid; and money, -since the investigation of the accounts of those who farm the -revenue, is scarce. Besides, admitting that I pay this time, how -can I do so on another occasion? When kings have tasted money, -they are like tigers who have tasted flesh, they devour -everything. The day will arrive - <i>must</i> arrive - when I -shall have to say, 'Impossible, sire,' and on that very day I am -a lost man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis raised his shoulders -slightly, saying:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A man in your position, my -lord, is only lost when he wishes to be so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A man, whatever his position -may be, cannot hope to struggle against a king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nonsense; when I was young I -wrestled successfully with the Cardinal Richelieu, who was king -of France, - nay more - cardinal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Where are my armies, my -troops, my treasures? I have not even Belle-Isle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! necessity is the mother -of invention, and when you think all is lost, something will be -discovered which will retrieve everything."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who will discover this -wonderful something?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I! I resign my office of -inventor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then <i>I</i> -will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be it so. But set to work -without delay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! we have time -enough!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You kill me, D'Herblay, with -your calmness," said the superintendent, passing his handkerchief -over his face.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not remember that I -one day told you not to make yourself uneasy, if you possessed -courage? <i>Have</i> you any?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then don't make yourself -uneasy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is decided then, that, at -the last moment, you will come to my assistance."<br> - "It will only be the repayment of a debt I owe -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is the vocation of -financiers to anticipate the wants of men such as yourself, -D'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If obligingness is the -vocation of financiers, charity is the virtue of the clergy. -Only, on this occasion, do you act, monsieur. You are not yet -sufficiently reduced, and at the last moment we will see what is -to be done."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We shall see, then, in a -very short time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well. However, permit -me to tell you that, personally, I regret exceedingly that you -are at present so short of money, because I myself was about to -ask you for some."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For yourself?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For myself, or some of my -people, for mine or for ours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How much do you -want?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be easy on that score; a -roundish sum, it is true, but not too exorbitant."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me the -amount."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fifty thousand -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! a mere nothing. Of -course one has always fifty thousand francs. Why the deuce -cannot that knave Colbert be as easily satisfied as you are - and -I should give myself far less trouble than I do. When do you -need this sum?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To-morrow morning; but you -wish to know its destination?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, nay, chevalier, I need -no explanation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To-morrow is the first of -June."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One of our bonds becomes -due."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not know we had any -bonds."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, to-morrow we pay -our last third instalment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What third?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of the one hundred and fifty -thousand francs to Baisemeaux."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Baisemeaux? Who is he?"<br> - "The governor of the Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I remember. On what -grounds am I to pay one hundred and fifty thousand francs for -that man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On account of the -appointment which he, or rather we, purchased from -Louvière and Tremblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have a very vague -recollection of the matter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is likely enough, for -you have so many affairs to attend to. However, I do not believe -you have any affair in the world of greater importance than this -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me, then, why we -purchased this appointment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, in order to render him -a service in the first place, and afterwards -ourselves."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ourselves? You are -joking."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur, the time may -come when the governor of the Bastile may prove a very excellent -acquaintance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have not the good fortune -to understand you, D'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur, we had our own -poets, our own engineer, our own architect, our own musicians, -our own printer, and our own painters; we needed our own governor -of the Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you think so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us not deceive -ourselves, monseigneur; we are very much opposed to paying the -Bastile a visit," added the prelate, displaying, beneath his pale -lips, teeth which were still the same beautiful teeth so much -admired thirty years previously by Marie Michon.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you think it is not too -much to pay one hundred and fifty thousand francs for that? I -thought you generally put out money at better interest than -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The day will come when you -will admit your mistake."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear D'Herblay, the very -day on which a man enters the Bastile, he is no longer protected -by his past."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, he is, if the bonds are -perfectly regular; besides, that good fellow Baisemeaux has not a -courtier's heart. I am certain, my lord, that he will not remain -ungrateful for that money, without taking into account, I repeat, -that I retain the acknowledgements."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a strange affair! -usury in a matter of benevolence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not mix yourself up with -it, monseigneur; if there be usury, it is I who practice it, and -both of us reap the advantage from it - that is all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Some intrigue, -D'Herblay?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not deny -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And Baisemeaux an accomplice -in it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not? - there are worse -accomplices than he. May I depend, then, upon the five thousand -pistoles to-morrow?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you want them this -evening?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It would be better, for I -wish to start early; poor Baisemeaux will not be able to imagine -what has be become of me, and must be upon thorns."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall have the amount in -an hour. Ah, D'Herblay, the interest of your one hundred and -fifty thousand francs will never pay my four millions for -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not, -monseigneur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good-night, I have business -to transact with my clerks before I retire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A good night's rest, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "D'Herblay, you wish things -that are impossible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Shall I have my fifty -thousand francs this evening?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Go to sleep, then, in -perfect safety - it is I who tell you to do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Notwithstanding this -assurance, and the tone in which it was given, Fouquet left the -room shaking his head, and heaving a sigh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>M. Baisemeaux de Montlezun's -Accounts.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he clock of St. Paul was striking seven -as Aramis, on horseback, dressed as a simple citizen, that is to -say, in colored suit, with no distinctive mark about him, except -a kind of hunting-knife by his side, passed before the Rue du -Petit-Musc, and stopped opposite the Rue des Tournelles, at the -gate of the Bastile. Two sentinels were on duty at the gate; -they made no difficulty about admitting Aramis, who entered -without dismounting, and they pointed out the way he was to go by -a long passage with buildings on both sides. This passage led to -the drawbridge, or, in other words, to the real entrance. The -drawbridge was down, and the duty of the day was about being -entered upon. The sentinel at the outer guardhouse stopped -Aramis's further progress, asking him, in a rough tone of voice, -what had brought him there. Aramis explained, with his usual -politeness, that a wish to speak to M. Baisemeaux de Montlezun -had occasioned his visit. The first sentinel then summoned a -second sentinel, stationed within an inner lodge, who showed his -face at the grating, and inspected the new arrival most -attentively. Aramis reiterated the expression of his wish to see -the governor; whereupon the sentinel called to an officer of -lower grade, who was walking about in a tolerably spacious -courtyard and who, in turn, on being informed of his object, ran -to seek one of the officers of the governor's staff. The latter, -after having listened to Aramis's request, begged him to wait a -moment, then went away a short distance, but returned to ask his -name. "I cannot tell it you, monsieur," said Aramis; "I need -only mention that I have matters of such importance to -communicate to the governor, that I can only rely beforehand upon -one thing, that M. de Baisemeaux will be delighted to see me; -nay, more than that, when you have told him that it is the person -whom he expected on the first of June, I am convinced he will -hasten here himself." The officer could not possibly believe -that a man of the governor's importance should put himself out -for a person of so little importance as the citizen-looking -visitor on horseback. "It happens most fortunately, monsieur," -he said, "that the governor is just going out, and you can -perceive his carriage with the horses already harnessed, in the -courtyard yonder; there will be no occasion for him to come to -meet you, as he will see you as he passes by." Aramis bowed to -signify his assent; he did not wish to inspire others with too -exalted an opinion of himself, and therefore waited patiently and -in silence, leaning upon the saddle-bow of his horse. Ten -minutes had hardly elapsed when the governor's carriage was -observed to move. The governor appeared at the door, and got -into the carriage, which immediately prepared to start. The same -ceremony was observed for the governor himself as with a -suspected stranger; the sentinel at the lodge advanced as the -carriage was about to pass under the arch, and the governor -opened the carriage-door, himself setting the example of -obedience to orders; so that, in this way, the sentinel could -convince himself that no one quitted the Bastile improperly. The -carriage rolled along under the archway, but at the moment the -iron-gate was opened, the officer approached the carriage, which -had again been stopped, and said something to the governor, who -immediately put his head out of the door-way, and perceived -Aramis on horseback at the end of the drawbridge. He immediately -uttered almost a shout of delight, and got out, or rather darted -out of his carriage, running towards Aramis, whose hands he -seized, making a thousand apologies. He almost embraced him. -"What a difficult matter to enter the Bastile!" said Aramis. "Is -it the same for those who are sent here against their wills, as -for those who come of their own accord?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A thousand pardons, my -lord. How delighted I am to see your Grace!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush! What are you thinking -of, my dear M. Baisemeaux? What do you suppose would be thought -of a bishop in my present costume?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray, excuse me, I had -forgotten. Take this gentleman's horse to the stables," cried -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," said Aramis; "I -have five thousand pistoles in the saddle-bags."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The governor's countenance -became so radiant, that if the prisoners had seen him they would -have imagined some prince of the royal blood had arrived. "Yes, -you are right, the horse shall be taken to the government house. -Will you get into the carriage, my dear M. d'Herblay? and it -shall take us back to my house."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Get into a carriage to cross -a courtyard! do you believe I am so great an invalid? No, no, we -will go on foot."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Baisemeaux then offered his -arm as a support, but the prelate did not accept it. They -arrived in this manner at the government house, Baisemeaux -rubbing his hands and glancing at the horse from time to time, -while Aramis was looking at the bleak bare walls. A tolerably -handsome vestibule and a staircase of white stone led to the -governor's apartments, who crossed the ante-chamber, the -dining-room, where breakfast was being prepared, opened a small -side door, and closeted himself with his guest in a large -cabinet, the windows of which opened obliquely upon the courtyard -and the stables. Baisemeaux installed the prelate with that -all-inclusive politeness of which a good man, or a grateful man, -alone possesses the secret. An arm-chair, a footstool, a small -table beside him, on which to rest his hand, everything was -prepared by the governor himself. With his own hands, too, he -placed upon the table, with much solicitude, the bag containing -the gold, which one of the soldiers had brought up with the most -respectful devotion; and the soldier having left the room, -Baisemeaux himself closed the door after him, drew aside one of -the window-curtains, and looked steadfastly at Aramis to see if -the prelate required anything further.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, my lord," he said, -still standing up, "of all men of their word, you still continue -to be the most punctual."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In matters of business, dear -M. de Baisemeaux, exactitude is not a virtue only, it is a duty -as well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, in matters of business, -certainly; but what you have with me is not of that character; it -is a service you are rendering me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, confess, dear M. de -Baisemeaux, that, notwithstanding this exactitude, you have not -been without a little uneasiness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "About your health, I -certainly have," stammered out Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I wished to come here -yesterday, but I was not able, as I was too fatigued," continued -Aramis. Baisemeaux anxiously slipped another cushion behind his -guest's back. "But," continued Aramis, "I promised myself to -come and pay you a visit to-day, early in the -morning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are really very kind, my -lord."<br> - "And it was a good thing for me I was punctual, I -think."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you were going out." -At which latter remark Baisemeaux colored and said, "It is true I -was going out."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then I prevent you," said -Aramis; whereupon the embarrassment of Baisemeaux became visibly -greater. "I am putting you to inconvenience," he continued, -fixing a keen glace upon the poor governor; "if I had known that, -I should not have come."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How can your lordship -imagine that you could ever inconvenience me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Confess you were going in -search of money."<br> - "No," stammered out Baisemeaux, "no! I assure -you I was going to - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Does the governor still -intend to go to M. Fouquet?" suddenly called out the major from -below. Baisemeaux ran to the window like a madman. "No, no," he -exclaimed in a state of desperation, "who the deuce is speaking -of M. Fouquet? are you drunk below there? why am I interrupted -when I am engaged on business?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You were going to M. -Fouquet's," said Aramis, biting his lips, "to M. Fouquet, the -abbé, or the superintendent?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Baisemeaux almost made up his -mind to tell an untruth, but he could not summon courage to do -so. "To the superintendent," he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is true, then, that you -were in want of money, since you were going to a person who gives -it away!"<br> - "I assure you, my lord - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You were afraid?"<br> - "My dear lord, it was the uncertainty and -ignorance in which I was as to where you were to be -found."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You would have found the -money you require at M. Fouquet's, for he is a man whose hand is -always open."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I swear that I should never -have ventured to ask M. Fouquet for money. I only wished to ask -him for your address."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To ask M. Fouquet for my -address?" exclaimed Aramis, opening his eyes in real -astonishment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Baisemeaux, -greatly disturbed by the glance which the prelate fixed upon him, -- "at M. Fouquet's certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no harm in that, -dear M. Baisemeaux, only I would ask, why ask my address of M. -Fouquet?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That I might write to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I understand," said Aramis -smiling, "but that is not what I meant; I do not ask you what you -required my address for: I only ask why you should go to M. -Fouquet for it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Baisemeaux, "as -Belle-Isle is the property of M. Fouquet, and as Belle-Isle is in -the diocese of Vannes, and as you are bishop of Vannes - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, my dear Baisemeaux, -since you knew I was bishop of Vannes, you had no occasion to ask -M. Fouquet for my address."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, monsieur," said -Baisemeaux, completely at bay, "if I have acted indiscreetly, I -beg your pardon most sincerely."<br> - "Nonsense," observed Aramis calmly: "how can you -possibly have acted indiscreetly?" And while he composed his -face, and continued to smile cheerfully on the governor, he was -considering how Baisemeaux, who was not aware of his address, -knew, however, that Vannes was his residence. "I shall clear all -this up," he said to himself; and then speaking aloud, added, - -"Well, my dear governor shall we now arrange our little -accounts?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am at your orders, my -lord; but tell me beforehand, my lord, whether you will do me the -honor to breakfast with me as usual?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very willingly, indeed."<br> - "That's well," said Baisemeaux, as he struck the -bell before him three times.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What does that mean?" -inquired Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That I have some one to -breakfast with me, and that preparations are to be made -accordingly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you rang thrice. -Really, my dear governor, I begin to think you are acting -ceremoniously with me."<br> - "No, indeed. Besides, the least I can do is to -receive you in the best way I can."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because not even a prince -could have done what you have done for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nonsense! -nonsense!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, I assure you - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us speak of other -matters," said Aramis. "Or rather, tell me how your affairs here -are getting on."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not over well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The deuce!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Mazarin was not hard -enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I see; you require a -government full of suspicion - like that of the old cardinal, for -instance."<br> - "Yes; matters went on better under him. The -brother of his 'gray eminence' made his fortune here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Believe me, my dear -governor," said Aramis, drawing closer to Baisemeaux, "a young -king is well worth an old cardinal. Youth has its suspicions, -its fits of anger, its prejudices, as old age has its hatreds, -its precautions, and its fears. Have you paid your three years' -profits to Louvière and Tremblay?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly I have."<br> - "So that you have nothing more to give them than -the fifty thousand francs I have brought with me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you not saved anything, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My lord, in giving the fifty -thousand francs of my own to these gentlemen, I assure you that I -gave them everything I gain. I told M. d'Artagnan so yesterday -evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said Aramis, whose eyes -sparkled for a moment, but became immediately afterwards as -unmoved as before; "so you have been to see my old friend -D'Artagnan; how was he?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wonderfully -well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what did you say to him, -M. de Baisemeaux?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I told him," continued the -governor, not perceiving his own thoughtlessness; "I told him -that I fed my prisoners too well."<br> - "How many have you?" inquired Aramis, in an -indifferent tone of voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sixty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, that is a tolerably -round number."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In former times, my lord, -there were, during certain years, as many as two hundred."<br> - "Still a minimum of sixty is not to be grumbled -at."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perhaps not; for, to anybody -but myself, each prisoner would bring in two hundred and fifty -pistoles; for instance, for a prince of the blood I have fifty -francs a day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Only you have no prince of -the blood; at least, I suppose so," said Aramis, with a slight -tremor in his voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, thank heaven! - I mean, -no, unfortunately."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by -unfortunately?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because my appointment would -be improved by it. So fifty francs per day for a prince of the -blood, thirty-six for a maréchal of France - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But you have as many -maréchals of France, I suppose, as you have princes of the -blood?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas! no more. It is true -lieutenant-generals and brigadiers pay twenty-six francs, and I -have two of them. After that, come councilors of parliament, who -bring me fifteen francs, and I have six of them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not know," said -Aramis, "that councilors were so productive."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but from fifteen francs -I sink at once to ten francs; namely, for an ordinary judge, and -for an ecclesiastic."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you have seven, you say; -an excellent affair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, a bad one, and for this -reason. How can I possibly treat these poor fellows, who are of -some good, at all events, otherwise than as a councilor of -parliament?"<br> - "Yes, you are right; I do not see five francs -difference between them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You understand; if I have a -fine fish, I pay four or five francs for it; if I get a fine -fowl, it cost me a franc and a half. I fatten a good deal of -poultry, but I have to buy grain, and you cannot imagine the army -of rats that infest this place."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not get half a dozen -cats to deal with them?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Cats, indeed; yes, they eat -them, but I was obliged to give up the idea because of the way in -which they treated my grain. I have been obliged to have some -terrier dogs sent me from England to kill the rats. These dogs, -unfortunately, have tremendous appetites; they eat as much as a -prisoner of the fifth order, without taking into account the -rabbits and fowls they kill."<br> - Was Aramis really listening or not? No one could -have told; his downcast eyes showed the attentive man, but the -restless hand betrayed the man absorbed in thought - Aramis was -meditating.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was saying," continued -Baisemeaux, "that a good-sized fowl costs me a franc and a half, -and that a fine fish costs me four or five francs. Three meals -are served at the Bastile, and, as the prisoners, having nothing -to do, are always eating, a ten-franc man costs me seven francs -and a half."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But did you not say that you -treated those at ten francs like those at fifteen?"<br> - "Yes, certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well! Then you gain -seven francs and a half upon those who pay you fifteen -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I <i>must</i> compensate -myself somehow," said Baisemeaux, who saw how he had been snapped -up.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are quite right, my dear -governor; but have you no prisoners below ten francs?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, yes! we have citizens -and barristers at five francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And do they eat, -too?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not a doubt about it; only -you understand that they do not get fish or poultry, nor rich -wines at every meal; but at all events thrice a week they have a -good dish at their dinner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, you are quite a -philanthropist, my dear governor, and you will ruin -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; understand me; when the -fifteen-franc has not eaten his fowl, or the ten-franc has left -his dish unfinished, I send it to the five-franc prisoner; it is -a feast for the poor devil, and one must be charitable, you -know."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what do you make out of -your five-franc prisoners?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A franc and a -half."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Baisemeaux, you're an honest -fellow; in honest truth I say so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you, my lord. But I -feel most for the small tradesmen and bailiffs' clerks, who are -rated at three francs. They do not often see Rhine carp or -Channel sturgeon."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But do not the five-franc -gentlemen sometimes leave some scraps?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! my lord, do not believe -I am so stingy as that; I delight the heart of some poor little -tradesman or clerk by sending him a wing of a red partridge, a -slice of venison, or a slice of a truffled pasty, dishes which he -never tasted except in his dreams; these are the leavings of the -twenty-four-franc prisoners; and as he eats and drinks, at -dessert he cries 'Long live the King,' and blesses the Bastile; -with a couple bottles of champagne, which cost me five sous, I -make him tipsy every Sunday. That class of people call down -blessings upon me, and are sorry to leave the prison. Do you -know that I have remarked, and it does me infinite honor, that -certain prisoners, who have been set at liberty, have, almost -immediately afterwards, got imprisoned again? Why should this be -the case, unless it be to enjoy the pleasures of my kitchen? It -is really the fact."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis smiled with an -expression of incredulity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You smile," said -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do," returned -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I tell you that we have -names which have been inscribed on our books thrice in the space -of two years."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I must see it before I -believe it," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I can show it to you, -although it is prohibited to communicate the registers to -strangers; and if you really wish to see it with your own eyes - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should be delighted, I -confess."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said Baisemeaux, -and he took out of a cupboard a large register. Aramis followed -him most anxiously with his eyes, and Baisemeaux returned, placed -the register upon the table, and turned over the leaves for a -minute, and stayed at the letter M.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Look here," said he, -"Martinier, January, 1659; Martinier, June, 1660; Martinier, -March, 1661. Mazarinades, etc.; you understand it was only a -pretext; people were not sent to the Bastile for jokes against M. -Mazarin; the fellow denounced himself in order to get imprisoned -here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what was his -object?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "None other than to return to -my kitchen at three francs a day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Three francs - poor -devil!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The poet, my lord, belongs -to the lowest scale, the same style of board as the small -tradesman and bailiff's clerk; but I repeat, it is to those -people that I give these little surprises."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis mechanically turned -over the leaves of the register, continuing to read the names, -but without appearing to take any interest in the names he -read.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In 1661, you perceive," said -Baisemeaux, "eighty entries; and in 1659, eighty -also."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said Aramis. "Seldon; -I seem to know that name. Was it not you who spoke to me about a -certain young man?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, a poor devil of a -student, who made - What do you call that where two Latin verses -rhyme together?"<br> - "A distich."<br> - "Yes; that is it."<br> - "Poor fellow; for a distich."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know that he made -this distich against the Jesuits?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That makes no difference; -the punishment seems very severe. Do not pity him; last year you -seemed to interest yourself in him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I did so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, as your interest is -all-powerful here, my lord, I have treated him since that time as -a prisoner at fifteen francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The same as this one, then," -said Aramis, who had continued turning over the leaves, and who -had stopped at one of the names which followed -Martinier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, the same as that -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that Marchiali an -Italian?" said Aramis, pointing with his finger to the name which -had attracted his attention.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush!" said -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why hush?" said Aramis, -involuntarily clenching his white hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought I had already -spoken to you about that Marchiali."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, it is the first time I -ever heard his name pronounced."<br> - "That may be, but perhaps I have spoken to you -about him without naming him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is he an old offender?" -asked Aramis, attempting to smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, he is quite -young."<br> - "Is his crime, then, very heinous?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unpardonable."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Has he assassinated any -one?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An incendiary, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Has he slandered any -one?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no! It is he who - " -and Baisemeaux approached Aramis's ear, making a sort of -ear-trumpet of his hands, and whispered: "It is he who presumes -to resemble the - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes," said Aramis; "I -now remember you already spoke about it last year to me; but the -crime appeared to me so slight."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Slight, do you -say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Or rather, so -involuntary."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My lord, it is not -involuntarily that such a resemblance is detected."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, the fact is, I had -forgotten it. But, my dear host," said Aramis, closing the -register, "if I am not mistaken, we are summoned."<br> - Baisemeaux took the register, hastily restored it -to its place in the closet, which he locked, and put the key in -his pocket. "Will it be agreeable to your lordship to breakfast -now?" said he; "for you are right in supposing that breakfast was -announced."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Assuredly, my dear -governor," and they passed into the dining-room.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXIV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Breakfast at Monsieur de -Baisemeaux's.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>ramis was generally temperate; but on -this occasion, while taking every care of his constitution, he -did ample justice to Baisemeaux's breakfast, which, in all -respects, was most excellent. The latter on his side, was -animated with the wildest gayety; the sight of the five thousand -pistoles, which he glanced at from time to time, seemed to open -his heart. Every now and then he looked at Aramis with an -expression of the deepest gratitude; while the latter, leaning -back in his chair, took a few sips of wine from his glass, with -the air of a connoisseur. "Let me never hear any ill words -against the fare of the Bastile," said he, half closing his eyes; -"happy are the prisoners who can get only half a bottle of such -Burgundy every day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All those at fifteen francs -drink it," said Baisemeaux. "It is very old Volnay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Does that poor student, -Seldon, drink such good wine?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, no!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thought I heard you say he -was boarded at fifteen francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He! no, indeed; a man who -makes districts - distichs I mean - at fifteen francs! No, no! -it is his neighbor who is at fifteen francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Which neighbor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The other, second -Bertaudière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Excuse me, my dear governor; -but you speak a language which requires quite an apprenticeship -to understand."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very true," said the -governor. "Allow me to explain: second Bertaudière is the -person who occupies the second floor of the tower of the -Bertaudière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So that Bertaudière -is the name of one of the towers of the Bastile? The fact is, I -think I recollect hearing that each tower has a name of its own. -Whereabouts is the one you are speaking of?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Look," said Baisemeaux, -going to the window. "It is that tower to the left - the second -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is the prisoner at fifteen -francs there?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Since when?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Seven or eight years, -nearly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by nearly? -Do you not know the dates more precisely?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was not in my time, M. -d'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I should have thought -that Louvière or Tremblay would have told you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The secrets of the Bastile -are never handed over with the keys of the -governorship."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed! Then the cause of -his imprisonment is a mystery - a state secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, no! I do not suppose it -is a state secret, but a secret - like everything that happens at -the Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," said Aramis, "why do -you speak more freely of Seldon than of second -Bertaudière?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because, in my opinion, the -crime of the man who writes a distich is not so great as that of -the man who resembles - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes; I understand you. -Still, do not the turnkeys talk with your prisoners?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The prisoners, I suppose, -tell them they are not guilty?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They are <i>always</i> -telling them that; it is a matter of course; the same song over -and over again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But does not the resemblance -you were speaking about just now strike the turnkeys?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear M. d'Herblay, it is -only for men attached to the court, as you are, to take trouble -about such matters."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You're right, you're right, -my dear M. Baisemeaux. Let me give you another taste of this -Volnay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not a taste merely, a full -glass; fill yours too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, nay! You are a -musketeer still, to the very tips of your fingers, while I have -become a bishop. A taste for me; a glass for -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As you please." And Aramis -and the governor nodded to each other, as they drank their wine. -"But," said Aramis, looking with fixed attention at the -ruby-colored wine he had raised to the level of his eyes, as if -he wished to enjoy it with all his senses at the same moment, -"but what you might call a resemblance, another would not, -perhaps, take any notice of."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly he would, -though, if it were any one who knew the person he resembles."<br> - "I really think, dear M. Baisemeaux, that it can -be nothing more than a resemblance of your own -creation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my honor, it is not -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay," continued Aramis. "I -have seen many persons very like the one we are speaking of; but, -out of respect, no one ever said anything about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very likely; because there -is resemblance and resemblance. This is a striking one, and, if -you were to see him, you would admit it to be so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If I were to see him, -indeed," said Aramis, in an indifferent tone; "but in all -probability I never shall."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because if I were even to -put my foot inside one of those horrible dungeons, I should fancy -I was buried there forever."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no; the cells are very -good places to live in."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I really do not, and cannot -believe it, and that is a fact."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray do not speak ill of -second Bertaudière. It is really a good room, very nicely -furnished and carpeted. The young fellow has by no means been -unhappy there; the best lodging the Bastile affords has been -his. There is a chance for you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, nay," said Aramis, -coldly; "you will never make me believe there are any good rooms -in the Bastile; and, as for your carpets, they exist only in your -imagination. I should find nothing but spiders, rats, and -perhaps toads, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Toads?" cried -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, in the dungeons."<br> - "Ah! I don't say there are not toads in the -dungeons," replied Baisemeaux. "But - will you be convinced by -your own eyes?" he continued, with a sudden impulse.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, certainly -not."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not even to satisfy yourself -of the resemblance which you deny, as you do the -carpets?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Some spectral-looking -person, a mere shadow; an unhappy, dying man."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing of the kind - as -brisk and vigorous a young fellow as ever lived."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Melancholy and ill-tempered, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not at all; very gay and -lively."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nonsense; you are -joking."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will you follow me?" said -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What for?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To go the round of the -Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will then see for -yourself - see with your own eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But the -regulations?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never mind them. To-day my -major has leave of absence; the lieutenant is visiting the post -on the bastions; we are sole masters of the -situation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, my dear governor; -why, the very idea of the sound of the bolts makes me shudder. -You will only have to forget me in second or fourth -Bertaudière, and then - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are refusing an -opportunity that may never present itself again. Do you know -that, to obtain the favor I propose to you gratis, some of the -princes of the blood have offered me as much as fifty thousand -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really! he must be worth -seeing, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forbidden fruit, my lord; -forbidden fruit. You who belong to the church ought to know -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, if had any curiosity, -it would be to see the poor author of the distich."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, we will see him, -too; but if I were at all curious, it would be about the -beautiful carpeted room and its lodger."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Furniture is very -commonplace; and a face with no expression in it offers little or -no interest."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But a boarder at fifteen -francs is always interesting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By the by, I forgot to ask -you about that. Why fifteen francs for him, and only three -francs for poor Seldon?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The distinction made in that -instance was a truly noble act, and one which displayed the -king's goodness of heart to great advantage."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king's, you -say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The cardinal's, I mean. -'This unhappy man,' said M. Mazarin, 'is destined to remain in -prison forever.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, it seems that his crime -is a lasting one; and, consequently, his punishment ought to be -so, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Lasting?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt of it, unless he is -fortunate enough to catch the small-pox, and even that is -difficult, for we never get any impure air here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing can be more -ingenious than your train of reasoning, my dear M. Baisemeaux. -Do you, however, mean to say that this unfortunate man must -suffer without interruption or termination?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not say he was to -suffer, my lord; a fifteen-franc boarder does not -suffer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He suffers imprisonment, at -all events."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt; there is no help -for that, but this suffering is sweetened for him. You must -admit that this young fellow was not born to eat all the good -things he does eat; for instance, such things as we have on the -table now; this pasty that has not been touched, these crawfish -from the River Marne, of which we have hardly taken any, and -which are almost as large as lobsters; all these things will at -once be taken to second Bertaudière, with a bottle of that -Volnay which you think so excellent. After you have seen it you -will believe it, I hope."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, my dear governor, -certainly; but all this time you are thinking only of your very -happy fifteen-franc prisoner, and you forget poor Seldon, my -<i>protégé</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, out of consideration -for you, it shall be a gala day for him; he shall have some -biscuits and preserves with this small bottle of -port."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a good-hearted -fellow; I have said so already, and I repeat it, my dear -Baisemeaux."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, let us set off, then," -said the governor, a little bewildered, partly from the wine he -had drunk, and partly from Aramis's praises.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not forget that I only go -to oblige you," said the prelate.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; but you will -thank me when you get there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us go, then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wait until I have summoned -the jailer," said Baisemeaux, as he struck the bell twice; at -which summons a man appeared. "I am going to visit the towers," -said the governor. "No guards, no drums, no noise at -all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If I were not to leave my -cloak here," said Aramis, pretending to be alarmed, "I should -really think I was going to prison on my own account."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The jailer preceded the -governor, Aramis walking on his right hand; some of the soldiers -who happened to be in the courtyard drew themselves up in a line, -as stiff as posts, as the governor passed along. Baisemeaux led -the way down several steps which conducted to a sort of -esplanade; thence they arrived at the drawbridge, where the -sentinels on duty received the governor with the proper honors. -The governor turned toward Aramis, and, speaking in such a tone -that the sentinels could not lose a word, he observed, - "I hope -you have a good memory, monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why?" inquired -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On account of your plans and -your measurements, for you know that no one is allowed, not -architects even, to enter where the prisoners are, with paper, -pens or pencil."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good," said Aramis to -himself, "it seems I am an architect, then. It sounds like one -of D'Artagnan's jokes, who perceived in me the engineer of -Belle-Isle." Then he added aloud: "Be easy on that score, -monsieur; in our profession, a mere glance and a good memory are -quite sufficient."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Baisemeaux did not change -countenance, and the soldiers took Aramis for what he seemed to -be. "Very well; we will first visit la Bertaudière," said -Baisemeaux, still intending the sentinels to hear him. Then, -turning to the jailer, he added: "You will take the opportunity -of carrying to No. 2 the few dainties I pointed out."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dear M. de Baisemeaux," said -Aramis, "you are always forgetting No. 3."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So I am," said the governor; -and upon that, they began to ascend. The number of bolts, -gratings, and locks for this single courtyard would have sufficed -for the safety of an entire city. Aramis was neither an -imaginative nor a sensitive man; he had been somewhat of a poet -in his youth, but his heart was hard and indifferent, as the -heart of every man of fifty-five years of age is, who has been -frequently and passionately attached to women in his lifetime, or -rather who has been passionately loved by them. But when he -placed his foot upon the worn stone steps, along which so many -unhappy wretches had passed, when he felt himself impregnated, as -it were, with the atmosphere of those gloomy dungeons, moistened -with tears, there could be but little doubt he was overcome by -his feelings, for his head was bowed and his eyes became dim, as -he followed Baisemeaux without a syllable.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Second Floor of la -Bertaudière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>O</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>n the second flight of stairs, whether -from fatigue or emotion, the breathing of the visitor began to -fail him, and he leaned against the wall. "Will you begin with -this one?" said Baisemeaux; "for since we are going to both, it -matters very little whether we ascend from the second to the -third story, or descend from the third to the second."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," exclaimed Aramis, -eagerly, "higher, if you please; the one above is the more -urgent." They continued their ascent. "Ask the jailer for the -keys," whispered Aramis. Baisemeaux did so, took the keys, and, -himself, opened the door of the third room. The jailer was the -first to enter; he placed upon the table the provisions, which -the kind-hearted governor called dainties, and then left the -room. The prisoner had not stirred; Baisemeaux then entered, -while Aramis remained at the threshold, from which place he saw a -youth about eighteen years of age, who, raising his head at the -unusual noise, jumped off the bed, as he perceived the governor, -and clasping his hands together, began to cry out, "My mother, my -mother," in tones which betrayed such deep distress that Aramis, -despite his command over himself, felt a shudder pass through his -frame. "My dear boy," said Baisemeaux, endeavoring to smile, "I -have brought you a diversion and an extra, - the one for the -mind, the other for the body; this gentleman has come to take -your measure, and here are some preserves for your -dessert."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, monsieur" exclaimed the -young man, "keep me in solitude for a year, let me have nothing -but bread and water for a year, but tell me that at the end of a -year I shall leave this place, tell me that at the end of a year -I shall see my mother again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I have heard you say -that your mother was very poor, and that you were very badly -lodged when you were living with her, while here - upon my -word!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If she were poor, monsieur, -the greater reason to restore her only means of support to her. -Badly lodged with her! Oh, monsieur, every one is always well -lodged when he is free."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events, since you -yourself admit you have done nothing but write that unhappy -distich - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But without any intention, I -swear. Let me be punished - cut off the hand which wrote it, I -will work with the other - but restore my mother to -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My boy," said Baisemeaux, -"you know very well that it does not depend upon me; all I can do -for you is to increase your rations, give you a glass of port -wine now and then, slip in a biscuit for you between a couple of -plates."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Great heaven!" exclaimed the -young man, falling backward and rolling on the ground.<br> - Aramis, unable to bear this scene any longer, -withdrew as far as the landing. "Unhappy, wretched man," he -murmured.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur, he is indeed -very wretched," said the jailer; "but it is his parents' -fault."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt. Why did they let -him learn Latin? Too much knowledge, you see; it is that which -does harm. Now I, for instance, can't read or write, and -therefore I am not in prison." Aramis looked at the man, who -seemed to think that being a jailer in the Bastile was not being -in prison. As for Baisemeaux, noticing the little effect -produced by his advice and his port wine, he left the dungeon -quite upset. "You have forgotten to close the door," said the -jailer.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So I have," said Baisemeaux; -"there are the keys, do you do it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will solicit the pardon of -that poor boy," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And if you do not succeed," -said Baisemeaux, "at least beg that he may be transferred to the -ten-franc list, by which both he and I shall be -gainers."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If the other prisoner calls -out for his mother in a similar manner," said Aramis, "I prefer -not to enter at all, but will take my measure from -outside."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No fear of that, monsieur -architect, the one we are now going to see is as gentle as a -lamb; before he could call after his mother he must open his -lips, and he never says a word."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us go in, then," said -Aramis, gloomily.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you the architect of the -prisons, monsieur?" said the jailer.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is odd, then, that you -are not more accustomed to all this."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis perceived that, to -avoid giving rise to any suspicions, he must summon all his -strength of mind to his assistance. Baisemeaux, who carried the -keys, opened the door. "Stay outside," he said to the jailer, -"and wait for us at the bottom of the steps." The jailer obeyed -and withdrew.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Baisemeaux entered first, and -opened the second door himself. By the light which filtered -through the iron-barred window, could be seen a handsome young -man, short in stature, with closely cut hair, and a beard -beginning to grow; he was sitting on a stool, his elbow resting -on an armchair, and with all the upper part of his body reclining -against it. His dress, thrown upon the bed, was of rich black -velvet, and he inhaled the fresh air which blew in upon his -breast through a shirt of the very finest cambric. As the -governor entered, the young man turned his head with a look full -of indifference; and on recognizing Baisemeaux, he arose and -saluted him courteously. But when his eyes fell upon Aramis, who -remained in the background, the latter trembled, turned pale, and -his hat, which he held in his hand, fell upon the ground, as if -all his muscles had become relaxed at once. Baisemeaux, -habituated to the presence of his prisoner, did not seem to share -any of the sensations which Aramis experienced, but, with all the -zeal of a good servant, he busied himself in arranging on the -table the pasty and crawfish he had brought with him. Occupied -in this manner, he did not remark how disturbed his guest had -become. When he had finished, however, he turned to the young -prisoner and said: "You are looking very well, - are you -so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite well, I thank you, -monsieur," replied the young man.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The effect of the voice was -such as almost to overpower Aramis, and notwithstanding his -control over himself, he advanced a few steps towards him, with -his eyes wide open and his lips trembling. The movement he made -was so marked that Baisemeaux, notwithstanding his preoccupation, -observed it. "This gentleman is an architect who has come to -examine your chimney," said Baisemeaux; "does it -smoke?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never, monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You were saying just now," -said the governor, rubbing his hands together, "that it was not -possible for a man to be happy in prison; here, however, is one -who is so. You have nothing to complain of, I hope?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you ever feel weary?" -said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ha, ha," said Baisemeaux, in -a low tone of voice; "was I right?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, my dear governor, it -is impossible not to yield to evidence. Is it allowed to put any -question to him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As many as you -like."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; be good enough to -ask him if he knows why he is here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This gentleman requests me -to ask you," said Baisemeaux, "if you are aware of the cause of -your imprisonment?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monsieur," said the -young man, unaffectedly, "I am not."<br> - "That is hardly possible," said Aramis, carried -away by his feelings in spite of himself; "if you were really -ignorant of the cause of your detention, you would be -furious."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was so during the early -days of my imprisonment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why are you not so -now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I have -reflected."<br> - "That is strange," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it not odd?" said -Baisemeaux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "May one venture to ask you, -monsieur, on what you have reflected?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I felt that as I had -committed no crime, Heaven could not punish me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is a prison, then," -inquired Aramis, "if it be not a punishment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas! I cannot tell," said -the young man; "all that I can tell you now is the very opposite -of what I felt seven years ago."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To hear you converse, to -witness your resignation, one might almost believe that you liked -your imprisonment?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I endure it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the certainty of -recovering your freedom some day, I suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have no certainty; hope, I -have, and that is all; and yet I acknowledge that this hope -becomes less every day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Still, why should you not -again be free, since you have already been so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is precisely the -reason," replied the young man, "which prevents me from expecting -liberty; why should I have been imprisoned at all if it had been -intended to release me afterwards?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How old are you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not know."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is your -name?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have forgotten the name by -which I was called."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who are your -parents?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I never knew them."<br> - "But those who brought you up?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They did not call me their -son."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you ever love any one -before coming here?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I loved my nurse, and my -flowers."<br> - "Was that all?"<br> - "I also loved my valet."<br> - "Do you regret your nurse and your -valet?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I wept very much when they -died."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did they die since you have -been here, or before you came?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They died the evening before -I was carried off."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Both at the same -time?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, both at the same -time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what manner were you -carried off?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A man came for me, directed -me to get into a carriage, which was closed and locked, and -brought me here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Would you be able to -recognize that man again?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He was masked."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is this not an extraordinary -tale?" said Baisemeaux, in a low tone of voice, to Aramis, who -could hardly breathe.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is indeed extraordinary," -he murmured.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But what is still more -extraordinary is, that he has never told me so much as he has -just told you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perhaps the reason may be -that you have never questioned him," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It's possible," replied -Baisemeaux; "I have no curiosity. Have you looked at the room? -it's a fine one, is it not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very much so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A carpet - "<br> - "Beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I'll wager he had nothing -like it before he came here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think so, too." And then -again turning towards the young man, he said, "Do you not -remember to have been visited at some time or another by a -strange lady or gentleman?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, indeed; thrice by a -woman, who each time came to the door in a carriage, and entered -covered with a veil, which she raised when we were together and -alone."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you remember that -woman?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "What did she say to you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young man smiled -mournfully, and then replied, "She inquired, as you have just -done, if I were happy, and if I were getting weary."<br> - "What did she do on arriving, and on leaving -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She pressed me in her arms, -held me in her embrace, and kissed me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you remember -her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you recall her features -distinctly?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You would recognize her, -then, if accident brought her before you, or led you into her -person?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A flush of fleeting -satisfaction passed across Aramis's face. At this moment -Baisemeaux heard the jailer approaching. "Shall we leave?" he -said, hastily, to Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis, who probably had -learnt all that he cared to know, replied, "When you -like."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young man saw them -prepare to leave, and saluted them politely. Baisemeaux replied -merely by a nod of the head, while Aramis, with a respect, -arising perhaps from the sight of such misfortune, saluted the -prisoner profoundly. They left the room, Baisemeaux closing the -door behind them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said Baisemeaux, as -they descended the staircase, "what do you think of it -all?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have discovered the -secret, my dear governor," he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! what is the secret, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A murder was committed in -that house."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nonsense."<br> - "But attend; the valet and nurse died the same -day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And by poison. What do you -think?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is very likely to be -true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! that that young man is -an assassin?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who said that? What makes -you think that poor young fellow could be an -assassin?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The very thing I was -saying. A crime was committed in his house," said Aramis, "and -that was quite sufficient; perhaps he saw the criminals, and it -was feared that he might say something."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The deuce! if I only thought -that - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I would redouble the -surveillance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, he does not seem to wish -to escape."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not know what -prisoners are."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Has he any -books?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "None; they are strictly -prohibited, and under M. de Mazarin's own hand."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you the writing -still?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, my lord; would you like -to look at it as you return to take your cloak?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should, for I like to look -at autographs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, this one is of -the most unquestionable authenticity; there is only one -erasure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, ah! an erasure; and in -what respect?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With respect to a figure. -At first there was written: 'To be boarded at fifty -francs.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As princes of the blood, in -fact?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But the cardinal must have -seen his mistake, you understand; for he canceled the zero, and -has added a one before the five. But, by the by - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not speak of the -resemblance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not speak of it, dear -M. de Baisemeaux, for a very simple reason - because it does not -exist."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The deuce it -doesn't."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Or, if it does exist, it is -only in your own imagination; but, supposing it were to exist -elsewhere, I think it would be better for you not to speak of -about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king, Louis XIV. - you -understand - would be excessively angry with you, if he were to -learn that you contributed in any way to spread the report that -one of his subjects has the effrontery to resemble -him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is true, quite true," -said Baisemeaux, thoroughly alarmed; "but I have not spoken of -the circumstance to any one but yourself, and you understand, -monseigneur, that I perfectly rely on your -discretion."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, be easy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you still wish to see the -note?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."<br> - While engaged in this manner in conversation, -they had returned to the governor's apartments; Baisemeaux took -from the cupboard a private register, like the one he had already -shown Aramis, but fastened by a lock, the key which opened it -being one of a small bunch which Baisemeaux always carried with -him. Then placing the book upon the table, he opened it at the -letter "M," and showed Aramis the following note in the column of -observations: "No books at any time; all linen and clothes of the -finest and best quality to be procured; no exercise; always the -same jailer; no communications with any one. Musical -instruments; every liberty and every indulgence which his welfare -may require; to be boarded at fifteen francs. M. de Baisemeaux -can claim more if the fifteen francs be not -sufficient."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah," said Baisemeaux, "now I -think of it, I shall claim it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis shut the book. "Yes," -he said, "it is indeed M. de Mazarin's handwriting; I recognize -it well. Now, my dear governor," he continued, as if this last -communication had exhausted his interest, "let us now turn over -to our own little affairs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, what time for -repayment do you wish me to take? Fix it yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There need not be any -particular period fixed; give me a simple acknowledgement for one -hundred and fifty thousand francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When to be made -payable?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When I require it; but, you -understand, I shall only wish it when you yourself -do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, I am quite easy on that -score," said Baisemeaux, smiling; "but I have already given you -two receipts."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Which I now destroy," said -Aramis; and after having shown the two receipts to Baisemeaux, he -destroyed them. Overcome by so great a mark of confidence, -Baisemeaux unhesitatingly wrote out an acknowledgement of a debt -of one hundred and fifty thousand francs, payable at the pleasure -of the prelate. Aramis, who had, by glancing over the governor's -shoulder, followed the pen as he wrote, put the acknowledgement -into his pocket without seeming to have read it, which made -Baisemeaux perfectly easy. "Now," said Aramis, "you will not be -angry with me if I were to carry off one of your -prisoners?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By obtaining his pardon, of -course. Have I not already told you that I took a great interest -in poor Seldon?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, quite true, you did -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is your affair; do as -you think proper. I see you have an open hand, and an arm that -can reach a great way."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Adieu, adieu." And Aramis -left, carrying with him the governor's best wishes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXVI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Two Friends.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>t the very time M. de Baisemeaux was -showing Aramis the prisoners in the Bastile, a carriage drew up -at Madame de Bellière's door, and, at that still early -hour, a young woman alighted, her head muffled in a silk hood. -When the servants announced Madame Vanel to Madame de -Bellière, the latter was engaged, or rather was absorbed, -in reading a letter, which she hurriedly concealed. She had -hardly finished her morning toilette, her maid being still in the -next room. At the name - at the footsteps of Marguerite Vanel, -Madame de Bellière ran to meet her. She fancied she could -detect in her friend's eyes a brightness which was neither that -of health nor of pleasure. Marguerite embraced her, pressed her -hands, and hardly allowed her time to speak. "Dearest," she -said, "have you forgotten me? Have you quite given yourself up -to the pleasures of the court?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have not even seen the -marriage <i>fêtes</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What are you doing with -yourself, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am getting ready to leave -for Bellière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For -Bellière?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are becoming rustic in -your tastes, then; I delight to see you so disposed. But you are -pale."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, I am perfectly -well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the better; I was -becoming uneasy about you. You do not know what I have been -told."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "People say so many -things."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but this is very -singular."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How well you know how to -excite curiosity, Marguerite."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I was afraid of vexing -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never; you have yourself -always admired me for my evenness of temper."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, it is said that -- no, I shall never be able to tell you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not let us talk about it, -then," said Madame de Bellière, who detected the -ill-nature that was concealed by all these prefaces, yet felt the -most anxious curiosity on the subject.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, my dear -marquise, it is said, for some time past, you no longer continue -to regret Monsieur de Bellière as you used to."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is an ill-natured report, -Marguerite. I do regret, and shall always regret, my husband; -but it is now two years since he died. I am only twenty-eight -years old, and my grief at his loss ought not always to control -every action and thought of my life. You, Marguerite, who are -the model of a wife, would not believe me if I were to say -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not? Your heart is so -soft and yielding," she said, spitefully.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yours is so, too, -Marguerite, and yet I did not perceive that you allowed yourself -to be overcome by grief when your heart was wounded." These -words were in direct allusion to Marguerite's rupture with the -superintendent, and were also a veiled but direct reproach made -against her friend's heart.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As if she only awaited this -signal to discharge her shaft, Marguerite exclaimed, "Well, -Elise, it is said you are in love." And she looked fixedly at -Madame de Bellière, who blushed against her -will.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Women can never escape -slander," replied the marquise, after a moment's -pause.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No one slanders you, -Elise."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! - people say that I am -in love, and yet they do not slander me!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the first place, if it be -true, it is no slander, but simply a scandal-loving report. In -the next place - for you did not allow me to finish what I was -saying - the public does not assert that you have abandoned -yourself to this passion. It represents you, on the contrary, as -a virtuous but loving woman, defending yourself with claws and -teeth, shutting yourself up in your own house as in a fortress; -in other respects, as impenetrable as that of Danaë, -notwithstanding Danaë's tower was made of brass."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are witty, Marguerite," -said Madame de Bellière, angrily.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You always flatter me, -Elise. In short, however, you are reported to be incorruptible -and unapproachable. You cannot decide whether the world is -calumniating you or not; but what is it you are musing about -while I am speaking to you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; you are blushing and do -not answer me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was trying," said the -marquise, raising her beautiful eyes brightened with an -indication of growing temper, "I was trying to discover to what -you could possibly have alluded, you who are so learned in -mythological subjects, in comparing me to Danaë."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You were trying to guess -that?" said Marguerite, laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; do you not remember -that at the convent, when we were solving our problems in -arithmetic - ah! what I have to tell you is learned also, but it -is my turn - do you not remember, that if one of the terms were -given, we were to find the other? Therefore do <i>you</i> guess -now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I cannot conjecture what you -mean."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet nothing is more -simple. You pretend that I am in love, do you not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So it is said."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; it is not said, I -suppose, that I am in love with an abstraction. There must -surely be a name mentioned in this report."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, a name is -mentioned."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; it is not -surprising, then, that I should try to guess this name, since you -do not tell it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear marquise, when I saw -you blush, I did not think you would have to spend much time in -conjectures."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was the word Danaë -which you used that surprised me. Danaë means a shower of -gold, does it not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is to say that the -Jupiter of Danaë changed himself into a shower of gold for -her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My lover, then, he whom you -assign me - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon; I am your -friend, and assign you no one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That may be; but those who -are ill disposed towards me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you wish to hear the -name?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have been waiting this -half hour for it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, you shall hear -it. Do not be shocked; he is a man high in power."<br> - "Good," said the marquise, as she clenched her -hands like a patient at the approach of the knife.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is a very wealthy man," -continued Marguerite; "the wealthiest, it may be. In a word, it -is - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The marquise closed her eyes -for a moment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is the Duke of -Buckingham," said Marguerite, bursting into laughter. This -perfidy had been calculated with extreme ability; the name that -was pronounced, instead of the name which the marquise awaited, -had precisely the same effect upon her as the badly sharpened -axes, that had hacked, without destroying, Messieurs de Chalais -and de Thou upon the scaffold. She recovered herself, however, -and said, "I was perfectly right in saying you were a witty -woman, for you are making the time pass away most agreeably. -This joke is a most amusing one, for I have never seen the Duke -of Buckingham."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never?" said Marguerite, -restraining her laughter.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have never even left my -own house since the duke has been at Paris."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" resumed Madame Vanel, -stretching out her foot towards a paper which was lying on the -carpet near the window; "it is not necessary for people to see -each other, since they can write." The marquise trembled, for -this paper was the envelope of the letter she was reading as her -friend had entered, and was sealed with the superintendent's -arms. As she leaned back on the sofa on which she was sitting, -Madame de Bellière covered the paper with the thick folds -of her large silk dress, and so concealed it.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, Marguerite, tell me, -is it to tell me all these foolish reports that you have come to -see me so early in the day?"<br> - "No; I came to see you, in the first place, and -to remind you of those habits of our earlier days, so delightful -to remember, when we used to wander about together at Vincennes, -and, sitting beneath an oak, or in some sylvan shade, used to -talk of those we loved, and who loved us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you propose that we -should go out together now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My carriage is here, and I -have three hours at my disposal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am not dressed yet, -Marguerite; but if you wish that we should talk together, we can, -without going to the woods of Vincennes, find in my own garden -here, beautiful trees, shady groves, a green sward covered with -daisies and violets, the perfume of which can be perceived from -where we are sitting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I regret your refusal, my -dear marquise, for I wanted to pour out my whole heart into -yours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I repeat again, Marguerite, -my heart is yours just as much in this room, or beneath the -lime-trees in the garden here, as it would be under the oaks in -the woods yonder."<br> - "It is not the same thing for me. In approaching -Vincennes, marquise, my ardent aspirations approach nearer to -that object towards which they have for some days past been -directed." The marquise suddenly raised her head. "Are you -surprised, then, that I am still thinking of -Saint-Mandé?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of Saint-Mandé?" -exclaimed Madame de Bellière; and the looks of both women -met each other like two resistless swords.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You, so proud!" said the -marquise, disdainfully.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, so proud!" replied Madame -Vanel. "Such is my nature. I do not forgive neglect - I cannot -endure infidelity. When I leave any one who weeps at my -abandonment, I feel induced still to love him; but when others -forsake me and laugh at their infidelity, I love -distractedly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame de Bellière -could not restrain an involuntary movement.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She is jealous," said -Marguerite to herself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then," continued the -marquise, "you are quite enamored of the Duke of Buckingham - I -mean of M. Fouquet?" Elise felt the allusion, and her blood -seemed to congeal in her heart. "And you wished to go to -Vincennes, - to Saint-Mandé, even?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I hardly know what I wished: -you would have advised me perhaps."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what respect?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have often done -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Most certainly I should not -have done so in the present instance, for I do not forgive as you -do. I am less loving, perhaps; when my heart has been once -wounded, it remains so always."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But M. Fouquet has not -wounded you," said Marguerite Vanel, with the most perfect -simplicity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You perfectly understand -what I mean. M. Fouquet has not wounded me; I do not know of -either obligation or injury received at his hands, but you have -reason to complain of him. You are my friend, and I am afraid I -should not advise you as you would like."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! you are prejudging the -case."<br> - "The sighs you spoke of just now are more than -indications."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You overwhelm me," said the -young woman suddenly, as if collecting her whole strength, like a -wrestler preparing for a last struggle; "you take only my evil -dispositions and my weaknesses into calculation, and do not speak -of my pure and generous feelings. If, at this moment, I feel -instinctively attracted towards the superintendent, if I even -make an advance to him, which, I confess, is very probable, my -motive for it is, that M. Fouquet's fate deeply affects me, and -because he is, in my opinion, one of the most unfortunate men -living."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said the marquise, -placing her hand upon her heart, "something new, then, has -occurred?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not know -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am utterly ignorant of -everything about him," said Madame de Bellière, with the -poignant anguish that suspends thought and speech, and even life -itself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the first place, then, -the king's favor is entirely withdrawn from M. Fouquet, and -conferred on M. Colbert."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So it is stated."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is very clear, since the -discovery of the plot of Belle-Isle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was told that the -discovery of the fortifications there had turned out to M. -Fouquet's honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Marguerite began to laugh in -so cruel a manner that Madame de Bellière could at that -moment have delightedly plunged a dagger in her bosom. -"Dearest," continued Marguerite, "there is no longer any question -of M. Fouquet's honor; his safety is concerned. Before three -days are passed the ruin of the superintendent will be -complete."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay," said the marquise, in -her turn smiling, "that is going a little fast."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I said three days, because I -wish to deceive myself with a hope; but probably the catastrophe -will be complete within twenty-four hours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For the simplest of all -reasons, - that M. Fouquet has no more money."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In matters of finance, my -dear Marguerite, some are without money to-day, who to-morrow can -procure millions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That might be M. Fouquet's -case when he had two wealthy and clever friends who amassed money -for him, and wrung it from every possible or impossible source; -but those friends are dead."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Money does not die, -Marguerite; it may be concealed, but it can be looked for, bought -and found."<br> - "You see things on the bright side, and so much -the better for your. It is really very unfortunate that you are -not the Egeria of M. Fouquet; you might now show him the source -whence he could obtain the millions which the king asked him for -yesterday."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Millions!" said the -marquise, in terror.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Four - an even number."<br> - "Infamous!" murmured Madame de Bellière, -tortured by her friend's merciless delight.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. Fouquet, I should think, -must certainly have four millions," she replied, -courageously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If he has those which the -king requires to-day," said Marguerite, "he will not, perhaps, -possess those which the king will demand in a month or -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king will exact money -from him again, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt; and that is my -reason for saying that the ruin of poor M. Fouquet is -inevitable. Pride will induce him to furnish the money, and when -he has no more, he will fall."<br> - "It is true," said the marquise, trembling; "the -plan is a bold one; but tell me, does M. Colbert hate M. Fouquet -so very much?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think he does not like -him. M. Colbert is powerful; he improves on close acquaintance; -he has gigantic ideas, a strong will, and discretion; he will -rise."<br> - "He will be superintendent?"<br> - "It is probable. Such is the reason, my dear -marquise, why I felt myself impressed in favor of that poor man, -who once loved, and even adored me; and why, when I see him so -unfortunate, I forgive his infidelity, which I have reason to -believe he also regrets; and why, moreover, I should not have -been disinclined to afford him some consolation, or some good -advice; he would have understood the step I had taken, and would -have thought kindly of me for it. It is gratifying to be loved, -you know. Men value love more highly when they are no longer -blinded by its influence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The marquise, bewildered and -overcome by these cruel attacks, which had been calculated with -the greatest nicety and precision, hardly knew what to answer in -return; she even seemed to have lost all power of thought. Her -perfidious friend's voice had assumed the most affectionate tone; -she spoke as a woman, but concealed the instincts of a -wolf.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said Madame de -Bellière, who had a vague hope that Marguerite would cease -to overwhelm a vanquished enemy, "why do you not go and see M. -Fouquet?"<br> - "Decidedly, marquise, you have made me reflect. -No, it would be unbecoming for me to make the first advance. M. -Fouquet no doubt loves me, but he is too proud. I cannot expose -myself to an affront.... besides, I have my husband to consider. -You tell me nothing? Very well, I shall consult M. Colbert on -the subject." Marguerite rose smilingly, as though to take -leave, but the marquise had not the strength to imitate her. -Marguerite advanced a few paces, in order that she might continue -to enjoy the humiliating grief in which her rival was plunged, -and then said, suddenly, - "You do not accompany me to the door, -then?" The marquise rose, pale and almost lifeless, without -thinking of the envelope, which had occupied her attention so -greatly at the commencement of the conversation, and which was -revealed at the first step she took. She then opened the door of -her oratory, and without even turning her head towards Marguerite -Vanel, entered it, closing the door after her. Marguerite said, -or rather muttered a few words, which Madame de Bellière -did not even hear. As soon, however, as the marquise had -disappeared, her envious enemy, not being able to resist the -desire to satisfy herself that her suspicions were well founded, -advanced stealthily like a panther, and seized the envelope. -"Ah!" she said, gnashing her teeth, "it was indeed a letter from -M. Fouquet she was reading when I arrived," and then darted out -of the room. During this interval, the marquise, having arrived -behind the rampart, as it were, of her door, felt that her -strength was failing her; for a moment she remained rigid, pale -and motionless as a statue, and then, like a statue shaken on its -base by an earthquake, tottered and fell inanimate on the -carpet. The noise of the fall resounded at the same moment as -the rolling of Marguerite's carriage leaving the -hotel.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXVII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Madame de Bellière's -Plate.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he blow had been the more painful on -account of its being unexpected. It was some time before the -marquise recovered herself; but once recovered, she began to -reflect upon the events so heartlessly announced to her. She -therefore returned, at the risk even of losing her life in the -way, to that train of ideas which her relentless friend had -forced her to pursue. Treason, then - deep menaces, concealed -under the semblance of public interest - such were Colbert's -maneuvers. A detestable delight at an approaching downfall, -untiring efforts to attain this object, means of seduction no -less wicked than the crime itself - such were the weapons -Marguerite employed. The crooked atoms of Descartes triumphed; -to the man without compassion was united a woman without heart. -The marquise perceived, with sorrow rather than indignation, that -the king was an accomplice in the plot which betrayed the -duplicity of Louis XIII. in his advanced age, and the avarice of -Mazarin at a period of life when he had not had the opportunity -of gorging himself with French gold. The spirit of this -courageous woman soon resumed its energy, no longer overwhelmed -by indulgence in compassionate lamentations. The marquise was -not one to weep when action was necessary, nor to waste time in -bewailing a misfortune as long as means still existed of -relieving it. For some minutes she buried her face in her cold -fingers, and then, raising her head, rang for her attendants with -a steady hand, and with a gesture betraying a fixed determination -of purpose. Her resolution was taken.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is everything prepared for -my departure?" she inquired of one of her female attendants who -entered.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame; but it was not -expected that your ladyship would leave for Bellière for -the next few days."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All my jewels and articles -of value, then, are packed up?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame; but hitherto we -have been in the habit of leaving them in Paris. Your ladyship -does not generally take your jewels with you into the -country."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But they are all in order, -you say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, in your ladyship's own -room."<br> - "The gold plate?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the chest."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the silver -plate?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the great oak -closet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The marquise remained silent -for a few moments, and then said calmly, "Let my goldsmith be -sent for."<br> - Her attendants quitted the room to execute the -order. The marquise, however, had entered her own room, and was -inspecting her casket of jewels with the greatest attention. -Never, until now, had she bestowed such close attention upon -riches in which women take so much pride; never, until now, had -she looked at her jewels, except for the purpose of making a -selection according to their settings or their colors. On this -occasion, however, she admired the size of the rubies and the -brilliancy of the diamonds; she grieved over every blemish and -every defect; she thought the gold light, and the stones -wretched. The goldsmith, as he entered, found her thus -occupied. "M. Faucheux," she said, "I believe you supplied me -with my gold service?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did, your -ladyship."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not now remember the -amount of the account."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of the new service, madame, -or of that which M. de Bellière presented to you on your -marriage? for I have furnished both."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "First of all, the new -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The covers, the goblets, and -the dishes, with their covers, the <i>eau-épergne</i>, the -ice-pails, the dishes for the preserves, and the tea and coffee -urns, cost your ladyship sixty thousand francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No more?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your ladyship thought the -account very high."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes; I remember, in -fact, that it was dear; but it was the workmanship, I -suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame; the designs, -the chasings - all new patterns."<br> - "What proportion of the cost does the workmanship -form? Do not hesitate to tell me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A third of its value, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is the other service, -the old one, that which belonged to my husband?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame; there is less -workmanship in that than in the other. Its intrinsic value does -not exceed thirty thousand francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thirty thousand," murmured -the marquise. "But, M. Faucheux, there is also the service which -belonged to my mother; all that massive plate which I did not -wish to part with, on account of the associations connected with -it."<br> - "Ah! madame, that would indeed be an excellent -resource for those who, unlike your ladyship, might not be in -position to keep their plate. In chasing that they worked in -solid metal. But that service is no longer in fashion. Its -weight is its only advantage."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is all I care about. -How much does it weigh?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fifty thousand livres at the -very least. I do not allude to the enormous vases for the -buffet, which alone weigh five thousand livres, or ten thousand -the pair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One hundred and thirty," -murmured the marquise. "You are quite sure of your figures, M. -Faucheux?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The amount is entered in my -books. Your ladyship is extremely methodical, I am -aware."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us now turn to another -subject," said Madame de Bellière; and she opened one of -her jewel-boxes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I recognize these emeralds," -said M. Faucheux; "for it was I who had the setting of them. -They are the most beautiful in the whole court. No, I am -mistaken; Madame de Châtillon has the most beautiful set; -she had them from Messieurs de Guise; but your set, madame, comes -next."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What are they -worth?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mounted?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; supposing I wished to -sell them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know very well who would -buy them," exclaimed M. Faucheux.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is the very thing I -ask. They could be sold, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All your jewels could be -sold, madame. It is well known that you possess the most -beautiful jewels in Paris. You are not changeable in your -tastes; when you make a purchase it is of the very best; and what -you purchase you do not part with."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What could these emeralds be -sold for, then?"<br> - "A hundred and thirty thousand -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The marquise wrote down upon -her tablets the amount which the jeweler mentioned. "The ruby -necklace?" she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are they balas-rubies, -madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here they are."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They are beautiful - -magnificent. I did not know your ladyship had these -stones."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is their -value?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Two hundred thousand -francs. The center one is alone worth a hundred thousand."<br> - "I thought so," said the marquise. "As for -diamonds, I have them in numbers; rings, necklaces, sprigs, -ear-rings, clasps. Tell me their value, M. Faucheux."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The jeweler took his -magnifying-glass and scales, weighed and inspected them, and -silently made his calculations. "These stones," he said, "must -have cost your ladyship an income of forty thousand -francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You value them at eight -hundred thousand francs?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nearly so."<br> - "It is about what I imagined - but the settings -are not included?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, madame; but if I were -called upon to sell or to buy, I should be satisfied with the -gold of the settings alone as my profit upon the transaction. I -should make a good twenty-five thousand francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An agreeable -sum."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very much so, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will you then accept that -profit, then, on condition of converting the jewels into -money?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But you do not intend to -sell you diamonds, I suppose, madame?" exclaimed the bewildered -jeweler.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Silence, M. Faucheux, do not -disturb yourself about that; give me an answer simply. You are -an honorable man, with whom my family has dealt for thirty years; -you knew my father and mother, whom your own father and mother -served. I address you as a friend; will you accept the gold of -the settings in return for a sum of ready money to be placed in -my hands?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Eight hundred thousand -francs! it is enormous."<br> - "I know it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible to -find."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not so."<br> - "But reflect, madame, upon the effect which will -be produced by the sale of your jewels."<br> - "No one need know it. You can get sets of false -jewels made for me, similar to the real. Do not answer a word; I -insist upon it. Sell them separately, sell the stones -only."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that way it is easy. -Monsieur is looking out for some sets of jewels as well as single -stones for Madame's toilette. There will be a competition for -them. I can easily dispose of six hundred thousand francs' worth -to Monsieur. I am certain yours are the most -beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When can you do so?"<br> - "In less than three days' time."<br> - "Very well, the remainder you will dispose of -among private individuals. For the present, make me out a -contract of sale, payment to be made in four days."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I entreat you to reflect, -madame; for if you force the sale, you will lose a hundred -thousand francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If necessary, I will lose -two hundred; I wish everything to be settled this evening. Do -you accept?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do, your ladyship. I will -not conceal from you that I shall make fifty thousand francs by -the transaction."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the better for you. -In what way shall I have the money?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Either in gold, or in bills -of the bank of Lyons, payable at M. Colbert's."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I agree," said the marquise, -eagerly; "return home and bring the sum in question in notes, as -soon as possible."<br> - "Yes, madame, but for Heaven's sake - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not a word, M. Faucheux. By -the by, I was forgetting the silver plate. What is the value of -that which I have?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fifty thousand francs, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That makes a million," said -the marquise to herself. "M. Faucheux, you will take away with -you both the gold and silver plate. I can assign, as a pretext, -that I wish it remodeled on patters more in accordance with my -own taste. Melt it down, and return me its value in money, at -once."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It shall be done, your -ladyship."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will be good enough to -place the money in a chest, and direct one of your clerks to -accompany the chest, and without my servants seeing him; and -order him to wait for me in a carriage."<br> - "In Madame de Faucheux's carriage?" said the -jeweler.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If you will allow it, and I -will call for it at your house."<br> - "Certainly, your ladyship."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will direct some of my -servants to convey the plate to your house." The marquise rung. -"Let the small van be placed at M. Faucheux's disposal," she -said. The jeweler bowed and left the house, directing that the -van should follow him closely, saying aloud, that the marquise -was about to have her plate melted down in order to have other -plate manufactured of a more modern style. Three hours -afterwards she went to M. Faucheux's house and received from him -eight hundred francs in gold inclosed in a chest, which one of -the clerks could hardly carry towards Madame Faucheux's carriage -- for Madame Faucheux kept her carriage. As the daughter of a -president of accounts, she had brought a marriage portion of -thirty thousand crowns to her husband, who was syndic of the -goldsmiths. These thirty thousand crowns had become very -fruitful during twenty years. The jeweler, though a -<i>millionaire</i>, was a modest man. He had purchased a -substantial carriage, built in 1648, ten years after the king's -birth. This carriage, or rather house upon wheels, excited the -admiration of the whole quarter in which he resided - it was -covered with allegorical paintings, and clouds scattered over -with stars. The marquise entered this somewhat extraordinary -vehicle, sitting opposite the clerk, who endeavored to put his -knees out of the way, afraid even of touching the marquise's -dress. It was the clerk, too, who told the coachman, who was -very proud of having a marquise to drive, to take the road to -Saint-Mandé.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXVIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Dowry.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>M</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>onsieur Faucheux's horses were -serviceable animals, with thickset knees and legs that had some -difficulty in moving. Like the carriage, they belonged to the -earlier part of the century. They were not as fleet as the -English horses of M. Fouquet, and consequently it took two hours -to get to Saint-Mandé. Their progress, it might be said, -was majestic. Majesty, however, precludes hurry. The marquise -stopped the carriage at the door so well known to her, although -she had seen it only once, under circumstances, it will now be -remembered, no less painful than those which brought her now to -it again. She drew a key from her pocket, and inserted it into -the lock, pushed open the door, which noiselessly yielded to her -touch, and directed the clerk to carry the chest upstairs to the -first floor. The weight of the chest was so great that the clerk -was obliged to get the coachman to assist him with it. They -placed it in a small cabinet, ante-room, or boudoir rather, -adjoining the saloon where we once saw M. Fouquet at the -marquise's feet. Madame de Bellière gave the coachman a -louis, smiled gracefully at the clerk, and dismissed them both. -She closed the door after them, and waited in the room, alone and -barricaded. There was no servant to be seen about the rooms, but -everything was prepared as though some invisible genius had -divined the wishes and desires of an expected guest. The fire -was laid, candles in the candelabra, refreshments upon the table, -books scattered about, fresh-cut flowers in the vases. One might -almost have imagined it an enchanted house.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The marquise lighted the -candles, inhaled the perfume of the flowers, sat down, and was -soon plunged in profound thought. Her deep musings, melancholy -though they were, were not untinged with a certain vague joy. -Spread out before her was a treasure, a million wrung from her -fortune as a gleaner plucks the blue corn-flower from her crown -of flowers. She conjured up the sweetest dreams. Her principal -thought, and one that took precedence of all others, was to -devise means of leaving this money for M. Fouquet without his -possibly learning from whom the gift had come. This idea, -naturally enough, was the first to present itself to her mind. -But although, on reflection, it appeared difficult to carry out, -she did not despair of success. She would then ring to summon M. -Fouquet and make her escape, happier than if, instead of having -given a million, she had herself found one. But, being there, -and having seen the boudoir so coquettishly decorated that it -might almost be said the least particle of dust had but the -moment before been removed by the servants; having observed the -drawing-room, so perfectly arranged that it might almost be said -her presence there had driven away the fairies who were its -occupants, she asked herself if the glance or gaze of those whom -she had displaced - whether spirits, fairies, elves, or human -creatures - had not already recognized her. To secure success, -it was necessary that some steps should be seriously taken, and -it was necessary also that the superintendent should comprehend -the serious position in which he was placed, in order to yield -compliance with the generous fancies of a woman; all the -fascinations of an eloquent friendship would be required to -persuade him, and, should this be insufficient, the maddening -influence of a devoted passion, which, in its resolute -determination to carry conviction, would not be turned aside. -Was not the superintendent, indeed, known for his delicacy and -dignity of feeling? Would he allow himself to accept from any -woman that of which she had stripped herself? No! He would -resist, and if any voice in the world could overcome his -resistance, it would be the voice of the woman he -loved.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Another doubt, and that a -cruel one, suggested itself to Madame de Bellière with a -sharp, acute pain, like a dagger thrust. Did he really love -her? Would that volatile mind, that inconstant heart, be likely -to be fixed for a moment, even were it to gaze upon an angel? -Was it not the same with Fouquet, notwithstanding his genius and -his uprightness of conduct, as with those conquerors on the field -of battle who shed tears when they have gained a victory? "I -must learn if it be so, and must judge of that for myself," said -the marquise. "Who can tell whether that heart, so coveted, is -not common in its impulses, and full of alloy? Who can tell if -that mind, when the touchstone is applied to it, will not be -found of a mean and vulgar character? Come, come," she said, -"this is doubting and hesitation too much - to the proof," she -said, looking at the timepiece. "It is now seven o'clock," she -said; "he must have arrived; it is the hour for signing his -papers." With a feverish impatience she rose and walked towards -the mirror, in which she smiled with a resolute smile of -devotedness; she touched the spring and drew out the handle of -the bell. Then, as if exhausted beforehand by the struggle she -had just undergone, she threw herself on her knees, in utter -abandonment, before a large couch, in which she buried her face -in her trembling hands. Ten minutes afterwards she heard the -spring of the door sound. The door moved upon invisible hinges, -and Fouquet appeared. He looked pale, and seemed bowed down by -the weight of some bitter reflection. He did not hurry, but -simply came at the summons. The preoccupation of his mind must -indeed have been very great, that a man, so devoted to pleasure, -for whom indeed pleasure meant everything, should obey such a -summons so listlessly. The previous night, in fact, fertile in -melancholy ideas, had sharpened his features, generally so noble -in their indifference of expression, and had traced dark lines of -anxiety around his eyes. Handsome and noble he still was, and -the melancholy expression of his mouth, a rare expression with -men, gave a new character to his features, by which his youth -seemed to be renewed. Dressed in black, the lace in front of his -chest much disarranged by his feverishly restless hand, the looks -of the superintendent, full of dreamy reflection, were fixed upon -the threshold of the room which he had so frequently approached -in search of expected happiness. This gloomy gentleness of -manner, this smiling sadness of expression, which had replaced -his former excessive joy, produced an indescribable effect upon -Madame de Bellière, who was regarding him at a -distance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A woman's eye can read the -face of the man she loves, its every feeling of pride, its every -expression of suffering; it might almost be said that Heaven has -graciously granted to women, on account of their very weakness, -more than it has accorded to other creatures. They can conceal -their own feelings from a man, but from them no man can conceal -his. The marquise divined in a single glace the whole weight of -the unhappiness of the superintendent. She divined a night -passed without sleep, a day passed in deceptions. From that -moment she was firm in her own strength, and she felt that she -loved Fouquet beyond everything else. She arose and approached -him, saying, "You wrote to me this morning to say you were -beginning to forget me, and that I, whom you had not seen lately, -had no doubt ceased to think of you. I have come to undeceive -you, monsieur, and the more completely so, because there is one -thing I can read in your eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is that, madame?" said -Fouquet, astonished.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you have never loved me -so much as at this moment; in the same manner you can read, in my -present step towards you, that I have not forgotten -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! madame," said Fouquet, -whose face was for a moment lighted up by a sudden gleam of joy, -"you are indeed an angel, and no man can suspect you. All he can -do is to humble himself before you and entreat -forgiveness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your forgiveness is granted, -then," said the marquise. Fouquet was about to throw himself -upon his knees. "No, no," she said, "sit here by my side. Ah! -that is an evil thought which has just crossed your -mind."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you detect it, -madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By the smile that has just -marred the expression of your countenance. Be candid, and tell -me what your thought was - no secrets between -friends."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me, then, madame, why -you have been so harsh these three or four months -past?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Harsh?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; did you not forbid me -to visit you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas!" said Madame de -Bellière, sighing, "because your visit to me was the cause -of your being visited with a great misfortune; because my house -is watched; because the same eyes that have seen you already -might see you again; because I think it less dangerous for you -that I should come here than that you should come to my house; -and, lastly, because I know you to be already unhappy enough not -to wish to increase your unhappiness further."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet started, for these -words recalled all the anxieties connected with his office of -superintendent - he who, for the last few minutes, had indulged -in all the wild aspirations of the lover. "I unhappy?" he said, -endeavoring to smile: "indeed, marquise, you will almost make me -believe I am so, judging from your own sadness. Are your -beautiful eyes raised upon me merely in pity? I was looking for -another expression from them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is not I who am sad, -monsieur; look in the mirror, there - it is yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is true I am somewhat -pale, marquise; but it is from overwork; the king yesterday -required a supply of money from me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, four millions; I am -aware of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know it?" exclaimed -Fouquet, in a tone of surprise; "how can you have learnt it? It -was after the departure of the queen, and in the presence of one -person only, that the king - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You perceive that I do know -it; is that not sufficient? Well, go on, monsieur, the money the -king has required you to supply - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You understand, marquise, -that I have been obliged to procure it, then to get it counted, -afterwards registered - altogether a long affair. Since Monsieur -de Mazarin's death, financial affairs occasion some little -fatigue and embarrassment. My administration is somewhat -overtaxed, and this is the reason why I have not slept during the -past night."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So you have the amount?" -inquired the marquise, with some anxiety.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It would indeed be strange, -marquise," replied Fouquet, cheerfully, "if a superintendent of -finances were not to have a paltry four millions in his -coffers."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, I believe you -either have, or will have them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by saying I -shall have them?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is not very long since -you were required to furnish two millions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, it seems -almost an age; but do not let us talk of money matters any -longer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, we will -continue to speak of them, for that is my only reason for coming -to see you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am at a loss to compass -your meaning," said the superintendent, whose eyes began to -express an anxious curiosity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me, monsieur, is the -office of superintendent a permanent position?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You surprise me, -marchioness, for you speak as if you had some motive or interest -in putting the question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My reason is simple enough; -I am desirous of placing some money in your hands, and naturally -I wish to know if you are certain of your post."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, marquise, I am at a -loss what to reply; I cannot conceive your meaning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Seriously, then, dear M. -Fouquet, I have certain funds which somewhat embarrass me. I am -tired of investing my money in lands, and am anxious to intrust -it to some friend who will turn it to account."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Surely it does not press," -said M. Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, it is very -pressing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, we will talk of -that by and by."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By and by will not do, for -my money is there," returned the marquise, pointing out the -coffer to the superintendent, and showing him, as she opened it, -the bundles of notes and heaps of gold. Fouquet, who had risen -from his seat at the same moment as Madame de Bellière, -remained for a moment plunged in thought; then suddenly starting -back, he turned pale, and sank down in his chair, concealing his -face in his hands. "Madame, madame," he murmured, "what opinion -can you have of me, when you make me such an offer?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of you!" returned the -marquise. "Tell me, rather, what you yourself think of the step -I have taken."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You bring me this money for -myself, and you bring it because you know me to be embarrassed. -Nay, do not deny it, for I am sure of it. Can I not read your -heart?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If you know my heart, then, -can you not see that it is my heart I offer you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have guessed rightly, -then," exclaimed Fouquet. "In truth, madame, I have never yet -given you the right to insult me in this manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Insult you," she said, -turning pale, "what singular delicacy of feeling! You tell me -you love me; in the name of that affection you wish me to -sacrifice my reputation and my honor, yet, when I offer you money -which is my own, you refuse me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame, you are at liberty -to preserve what you term your reputation and your honor. Permit -me to preserve mine. Leave me to my ruin, leave me to sink -beneath the weight of the hatreds which surround me, beneath the -faults I have committed, beneath the load, even, of my remorse, -but, for Heaven's sake, madame, do not overwhelm me with this -last infliction."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A short time since, M. -Fouquet, you were wanting in judgment; now you are wanting in -feeling."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet pressed his clenched -hand upon his breast, heaving with emotion, saying: "overwhelm -me, madame, for I have nothing to reply."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I offered you my friendship, -M. Fouquet."<br> - "Yes, madame, and you limited yourself to -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And what I am now doing is -the act of a friend."<br> - "No doubt it is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you reject this mark of -my friendship?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do reject it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur Fouquet, look at -me," said the marquise, with glistening eyes, "I now offer you my -love."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, madame," exclaimed -Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have loved you for a long -while past; women, like men, have a false delicacy at times. For -a long time past I have loved you, but would not confess it. -Well, then, you have implored this love on your knees, and I have -refused you; I was blind, as you were a little while since; but -as it was my love that you sought, it is my love I now offer -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! madame, you overwhelm me -beneath a load of happiness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will you be happy, then, if -I am yours - entirely?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It will be the supremest -happiness for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take me, then. If, however, -for your sake I sacrifice a prejudice, do you, for mine, -sacrifice a scruple."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not tempt me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not refuse -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Think seriously of what you -are proposing."<br> - "Fouquet, but one word. Let it be 'No,' and I -open this door," and she pointed to the door which led into the -streets, "and you will never see me again. Let that word be -'Yes,' and I am yours entirely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Elise! Elise! But this -coffer?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Contains my -dowry."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is your ruin," exclaimed -Fouquet, turning over the gold and papers; "there must be a -million here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, my jewels, for which I -care no longer if you do not love me, and for which, equally, I -care no longer if you love me as I love you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is too much," exclaimed -Fouquet. "I yield, I yield, even were it only to consecrate so -much devotion. I accept the dowry."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And take the woman with it," -said the marquise, throwing herself into his arms.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXIX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Le Terrain de Dieu.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>D</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>uring the progress of these events -Buckingham and De Wardes traveled in excellent companionship, and -made the journey from Paris to Calais in undisturbed harmony -together. Buckingham had hurried his departure, so that the -greater part of his <i>adieux</i> were very hastily made. His -visit to Monsieur and Madame, to the young queen, and to the -queen-dowager, had been paid collectively - a precaution on the -part of the queen-mother which saved him the distress of any -private conversation with Monsieur, and also the danger of seeing -Madame again. The carriages containing the luggage had already -been sent on beforehand, and in the evening he set off in his -traveling carriage with his attendants.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Wardes, irritated at -finding himself dragged away in so abrupt a manner by this -Englishman, had sought in his subtle mind for some means of -escaping from his fetters; but no one having rendered him any -assistance in this respect, he was absolutely obliged, therefore, -to submit to the burden of his own evil thoughts and caustic -spirit.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Such of his friends in whom -he had been able to confide, had, in their character of wits, -rallied him upon the duke's superiority. Others, less brilliant, -but more sensible, had reminded him of the king's orders -prohibiting dueling. Others, again, and they the larger number, -who, in virtue of charity, or national vanity, might have -rendered him assistance, did not care to run the risk of -incurring disgrace, and would, at the best, have informed the -ministers of a departure which might end in a massacre on a small -scale. The result was, that, after having fully deliberated upon -the matter, De Wardes packed up his luggage, took a couple of -horses, and, followed only by one servant, made his way towards -the barrier, where Buckingham's carriage was to await -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke received his -adversary as he would have done an intimate acquaintance, made -room beside him on the same seat with himself, offered him -refreshments, and spread over his knees the sable cloak that had -been thrown on the front seat. They then conversed of the court, -without alluding to Madame; of Monsieur, without speaking of -domestic affairs; of the king, without speaking of his brother's -wife; of the queen-mother, without alluding to her -daughter-in-law; of the king of England, without alluding to his -sister; of the state of the affections of either of the -travelers, without pronouncing any name that might be dangerous. -In this way the journey, which was performed by short stages, was -most agreeable, and Buckingham, almost a Frenchman from wit and -education, was delighted at having so admirably selected his -traveling companion. Elegant repasts were served, of which they -partook but lightly; trials of horses made in the beautiful -meadows that skirted the road; coursing indulged in, for -Buckingham had his greyhounds with him; and in such ways did they -pass away the pleasant time. The duke somewhat resembled the -beautiful river Seine, which folds France a thousand times in its -loving embrace, before deciding upon joining its waters with the -ocean. In quitting France, it was her recently adopted daughter -he had brought to Paris whom he chiefly regretted; his every -thought was a remembrance of her - his every memory a regret. -Therefore, whenever, now and then, despite his command over -himself, he was lost in thought, De Wardes left him entirely to -his musings. This delicacy might have touched Buckingham, and -changed his feelings towards De Wardes, if the latter, while -preserving silence, had shown a glance less full of malice, and a -smile less false. Instinctive dislikes, however, are relentless; -nothing appeases them; a few ashes may, sometimes, apparently, -extinguish them; but beneath those ashes the smothered embers -rage more furiously. Having exhausted every means of amusement -the route offered, they arrived, as we have said, at Calais -towards the end of the sixth day. The duke's attendants, since -the previous evening, had traveled in advance, and now chartered -a boat, for the purpose of joining the yacht, which had been -tacking about in sight, or bore broadside on, whenever it felt -its white wings wearied, within cannon-shot of the -jetty.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The boat was destined for the -transport of the duke's equipages from the shore to the yacht. -The horses had been embarked, having been hoisted from the boat -upon the deck in baskets, expressly made for the purpose, and -wadded in such a manner that their limbs, even in the most -violent fits of terror or impatience, were always protected by -the soft support which the sides afforded, and their coats not -even turned. Eight of these baskets, placed side by side, filled -the ship's hold. It is well known that, in short voyages horses -refuse to eat, but remain trembling all the while, with the best -of food before them, such as they would have greatly coveted on -land. By degrees, the duke's entire equipage was transported on -board the yacht; he was then informed that everything was in -readiness, and that they only waited for him, whenever he would -be disposed to embark with the French gentleman; for no one could -possibly imagine that the French gentleman would have any other -accounts to settle with his Grace other than those of -friendship. Buckingham desired the captain to be told to hold -himself in readiness, but that, as the sea was beautiful, and as -the day promised a splendid sunset, he did not intend to go on -board until nightfall, and would avail himself of the evening to -enjoy a walk on the strand. He added also, that, finding himself -in such excellent company, he had not the least desire to hasten -his embarkation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As he said this he pointed -out to those who surrounded him the magnificent spectacle which -the sky presented, of deepest azure in the horizon, the -amphitheatre of fleecy clouds ascending from the sun's disc to -the zenith, assuming the appearance of a range of snowy -mountains, whose summits were heaped one upon another. The dome -of clouds was tinged at its base with, as it were, the foam of -rubies, fading away into opal and pearly tints, in proportion as -the gaze was carried from base to summit. The sea was gilded -with the same reflection, and upon the crest of every sparkling -wave danced a point of light, like a diamond by lamplight. The -mildness of the evening, the sea breezes, so dear to -contemplative minds, setting in from the east and blowing in -delicious gusts; then, in the distance, the black outline of the -yacht with its rigging traced upon the empurpled background of -the sky - while, dotting the horizon, might be seen, here and -there, vessels with their trimmed sails, like the wings of a -seagull about to plunge; such a spectacle indeed well merited -admiration. A crowd of curious idlers followed the richly -dressed attendants, amongst whom they mistook the steward and the -secretary for the master and his friend. As for Buckingham, who -was dressed very simply, in a gray satin vest, and doublet of -violet-colored velvet, wearing his hat thrust over his eyes, and -without orders or embroidery, he was taken no more notice of than -De Wardes, who was in black, like an attorney.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke's attendants had -received directions to have a boat in readiness at the jetty -head, and to watch the embarkation of their master, without -approaching him until either he or his friend should summon them, -- "whatever may happen," he had added, laying a stress upon these -words, so that they might not be misunderstood. Having walked a -few paces upon the strand, Buckingham said to De Wardes, "I think -it is now time to take leave of each other. The tide, you -perceive, is rising; ten minutes hence it will have soaked the -sands where we are now walking in such a manner that we shall not -be able to keep our footing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I await your orders, my -lord, but - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, you mean, we are still -upon soil which is part of the king's territory."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exactly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, do you see yonder a -kind of little island surrounded by a circle of water? The pool -is increasing every minute, and the isle is gradually -disappearing. This island, indeed, belongs to Heaven, for it is -situated between two seas, and is not shown on the king's -charts. Do you observe it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but we can hardly reach -it now, without getting our feet wet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but observe that it -forms an eminence tolerably high, and that the tide rises up on -every side, leaving the top free. We shall be admirably placed -upon that little theatre. What do you think of it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall be perfectly happy -wherever I may have the honor of crossing my sword with your -lordship's."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, then, I am -distressed to be the cause of your wetting your feet, M. de -Wardes, but it is most essential you should be able to say to the -king: 'Sire, I did not fight upon your majesty's territory.' -Perhaps the distinction is somewhat subtle, but, since -Port-Royal, your nation delights in subtleties of expression. Do -not let us complain of this, however, for it makes your wit very -brilliant, and of a style peculiarly your own. If you do not -object, we will hurry ourselves, for the sea, I perceive, is -rising fast, and night is setting in."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My reason for not walking -faster was, that I did not wish to precede your Grace. Are you -still on dry land, my lord?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, at present I am. Look -yonder! My servants are afraid we shall be drowned, and have -converted the boat into a cruiser. Do you remark how curiously -it dances upon the crests of the waves? But, as it makes me feel -sea-sick, would you permit me to turn my back towards -them?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will observe, my lord, -that in turning your back to them, you will have the sun full in -your face."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, its rays are very feeble -at this hour and it will soon disappear; do not be uneasy on that -score."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As you please, my lord; it -was out of consideration for your lordship that I made the -remark."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am aware of that, M. de -Wardes, and I fully appreciate your kindness. Shall we take off -our doublets?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As you please, my -lord."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not hesitate to tell me, -M. de Wardes, if you do not feel comfortable upon the wet sand, -or if you think yourself a little too close to French territory. -We could fight in England, or even upon my yacht."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We are exceedingly well -placed here, my lord; only I have the honor to remark that, as -the sea is rising fast, we have hardly time - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Buckingham made a sign of -assent, took off his doublet and threw it on the ground, a -proceeding which De Wardes imitated. Both their bodies, which -seemed like phantoms to those who were looking at them from the -shore, were thrown strongly into relief by a dark red -violet-colored shadow with which the sky became -overspread.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my word, your Grace," -said De Wardes, "we shall hardly have time to begin. Do you not -perceive how our feet are sinking into the sand?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have sunk up to the -ankles," said Buckingham, "without reckoning that the water is -even now breaking in upon us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It has already reached me. -As soon as you please, therefore, your Grace," said De Wardes, -who drew his sword, a movement imitated by the duke.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Wardes," said -Buckingham, "one final word. I am about to fight you because I -do not like you, - because you have wounded me in ridiculing a -certain devotional regard I have entertained, and one which I -acknowledge that, at this moment, I still retain, and for which I -would very willingly die. You are a bad and heartless man, M. de -Wardes, and I will do my very utmost to take your life; for I -feel assured that, if you survive this engagement, you will, in -the future, work great mischief towards my friends. That is all -I have to remark, M. de Wardes," concluded Buckingham as he -saluted him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I, my lord, have only -this to reply to you: I have not disliked you hitherto, but, -since you give me such a character, I hate you, and will do all I -possibly can to kill you;" and De Wardes saluted -Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Their swords crossed at the -same moment, like two flashes of lightning on a dark night. The -swords seemed to seek each other, guessed their position, and -met. Both were practiced swordsmen, and the earlier passes were -without any result. The night was fast closing in, and it was so -dark that they attacked and defended themselves almost -instinctively. Suddenly De Wardes felt his word arrested, - he -had just touched Buckingham's shoulder. The duke's sword sunk, -as his arm was lowered.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are wounded, my lord," -said De Wardes, drawing back a step or two.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur, but only -slightly."<br> - "Yet you quitted your guard."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Only from the first effect -of the cold steel, but I have recovered. Let us go on, if you -please." And disengaging his sword with a sinister clashing of -the blade, the duke wounded the marquis in the breast.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A hit?" he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," cried De Wardes, not -moving from his place.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon, but -observing that your shirt was stained - " said -Buckingham.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said De Wardes -furiously, "it is now your turn."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And with a terrible lunge, he -pierced Buckingham's arm, the sword passing between the two -bones. Buckingham feeling his right arm paralyzed, stretched out -his left, seized his sword, which was about falling from his -nerveless grasp, and before De Wardes could resume his guard, he -thrust him through the breast. De Wardes tottered, his knees -gave way beneath him, and leaving his sword still fixed in the -duke's arm, he fell into the water, which was soon crimsoned with -a more genuine reflection than that which it had borrowed from -the clouds. De Wardes was not dead; he felt the terrible danger -that menaced him, for the sea rose fast. The duke, too, -perceived the danger. With an effort and an exclamation of pain -he tore out the blade which remained in his arm, and turning -towards De Wardes said, "Are you dead, marquis?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," replied De Wardes, in a -voice choked by the blood which rushed from his lungs to his -throat, "but very near it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, what is to be done; -can you walk?" said Buckingham, supporting him on his -knee.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible," he replied. -Then falling down again, said, "call to your people, or I shall -be drowned."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Halloa! boat there! quick, -quick!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The boat flew over the waves, -but the sea rose faster than the boat could approach. Buckingham -saw that De Wardes was on the point of being again covered by a -wave; he passed his left arm, safe and unwounded, round his body -and raised him up. The wave ascended to his waist, but did not -move him. The duke immediately began to carry his late -antagonist towards the shore. He had hardly gone ten paces, when -a second wave, rushing onwards higher, more furious and menacing -than the former, struck him at the height of his chest, threw him -over and buried him beneath the water. At the reflux, however, -the duke and De Wardes were discovered lying on the strand. De -Wardes had fainted. At this moment four of the duke's sailors, -who comprehended the danger, threw themselves into the sea, and -in a moment were close beside him. Their terror was extreme when -they observed how their master became covered with blood, in -proportion to the water, with which it was impregnated, flowed -towards his knees and feet; they wished to carry him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," exclaimed the duke, -"take the marquis on shore first."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Death to the Frenchman!" -cried the English sullenly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Wretched knaves!" exclaimed -the duke, drawing himself up with a haughty gesture, which -sprinkled them with blood, "obey directly! M. de Wardes on -shore! M. de Wardes's safety to be looked to first, or I will -have you all hanged!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The boat had by this time -reached them; the secretary and steward leaped into the sea, and -approached the marquis, who no longer showed any sign of -life.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I commit him to your care, -as you value your lives," said the duke. "Take M. de Wardes on -shore." They took him in their arms, and carried him to the dry -sand, where the tide never rose so high. A few idlers and five -or six fishermen had gathered on the shore, attracted by the -strange spectacle of two men fighting with the water up to their -knees. The fishermen, observing a group of men approaching -carrying a wounded man, entered the sea until the water was up to -their waists. The English transferred the wounded man to them, -at the very moment the latter began to open his eyes again. The -salt water and the fine sand had got into his wounds, and caused -him the acutest pain. The duke's secretary drew out a purse -filled with gold from his pocket, and handed it to the one among -those present who appeared of most importance, saying: "From my -master, his Grace the Duke of Buckingham, in order that every -possible care may be taken of the Marquis de Wardes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Then, followed by those who -had accompanied him, he returned to the boat, which Buckingham -had been enabled to reach with the greatest difficulty, but only -after he had seen De Wardes out of danger. By this time it was -high tide; embroidered coats, and silk sashes were lost; many -hats, too, had been carried away by the waves. The flow of the -tide had borne the duke's and De Wardes's clothes to the shore, -and De Wardes was wrapped in the duke's doublet, under the belief -that it was his own, when the fishermen carried him in their arms -towards the town.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Threefold Love.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>s soon as Buckingham departed, Guiche -imagined the coast would be perfectly clear for him without any -interference. Monsieur, who no longer retained the slightest -feeling of jealousy, and who, besides, permitted himself to be -monopolized by the Chevalier de Lorraine, allowed as much liberty -and freedom in his house as the most exacting could desire. The -king, on his side, who had conceived a strong predilection for -his sister-in-law's society, invented a variety of amusements, in -quick succession to each other, in order to render her residence -in Paris as cheerful as possible, so that in fact, not a day -passed without a ball at the Palais Royal, or a reception in -Monsieur's apartments. The king had directed that Fontainebleau -should be prepared for the reception of the court, and every one -was using his utmost interest to get invited. Madame led a life -of incessant occupation; neither her voice nor her pen were idle -for a moment. The conversations with De Guiche were gradually -assuming a tone of interest which might unmistakably be -recognized as the prelude of a deep-seated attachment. When eyes -look languishingly while the subject under discussion happens to -be colors of materials for dresses; when a whole hour is occupied -in analyzing the merits and the perfume of a <i>sachet</i> or a -flower; - there are words in this style of conversation which -every one might listen to, but there are gestures and sighs that -every one cannot perceive. After Madame had talked for some time -with De Guiche, she conversed with the king, who paid her a visit -regularly every day. They played, wrote verses, or selected -mottoes or emblematical devices; this spring was not only the -Maytide of nature, it was the youth of an entire people, of which -those at court were the head. The king was handsome, young, and -of unequaled gallantry. All women were passionately loved by -him, even the queen, his wife. This mighty monarch was, however, -more timid and more reserved than any other person in the -kingdom, to such a degree, indeed, that he did not confess his -sentiments even to himself. This timidity of bearing restrained -him within the limits of ordinary politeness, and no woman could -boast of having any preference shown her beyond that shown to -others. It might be foretold that the day when his real -character would be displayed would be the dawn of a new -sovereignty; but as yet he had not declared himself. M. de -Guiche took advantage of this, and constituted himself the -sovereign prince of the whole laughter-loving court. It had been -reported that he was on the best of terms with Mademoiselle de -Montalais; that he had been assiduously attentive to Mademoiselle -de Châtillon; but now he was not even barely civil to any -of the court beauties. He had eyes and ears for one person -alone. In this manner, and, as it were, without design, he -devoted himself to Monsieur, who had a great regard for him, and -kept him as much as possible in his own apartments. Unsociable -from natural disposition, he had estranged himself too much -previous to the arrival of Madame, but, after her arrival, he did -not estrange himself sufficiently. This conduct, which every one -had observed, had been particularly remarked by the evil genius -of the house, the Chevalier de Lorraine, for whom Monsieur -exhibited the warmest attachment because he was of a very -cheerful disposition, even in his remarks most full of malice, -and because he was never at a loss how to wile the time away. -The Chevalier de Lorraine, therefore, having noticed that he was -threatened with being supplanted by De Guiche, resorted to strong -measures. He disappeared from the court, leaving Monsieur much -embarrassed. The first day of his absence, Monsieur hardly -inquired about him, for he had De Guiche with him, and, except -that the time given to conversation with Madame, his days and -nights were rigorously devoted to the prince. On the second day, -however, Monsieur, finding no one near him, inquired where the -chevalier was. He was told that no one knew.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche, after having spent -the morning in selecting embroideries and fringes with Madame, -went to console the prince. But after dinner, as there were some -amethysts to be looked at, De Guiche returned to Madame's -cabinet. Monsieur was left quite to himself during the time -devoted to dressing and decorating himself; he felt that he was -the most miserable of men, and again inquired whether there was -any news of the chevalier, in reply to which he was told that no -one could tell where the chevalier was to be found. Monsieur, -hardly knowing in what direction to inflict his weariness, went -to Madame's apartments dressed in his morning-gown. He found a -large assemblage of people there, laughing and whispering in -every part of the room; at one end, a group of women around one -of the courtiers, talking together, amid smothered bursts of -laughter; at the other end, Manicamp and Malicorne were being -pillaged at cards by Montalais and Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente, while two others were standing by, laughing. In -another part were Madame, seated upon some cushions on the floor, -and De Guiche, on his knees beside her, spreading out a handful -of pearls and precious stones, while the princess, with her white -and slender fingers pointed out such among them as pleased her -the most. Again, in another corner of the room, a guitar player -was playing some of the Spanish seguedillas, to which Madame had -taken the greatest fancy ever since she had heard them sung by -the young queen with a melancholy expression of voice. But the -songs which the Spanish princess had sung with tears in her eyes, -the young Englishwoman was humming with a smile that well -displayed her beautiful teeth. The cabinet presented, in fact, -the most perfect representation of unrestrained pleasure and -amusement. As he entered, Monsieur was struck at beholding so -many persons enjoying themselves without him. He was so jealous -at the sight that he could not resist exclaiming, like a child, -"What! you are amusing yourselves here, while I am sick and tired -of being alone!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The sound of his voice was -like a clap of thunder coming to interrupt the warbling of birds -under the leafy covert of the trees; a dead silence ensued. De -Guiche was on his feet in a moment. Malicorne tried to hide -himself behind Montalais. Manicamp stood bolt upright, and -assumed a very ceremonious demeanor. The guitar player thrust -his instrument under a table, covering it with a piece of carpet -to conceal it from the prince's observation. Madame was the only -one who did not move, and smiling at her husband, said, "Is not -this the hour you usually devote to your toilette?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An hour which others select, -it seems, for amusing themselves," replied the prince, -grumblingly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> This untoward remark was the -signal for a general rout; the women fled like a flock of -terrified starlings; the guitar player vanished like a shadow; -Malicorne, still protected by Montalais, who purposely widened -out her dress, glided behind the hanging tapestry. As for -Manicamp, he went to the assistance of De Guiche, who naturally -remained near Madame, and both of them, with the princess -herself, courageously sustained the attack. The count was too -happy to bear malice against the husband; but Monsieur bore a -grudge against his wife. Nothing was wanting but a quarrel; he -sought it. And the hurried departure of the crowd, which had -been so joyous before he arrived, and was so disturbed by his -entrance, furnished him with a pretext.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why do they run away at the -very sight of me?" he inquired, in a supercilious tone; to which -remark Madame replied, that, "whenever the master of the house -made his appearance, the family kept aloof out of respect." As -she said this, she made so funny and so pretty a grimace, that De -Guiche and Manicamp could not control themselves; they burst into -a peal of laugher; Madame followed their example, and even -Monsieur himself could not resist it, and he was obliged to sit -down, as, for laughing, he could scarcely keep his equilibrium. -However, he very soon left off, but his anger had increased. He -was still more furious because he had permitted himself to laugh, -than from having seen others laugh. He looked at Manicamp -steadily, not venturing to show his anger towards De Guiche; but, -at a sign which displayed no little amount of annoyance, Manicamp -and De Guiche left the room, so that Madame, left alone, began -sadly to pick up her pearls and amethysts, no longer smiling, and -speaking still less.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am very happy," said the -duke, "to find myself treated as a stranger here, Madame," and he -left the room in a passion. On his way out, he met Montalais, -who was in attendance in the ante-room. "It is very agreeable to -pay you a visit here, but outside the door."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Montalais made a very low -obeisance. "I do not quite understand what your royal highness -does me the honor to say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I say that when you are all -laughing together in Madame's apartment, he is an unwelcome -visitor who does not remain outside."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your royal highness does not -think, and does not speak so, of yourself?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, it is on my -own account that I do speak and think. I have no reason, -certainly, to flatter myself about the reception I meet with here -at any time. How is it that, on the very day there is music and -a little society in Madame's apartments - in my own apartments, -indeed, for they are mine - on the very day that I wish to amuse -myself a little in my turn, every one runs away? Are they afraid -to see me, that they all take wing as soon as I appear? Is there -anything wrong, then, going on in my absence?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet nothing has been done -to-day, monseigneur, which is not done every day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! do they laugh like -that every day?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, yes, monseigneur."<br> - "The same group of people simpering and the same -singing and strumming going on every day?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The guitar, monseigneur, was -introduced to-day; but when we have no guitars, we have violins -and flutes; ladies soon weary without music."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The deuce! - and the -men?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What men, -monseigneur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Guiche, M. de -Manicamp, and the rest of them?"<br> - "They all belong to your highness's -household."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, you are right," -said the prince, as he returned to his own apartments, full of -thought. He threw himself into the largest of his arm-chairs, -without looking at himself in the glass. "Where can the -chevalier be?" said he. One of the prince's attendants happened -to be near him, overheard his remark, and replied, -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No one knows, your -highness."<br> - "Still the same answer. The first one who -answers me again, 'I do not know,' I will discharge." Every one -at this remark hurried out of his apartments, in the same manner -as the others had fled from Madame's apartments. The prince then -flew into the wildest rage. He kicked over a chiffonier, which -tumbled on the carpet, broken into pieces. He next went into the -galleries, and with the greatest coolness threw down, one after -another, an enameled vase, a porphyry ewer, and a bronze -candelabrum. The noise summoned every one to the various -doors.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is your highness's -pleasure?" said the captain of the guards, timidly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am treating myself to some -music," replied the prince, gnashing his teeth.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The captain of the guards -desired his royal highness's physician to be sent for. But -before he came, Malicorne arrived, saying to the prince, -"Monseigneur, the Chevalier de Lorraine is here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke looked at Malicorne, -and smiled graciously at him, just as the chevalier -entered.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XXXI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>M. de Lorraine's -Jealousy.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he Duc d'Orléans uttered a cry -of delight on perceiving the Chevalier de Lorraine. "This is -fortunate, indeed," he said; "by what happy chance do I see you? -Had you indeed disappeared, as every one assured me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A caprice?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I to venture upon caprices -with your highness! The respect - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Put respect out of the way, -for you fail in it every day. I absolve you; but why did you -leave me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I felt that I was of -no further use to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Explain -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness has people -about you who are far more amusing that <i>I</i> can ever be. I -felt I was not strong enough to enter into contest with them, and -I therefore withdrew."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This extreme diffidence -shows a want of common sense. Who are those with whom you cannot -contend? De Guiche?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I name no one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is absurd. Does De -Guiche annoy you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not say he does; do not -force me to speak, however; you know very well that De Guiche is -one of our best friends."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who is it, then?"<br> - "Excuse me, monseigneur, let us say no more about -it." The chevalier knew perfectly well that curiosity is excited -in the same way as thirst - by removing that which quenches it; -or in other words, by denying an explanation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," said the prince; "I -wish to know why you went away."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, monseigneur, I -will tell you; but do not get angry. I remarked that my presence -was disagreeable."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To whom?"<br> - "To Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean?" said the -duke in astonishment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is simple enough; Madame -is very probably jealous of the regard you are good enough to -testify for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Has she shown it to -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame never addresses a -syllable to me, particularly since a certain time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since <i>what</i> -time?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since the time when, M. de -Guiche having made himself more agreeable to her than I could, -she receives him at every and any hour."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke colored. "At any -hour, chevalier; what do you mean by that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see, your highness, I -have already displeased you; I was quite sure I -should."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am not displeased; but -what you say is rather startling. In what respect does Madame -prefer De Guiche to you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I shall say no more," said -the chevalier, saluting the prince ceremoniously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, I require -you to speak. If you withdraw on that account, you must indeed -be very jealous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One cannot help being -jealous, monseigneur, when one loves. Is not your royal highness -jealous of Madame? Would you not, if you saw some one always -near Madame, and always treated with great favor, take umbrage at -it? One's friends are as one's lovers. Your highness has -sometimes conferred the distinguished honor upon me of calling me -your friend."<br> - "Yes, yes,; but you used a phrase which has a -very equivocal significance; you are unfortunate in your -phrases."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What phrase, -monseigneur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You said, 'treated with -great favor.' What do you mean by favor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing can be more simple," -said the chevalier, with an expression of great frankness; "for -instance, whenever a husband remarks that his wife summons such -and such a man near her; whenever this man is always to be found -by her side, or in attendance at the door of her carriage; -whenever the bouquet of the one is always the same color as the -ribbons of the other; when music and supper parties are held in -private apartments; whenever a dead silence takes place -immediately the husband makes his appearance in his wife's rooms; -and when the husband suddenly finds that he has, as a companion, -the most devoted and the kindest of men, who, a week before, was -with him as little as possible; why, then - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, finish."<br> - "Why, then, I say, monseigneur, one possibly may -get jealous. But all these details hardly apply; for our -conversation had nothing to do with them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke was evidently very -much agitated, and seemed to struggle with himself a good deal. -"You have not told me," he then remarked, "why you absented -yourself. A little while ago you said it was from a fear of -intruding; you added, even, that you had observed a disposition -on Madame's part to encourage De Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pardon me, monseigneur, I -did not say that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You did, indeed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, if I did say so, I -observed nothing but what was very inoffensive."<br> - "At all events, you remarked -something."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You embarrass me, -monseigneur."<br> - "What does that matter? Answer me. If you speak -the truth, why should you feel embarrassed?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I always speak the truth, -monseigneur; but I also always hesitate when it is a question of -repeating what others say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! repeat? It appears that -it is talked about, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I acknowledge that others -have spoken to me on the subject."<br> - "Who?" said the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The chevalier assumed almost -an angry air, as he replied, "Monseigneur, you are subjecting me -to cross-examination; you treat me as a criminal at the bar; the -rumors which idly pass by a gentleman's ears do not remain -there. Your highness wishes me to magnify rumors until it -attains the importance of an event."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "However," said the duke, in -great displeasure, "the fact remains that you withdrew on account -of this report."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To speak the truth, others -have talked to me of the attentions of M. de Guiche to Madame, -nothing more; perfectly harmless, I repeat, and more than that, -allowable. But do not be unjust, monseigneur, and do not attach -any undue importance to it. It does not concern you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Guiche's attentions to -Madame do not concern me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, monseigneur; and what I -say to you I would say to De Guiche himself, so little do I think -of the attentions he pays Madame. Nay, I would say it even to -Madame herself. Only you understand what I am afraid of - I am -afraid of being thought jealous of the favor shown, when I am -only jealous as far as friendship is concerned. I know your -disposition; I know that when you bestow your affections you -become exclusively attached. You love Madame - and who, indeed, -would <i>not</i> love her? Follow me attentively as I proceed: - -Madame has noticed among your friends the handsomest and most -fascinating of them all; she will begin to influence you on his -behalf in such a way that you will neglect the others. Your -indifference would kill me; it is already bad enough to have to -support Madame's indifference. I have, therefore, made up my -mind to give way to the favorite whose happiness I envy, even -while I acknowledge my sincere friendship and sincere admiration -for him. Well, monseigneur, do you see anything to object to in -this reasoning? Is it not that of a man of honor? Is my conduct -that of a sincere friend? Answer me, at least, after having so -closely questioned me."<br> - The duke had seated himself, with his head buried -in his hands. After a silence long enough to enable the -chevalier to judge the effect of this oratorical display, the -duke arose, saying, "Come, be candid."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As I always am."<br> - "Very well. You know that we already observed -something respecting that mad fellow, Buckingham."<br> - "Do not say anything against Madame, monseigneur, -or I shall take my leave. It is impossible you can be suspicious -of Madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, chevalier; I do not -suspect Madame; but in fact, I observe - I compare - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Buckingham was a madman, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A madman about whom, -however, you opened my eyes thoroughly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," said the chevalier, -quickly; "it was not I who opened your eyes, it was De Guiche. -Do not confound us, I beg." And he began to laugh in so harsh a -manner that it sounded like the hiss of a serpent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes; I remember. You -said a few words, but De Guiche showed the most -jealousy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should think so," -continued the chevalier, in the same tone. "He was fighting for -home and altar."<br> - "What did you say?" said the duke, haughtily, -thoroughly roused by this insidious jest.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Am I not right? for does not -M. de Guiche hold the chief post of honor in your household?"<br> - "Well," replied the duke, somewhat calmed, "had -this passion of Buckingham been remarked?"<br> - "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well. Do people say -that M. de Guiche's is remarked as much?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pardon me, monseigneur; you -are again mistaken; no one says that M. de Guiche entertains -anything of the sort."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see, monseigneur, that -it would have been better, a hundred times better, to have left -me in my retirement, than to have allowed you to conjure up, by -aid of any scruples I may have had, suspicions which Madame will -regard as crimes, and she would be in the right, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What would you -do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Act reasonably."<br> - "In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should not pay the -slightest attention to the society of these new Epicurean -philosophers; and, in that way, the rumors will -cease."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I will see; I will -think it over."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, you have time enough; -the danger is not great; and then, besides, it is not a question -of danger or of passion. It all arose from a fear I had to see -your friendship for me decrease. From the very moment you -restore it, with so kind an assurance of its existence, I have no -longer any other idea in my head."<br> - The duke shook his head as if he meant to say: -"If you have no more ideas, I have, though." It being now the -dinner hour, the prince sent to inform Madame of it; but she -returned a message to the effect that she could not be present, -but would dine in her own apartment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is not my fault," said -the duke. "This morning, having taken them by surprise in the -midst of a musical party, I got jealous; and so they are in the -sulks with me."<br> - "We will dine alone," said the chevalier, with a -sigh; "I regret De Guiche is not here."<br> - "Oh! De Guiche will not remain long in the -sulks; he is a very good-natured fellow."<br> - "Monseigneur," said the chevalier, suddenly, "an -excellent idea has struck me, in our conversation just now. I -may have exasperated your highness, and caused you some -dissatisfaction. It is but fitting that I should be the -mediator. I will go and look for the count, and bring him back -with me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! chevalier, you are -really a very good-natured fellow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You say that as if you were -surprised."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, you are not so -tender-hearted every day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That may be; but confess -that I know how to repair a wrong I may have done."<br> - "I confess that."<br> - "Will your highness do me the favor to wait here -a few minutes?"<br> - "Willingly; be off, and I will try on my -Fontainebleau costume."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The chevalier left the room, -called his different attendant with the greatest care, as if he -were giving them different orders. All went off in various -directions; but he retained his <i>valet de chambre</i>. -"Ascertain, and immediately, too, of M. de Guiche is not in -Madame's apartments. How can one learn it?"<br> - "Very easily, monsieur. I will ask Malicorne, -who will find out from Mlle. de Montalais. I may as well tell -you, however, that the inquiry will be useless; for all M. de -Guiche's attendants are gone, and he must have left with -them."<br> - "Ascertain, nevertheless."<br> - Ten minutes had hardly passed, when the valet -returned. He beckoned his master mysteriously towards the -servants' staircase, and showed him into a small room with a -window looking out upon the garden. "What is the matter?" said -the chevalier; "why so many precautions?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Look, monsieur," said the -valet, "look yonder, under the walnut-tree."<br> - "Ah?" said the chevalier. "I see Manicamp -there. What is he waiting for?"<br> - "You will see in a moment, monsieur, if you wait -patiently. There, do you see now?"<br> - "I see one, two, four musicians with their -instruments, and behind them, urging them on, De Guiche himself. -What is he doing there, though?"<br> - "He is waiting until the little door of the -staircase, belonging to the ladies of honor, is opened; by that -staircase he will ascend to Madame's apartments, where some new -pieces of music are going to be performed during dinner."<br> - "This is admirable news you tell me."<br> - "Is it not, monsieur?"<br> - "Was it M. de Malicorne who told you -this?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, monsieur."<br> - "He likes you, then?"<br> - "No, monsieur, it is Monsieur that he likes."<br> - "Why?"<br> - "Because he wishes to belong to his -household."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoBodyText"> "And most certainly he -shall. How much did he give you for that?"<br> - "The secret which I now dispose of to you, -monsieur."<br> - "And which I buy for a hundred pistoles. Take -them."<br> - "Thank you, monsieur. Look, look, the little -door opens; a woman admits the musicians."<br> - "It is Montalais."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush, monseigneur; do not -call out her name; whoever says Montalais says Malicorne. If you -quarrel with the one, you will be on bad terms with the -other."<br> - "Very well; I have seen nothing."<br> - "And I," said the valet, pocketing the purse, -"have received nothing."<br> - The chevalier, being now certain that Guiche had -entered, returned to the prince, whom he found splendidly dressed -and radiant with joy, as with good looks. "I am told," he -exclaimed, "that the king has taken the sun as his device; -really, monseigneur, it is you whom this device would best -suit."<br> - "Where is De Guiche?"<br> - "He cannot be found. He has fled - has -evaporated entirely. Your scolding of this morning terrified -him. He could not be found in his apartments."<br> - "Bah! the hair-brained fellow is capable of -setting off post-haste to his own estates. Poor man! we will -recall him. Come, let us dine now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur, to-day is a -very festival of ideas; I have another."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?"<br> - "Madame is angry with you, and she has reason to -be so. You owe her revenge; go and dine with her."<br> - "Oh! that would be acting like a weak and -whimsical husband."<br> - "It is the duty of a good husband to do so. The -princess is no doubt wearied enough; she will be weeping in her -plate, and here eyes will get quite red. A husband who is the -cause of his wife's eyes getting red is an odious creature. -Come, monseigneur, come."<br> - "I cannot; for I have directed dinner to be -served here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet see, monseigneur, how -dull we shall be; I shall be low-spirited because I know that -Madame will be alone; you, hard and savage as you wish to appear, -will be sighing all the while. Take me with you to Madame's -dinner, and that will be a delightful surprise. I am sure we -shall be very merry; you were in the wrong this -morning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, perhaps I was."<br> - "There is no perhaps at all, for it is a fact you -were so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Chevalier, chevalier, your -advice is not good."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, my advice is good; all -the advantages are on your own side. Your violet-colored suit, -embroidered with gold, becomes you admirably. Madame will be as -much vanquished by the man as by the action. Come, -monseigneur."<br> - "You decide me; let us go."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The duke left his room, -accompanied by the chevalier and went towards Madame's -apartments. The chevalier hastily whispered to the valet, "Be -sure there are some people before that little door, so that no -one can escape in that direction. Run, run!" And he followed -the duke towards the ante-chambers of Madame's suite of -apartments, and when the ushers were about to announce them, the -chevalier said, laughing, "His highness wishes to surprise -Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Monsieur is Jealous of -Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>M</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>onsieur entered the room abruptly, as persons -do who mean well and think they confer pleasure, or as those who -hope to surprise some secret, the terrible reward of jealous -people. Madame, almost out of her senses with joy at the first -bars of music, was dancing in the most unrestrained manner, -leaving the dinner, which had been already begun, unfinished. -Her partner was M. de Guiche, who, with his arms raised, and his -eyes half closed, was kneeling on one knee, like the Spanish -dancers, with looks full of passion, and gestures of the most -caressing character. The princess was dancing round him with a -responsive smile, and the same air of alluring seductiveness. -Montalais stood by admiringly; La Vallière, seated in a -corner of the room, looked on thoughtfully. It is impossible to -describe the effect which the presence of the prince produced -upon this gleeful company, and it would be equally impossible to -describe the effect which the sight of their happiness produced -upon Philip. The Comte de Guiche had no power to move; Madame -remained in the middle of one of the figures and of an attitude, -unable to utter a word. The Chevalier de Lorraine, leaning his -back against the doorway, smiled like a man in the very height of -the frankest admiration. The pallor of the prince, and the -convulsive twitching of his hands and limbs, were the first -symptoms that struck those present. A dead silence succeeded the -merry music of the dance. The Chevalier de Lorraine took -advantage of this interval to salute Madame and De Guiche most -respectfully, affecting to join them together in his reverences -as though they were the master and mistress of the house. -Monsieur then approached them, saying, in a hoarse tone of voice, -"I am delighted; I came here expecting to find you ill and -low-spirited, and I find you abandoning yourself to new -amusements; really, it is most fortunate. My house is the -pleasantest in the kingdom." Then turning towards De Guiche, -"Comte," he said, "I did not know you were so good a dancer." -And, again addressing his wife, he said, "Show a little more -consideration for me, Madame; whenever you intend to amuse -yourselves here, invite me. I am a prince, unfortunately, very -much neglected."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Guiche had now recovered his -self-possession, and with the spirited boldness which was natural -to him, and sat so well upon him, he said, "Your highness knows -very well that my very life is at your service, and whenever -there is a question of its being needed, I am ready; but to-day, -as it is only a question of dancing to music, I -dance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are perfectly -right," said the prince, coldly. "But, Madame," he continued, -"you do not remark that your ladies deprive me of my friends; M. -de Guiche does not belong to you, Madame, but to me. If you wish -to dine without me you have your ladies. When I dine alone I -have my gentlemen; do not strip me of -<i>everything</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame felt the reproach and -the lesson, and the color rushed to her face. "Monsieur," she -replied, "I was not aware, when I came to the court of France, -that princesses of my rank were to be regarded as the women in -Turkey are. I was not aware that we were not allowed to be seen; -but, since such is your desire, I will conform myself to it; pray -do not hesitate, if you should wish it, to have my windows -barred, even."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> This repartee, which made -Montalais and De Guiche smile, rekindled the prince's anger, no -inconsiderable portion of which had already evaporated in -words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," he said, in a -concentrated tone of voice, "this is the way in which I am -respected in my own house."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur, monseigneur," -murmured the chevalier in the duke's ear, in such a manner that -every one could observe he was endeavoring to calm -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come," replied the prince, -as his only answer to the remark, hurrying him away, and turning -round with so hasty a movement that he almost ran against -Madame. The chevalier followed him to his own apartment, where -the prince had no sooner seated himself than he gave free vent to -his fury. The chevalier raised his eyes towards the ceiling, -joined his hands together, and said not a word.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Give me your opinion," -exclaimed the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon what is taking place -here."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, monseigneur, it is a -very serious matter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is abominable! I cannot -live in this manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How miserable all this is," -said the chevalier. "We hoped to enjoy tranquillity after that -madman Buckingham had left."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And this is worse."<br> - "I do not say that, monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but I say it; for -Buckingham would never have ventured upon a fourth part of what -we have just now seen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To conceal oneself for the -purposes of dancing, and to feign indisposition in order to dine -<i>tête-à-tête</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes," exclaimed the -prince, exciting himself like a self-willed child; "but I will -not endure it any longer, I must learn what is really going -on."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, monseigneur, an exposure -- "<br> - "By Heaven, monsieur, <i>shall</i> I put myself -out of the way, when people show so little consideration for me? -Wait for me here, chevalier, wait for me here." The prince -disappeared in the neighboring apartment and inquired of the -gentleman in attendance if the queen-mother had returned from -chapel.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria felt that her -happiness was now complete; peace restored to her family, a -nation delighted with the presence of a young monarch who had -shown an aptitude for affairs of great importance; the revenues -of the state increased; external peace assured; everything seemed -to promise a tranquil future. Her thoughts recurred, now and -then, to the poor young nobleman whom she had received as a -mother, and had driven away as a hard-hearted step-mother, and -she sighed as she thought of him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Suddenly the Duc -d'Orléans entered her room. "Dear mother," he exclaimed -hurriedly, closing the door, "things cannot go on as they are -now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria raised her -beautiful eyes towards him, and with an unmoved suavity of -manner, said, "What do you allude to?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I wish to speak of -Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your wife?"<br> - "Yes, madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I suppose that silly fellow -Buckingham has been writing a farewell letter to her."<br> - "Oh! yes, madame; of course, it is a question of -Buckingham."<br> - "Of whom else could it be, then? for that poor -fellow was, wrongly enough, the object of your jealousy, and I -thought - "<br> - "My wife, madame, has already replaced the Duke -of Buckingham."<br> - "Philip, what are you saying? You are speaking -very heedlessly."<br> - "No, no. Madame has so managed matters, that I -am still jealous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of whom, in Heaven's -name?"<br> - "Is it possible you have not remarked it? Have -you not noticed that M. de Guiche is always in her apartments - -always with her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The queen clapped her hands -together, and began to laugh. "Philip," she said, "your jealousy -is not merely a defect, it is a disease."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whether a defect or a -disease, madame, I am the sufferer from it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And do you imagine that a -complaint which exists only in your own imagination can be -cured? You wish it to be said you are right in being jealous, -when there is no ground whatever for your jealousy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course, you will begin to -say for this gentleman what you already said on the behalf of the -other."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because, Philip," said the -queen dryly, "what you did for the other, you are going to do for -this one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The prince bowed, slightly -annoyed. "If I give you facts," he said, "will you believe -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If it regarded anything else -but jealousy, I would believe you without your bringing facts -forward; but as jealousy is the case, I promise -nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is just the same as if -your majesty were to desire me to hold my tongue, and sent me -away unheard."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Far from it; you are my son, -I owe you a mother's indulgence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, say what you think; you -owe me as much indulgence as a madman deserves."<br> - "Do not exaggerate, Philip, and take care how you -represent your wife to me as a woman of depraved mind - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But facts, mother, -facts!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I am listening."<br> - "This morning at ten o'clock they were playing -music in Madame's apartments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No harm in that, -surely."<br> - "M. de Guiche was talking with her alone - Ah! I -forgot to tell you, that, during the last ten days, he has never -left her side."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If they were doing any harm -they would hide themselves."<br> - "Very good," exclaimed the duke, "I expected you -to say that. Pray remember with precision the words you have -just uttered. This morning I took them by surprise, and showed -my dissatisfaction in a very marked manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Rely upon it, that is quite -sufficient; it was, perhaps, even a little too much. These young -women easily take offense. To reproach them for an error they -have not committed is, sometimes, almost equivalent to telling -them they might be guilty of even worse."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good, very good; but -wait a minute. Do not forget what you have just this moment -said, that this morning's lesson ought to have been sufficient, -and that if they had been doing what was wrong, they would have -hidden themselves."<br> - "Yes, I said so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, just now, repenting of -my hastiness of the morning, and imagining that Guiche was -sulking in his own apartments, I went to pay Madame a visit. Can -you guess what, or whom, I found there? Another set of -musicians; more dancing, and Guiche himself - he was concealed -there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria frowned. "It -was imprudent," she said. "What did Madame say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing."<br> - "And Guiche?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As much - oh, no! he -muttered some impertinent remark or another."<br> - "Well, what is your opinion, Philip?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That I have been made a fool -of; that Buckingham was only a pretext, and that Guiche is the -one who is really to blame in the matter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne shrugged her shoulders. -"Well," she said, "what else?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I wish De Guiche to be -dismissed from my household, as Buckingham was, and I shall ask -the king, unless - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unless what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unless you, my dear mother, -who are so clever and so kind, will execute the commission -yourself."<br> - "I will not do it, Philip."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen, Philip; I am not -disposed to pay people ill compliments every day; I have some -influence over young people, but I cannot take advantage of it -without running the chances of losing it altogether. Besides, -there is nothing to prove that M. de Guiche is -guilty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He has displeased me."<br> - "That is your own affair."<br> - "Very well, I know what I shall do," said the -prince, impetuously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne looked at him with some -uneasiness. "What do you intend to do?" she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will have him drowned in -my fish-pond the very next time I find him in my apartments -again." Having launched this terrible threat, the prince -expected his mother would be frightened out of her senses; but -the queen was unmoved.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do so," she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Philip was as weak as a -woman, and began to cry out, "Every one betrays me, - no one -cares for me; my mother, even, joins my enemies."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your mother, Philip, sees -further in the matter than you do, and does not care about -advising you, since you will not listen to her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will go to the -king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was about to propose that -to you. I am now expecting his majesty; it is the hour he -usually pays me a visit; explain the matter to him -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> She had hardly finished when -Philip heard the door of the ante-room open with some noise. He -began to feel nervous. At the sound of the king's footsteps, -which could be heard upon the carpet, the duke hurriedly made his -escape. Anne of Austria could not resist laughing, and was -laughing still when the king entered. He came very -affectionately to inquire after the even now uncertain health of -the queen-mother, and to announce to her that the preparations -for the journey to Fontainebleau were complete. Seeing her -laugh, his uneasiness on her account diminished, and he addressed -her in a vivacious tone himself. Anne of Austria took him by the -hand, and, in a voice full of playfulness, said, "Do you know, -sire that I am proud of being a Spanish woman?"<br> - "Why, madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because Spanish women are -worth more than English women at least."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Explain yourself."<br> - "Since your marriage you have not, I believe, had -a single reproach to make against the queen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly not."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you, too, have been -married some time. Your brother, on the contrary, has been -married but a fortnight."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is now finding fault with -Madame a second time."<br> - "What, Buckingham still?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, another."<br> - "Who?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Guiche."<br> - "Really? Madame is a coquette, then?"<br> - "I fear so."<br> - "My poor brother," said the king, -laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You don't object to -coquettes, it seems?"<br> - "In Madame, certainly I do; but Madame is not a -coquette at heart."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That may be, but your -brother is excessively angry about it."<br> - "What does he want?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He wants to drown -Guiche."<br> - "That is a violent measure to resort -to."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not laugh; he is -extremely irritated. Think of what can be done."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To save Guiche - -certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of, if your brother heard -you, he would conspire against you as your uncle did against your -father."<br> - "No; Philip has too much affection for me for -that, and I, on my side, have too great a regard for him; we -shall live together on very good terms. But what is the -substance of his request?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you will prevent Madame -from being a coquette and Guiche from being amiable."<br> - "Is that all? My brother has an exalted idea of -sovereign power. To reform a man, not to speak about reforming a -woman!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How will you set about -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With a word to Guiche, who -is a clever fellow, I will undertake to convince him."<br> - "But Madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is more difficult; a -word will not be enough. I will compose a homily and read it to -her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no time to be -lost."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, I will use the utmost -diligence. There is a repetition of the ballet this -afternoon."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will read her a lecture -while you are dancing?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You promise to convert -her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will root out the heresy -altogether, either by convincing her, or by extreme -measures."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is all right, then. Do -not mix me up in the affair; Madame would never forgive me all -her life, and as a mother-in-law, I ought to desire to live on -good terms with my new-found daughter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king, madame, will take -all upon himself. But let me reflect."<br> - "What about?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It would be better, perhaps, -if I were to go and see Madame in her own apartment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Would that not seem a -somewhat serious step to take?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but seriousness is not -unbecoming in preachers, and the music of the ballet would drown -half my arguments. Besides, the object is to prevent any violent -measures on my brother's part, so that a little precipitation may -be advisable. Is Madame in her own apartment?"<br> - "I believe so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is my statement of -grievances to consist of?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In a few words, of the -following: music uninterruptedly; Guiche's assiduity; suspicions -of treasonable plots and practices."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the proofs?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There <i>are</i> -none."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; I will go at once -to see Madame." The king turned to look in the mirrors at his -costume, which was very rich, and his face, which was radiant as -the morning. "I suppose my brother is kept a little at a -distance," said the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fire and water cannot be -more opposite."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That will do. Permit me, -madame, to kiss your hands, the most beautiful hands in -France."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "May you be successful, sire, -as the family peacemaker."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not employ an -ambassador," said Louis, "which is as much as to say that I shall -succeed." He laughed as he left the room, and carelessly -adjusted his ruffles as he went along.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Mediator.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>W</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>hen the king made his appearance in Madame's -apartments, the courtiers, whom the news of a conjugal -misunderstanding had dispersed through the various apartments, -began to entertain the most serious apprehensions. A storm was -brewing in that direction, the elements of which the Chevalier de -Lorraine, in the midst of the different groups, was analyzing -with delight, contributing to the weaker, and acting, according -to his own wicked designs, in such a manner with regard to the -stronger, as to produce the most disastrous consequences -possible. As Anne of Austria had herself said, the presence of -the king gave a solemn and serious character to the event. -Indeed, in the year 1662, the dissatisfaction of Monsieur with -Madame, and the king's intervention in the private affairs of -Monsieur, was a matter of no inconsiderable moment. -<b><sup>3</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The boldest, even, who had -been the associates of the Comte de Guiche, had, from the first -moment, held aloof from him, with a sort of nervous apprehension; -and the comte himself, infected by the general panic, retired to -his own room. The king entered Madame's private apartments, -acknowledging and returning the salutations, as he was always in -the habit of doing. The ladies of honor were ranged in a line on -his passage along the gallery. Although his majesty was very -much preoccupied, he gave the glance of a master at the two rows -of young and beautiful girls, who modestly cast down their eyes, -blushing as they felt the king's gaze fall upon them. One only -of the number, whose long hair fell in silken masses upon the -most beautiful skin imaginable, was pale, and could hardly -sustain herself, notwithstanding the knocks which her companion -gave her with her elbow. It was La Vallière whom -Montalais supported in that manner by whispering some of that -courage to her with which she herself was so abundantly -provided. The king could not resist turning round to look at -them again. Their faces, which had already been raised, were -again lowered, but the only fair head among them remained -motionless, as if all the strength and intelligence she had left -had abandoned her. When he entered Madame's room, Louis found -his sister-in-law reclining upon the cushions of her cabinet. -She rose and made a profound reverence, murmuring some words of -thanks for the honor she was receiving. She then resumed her -seat, overcome by a sudden weakness, which was no doubt assumed, -for a delightful color animated her cheeks, and her eyes, still -red from the tears she had recently shed, never had more fire in -them. When the king was seated, as soon as he had remarked, with -that accuracy of observation which characterized him, the -disorder of the apartment, and the no less great disorder of -Madame's countenance, he assumed a playful manner, saying, "My -dear sister, at what hour to-day would you wish the repetition of -the ballet to take place?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame, shaking her charming -head, slowly and languishingly said: "Ah! sire, will you -graciously excuse my appearance at the repetition? I was about -to send to inform you that I could not attend to-day."<br> - "Indeed," said the king, in apparent surprise; -"are you not well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, sire."<br> - "I will summon your medical attendants, -then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, for they can do nothing -for my indisposition."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You alarm me."<br> - "Sire, I wish to ask your majesty's permission to -return to England."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king started. "Return to -England," he said; "do you really say what you mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I say it reluctantly, sire," -replied the grand-daughter of Henry IV., firmly, her beautiful -black eyes flashing. "I regret to have to confide such matters -to your majesty, but I feel myself too unhappy at your majesty's -court; and I wish to return to my own family."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame, madame," exclaimed -the king, as he approached her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Listen to me, sire," -continued the young woman, acquiring by degrees that ascendency -over her interrogator which her beauty and her nervous nature -conferred; "young as I am, I have already suffered humiliation, -and have endured disdain here. Oh! do not contradict me, sire," -she said, with a smile. The king colored.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then," she continued, "I had -reasoned myself into the belief that Heaven called me into -existence with that object - I, the daughter of a powerful -monarch; that since my father had been deprived of life, Heaven -could well smite my pride. I have suffered greatly; I have been -the cause, too, of my mother suffering much; but I vowed that if -Providence ever placed me in a position of independence, even -were it that of a workman of the lower classes, who gains her -bread by her labor, I would never suffer humiliation again. That -day has now arrived; I have been restored to the fortune due to -my rank and to my birth; I have even ascended again the steps of -a throne, and I thought that, in allying myself with a French -prince, I should find in him a relation, a friend, an equal; but -I perceive I have found only a master, and I rebel. My mother -shall know nothing of it; you whom I respect, and whom I - love - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king started; never had -any voice so gratified his ear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You, sire, who know all, -since you have come here; you will, perhaps, understand me. If -you had not come, I should have gone to you. I wish for -permission to go away. I leave it to your delicacy of feeling to -exculpate and to protect me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear sister," murmured -the king, overpowered by this bold attack, "have you reflected -upon the enormous difficulty of the project you have -conceived?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, I do not reflect, I -feel. Attacked, I instinctively repel the attack, nothing -more."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, tell me, what have -they done to you?" said the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The princess, it will have -been seen, by this peculiarly feminine maneuver, had escaped -every reproach, and advanced on her side a far more serious one; -from the accused she became the accuser. It is an infallible -sign of guilt; but notwithstanding that, all women, even the -least clever of the sex, invariably know how to derive some such -means of turning the tables. The king had forgotten that he was -paying her a visit in order to say to her, "What have you done to -my brother?" and he was reduced to weakly asking her, "What have -they done to you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What have they done to me?" -replied Madame. "One must be a woman to understand it, sire - -they have made me shed tears;" and, with one of her fingers, -whose slenderness and perfect whiteness were unequaled, she -pointed to her brilliant eyes swimming with unshed drops, and -again began to weep.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I implore you, my dear -sister!" said the king, advancing to take her warm and throbbing -hand, which she abandoned to him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the first place, sire, I -was deprived of the presence of my brother's friend. The Duke of -Buckingham was an agreeable, cheerful visitor; my own countryman, -who knew my habits; I will say almost a companion, so accustomed -had we been to pass our days together, with our other friends, -upon the beautiful piece of water at St. James's."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But Villiers was in love -with you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A pretext! What does it -matter," she said, seriously, "whether the duke was in love with -me or not? Is a man in love so very dangerous for me? Ah! sire, -it is not sufficient for a man to love a woman." And she smiled -so tenderly, and with so much archness, that the king felt his -heart swell and throb in his breast.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events, if my brother -were jealous?" interrupted the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, I admit that is a -reason; and the duke was sent away accordingly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, not sent -away."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Driven away, dismissed, -expelled, then, if you prefer it, sire. One of the first -gentlemen of Europe obliged to leave the court of the King of -France, of Louis XIV., like a beggar, on account of a glance or a -bouquet. It was little worthy of a most gallant court; but -forgive me, sire; I forgot, that, in speaking thus, I am -attacking your sovereign power."<br> - "I assure you, my dear sister, it was not I who -dismissed the Duke of Buckingham; I was charmed with -him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was not you?" said -Madame; "ah! so much the better;" and she emphasized the "so much -the better," as if she had instead said, "so much the worse."<br> - A few minutes' silence ensued. She then resumed: -"The Duke of Buckingham having left - I now know why and by whose -means - I thought I should have recovered my tranquillity; but -not at all, for all at once Monsieur found another pretext; all -at once - "<br> - "All at once," said the king, playfully, "some -one else presents himself. It is but natural; you are beautiful, -and will always meet with men who will madly love -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case," exclaimed the -princess, "I will create a solitude around me, which indeed seems -to be what is wished, and what is being prepared for me. But no, -I prefer to return to London. There I am known and appreciated. -I shall have friends, without fearing they may be regarded as my -lovers. Shame! it is a disgraceful suspicion, and unworthy a -gentleman. Monsieur has lost everything in my estimation, since -he has shown me he can be a tyrant to a woman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, nay, my brother's only -fault is that of loving you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love me! Monsieur love me! -Ah! sire," and she burst out laughing. "Monsieur will never love -any woman," she said; "Monsieur loves himself too much; no, -unhappily for me, Monsieur's jealousy is of the worst kind - he -is jealous without love."<br> - "Confess, however," said the king, who began to -be excited by this varied and animated conversation; "confess -that Guiche loves you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! sire, I know nothing -about that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You must have perceived it. -A man who loves readily betrays himself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Guiche has not -betrayed himself."<br> - "My dear sister, you are defending M. de -Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, indeed! Ah, sire, I only -needed a suspicion from yourself to crown my -wretchedness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, madame, no," returned -the king, hurriedly; "do not distress yourself. Nay, you are -weeping. I implore you to calm yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> She wept, however, and large -tears fell upon her hands; the king took one of her hands in his, -and kissed the tears away. She looked at him so sadly and with -so much tenderness that he felt his heart giving way under her -gaze.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have no kind of feeling, -then, for Guiche?" he said, more disturbed than became his -character of mediator.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "None - absolutely -none."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then I can reassure my -brother in that respect?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing will satisfy him, -sire. Do not believe he is jealous. Monsieur has been badly -advised by some one, and he is of nervous disposition."<br> - "He may well be so when you are concerned," said -the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame cast down her eyes, -and was silent; the king did so likewise, still holding her hand -all the while. Their momentary silence seemed to last an age. -Madame gently withdrew her hand, and from that moment, she felt -her triumph was certain, and that the field of battle was her -own.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur complains," said -the king, "that you prefer the society of private individuals to -his own conversation and society."<br> - "But Monsieur passes his life in looking at his -face in the glass, and in plotting all sorts of spiteful things -against women with the Chevalier de Lorraine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, you are going somewhat -too far."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I only tell you what is -true. Do you observe for yourself, sire, and you will see that I -am right."<br> - "I will observe; but, in the meantime, what -satisfaction can I give my brother?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My departure."<br> - "You repeat that word," exclaimed the king, -imprudently, as if, during the last ten minutes, such a change -had been produced that Madame would have had all her ideas on the -subject thoroughly changed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, I cannot be happy here -any longer," she said. "M. de Guiche annoys Monsieur. Will he -be sent away, too?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If it be necessary, why -not?" replied the king, smiling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well; and after M. de Guiche -- whom, by the by, I shall regret - I warn you, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, you will regret -him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly; he is amiable, he -has a great friendship for me, and he amuses me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If Monsieur were only to -hear you," said the king, slightly annoyed, "do you know I would -not undertake to make it up again between you; nay, I would not -even attempt it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, can you, even now, -prevent Monsieur from being jealous of the first person who may -approach? I know very well that M. de Guiche is not the -first."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Again I warn you that as a -good brother I shall take a dislike to De Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, sire, do not, I entreat -you, adopt either the sympathies or the dislikes of Monsieur. -Remain king; better for yourself and for every one -else."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You jest charmingly, madame; -and I can well understand how the people you attack must adore -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And is that the reason why -you, sire, whom I had regarded as my defender, are about to join -these who persecute me?" said Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I your persecutor! Heaven -forbid!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then," she continued, -languishingly, "grant me a favor."<br> - "Whatever you wish."<br> - "Let me return to England."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never, never!" exclaimed -Louis XIV.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am a prisoner, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In France - if France is a -prison - yes."<br> - "What must I do, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will tell you. Instead of -devoting yourself to friendships which are somewhat unstable, -instead of alarming us by your retirement, remain always in our -society, do not leave us, let us live as a united family. M. de -Guiche is certainly very amiable; but if, at least, we do not -possess his wit - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, sire, you know very well -you are pretending to be modest."<br> - "No, I swear to you. One may be a king, and yet -feel that he possesses fewer chances of pleasing than many other -gentlemen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am sure, sire, that you do -not believe a single word you are saying."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king looked at Madame -tenderly, and said, "Will you promise me one thing?"<br> - "What is it?"<br> - "That you will no longer waste upon strangers, in -your own apartments, the time which you owe us. Shall we make an -offensive and defensive alliance against the common -enemy?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An alliance with you, -sire?"<br> - "Why not? Are you not a sovereign -power?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But are you, sire, a -reliable ally?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You shall see, -madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And when shall this alliance -commence?"<br> - "This very day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will draw up the treaty, -and you shall sign it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Blindly."<br> - "Then, sire, I promise you wonders; you are the -star of the court, and when you make your appearance, everything -will be resplendent."<br> - "Oh, madame, madame," said Louis XIV., "you know -well that there is no brilliancy that does not proceed from -yourself, and that if I assume the sun as my device, it is only -an emblem."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, you flatter your ally, -and you wish to deceive her," said Madame, threatening the king -with her finger menacingly raised.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! you believe I am -deceiving you, when I assure you of my affection?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "What makes you so suspicious?"<br> - "One thing."<br> - "What is it? I shall indeed be unhappy if I do -not overcome it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That one thing in question, -sire, is not in your power, not even in the power of -Heaven."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me what it -is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The past."<br> - "I do not understand, madame," said the king, -precisely because he had understood her but too well.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The princess took his hand in -hers. "Sire," she said, "I have had the misfortune to displease -you for so long a period, that I have almost the right to ask -myself to-day why you were able to accept me as a -sister-in-law."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Displease me! You have -displeased me?"<br> - "Nay, do not deny it, for I remember it -well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Our alliance shall date from -to-day," exclaimed the king, with a warmth that was not assumed. -"You will not think any more of the past, will you? I myself am -resolved that I will not. I shall always remember the present; I -have it before my eyes; look." And he led the princess before a -mirror, in which she saw herself reflected, blushing and -beautiful enough to overcome a saint.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is all the same," she -murmured; "it will not be a very worthy alliance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Must I swear?" inquired the -king, intoxicated by the voluptuous turn the whole conversation -had taken.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, I will not refuse to -witness a resounding oath," said Madame; "it has always the -<i>semblance</i> of security."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king knelt upon a -footstool and took Madame's hand. She, with a smile that no -painter could ever succeed in depicting, and which a poet might -only imagine, gave him both her hands, in which he hid his -burning face. Neither of them could utter a syllable. The king -felt Madame withdraw her hands, caressing his face while she did -so. He rose immediately and left the apartment. The courtiers -remarked his heightened color, and concluded that the scene had -been a stormy one. The Chevalier de Lorraine, however, hastened -to say, "Nay, be comforted, gentlemen, his majesty is always pale -when he is angry."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXIV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Advisers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he king left Madame in a state of agitation -it would have been difficult even for himself to have explained. -It is impossible, in fact, to depict the secret play of those -strange sympathies which, suddenly and apparently without any -cause, are excited, after many years passed in the greatest -calmness and indifference, by two hearts destined to love each -other. Why had Louis formerly disdained, almost hated, Madame? -Why did he now find the same woman so beautiful, so captivating? -And why, not only were his thoughts occupied about her, but still -more, why were they so continuously occupied about her? Why, in -fact, had Madame, whose eyes and mind were sought for in another -direction, shown during the last week towards the king a -semblance of favor which encouraged the belief of still greater -regard. It must not be supposed that Louis proposed to himself -any plan of seduction; the tie which united Madame to his brother -was, or at least, seemed to him, an insuperable barrier; he was -even too far removed from that barrier to perceive its -existence. But on the downward path of those passions in which -the heart rejoices, towards which youth impels us, no one can -decide where to stop, not even the man who has in advance -calculated all the chances of his own success or another's -submission. As far as Madame was concerned, her regard for the -king may easily be explained: she was young, a coquette, and -ardently fond of admiration. Hers was one of those buoyant, -impetuous natures, which upon a theatre would leap over the -greatest obstacles to obtain an acknowledgement of applause from -the spectators. It was not surprising, then, that, after having -been adored by Buckingham, by De Guiche, who was superior to -Buckingham, even if it were only from that negative merit, so -much appreciated by women, that is to say, novelty - it was not -surprising, we say, that the princess should raise her ambition -to being admired by the king, who not only was the first person -in the kingdom, but was one of the handsomest and cleverest men -in Europe. As for the sudden passion with which Louis was -inspired for his sister-in-law, physiology would perhaps supply -an explanation by some hackneyed commonplace reasons, and nature -by means of her mysterious affinity of characters. Madame had -the most beautiful black eyes in the world; Louis, eyes as -beautiful, but blue. Madame was laughter-loving and unreserved -in her manners; Louis, melancholy and diffident. Summoned to -meet each other for the first time upon the grounds of interest -and common curiosity, these two opposite natures were mutually -influenced by the mingling of their reciprocal contradictions of -character. Louis, when he returned to his own rooms, -acknowledged to himself that Madame was the most attractive woman -of his court. Madame, left alone, delightedly thought that she -had made a great impression on the king. This feeling with her -must remain passive, whilst the king could not but act with all -the natural vehemence of the heated fancies of a young man, and -of a young man who has but to express a wish to see his wish -fulfilled.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The first thing the king did -was to announce to Monsieur that everything was quietly arranged; -that Madame had the greatest respect, the sincerest affection for -him; but that she was of a proud, impetuous character, and that -her susceptibilities were so acute as to require very careful -management.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Monsieur replied in the -reticent tone of voice he generally adopted with his brother, -that he could not very well understand the susceptibilities of a -woman whose conduct might, in his opinion, expose her to -censorious remarks, and that if any one had a right to feel -wounded, it was he, Monsieur himself. To this the king replied -in a quick tone of voice, which showed the interest he took in -his sister-in-law, "Thank Heaven, Madame is above -censure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The censure of others, -certainly, I admit," said Monsieur; "but not above mine, I -presume."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said the king, "all I -have to say, Philip, is that Madame's conduct does not deserve -your censure. She certainly is heedless and singular, but -professes the best feelings. The English character is not always -well understood in France, and the liberty of English manners -sometimes surprises those who do not know the extent to which -this liberty is enriched by innocence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said Monsieur, more and -more piqued, "from the very moment that your majesty absolves my -wife, whom I accuse, my wife is not guilty, and I have nothing -more to say."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Philip," replied the king -hastily, for he felt the voice of conscience murmuring softly in -his heart, that Monsieur was not altogether wrong, "what I have -done, and what I have said, has been only for your happiness. I -was told that you complained of a want of confidence and -attention on Madame's part, and I did not wish your uneasiness to -be prolonged. It is part of my duty to watch over your -household, as over that of the humblest of my subjects. I have -satisfied myself, therefore, with the sincerest pleasure, that -your apprehensions have no foundation."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And," continued Monsieur, in -an interrogative tone of voice, and fixing his eyes upon his -brother, "what your majesty has discovered for Madame - and I bow -myself to your superior judgment - have you verified for those -who have been the cause of the scandal of which I -complain?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, Philip," said -the king; "I will reserve that point for future -consideration."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> These words comprised an -order as well as a consolation; the prince felt it to be so, and -withdrew.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As for Louis, he went to seek -his mother, for he felt that he had need of a more complete -absolution than that he had just received from his brother. Anne -of Austria did not entertain for M. de Guiche the same reasons -for indulgence she had had for Buckingham. She perceived, at the -very first words he pronounced, that Louis was not disposed to be -severe.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> To appear in a contradictory -humor was one of the stratagems of the good queen, in order to -succeed in ascertaining the truth. But Louis was no longer in -his apprenticeship; already for more than a year past he had been -king, and during that year he had learned how to dissemble. -Listening to Anne of Austria, in order to permit her to disclose -her own thoughts, testifying his approval only by look and -gesture, he became convinced, from certain piercing glances, and -from certain skillful insinuations, that the queen, so -clear-sighted in matters of gallantry, had, if not guessed, at -least suspected, his weakness for Madame. Of all his -auxiliaries, Anne of Austria would be the most important to -secure; of all his enemies, Anne of Austria would prove most -dangerous. Louis, therefore, changed his maneuvers. He -complained of Madame, absolved Monsieur, listened to what his -mother had to say of De Guiche, as he had previously listened to -what she had to say of Buckingham, and then, when he saw that she -thought she had gained a complete victory over him, he left -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The whole of the court, that -is to say, all the favorites and more intimate associates, and -they were numerous, since there were already five masters, were -assembled in the evening for the repetition of the ballet. This -interval had been occupied by poor De Guiche in receiving visits; -among the number was one which he hoped and feared nearly to an -equal extent. It was that of the Chevalier de Lorraine. About -three o'clock in the afternoon the chevalier entered De Guiche's -rooms. His looks were of the most reassuring character. -"Monsieur," said he to De Guiche, "was in an excellent humor, and -no none could say that the slightest cloud had passed across the -conjugal sky. Besides, Monsieur was not one to bear -ill-feeling."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> For a long time past, during -his residence at the court, the Chevalier de Lorraine had -decided, that of Louis XIII.'s two sons, Monsieur was the one who -had inherited the father's character - an uncertain, irresolute -character; impulsively good, indifferently disposed at bottom; -but certainly a cipher for his friends. He especially cheered De -Guiche, by pointing out to him that Madame would, before long, -succeed in governing her husband, and that, consequently, that -man would govern Monsieur who should succeed in influencing -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> To this, De Guiche full of -mistrust and presence of mind, replied, "Yes, chevalier; but I -believe Madame to be a very dangerous person."<br> - "In what respect?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She has perceived that -Monsieur is not very passionately inclined towards -women."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite true," said the -Chevalier de Lorraine, laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, Madame will -choose the first one who approaches, in order to make him the -object of her preference, and to bring back her husband by -jealousy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Deep! deep!" exclaimed the -chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But true," replied De -Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Neither the one nor the other -expressed his real thought. De Guiche, at the very moment he -thus attacked Madame's character, mentally asked her forgiveness -from the bottom of his heart. The chevalier, while admiring De -Guiche's penetration, was leading him, blindfolded, to the brink -of the precipice. De Guiche then questioned him more directly -upon the effect produced by the scene of the morning, and upon -the still more serious effect produced by the scene at -dinner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I have already told you -they are all laughing at it," replied the Chevalier de Lorraine, -"and Monsieur himself at the head of them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet," hazarded De Guiche, "I -have heard that the king paid Madame a visit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, precisely so. Madame -was the only one who did not laugh, and the king went to her in -order to make her laugh, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So that - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So that nothing is altered -in the arrangements of the day," said the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And is there a repetition of -the ballet this evening?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you sure?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite," returned the -chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment of the -conversation between the two young men, Raoul entered, looking -full of anxiety. As soon as the chevalier, who had a secret -dislike for him, as for every other noble character, perceived -him enter, he rose from his seat.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you advise me to do, -then?" inquired De Guiche of the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I advise you to go to sleep -in perfect tranquillity, my dear count."<br> - "And my advice, De Guiche," said Raoul, "is the -very opposite."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To mount your horse and set -off at once for one of your estates; on your arrival, follow the -chevalier's advice, if you like; and, what is more, you can sleep -there as long and as tranquilly as you please."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! set off!" exclaimed -the chevalier, feigning surprise; "why should De Guiche set -off?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because, and you cannot be -ignorant of it - you particularly so - because every one is -talking about the scene which has passed between Monsieur and De -Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche turned -pale.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not at all," replied the -chevalier, "not at all; and you have been wrongly informed, M. de -Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have been perfectly well -informed, on the contrary, monsieur," replied Raoul, "and the -advice I give De Guiche is that of a friend."<br> - During this discussion, De Guiche, somewhat -shaken, looked alternately first at one and then at the other of -his advisers. He inwardly felt that a game, important in all its -consequences for the rest of his life, was being played at that -moment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it not fact," said the -chevalier, putting the question to the count himself, "is it not -fact, De Guiche, that the scene was not so tempestuous as the -Vicomte de Bragelonne seems to think, and who, moreover, was not -himself there?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whether tempestuous or not," -persisted Raoul, "it is not precisely of the scene itself that I -am speaking, but of the consequences that may ensue. I know that -Monsieur has threatened, I know that Madame has been in -tears."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame in tears!" exclaimed -De Guiche, imprudently clasping his hands.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said the chevalier, -laughing, "this is indeed a circumstance I was not acquainted -with. You are decidedly better informed than I am, Monsieur de -Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And it is because I am -better informed than yourself, chevalier, that I insist upon De -Guiche leaving."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no; I regret to differ -from you, vicomte; but his departure is unnecessary. Why, -indeed, should he leave? tell us why."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!"<br> - "The king!" exclaimed De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; I tell you the king has -taken up the affair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah!" said the chevalier, -"the king likes De Guiche, and particularly his father; reflect, -that, if the count were to leave, it would be an admission that -he had done something which merited rebuke."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt of it; when one -runs away, it is either from guilt or fear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sometimes, because a man is -offended; often because he is wrongfully accused," said -Bragelonne. "We will assign as a reason for his departure, that -he feels hurt and injured - nothing will be easier; we will say -that we both did our utmost to keep him, and you, at least, will -not be speaking otherwise than the truth. Come, De Guiche, you -are innocent, and, being so, the scene of to-day must have -wounded you. So set off."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, De Guiche, remain where -you are," said the chevalier; "precisely as M. de Bragelonne has -put it, because you are innocent. Once more, forgive me, -vicomte; but my opinion is the very opposite to your -own."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are at perfect -liberty to maintain it, monsieur; but be assured that the exile -which De Guiche will voluntarily impose upon himself will be of -short duration. He can terminate it whenever he pleases, and -returning from his voluntary exile, he will meet with smiles from -all lips; while, on the contrary, the anger of the king may now -draw down a storm upon his head, the end of which no one can -foresee."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The chevalier smiled, and -muttered to himself, "That is the very thing I wish." And at the -same time he shrugged his shoulders, a movement which did not -escape the count, who dreaded, if he quitted the court, to seem -to yield to a feeling of fear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no; I have decided, -Bragelonne; I stay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I prophesy, then," said -Raoul, sadly, "that misfortune will befall you, De -Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, too, am a prophet, but -not a prophet of evil; on the contrary, count, I say to you, -'remain.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you sure," inquired De -Guiche, "that the repetition of the ballet still takes -place?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite sure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, you see, Raoul," -continued De Guiche, endeavoring to smile, "you see, the court is -not so very sorrowful, or so readily disposed for internal -dissensions, when dancing is carried on with such assiduity. -Come, acknowledge that," said the count to Raoul, who shook his -head, saying, "I have nothing to add."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," inquired the -chevalier, curious to learn whence Raoul had obtained his -information, the exactitude of which he was inwardly forced to -admit, "since you say you are well informed, vicomte, how can you -be better informed than myself, who am one of the prince's most -intimate companions?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To such a declaration I -submit. You certainly ought to be perfectly well informed, I -admit; and, as a man of honor is incapable of saying anything but -what he knows to be true, or of speaking otherwise than what he -thinks, I will say no more, but confess myself defeated, and -leave you in possession of the field of battle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Whereupon Raoul, who now -seemed only to care to be left quiet, threw himself upon a couch, -whilst the count summoned his servants to aid him in dressing. -The chevalier, finding that time was passing away, wished to -leave; but he feared, too, that Raoul, left alone with De Guiche, -might yet influence him to change his mind. He therefore made -use of his last resource.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame," he said, "will be -brilliant; she appears to-day in her costume of -Pomona."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, that is so," exclaimed -the count.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And she has just given -directions in consequence," continued the chevalier. "You know, -Monsieur de Bragelonne, that the king is to appear as -Spring."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It will be admirable," said -De Guiche; "and that is a better reason for me to remain than any -you have yet given, because I am to appear as Autumn, and shall -have to dance with Madame. I cannot absent myself without the -king's orders, since my departure would interrupt the -ballet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I," said the chevalier, "am -to be only a simple <i>égypan;</i> true, it is, I am a bad -dancer, and my legs are not well made. Gentlemen, adieu. Do not -forget the basket of fruit, which you are to offer to Pomona, -count."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Rest assured," said De -Guiche, delightedly, "I shall forget nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am now quite certain that -he will remain," murmured the Chevalier de Lorraine to -himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul, when the chevalier had -left, did not even attempt to dissuade his friend, for he felt -that it would be trouble thrown away; he merely observed to the -comte, in his melancholy and melodious voice, "You are embarking -in a most dangerous enterprise. I know you well; you go to -extremes in everything, and the lady you love does so, too. -Admitting for an instant that she should at last love you - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, never!" exclaimed De -Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why do you say never?"<br> - "Because it would be a great misfortune for both -of us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, instead of -regarding you simply imprudent, I cannot but consider you -absolutely mad."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you perfectly sure - -mind, answer me frankly - that you do not wish her whom you love -to make any sacrifice for you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes; quite -sure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love her, then, at a -distance."<br> - "What! at a distance?"<br> - "Certainly; what matters being present or absent, -since you expect nothing from her? Love her portrait, a -memento."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Raoul!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love is a shadow, an -illusion, a chimera; be devoted to the affection itself, in -giving a name to your ideality."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You turn away; your servants -approach. I will say no more. In good or bad fortune, De -Guiche, depend on me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed I shall do -so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; that is all I had -to say to you. Spare no pains in your person, De Guiche, and -look your very best. Adieu."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will not be present, -then, at the ballet, vicomte?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; I shall have a visit to -pay in town. Farewell, De Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The reception was to take -place in the king's apartments. In the first place, there were -the queens, then Madame, and a few ladies of the court, who had -been carefully selected. A great number of courtiers, also -selected, occupied the time, before the dancing commenced, in -conversing, as people knew how to converse in those times. None -of the ladies who had received invitations appeared in the -costumes of the <i>fête</i>, as the Chevalier de Lorraine -had predicted, but many conversations took place about the rich -and ingenious toilettes designed by different painters for the -ballet of "The Demi-Gods," for thus were termed the kings and -queens of which Fontainebleau was about to become the Pantheon. -Monsieur arrived, holding in his hand a drawing representing his -character; he looked somewhat anxious; he bowed courteously to -the young queen and his mother, but saluted Madame almost -cavalierly. His notice of her and his coldness of manner were -observed by all. M. de Guiche indemnified the princess by a look -of passionate devotion, and it must be admitted that Madame, as -she raised her eyes, returned it to him with interest. It is -unquestionable that De Guiche had never looked so handsome, for -Madame's glance had its customary effect of lighting up the -features of the son of the Marshal de Gramont. The king's -sister-in-law felt a storm mustering above her head; she felt, -too, that during the whole of the day, so fruitful in future -events, she had acted unjustly, if not treasonably, towards one -who loved her with such a depth of devotion. In her eyes the -moment seemed to have arrived for an acknowledgement to the poor -victim of the injustice of the morning. Her heart spoke, and -murmured the name of De Guiche; the count was sincerely pitied -and accordingly gained the victory over all others. Neither -Monsieur, nor the king, nor the Duke of Buckingham, was any -longer thought of; De Guiche at that moment reigned without a -rival. But although Monsieur also looked very handsome, still he -could not be compared to the count. It is well known - indeed -all women say so - that a wide difference invariably exists -between the good looks of a lover and those of a husband. -Besides, in the present case, after Monsieur had left, and after -the courteous and affectionate recognition of the young queen and -of the queen-mother, and the careless and indifferent notice of -Madame, which all the courtiers had remarked; all these motives -gave the lover the advantage over the husband. Monsieur was too -great a personage to notice these details. Nothing is so certain -as a well settled idea of superiority to prove the inferiority of -the man who has that opinion of himself. The king arrived. -Every one looked for what might possibly happen in the glance, -which began to bestir the world, like the brow of Jupiter -Tonans. Louis had none of his brother's gloominess, but was -perfectly radiant. Having examined the greater part of the -drawings which were displayed for his inspection on every side, -he gave his opinion or made his remarks upon them, and in this -manner rendered some happy and others wretched by a single word. -Suddenly his glance, which was smilingly directed towards Madame, -detected the slight correspondence established between the -princess and the count. He bit his lips, but when he opened them -again to utter a few commonplace remarks, he said, advancing -towards the queens: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have just been informed -that everything is now prepared at Fontainebleau, in accordance -with my directions." A murmur of satisfaction arose from the -different groups, and the king perceived on every face the -greatest anxiety to receive an invitation for the -<i>fêtes</i>. "I shall leave to-morrow," he added. -Whereupon the profoundest silence immediately ensued. "And I -invite," said the king, finishing, "all those who are now present -to get ready to accompany me."<br> - Smiling faces were now everywhere visible, with -the exception of Monsieur, who seemed to retain his ill-humor. -The different noblemen and ladies of the court thereupon defiled -before the king, one after the other, in order to thank his -majesty for the great honor which had been conferred upon them by -the invitation. When it came to De Guiche's turn, the king said, -"Ah! M. de Guiche, I did not see you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The comte bowed, and Madame -turned pale. De Guiche was about to open his lips to express his -thanks, when the king said, "Comte, this is the season for -farming purposes in the country; I am sure your tenants in -Normandy will be glad to see you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, after this pitiless -attack, turned his back on the poor comte, whose turn it was now -to become pale; he advanced a few steps towards the king, -forgetting that the king is never spoken to except in reply to -questions addressed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have perhaps misunderstood -your majesty," he stammered out.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king turned his head -slightly, and with a cold and stern glance, which plunged like a -sword relentlessly into the hearts of those under disgrace, -repeated, "I said retire to your estates," allowing every -syllable to fall slowly one by one.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A cold perspiration bedewed -the comte's face, his hands convulsively opened, and his hat, -which he held between his trembling fingers, fell to the ground. -Louis sought his mother's glance, as though to show her that he -was master; he sought his brother's triumphant look, as if to ask -him if he were satisfied with the vengeance taken; and lastly, -his eyes fell upon Madame; but the princess was laughing and -smiling with Madame de Noailles. She heard nothing, or rather -had pretended not to hear at all. The Chevalier de Lorraine -looked on also, with one of those looks of fixed hostility that -seemed to give to a man's glance the power of a lever when it -raises an obstacle, wrests it away, and casts it to a distance. -M. de Guiche was left alone in the king's cabinet, the whole of -the company having departed. Shadows seemed to dance before his -eyes. He suddenly broke through the settled despair that -overwhelmed him, and flew to hide himself in his own room, where -Raoul awaited him, immovable in his own sad -presentiments.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?" he murmured, seeing -his friend enter, bareheaded, with a wild gaze and tottering -gait.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, it is true," said -De Guiche, unable to utter more, and falling exhausted upon the -couch.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And she?" inquired -Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She," exclaimed his unhappy -friend, as he raised his hand clenched in anger, towards Heaven. -"She! - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did she say and -do?"<br> - "She said that her dress suited her admirably, -and then she laughed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A fit of hysteric laughter -seemed to shatter his nerves, for he fell backwards, completely -overcome.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Fontainebleau.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>F</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>or four days, every kind of enchantment -brought together in the magnificent gardens of Fontainebleau had -converted this spot into a place of the most perfect enjoyment. -M. Colbert seemed gifted with ubiquity. In the morning there -were the accounts of the previous night's expenses to settle; -during the day, programmes, essays, enrolments, payments. M. -Colbert had amassed four millions of francs, and dispersed them -with sleepless economy. He was horrified at the expenses which -mythology involved; not a wood nymph, nor a dryad, that cost less -than a hundred francs a day! The dress alone amounted to three -hundred francs. The expense of powder and sulphur for fireworks -amounted, every night, to a hundred thousand francs. In addition -to these, the illuminations on the borders of the sheet of water -cost thirty thousand francs every evening. The -<i>fêtes</i> had been magnificent; and Colbert could not -restrain his delight. From time to time, he noticed Madame and -the king setting forth on hunting expeditions, or preparing for -the reception of different fantastic personages, solemn -ceremonials, which had been extemporized a fortnight before, and -in which Madame's sparkling wit and the king's magnificence were -equally well displayed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> For Madame, the heroine of -the <i>fête</i>, replied to the addresses of the -deputations from unknown races - Garamanths, Scythians, -Hyperboreans, Caucasians, and Patagonians, who seemed to issue -from the ground for the purpose of approaching her with their -congratulations; and upon every representative of these races the -king bestowed a diamond, or some other article of value. Then -the deputies, in verses more or less amusing, compared the king -to the sun, Madame to Phœbe, the sun's sister, and the -queen and Monsieur were no more spoken of than if the king had -married Henrietta of England, and not Maria Theresa of Austria. -The happy pair, hand in hand, imperceptibly pressing each other's -fingers, drank in deep draughts the sweet beverage of adulation, -by which the attractions of youth, beauty, power and love are -enhanced. Every one at Fontainebleau was amazed at the extent of -the influence which Madame had so rapidly acquired over the king, -and whispered among themselves that Madame was, in point of fact, -the true queen; and in effect, the king himself proclaimed its -truth by his every thought, word, and look. He formed his -wishes, he drew his inspirations from Madame's eyes, and his -delight was unbounded when Madame deigned to smile upon him. And -was Madame, on her side, intoxicated with the power she wielded, -as she beheld every one at her feet? This was a question she -herself could hardly answer; but what she did know was, that she -could frame no wish, and that she felt herself to be perfectly -happy. The result of all these changes, the source of which -emanated from the royal will, was that Monsieur, instead of being -the second person in the kingdom, had, in reality, become the -third. And it was now far worse than in the time when De -Guiche's guitars were heard in Madame's apartments; for, then, at -least, Monsieur had the satisfaction of frightening those who -annoyed him. Since the departure, however, of the enemy, who had -been driven away by means of his alliance with the king, Monsieur -had to submit to a burden, heavier, but in a very different -sense, to his former one. Every evening Madame returned home -quite exhausted. Horse-riding, bathing in the Seine, spectacles, -dinners under the leafy covert of the trees, balls on the banks -of the grand canal, concerts, etc., etc.; all this would have -been sufficient to have killed, not a slight and delicate woman, -but the strongest porter in the <i>château</i>. It is -perfectly true that, with regard to dancing, concerts, and -promenades, and such matters, a woman is far stronger than the -most robust of porters. But, however great a woman's strength -may be, there is a limit to it, and she cannot hold out long -under such a system. As for Monsieur, he had not even the -satisfaction of witnessing Madame's abdication of her royalty in -the evening, for she lived in the royal pavilion with the young -queen and the queen-mother. As a matter of course, the Chevalier -de Lorraine did not quit Monsieur, and did not fail to distil -drops of gall into every wound the latter received. The result -was, that Monsieur - who had at first been in the highest -spirits, and completely restored since Guiche's departure - -subsided into his melancholy state three days after the court was -installed at Fontainebleau.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It happened, however, that, -one day, about two o'clock in the afternoon, Monsieur, who had -risen late, and had bestowed upon his toilet more than his usual -attention, - it happened, we repeat, that Monsieur, who had not -heard of any plans having been arranged for the day, formed the -project of collecting his own court, and of carrying Madame off -with him to Moret, where he possessed a charming country house. -He accordingly went to the queen's pavilion, and was astonished, -on entering, to find none of the royal servants in attendance. -Quite alone, therefore, he entered the rooms, a door on the left -opening to Madame's apartment, the one on the right to the young -queen's. In his wife's apartment, Monsieur was informed, by a -sempstress who was working there, that every one had left at -eleven o'clock, for the purpose of bathing in the Seine, that a -grand <i>fête</i> was to be made of the expedition, that -all the carriages had been placed at the park gates, and that -they had all set out more than an hour ago.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good," said Monsieur, -"the idea is a good one; the heat is very oppressive, and I have -no objection to bathe, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> He summoned his servants, but -no one came. He summoned those in attendance on Madame, but -everybody had gone out. He went to the stables, where he was -informed by a groom that there were no carriages of any -description. He desired that a couple of horses should be -saddled, one for himself and the other for his valet. The groom -told him that all the horses had been sent away. Monsieur, pale -with anger, again descended towards the queen's apartments, and -penetrated as far as Anne of Austria's oratory, where he -perceived, through the half-opened tapestry-hangings, his young -and beautiful sister on her knees before the queen-mother, who -appeared weeping bitterly. He had not been either seen or -heard. He cautiously approached the opening, and listened, the -sight of so much grief having aroused his curiosity. Not only -was the young queen weeping, but she was complaining also. -"Yes," she said, "the king neglects me, the king devotes himself -to pleasures and amusements only, in which I have no -share."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Patience, patience, my -daughter," said Anne of Austria, in Spanish; and then, also in -Spanish, added some words of advice, which Monsieur did not -understand. The queen replied by accusations, mingled with sighs -and sobs, among which Monsieur often distinguished the word -<i>baños</i>, which Maria Theresa accentuated with -spiteful anger.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The baths," said Monsieur to -himself; "it seems it is the baths that have put her out." And -he endeavored to put together the disconnected phrases which he -had been able to understand. It was easy to guess that the queen -was complaining bitterly, and that, if Anne of Austria did not -console her, she at least endeavored to do so. Monsieur was -afraid to be detected listening at the door and he therefore made -up his mind to cough; the two queens turned round at the sound -and Monsieur entered. At sight of the prince, the young queen -rose precipitately, and dried her tears. Monsieur, however, knew -the people he had to deal with too well, and was naturally too -polite to remain silent, and he accordingly saluted them. The -queen-mother smiled pleasantly at him, saying, "What do you want, -Philip?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I? - nothing," stammered -Monsieur. "I was looking for - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whom?"<br> - "I was looking for Madame."<br> - "Madame is at the baths."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the king?" said -Monsieur, in a tone which made the queen tremble.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king also, the whole -court as well," replied Anne of Austria.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Except you, madame," said -Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! I," said the young -queen, "I seem to terrify all those who amuse -themselves."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And so do I, - judging from -appearances," rejoined Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria made a sigh -to her daughter-in-law, who withdrew, weeping.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Monsieur's brows contracted, -as he remarked aloud, "What a cheerless house. What do you think -of it, mother?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, no; everybody here is -pleasure-hunting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, indeed, that is the -very thing that makes those dull who do not care for -pleasure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In what a tone you say that, -Philip."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my word, madame, I -speak as I think."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Explain yourself; what is -the matter?"<br> - "Ask my sister-in-law, rather, who, just now, was -detailing all her grievances to you."<br> - "Her grievances, what - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I was listening; -accidentally, I confess, but still I listened - so that I heard -only too well my sister complain of those famous baths of Madame -- "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! folly!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, no; people are not -always foolish when they weep. The queen said -<i>baños</i>, which means baths."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I repeat, Philip," said Anne -of Austria, "that your sister is childishly jealous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, madame," -replied the prince, "I, too, must with great humility accuse -myself of possessing the same defect."<br> - "You also, Philip?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you really jealous of -these baths?"<br> - "And why not, madame, when the king goes to the -baths with my wife, and does not take the queen? Why not, when -Madame goes to the baths with the king, and does not do me the -honor to even invite me? And you enjoin my sister-in-law to be -satisfied, and require me to be satisfied, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are raving, my dear -Philip," said Anne of Austria; "you have driven the Duke of -Buckingham away; you have been the cause of M. de Guiche's exile; -do you now wish to send the king away from -Fontainebleau?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not pretend to anything -of the kind, madame," said Monsieur, bitterly; "but, at least, -<i>I</i> can withdraw, and I shall do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Jealous of the king - -jealous of your brother?"<br> - "Yes, madame, I am jealous of the king - of my -own brother, and remarkably jealous, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, Monsieur," exclaimed -Anne of Austria, affecting to be indignant, "I begin to believe -you are mad, and a sworn enemy to my repose. I therefore abandon -the place to you, for I have no means of defending myself against -such monomanias."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> She arose and left Monsieur a -prey to the most extravagant transport of passion. He remained -for a moment completely bewildered; then, recovering himself, -again went to the stables, found the groom, once more asked him -for a carriage or a horse, and upon his reply that there was -neither the one or the other, Monsieur snatched a long whip from -the hand of a stable-boy, and began to pursue the poor devil of a -groom all round the servants' courtyard, whipping him the while, -in spite of his cries and excuses; then, quite out of breath, -covered with perspiration, and trembling in every limb, he -returned to his own apartments, broke in pieces some beautiful -specimens of porcelain, and then got into bed, booted and spurred -as he was, crying out for some one to come to him. -<b><sup>4</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXVI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Bath.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>t Vulaines, beneath the impenetrable shade of -flowering osiers and willows, which, as they bent down their -green heads, dipped the extremities of their branches in the blue -waters, a long and flat-bottomed boat, with ladders covered with -long blue curtains, served as a refuge for the bathing Dianas, -who, as they left the water, were watched by twenty plumed -Acteons, who, eagerly, and full of admiration, galloped up and -down the flowery banks of the river. But Diana herself, even the -chaste Diana, clothed in her long chlamys, was less beautiful - -less impenetrable, than Madame, as young and beautiful as that -goddess herself. For, notwithstanding the fine tunic of the -huntress, her round and delicate knee can be seen; and -notwithstanding the sonorous quiver, her brown shoulders can be -detected; whereas, in Madame's case, a long white veil enveloped -her, wrapping her round and round a hundred times, as she -resigned herself into the hands of her female attendants, and -thus was rendered inaccessible to the most indiscreet, as well as -to the most penetrating gaze. When she ascended the ladder, the -poets were present - and all were poets when Madame was the -subject of discussion - the twenty poets who were galloping -about, stopped, and with one voice, exclaimed that pearls, and -not drops of water, were falling from her person, to be lost -again in the happy river. The king, the center of these -effusions, and of this respectful homage, imposed silence upon -those expatiators, for whom it seemed impossible to exhaust their -raptures, and he rode away, for fear of offending, even through -the silken curtains, the modesty of the woman and the dignity of -the princess. A great blank thereupon ensued in the scene, and -perfect silence in the boat. From the movements on board - from -the flutterings and agitations of the curtains - the goings to -and fro of the female attendants engaged in their duties, could -be guessed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king smilingly listened -to the conversation of the courtiers around him, but it could -easily be perceived that he gave but little, if any, attention to -their remarks. In fact, hardly had the sound of the rings drawn -along the curtain-rods announced that Madame was dressed, and -that the goddess was about to make her reappearance, than the -king, returning to his former post immediately, and running quite -close to the river-bank, gave the signal for all those to -approach whose duty or pleasure summoned them to Madame's side. -The pages hurried forward, conducting the led horses; the -carriages, which had remained sheltered under the trees, advanced -towards the tent, followed by a crowd of servants, bearers, and -female attendants, who, while their masters had been bathing, had -mutually exchanged their own observations, critical remarks, and -the discussion of matters personal - the fugitive journal of that -period, of which no one now remembers anything, not even by the -waves, the witnesses of what went on that day - themselves now -sublimed into immensity, as the actors have vanished into -eternity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A crowd of people swarming -upon the banks of the river, without reckoning the groups of -peasants drawn together by their anxiety to see the king and the -princess, was, for many minutes, the most disorderly, but the -most agreeable, mob imaginable. The king dismounted from his -horse, a movement which was imitated by all the courtiers, and -offered his hat to Madame, whose rich riding-habit displayed her -fine figure, which was set off to great advantage by that -garment, made of fine woolen cloth embroidered with silver. Her -hair, still damp and blacker than jet, hung in heavy masses upon -her white and delicate neck. Joy and health sparkled in her -beautiful eyes; composed, yet full of energy, she inhaled the air -in deep draughts, under a lace parasol, which was borne by one of -her pages. Nothing could be more charming, more graceful, more -poetical, than these two figures buried under the rose-colored -shade of the parasol, the king, whose white teeth were displayed -in continual smiles, and Madame, whose black eyes sparkled like -carbuncles in the glittering reflection of the changing hues of -the silk. When Madame approached her horse, a magnificent animal -of Andalusian breed, of spotless white, somewhat heavy, perhaps, -but with a spirited and splendid head, in which the mixture, -happily combined, of Arabian and Spanish blood could be readily -traced, and whose long tail swept the ground; and as the princess -affected difficulty in mounting, the king took her in his arms in -such a manner that Madame's arm was clasped like a circlet of -alabaster around the king's neck. Louis, as he withdrew, -involuntarily touched with his lips the arm, which was not -withheld, and the princess having thanked her royal equerry, -every one sprang to his saddle at the same moment. The king and -Madame drew aside to allow the carriages, the outriders, and -runners, to pass by. A fair proportion of the cavaliers, -released from the restraint etiquette had imposed upon them, gave -the rein to their horses, and darted after the carriages which -bore the maids of honor, as blooming as so many virgin huntresses -around Diana, and the human whirlwind, laughing, chattering, and -noisy, passed onward.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king and Madame, however, -kept their horses in hand at a foot-pace. Behind his majesty and -his sister-in-law, certain of the courtiers - those, at least, -who were seriously disposed or were anxious to be within reach, -or under the eyes, of the king - followed at a respectful -distance, restraining their impatient horses, regulating their -pace by that of the king and Madame, and abandoned themselves to -all the delight and gratification which is to be found in the -conversation of clever people, who can, with perfect courtesy, -make a thousand atrocious, but laughable remarks about their -neighbors. In their stifled laughter, and in the little -reticences of their sardonic humor, Monsieur, the poor absentee, -was not spared. But they pitied, and bewailed greatly, the fate -of De Guiche, and it must be confessed that their compassion, as -far as he was concerned, was not misplaced. The king and Madame -having breathed the horses, and repeated a hundred times over -such remarks as the courtiers, who supplied them with talk, -suggested to them, set off at a hand gallop, and the leafy -coverts of the forest resounded to the footfalls of the mounted -party. To the conversations beneath the shade of the trees, - to -remarks made in the shape of confidential communications, and -observations, mysteriously exchanged, succeeded the noisiest -bursts of laughter; - from the very outriders to royalty itself, -merriment seemed to spread. Every one began to laugh and to cry -out. The magpies and the jays fluttered away uttering their -guttural cries, beneath the waving avenues of oaks; the cuckoo -staid his monotonous cry in the recesses of the forest; the -chaffinch and tomtit flew away in clouds; while the terrified -deer bounded riverwards from the midst of the thickets. This -crowd, spreading joy, confusion, and light wherever it passed, -was heralded, it may be said, to the château by its own -clamor. As the king and Madame entered the village, they were -received by the acclamations of the crowd. Madame hastened to -look for Monsieur, for she instinctively understood that he had -been far too long kept from sharing in this joy. The king went -to rejoin the queens; he knew he owed them - one especially - a -compensation for his long absence. But Madame was not admitted -to Monsieur's apartments, and she was informed that Monsieur was -asleep. The king, instead of being met by Maria Theresa smiling, -as was usual with her, found Anne of Austria in the gallery -watching for his return, who advanced to meet him, and taking him -by the hand, led him to her own apartment. No one ever knew what -was the nature of the conversation which took place between them, -or rather what it was that the queen-mother said to Louis XIV.; -but the general tenor of the interview might certainly be guessed -from the annoyed expression of the king's face as he left -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> But we, whose mission it is -to interpret all things, as it is also to communicate our -interpretations to our readers, - we should fail in our duty, if -we were to leave them in ignorance of the result of this -interview. It will be found sufficiently detailed, at least we -hope so, in the following chapter.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXVII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Butterfly-Chase.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he king, on retiring to his apartments to -give some directions and to arrange his ideas, found on his -toilette-glass a small note, the handwriting of which seemed -disguised. He opened it and read - "Come quickly, I have a -thousand things to say to you." The king and Madame had not been -separated a sufficiently long time for these thousand things to -be the result of the three thousand which they had been saying to -each other during the route which separated Vulaines from -Fontainebleau. The confused and hurried character of the note -gave the king a great deal to reflect upon. He occupied himself -but slightly with his toilette, and set off to pay his visit to -Madame. The princess, who did not wish to have the appearance of -expecting him, had gone into the gardens with the ladies of her -suite. When the king was informed that Madame had left her -apartments and had gone for a walk in the gardens, he collected -all the gentlemen he could find, and invited them to follow him. -He found Madame engaged in chasing butterflies, on a large lawn -bordered with heliotrope and flowering broom. She was looking on -as the most adventurous and youngest of her ladies ran to and -fro, and with her back turned to a high hedge, very impatiently -awaited the arrival of the king, with whom she had appointed the -rendezvous. The sound of many feet upon the gravel walk made her -turn round. Louis XIV. was hatless, he had struck down with his -cane a peacock butterfly, which Monsieur de Saint-Aignan had -picked up from the ground quite stunned.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see, Madame," said the -king, as he approached her, "that I, too, am hunting on your -behalf!" and then, turning towards those who had accompanied him, -said, "Gentlemen, see if each of you cannot obtain as much for -these ladies," a remark which was a signal for all to retire. -And thereupon a curious spectacle might have been observed; old -and corpulent courtiers were seen running after butterflies, -losing their hats as they ran, and with their raised canes -cutting down the myrtles and the furze, as they would have done -the Spaniards.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king offered Madame his -arm, and they both selected, as the center of observation, a -bench with a roof of boards and moss, a kind of hut roughly -designed by the modest genius of one of the gardeners who had -inaugurated the picturesque and fanciful amid the formal style of -the gardening of that period. This sheltered retreat, covered -with nasturtiums and climbing roses, screened the bench, so that -the spectators, insulated in the middle of the lawn, saw and were -seen on every side, but could not be heard, without perceiving -those who might approach for the purpose of listening. Seated -thus, the king made a sign of encouragement to those who were -running about; and then, as if he were engaged with Madame in a -dissertation upon the butterfly, which he had thrust through with -a gold pin and fastened on his hat, said to her, "How admirably -we are placed here for conversations."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire, for I wished to -be heard by you alone, and yet to be seen by every -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And I also," said -Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My note surprised you?"<br> - "Terrified me rather. But what I have to tell -you is more important."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It cannot be, sire. Do you -know that Monsieur refuses to see me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Can you not guess -why?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, Madame! in that case we -have both the same thing to say to each other."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What has happened to you, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You wish me to -begin?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, for I have told you -all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, as soon as I -returned, I found my mother waiting for me, and she led me away -to her own apartments."<br> - "The queen-mother?" said Madame, with some -anxiety, "the matter is serious then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed it is, for she told -me... but, in the first place, allow me to preface what I have to -say with one remark. Has Monsieur ever spoken to you about -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Often."<br> - "Has he ever spoken to you about his -jealousy?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "More frequently -still."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of his jealousy of me?"<br> - "No, but of the Duke of Buckingham and De -Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, Madame, Monsieur's -present idea is a jealousy of myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really," replied the -princess, smiling archly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And it really seems to me," -continued the king, "that we have never given any ground - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never! at least <i>I</i> -have not. But who told you that Monsieur was -jealous?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My mother represented to me -that Monsieur entered her apartments like a madman, that he -uttered a thousand complaints against you, and - forgive me for -saying it - against your coquetry. It appears that Monsieur -indulges in injustice, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are very kind, -sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My mother reassured him; but -he pretended that people reassure him too often, and that he had -had quite enough of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Would it not be better for -him not to make himself uneasy in any way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The very thing I -said."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Confess, sire, that the -world is very wicked. Is it possible that a brother and sister -cannot converse together, or take pleasure in each other's -company, without giving rise to remarks and suspicions? For -indeed, sire, we are doing no harm, and have no intention of -doing any." And she looked at the king with that proud yet -provoking glance that kindles desire in the coldest and wisest of -men.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No!" sighed the king, "that -is true."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know very well, sire, -that if it were to continue, I should be obliged to make a -disturbance. Do you decide upon our conduct, and say whether it -has, or has not, been perfectly correct."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, certainly - perfectly -correct."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Often alone together, - for -we delight in the same things, - we might possibly be led away -into error, but <i>have</i> we been? I regard you as a brother, -and nothing more."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king frowned. She -continued:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your hand, which often meets -my own, does not excite in me that agitation and emotion which is -the case with those who love each other, for instance - "<br> - "Enough," said the king, "enough, I entreat you. -You have no pity - you are killing me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the -matter?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In fact, then, you -distinctly say you experience nothing when near me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, sire! I don't say that -- my affection - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Enough, Henrietta, I again -entreat you. If you believe me to be marble, as you are, -undeceive yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not understand you, -sire."<br> - "Very well," said the king, casting down his -eyes. "And so our meetings, the pressure of each other's hand, -the looks we have exchanged - Yes, yes; you are right, and I -understand your meaning," and he buried his face in his -hands.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, sire," said -Madame, hurriedly, "Monsieur de Saint-Aignan is looking at -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course," said Louis, -angrily; "never even the shadow of liberty! never any sincerity -in my intercourse with any one! I imagine I have found a friend, -who is nothing but a spy; a dearer friend, who is only a - -sister!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame was silent, and cast -down her eyes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My husband is jealous," she -murmured, in a tone of which nothing could equal its sweetness -and charm.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right," exclaimed -the king, suddenly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see," she said, looking -at him in a manner that set his heart on fire, "you are free, you -are not suspected, the peace of your house is not -disturbed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas," said the king, "as -yet you know nothing, for the queen is jealous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Maria Theresa!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stark mad with jealousy! -Monsieur's jealousy arises from hers; she was weeping and -complaining to my mother, and was reproaching us for those -bathing parties, which have made me so happy."<br> - "And me too," answered Madame, by a -look.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When, suddenly," continued -the king, "Monsieur, who was listening, heard the word -'<i>baños</i>,' which the queen pronounced with some -degree of bitterness, that awakened his attention; he entered the -room, looking quite wild, broke into the conversation, and began -to quarrel with my mother so bitterly that she was obliged to -leave him; so that, while you have a jealous husband to deal -with, I shall have perpetually present before me a specter of -jealousy with swollen eyes, a cadaverous face, and sinister -looks."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Poor king," murmured Madame, -as she lightly touched the king's hand. He retained her hand in -his, and in order to press it without exciting suspicion in the -spectators, who were not so much taken up with the butterflies -that they could not occupy themselves about other matters, and -who perceived clearly enough that there was some mystery in the -king's and Madame's conversation, Louis placed the dying -butterfly before his sister-in-law, and bent over it as if to -count the thousand eyes of its wings, or the particles of golden -dust which covered it. Neither of them spoke; however, their -hair mingled, their breaths united, and their hands feverishly -throbbed in each other's grasp. Five minutes passed in this -manner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXVIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>What Was Caught after the -Butterflies.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he two young people remained for a moment -with their heads bent down, bowed, as it were, beneath the double -thought of the love which was springing up in their hearts, and -which gives birth to so many happy fancies in the imaginations of -twenty years of age. Henrietta gave a side glance, from time to -time, at the king. Hers was one of those finely-organized -natures capable of looking inwardly at itself, as well as at -others at the same moment. She perceived Love lying at the -bottom of Louis's heart, as a skillful diver sees a pearl at the -bottom of the sea. She knew Louis was hesitating, if not in -doubt, and that his indolent or timid heart required aid and -encouragement. "And so?" she said, interrogatively, breaking the -silence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean?" inquired -Louis, after a moment's pause.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I mean, that I shall be -obliged to return to the resolution I had formed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To what -resolution?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To that which I have already -submitted to your majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When?"<br> - "On the very day we had a certain explanation -about Monsieur's jealousies."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did you say to me -then?" inquired Louis, with some anxiety.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not remember, -sire?"<br> - "Alas! if it be another cause of unhappiness, I -shall recollect it soon enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A cause of unhappiness for -myself alone, sire," replied Madame Henrietta; "but as it is -necessary, I must submit to it."<br> - "At least, tell me what it is," said the -king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Absence."<br> - "Still that unkind resolve?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Believe me, sire, I have not -found it without a violent struggle with myself; it is absolutely -necessary I should return to England."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never, never will I permit -you to leave France," exclaimed the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet, sire," said Madame, -affecting a gentle yet sorrowful determination, "nothing is more -urgently necessary; nay, more than that, I am persuaded it is -your mother's desire I should do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Desire!" exclaimed the king; -"that is a very strange expression to use to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Still," replied Madame -Henrietta, smilingly, "are you not happy in submitting to the -wishes of so good a mother?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Enough, I implore you; you -rend my very soul."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?"<br> - "Yes; for you speak of your departure with -tranquillity."<br> - "I was not born for happiness, sire," replied the -princess, dejectedly; "and I acquired, in very early life, the -habit of seeing my dearest wishes disappointed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you speak truly?" said -the king. "Would your departure gainsay any one of your -cherished thoughts?"<br> - "If I were to say 'yes,' would you begin to take -your misfortune patiently?"<br> - "How cruel you are!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, sire; some one is -coming."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king looked all round -him, and said, "No, there is no one," and then continued: "Come, -Henrietta, instead of trying to contend against Monsieur's -jealousy by a departure which would kill me - " </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Henrietta slightly shrugged -her shoulders like a woman unconvinced. "Yes," repeated Louis, -"which would kill me, I say. Instead of fixing your mind on this -departure, does not your imagination - or rather does not your -heart - suggest some expedient?"<br> - "What is it you wish my heart to suggest?"<br> - "Tell me, how can one prove to another that it is -wrong to be jealous?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the first place, sire, by -giving no motive for jealousy; in other words, in loving no one -but the person in question."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! I expected more than -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did you -expect?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you would simply tell -me that jealous people are pacified by concealing the affection -which is entertained for the object of jealousy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dissimulation is difficult, -sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet it is only be means of -conquering difficulties that any happiness is attained. As far -as I am concerned, I swear I will give the lie to those who are -jealous of me by pretending to treat you like any other -woman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A bad, as well as unsafe, -means," said the young princess, shaking her pretty -head.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You seem to think everything -bad, dear Henrietta," said Louis, discontentedly. "You negative -everything I propose. Suggest, at least, something else in its -stead. Come, try and think. I trust implicitly to a woman's -invention. Do you invent in your turn?"<br> - "Well, sire, I have hit upon something. Will you -listen to it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Can you ask me? You speak -of a matter of life or death to me, and then ask if I will -listen."<br> - "Well, I judge of it by my own case. If my -husband intended to put me on the wrong scent with regard to -another woman, one thing would reassure me more than anything -else."<br> - "What would that be?"<br> - "In the first place to see that he never took any -notice of the woman in question."<br> - "Exactly. That is precisely what I said just -now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; but in order to -be perfectly reassured on the subject, I should like to see him -occupy himself with some one else."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! I understand you," -replied Louis, smiling. "But confess, dear Henrietta, if the -means is at least ingenious, it is hardly charitable."<br> - "Why so?"<br> - "In curing the dread of a wound in a jealous -person's mind, you inflict one upon the heart. His fear ceases, -it is true; but the evil still exists; and that seems to me to be -far worse."<br> - "Agreed; but he does not detect, he does not -suspect the real enemy; he does no prejudice to love itself; he -concentrates all his strength on the side where his strength will -do no injury to anything or any one. In a word, sire, my plan, -which I confess I am surprised to find you dispute, is -mischievous to jealous people, it is true; but to lovers it is -full of advantage. Besides, let me ask, sire, who, except -yourself, has ever thought of pitying jealous people? Are they -not a melancholy crew of grumblers always equally unhappy, -whether with or without a cause? You may remove that cause, but -you never can remove their sufferings. It is a disease which -lies in the imagination, and, like all imaginary disorders, it is -incurable. By the by, I remember an aphorism upon this subject, -of poor Dr. Dawley, a clever and amusing man, who, had it not -been for my brother, who could not do without him, I should have -with me now. He used to say, 'Whenever you are likely to suffer -from two affections, choose that which will give you the least -trouble, and I will allow you to retain it; for it is positive,' -he said, 'that that very ailment is of the greatest service to -me, in order to enable me to get rid of the other.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well and judiciously -remarked, Henrietta," replied the king, smiling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! we have some clever -people in London, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And those clever people -produce adorable pupils. I will grant this Daley, Darley, -Dawley, or whatever you call him, a pension for his aphorism; but -I entreat you, Henrietta, to begin by choosing the least of your -evils. You do not answer - you smile. I guess that the least of -your bugbears is your stay in France. I will allow you to retain -this information; and, in order to begin with the cure of the -other, I will this very day begin to look out for a subject which -shall divert the attention of the jealous members of either sex -who persecute us both."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush! this time some one is -really coming," said Madame; and she stooped to gather a flower -from the thick grass at her feet. Some one, in fact, was -approaching; for, suddenly, a bevy of young girls ran down from -the top of the hillock, following the cavaliers - the cause of -this interruption being a magnificent hawk-moth, with wings like -rose-leaves. The prey in question had fallen into the net of -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, who displayed it with some pride -to her less successful rivals. The queen of the chase had seated -herself some twenty paces from the bank on which Louis and Madame -Henrietta were reclining; and leaned her back against a -magnificent oak-tree entwined with ivy, and stuck the butterfly -on the long cane she carried in her hand. Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente was very beautiful, and the gentlemen, -accordingly, deserted her companions, and under the pretext of -complimenting her upon her success, pressed in a circle around -her. The king and princess looked gloomily at this scene, as -spectators of maturer age look on at the games of little -children. "They seem to be amusing themselves there," said the -king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Greatly, sire; I have always -found that people are amused wherever youth and beauty are to be -found."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you think of -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, Henrietta?" inquired the -king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think she has rather too -much flax-yellow and lily-whiteness in her complexion," replied -Madame, fixing in a moment upon the only fault it was possible to -find in the almost perfect beauty of the future Madame de -Montespan."<br> - "Rather too fair, yes; but beautiful, I think, in -spite of that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that your opinion, -sire?"<br> - "Yes, really."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; and it is mine, -too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And she seems to be much -sought after."<br> - "On, that is a matter of course. Lovers flutter -from one to another. If we had hunted for lovers instead of -butterflies, you can see, from those who surround her, what -successful sport we should have had."<br> - "Tell me, Henrietta, what would be said if the -king were to make himself one of those lovers, and let his glance -fall in that direction? Would some one else be jealous, in such -a case?"<br> - "Oh! sire, Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente is a -very efficacious remedy," said Madame, with a sigh. "She would -cure a jealous man, certainly; but she might possibly make a -woman jealous, too."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Henrietta," exclaimed Louis, -"you fill my heart with joy. Yes, yes; Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente is far too beautiful to serve as a -cloak."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A king's cloak," said Madame -Henrietta, smiling, "ought to be beautiful."<br> - "Do you advise me to do it, then?" inquired -Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I! what should I say, sire, -except that to give such an advice would be to supply arms -against myself? It would be folly or pride to advise you to -take, for the heroine of an assumed affection, a woman more -beautiful than the one for whom you pretend to feel real -regard."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king tried to take -Madame's hand in his own; his eyes sought hers; and then he -murmured a few words so full of tenderness, but pronounced in so -low a tone, that the historian, who ought to hear everything, -could not hear them. Then, speaking aloud, he said, "Do you -yourself choose for me the one who is to cure our jealous -friend. To her, then, all my devotion, all my attention, all the -time that I can spare from my occupations, shall be devoted. For -her shall be the flower that I may pluck for you, the fond -thoughts with which you have inspired me. Towards her I will -direct the glance I dare not bestow upon you, and which ought to -be able to rouse you from your indifference. But, be careful in -your selection, lest, in offering her the rose which I may have -plucked, I find myself conquered by you; and my looks, my hand, -my lips, turn immediately towards you, even were the whole world -to guess my secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> While these words escaped -from the king's lips, in a stream of wild affection, Madame -blushed, breathless, happy, proud, almost intoxicated with -delight. She could find nothing to say in reply; her pride and -her thirst for homage were satisfied. "I shall fail," she said, -raising her beautiful black eyes, "but not as you beg me, for all -this incense which you wish to burn on the altar of another -divinity. Ah! sire, I too shall be jealous of it, and want -restored to me; and would not that a particle of it should be -lost in the way. Therefore, sire, with your royal permission, I -will choose one who shall appear to me the least likely to -distract your attention, and who will leave my image intact and -unshadowed in your heart."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Happily for me," said the -king, "your heart is not hard and unfeeling. If it were so, I -should be alarmed at the threat you hold out. Precautions were -taken on this point, and around you, as around myself, it would -be difficult to meet with a disagreeable-looking -face."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Whilst the king was speaking, -Madame had risen from her seat, looked around the greensward, and -after a careful and silent examination, she called the king to -her side, and said, "See yonder, sire, upon the declivity of that -little hill, near that group of Guelder roses, that beautiful -girl walking alone, her head down, her arms hanging by her side, -with her eyes fixed upon the flowers, which she crushes beneath -her feet, like one who is lost in thought."<br> - "Mademoiselle de Vallière, do you mean?" -remarked the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Oh!"<br> - "Will she not suit you, sire?"<br> - "Why, look how thin the poor child is. She has -hardly any flesh upon her bones."<br> - "Nay: am I stout then?"<br> - "She is so melancholy."<br> - "The greater contrast to myself, who am accused -of being too lively."<br> - "She is lame."<br> - "Do you really think so?"<br> - "No doubt of it. Look; she has allowed every one -to pass by her, through fear of her defect being remarked."<br> - "Well, she will not run so fast as Daphné, -and will not be as able to escape Apollo."<br> - "Henrietta," said the king, out of temper; "of -all your maids of honor, you have really selected for me the one -most full of defects."<br> - "Still she is one of my maids of honor."<br> - "Of course; but what do you mean?"<br> - "I mean that, in order to visit this new -divinity, you will not be able to do so without paying a visit to -my apartments, and that, as propriety will forbid your conversing -with her in private, you will be compelled to see her in my -circle, to speak, as it were, at me, while speaking to her. I -mean, in fact, that those who may be jealous, will be wrong if -they suppose you come to my apartments for my sake, since you -will go there for Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who happens to be lame."<br> - "Hardly that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who never opens her -lips."<br> - "But who, when she does open them, displays a -beautiful set of teeth."<br> - "Who may serve as a model for an -osteologist."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your favor will change her -appearance."<br> - "Henrietta!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events you allowed me -to choose."<br> - "Alas! yes."<br> - "Well, my choice is made: I impose her upon you, -and you must submit."<br> - "Oh! I would accept one of the furies, if you -were to insist upon it."<br> - "La Vallière is as gentle as a lamb: do -not fear she will ever contradict you when you tell her you love -her," said Madame, laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are not afraid, are you, -that I shall say too much to her?"<br> - "It would be for my sake."<br> - "The treaty is agreed to, then?"<br> - "Not only so, but signed. You will continue to -show me the friendship of a brother, the attention of a brother, -the gallantry of a monarch, will you not?"<br> - "I will preserve for you intact a heart that has -already become accustomed to beat only at your command."<br> - "Very well, do you not see that we have -guaranteed the future by this means?"<br> - "I hope so."<br> - "Will your mother cease to regard me as an -enemy?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Will Maria Theresa leave off speaking in Spanish -before Monsieur, who has a horror of conversation held in foreign -languages, because he always thinks he is being ill spoken of? -and lastly," continued the princess, "will people persist in -attributing a wrongful affection to the king when the truth is, -we can offer nothing to each other, except absolute sympathy, -free from mental reservation?"<br> - "Yes, yes," said the king, hesitatingly. "But -other things may still be said of us."<br> - "What can be said, sire? shall we never be left -in tranquillity?"<br> - "People will say I am deficient in taste; but -what is my self-respect in comparison with your -tranquillity?"<br> - "In comparison with my honor, sire, and that of -our family, you mean. Besides, I beg you to attend, do not be so -hastily prejudiced against La Vallière. She is slightly -lame, it is true, but she is not deficient in good sense. -Moreover, all that the king touches is converted into -gold."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, Madame, rest assured -of one thing, namely, that I am still grateful to you: you might -even yet make me pay dearer for your stay in France."<br> - "Sire, some one approaches."<br> - "Well!"<br> - "One last word."<br> - "Say it."<br> - "You are prudent and judicious, sire; but in the -present instance you will be obliged to summon to your aid all -your prudence, and all your judgment."<br> - "Oh!" exclaimed Louis, laughing, "from this very -day I shall begin to act my part, and you shall see whether I am -not quite fit to represent the character of a tender swain. -After luncheon, there will be a promenade in the forest, and then -there is supper and the ballet at ten o'clock."<br> - "I know it."<br> - "The ardor of my passion shall blaze more -brilliantly than the fireworks, shall shine more steadily than -our friend Colbert's lamps; it shall shine so dazzlingly that the -queens and Monsieur will be almost blinded by it."<br> - "Take care, sire, take care."<br> - "In Heaven's name, what have I done, then?"<br> - "I shall begin to recall the compliments I paid -you just now. You prudent! you wise! did I say? Why, you begin -by the most reckless inconsistencies! Can a passion be kindled -in this manner, like a torch, in a moment? Can a monarch, such -as you are, without any preparation, fall at the feet of a girl -like La Vallière?"<br> - "Ah! Henrietta, now I understand you. We have -not yet begun the campaign, and you are plundering me -already."<br> - "No, I am only recalling you to common-sense -ideas. Let your passion be kindled gradually, instead of -allowing it to burst forth so suddenly. Jove's thunders and -lightnings are heard and seen before the palace is set on fire. -Everything has its commencements. If you are so easily excited, -no one will believe you are really captivated, and every one will -think you out of your senses - if even, indeed, the truth itself -not be guessed. The public is not so fatuous as they seem."<br> - The king was obliged to admit that Madame was an -angel for sense, and the very reverse for cleverness. He bowed, -and said: "Agreed, Madame, I will think over my plan of attack: -great military men - my cousin De Condé for instance - -grow pale in meditation upon their strategical plans, before they -move one of the pawns, which people call armies; I therefore wish -to draw up a complete plan of campaign; for you know that the -tender passion is subdivided in a variety of ways. Well, then, I -shall stop at the village of Little Attentions, at the hamlet of -Love-Letters, before I follow the road of Visible Affection; the -way is clear enough, you know, and poor Madame de Scudéry -would never forgive me for passing though a halting-place without -stopping."<br> - "Oh! now we have returned to our proper senses, -shall we say adieu, sire?"<br> - "Alas! it must be so, for see, we are -interrupted."<br> - "Yes, indeed," said Henrietta, "they are bringing -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente and her sphinx butterfly in grand -procession this way."<br> - "It is perfectly well understood, that this -evening, during the promenade, I am to make my escape into the -forest, and find La Vallière without you."<br> - "I will take care to send her away."<br> - "Very well! I will speak to her when she is with -her companions, and I will then discharge my first arrow at -her."<br> - "Be skillful," said Madame, laughing, "and do not -miss the heart."<br> - Then the princess took leave of the king, and -went forward to meet the merry troop, which was advancing with -much ceremony, and a great many pretended flourishes of trumpets, -imitated with their mouths.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XXXIX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Ballet of the -Seasons.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>t the conclusion of the banquet, which was -served at five o'clock, the king entered his cabinet, where his -tailors were awaiting him for the purpose of trying on the -celebrated costume representing Spring, which was the result of -so much imagination, and had cost so many efforts of thought to -the designers and ornament-workers of the court. As for the -ballet itself, every person knew the part he had to take in it, -and how to perform it. The king had resolved to make it -surprise. Hardly, therefore, had he finished his conference, and -entered his own apartment, than he desired his two masters of the -ceremonies, Villeroy and Saint-Aignan, to be sent for. Both -replied that they only awaited his orders, and that everything -was ready to begin, but that it was necessary to be sure of fine -weather and a favorable night before these orders could be -carried out. The king opened his window; the pale-gold hues of -the evening were visible on the horizon through the vistas of the -wood, and the moon, white as snow, was already mounting the -heavens. Not a ripple could be noticed on the surface of the -green waters; the swans themselves, even, reposing with folded -wings like ships at anchor, seemed inspirations of the warmth of -the air, the freshness of the water, and the silence of the -beautiful evening. The king, having observed all these things, -and contemplated the magnificent picture before him, gave the -order which De Villeroy and De Saint-Aignan awaited; but with a -view of insuring the execution of this order in a royal manner, -one last question was necessary, and Louis XIV. put it to the two -gentlemen in the following manner: - "Have you any money?"<br> - "Sire," replied Saint-Aignan, "we have arranged -everything with M. Colbert."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! very well!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire, and M. Colbert -said he would wait upon your majesty, as soon as your majesty -should manifest an intention of carrying out the -<i>fêtes</i>, of which he has furnished the programme."<br> - "Let him come in, then," said the king; and as if -Colbert had been listening at the door for the purpose of keeping -himself <i>au courant</i> with the conversation, he entered as -soon as the king had pronounced his name to the two -courtiers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! M. Colbert," said the -king. "Gentlemen, to your posts," whereupon Saint-Aignan and -Villeroy took their leave. The king seated himself in an -easy-chair near the window, saying: "The ballet will take place -this evening, M. Colbert."<br> - "In that case, sire, I will pay all accounts -to-morrow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"<br> - "I promised the tradespeople to pay their bills -the day following that on which the ballet should take -place."<br> - "Very well, M. Colbert, pay them, since you have -promised to do so."<br> - "Certainly, sire; but I must have money to do -that."<br> - "What! have not the four millions, which M. -Fouquet promised, been sent? I forgot to ask you about it."<br> - "Sire, they were sent at the hour promised."<br> - "Well?"<br> - "Well, sire, the colored lamps, the fireworks, -the musicians, and the cooks, have swallowed up four millions in -eight days."<br> - "Entirely?"<br> - "To the last penny. Every time your majesty -directed the banks of the grand canal to be illuminated, as much -oil was consumed as there was water in the basins."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, well, M. Colbert; the -fact is, then, you have no more money?"<br> - "I have no more, sire, but M. Fouquet has," -Colbert replied, his face darkening with a sinister expression of -pleasure.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean?" inquired -Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We have already made M. -Fouquet advance six millions. He has given them with too much -grace not to have others still to give, if they are required, -which is the case at the present moment. It is necessary, -therefore, that he should comply."<br> - The king frowned. "M. Colbert," said he, -accentuating the financier's name, "that is not the way I -understood the matter; I do not wish to make use, against any of -my servants, of a means of pressure which may oppress him and -fetter his services. In eight days M. Fouquet has furnished six -millions; that is a good round sum."<br> - Colbert turned pale. "And yet," he said, "your -majesty did not use this language some time ago, when the news -about Belle-Isle arrived, for instance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, M. -Colbert."<br> - "Nothing, however, has changed since then; on the -contrary, indeed."<br> - "In my thoughts, monsieur, everything has -changed."<br> - "Does your majesty then no longer believe the -disloyal attempt?"<br> - "My affairs concern myself alone, monsieur; and I -have already told you I transact them without interference."<br> - "Then, I perceive," said Colbert, trembling with -anger and fear, "that I have had the misfortune to fall into -disgrace with your majesty."<br> - "Not at all; you are, on the contrary, most -agreeable to me."<br> - "Yet, sire," said the minister, with a certain -affected bluntness, so successful when it was a question of -flattering Louis's self-esteem, "what use is there in being -agreeable to your majesty, if one can no longer be of any -use?"<br> - "I reserve your services for a better occasion; -and believe me, they will only be the better appreciated."<br> - "Your majesty's plan, then, in this affair, is - -"<br> - "You want money, M. Colbert?"<br> - "Seven hundred thousand francs, sire."<br> - "You will take them from my private treasure." -Colbert bowed. "And," added Louis, "as it seems a difficult -matter for you, notwithstanding your economy, to defray, with so -limited a sum, the expenses which I intend to incur, I will at -once sign an order for three millions."<br> - The king took a pen and signed an order -immediately, then handed it to Colbert. "Be satisfied, M. -Colbert, the plan I have adopted is one worthy of a king," said -Louis XIV., who pronounced these words with all the majesty he -knew how to assume in such circumstances; and dismissed Colbert -for the purpose of giving an audience to his tailors.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The order issued by the king -was known throughout the whole of Fontainebleau; it was already -known, too, that the king was trying on his costume, and that the -ballet would be danced in the evening. The news circulated with -the rapidity of lightning; during its progress it kindled every -variety of coquetry, desire, and wild ambition. At the same -moment, as if by enchantment, every one who knew how to hold a -needle, every one who could distinguish a coat from a pair of -trousers, was summoned to the assistance of those who had -received invitations. The king had completed his toilette by -nine o'clock; he appeared in an open carriage decorated with -branches of trees and flowers. The queens had taken their seats -upon a magnificent dias or platform, erected upon the borders of -the lake, in a theater of wonderful elegance of construction. In -the space of five hours the carpenters had put together all the -different parts connected with the building; the upholsterers had -laid down the carpets, erected the seats; and, as if at the wave -of an enchanter's wand, a thousand arms, aiding, instead of -interfering with each other, had constructed the building, amidst -the sound of music; whilst, at the same time, other workmen -illuminated the theater and the shores of the lake with an -incalculable number of lamps. As the heavens, set with stars, -were perfectly unclouded, as not even a breath of air could be -heard in the woods, and as if Nature itself had yielded -complacently to the king's fancies, the back of the theater had -been left open; so that, behind the foreground of the scenes, -could be seen as a background the beautiful sky, glittering with -stars; the sheet of water, illuminated by the lights which were -reflected in it; and the bluish outline of the grand masses of -woods, with their rounded tops. When the king made his -appearance, the theater was full, and presented to the view one -vast group, dazzling with gold and precious stones; in which, -however, at the first glance, no single face could be -distinguished. By degrees, as the sight became accustomed to so -much brilliancy, the rarest beauties appeared to the view, as in -the evening sky the stars appear one by one to him who closes his -eyes and then opens them again.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The theater represented a -grove of trees; a few fauns lifting up their cloven feet were -jumping about; a dryad made her appearance on the scene, and was -immediately pursued by them; others gathered round her for her -defense, and they quarrelled as they danced. Suddenly, for the -purpose of restoring peace and order, Spring, accompanied by his -whole court, made his appearance. The Elements, subaltern powers -of mythology, together with their attributes, hastened to follow -their gracious sovereign. The Seasons, allies of Spring, -followed him closely, to form a quadrille, which, after many -words of more or less flattering import, was the commencement of -the dance. The music, hautboys, flutes, and viols, was -delightfully descriptive of rural delights. The king had already -made his appearance, amid thunders of applause. He was dressed -in a tunic of flowers, which set off his graceful and well-formed -figure to advantage. His legs, the best-shaped at court, were -displayed to great advantage in flesh-colored silken hose, of -silk so fine and so transparent that it seemed almost like flesh -itself. The most beautiful pale-lilac satin shoes, with bows of -flowers and leaves, imprisoned his small feet. The bust of the -figure was in harmonious keeping with the base; Louis's waving -hair floated on his shoulders, the freshness of his complexion -was enhanced by the brilliancy of his beautiful blue eyes, which -softly kindled all hearts; a mouth with tempting lips, which -deigned to open in smiles. Such was the prince of that period: -justly that evening styled "The King of all the Loves." There -was something in his carriage which resembled the buoyant -movements of an immortal, and he did not dance so much as seem to -soar along. His entrance produced, therefore, the most brilliant -effect. Suddenly the Comte de Saint-Aignan was observed -endeavoring to approach either the king or Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The princess - who was robed -in a long dress, diaphanous and light as the finest network -tissue from the hands of skillful Mechlin workers, one knee -occasionally revealed beneath the folds of the tunic, and her -little feet encased in silken slippers decked with pearls - -advanced radiant with beauty, accompanied by her -<i>cortége</i> of Bacchantes, and had already reached the -spot assigned to her in the dance. The applause continued so -long that the comte had ample leisure to join the -king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter, -Saint-Aignan?" said Spring.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing whatever," replied -the courtier, as pale as death; "but your majesty has not thought -of Fruits."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; it is suppressed."<br> - "Far from it, sire; your majesty having given no -directions about it, the musicians have retained it."<br> - "How excessively annoying," said the king. "This -figure cannot be performed, since M. de Guiche is absent. It -must be suppressed."<br> - "Ah, sire, a quarter of an hour's music without -any dancing will produce an effect so chilling as to ruin the -success of the ballet."<br> - "But, come, since - "<br> - "Oh, sire, that is not the greatest misfortune; -for, after all, the orchestra could still just as well cut it -out, if it were necessary; but - "<br> - "But what?"<br> - "Why, M. de Guiche is here."<br> - "Here?" replied the king, frowning, "here? Are -you sure?"<br> - "Yes, sire; and ready dressed for the -ballet."<br> - The king felt himself color deeply, and said, -"You are probably mistaken."<br> - "So little is that the case, sire, that if your -majesty will look to the right, you will see that the comte is in -waiting."<br> - Louis turned hastily towards the side, and in -fact, on his right, brilliant in his character of Autumn, De -Guiche awaited until the king should look at him, in order that -he might address him. To give an idea of the stupefaction of the -king, and that of Monsieur, who was moving about restlessly in -his box, - to describe also the agitated movement of the heads in -the theater, and the strange emotion of Madame, at the sight of -her partner, - is a task we must leave to abler hands. The king -stood almost gaping with astonishment as he looked at the comte, -who, bowing lowly, approached Louis with the profoundest -respect.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," he said, "your -majesty's most devoted servant approaches to perform a service on -this occasion with similar zeal that he has already shown on the -field of battle. Your majesty, in omitting the dance of the -Fruits, would be losing the most beautiful scene in the ballet. -I did not wish to be the substance of so dark a shadow to your -majesty's elegance, skill, and graceful invention; and I have -left my tenants in order to place my services at your majesty's -commands."<br> - Every word fell distinctly, in perfect harmony -and eloquence, upon Louis XIV.'s ears. Their flattery pleased, -as much as De Guiche's courage had astonished him, and he simply -replied: "I did not tell you to return, comte."<br> - "Certainly not, sire; but your majesty did not -tell me to remain."<br> - The king perceived that time was passing away, -that if this strange scene were prolonged it would complicate -everything, and that a single cloud upon the picture would -eventually spoil the whole. Besides, the king's heart was filled -with two or three new ideas; he had just derived fresh -inspiration from the eloquent glances of Madame. Her look had -said to him: "Since they are jealous of you, divide their -suspicions, for the man who distrusts two rivals does not object -to either in particular." So that Madame, by this clever -diversion, decided him. The king smiled upon De Guiche, who did -not comprehend a word of Madame's dumb language, but he remarked -that she pretended not to look at him, and he attributed the -pardon which had been conferred upon him to the princess's -kindness of heart. The king seemed only pleased with every one -present. Monsieur was the only one who did not understand -anything about the matter. The ballet began; the effect was more -than beautiful. When the music, by its bursts of melody, carried -away these illustrious dancers, when the simple, untutored -pantomime of that period, only the more natural on account of the -very indifferent acting of the august actors, had reached its -culminating point of triumph, the theater shook with tumultuous -applause.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche shone like a sun, -but like a courtly sun, that is resigned to fill a subordinate -part. Disdainful of a success of which Madame showed no -acknowledgement, he thought of nothing but boldly regaining the -marked preference of the princess. She, however, did not bestow -a single glance upon him. By degrees all his happiness, all his -brilliancy, subsided into regret and uneasiness; so that his -limbs lost their power, his arms hung heavily by his sides, and -his head drooped as though he was stupefied. The king, who had -from this moment become in reality the principal dancer in the -quadrille, cast a look upon his vanquished rival. De Guiche soon -ceased to sustain even the character of the courtier; without -applause, he danced indifferently, and very soon could not dance -at all, by which accident the triumph of the king and of Madame -was assured.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XL:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Nymphs of the Park of -Fontainebleau.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he king remained for a moment to enjoy a -triumph as complete as it could possibly be. He then turned -towards Madame, for the purpose of admiring her also a little in -her turn. Young persons love with more vivacity, perhaps with -greater ardor and deeper passion, than others more advanced in -years; but all the other feelings are at the same time developed -in proportion to their youth and vigor: so that vanity being with -them almost always the equivalent of love, the latter feeling, -according to the laws of equipoise, never attains that degree of -perfection which it acquires in men and women from thirty to five -and thirty years of age. Louis thought of Madame, but only after -he had studiously thought of himself; and Madame carefully -thought of herself, without bestowing a single thought upon the -king. The victim, however, of all these royal affections and -affectations, was poor De Guiche. Every one could observe his -agitation and prostration - a prostration which was, indeed, the -more remarkable since people were not accustomed to see him with -his arms hanging listlessly by his side, his head bewildered, and -his eyes with all their bright intelligence bedimmed. It rarely -happened that any uneasiness was excited on his account, whenever -a question of elegance or taste was under discussion; and De -Guiche's defeat was accordingly attributed by the greater number -present to his courtier-like tact and ability. But there were -others - keen-sighted observers are always to be met with at -court - who remarked his paleness and his altered looks; which he -could neither feign nor conceal, and their conclusion was that De -Guiche was not acting the part of a flatterer. All these -sufferings, successes, and remarks were blended, confounded, and -lost in the uproar of applause. When, however, the queens -expressed their satisfaction and the spectators their enthusiasm, -when the king had retired to his dressing-room to change his -costume, and whilst Monsieur, dressed as a woman, as he delighted -to be, was in his turn dancing about, De Guiche, who had now -recovered himself, approached Madame, who, seated at the back of -the theater, was waiting for the second part, and had quitted the -others for the purpose of creating a sort of solitude for herself -in the midst of the crowd, to meditate, as it were, beforehand, -upon chorographic effects; and it will be perfectly understood -that, absorbed in deep meditation, she did not see, or rather -pretended not to notice, anything that was passing around her. -De Guiche, observing that she was alone, near a thicket -constructed of painted cloth, approached her. Two of her maids -of honor, dressed as hamadryads, seeing De Guiche advance, drew -back out of respect., whereupon De Guiche proceeded towards the -middle of the circle and saluted her royal highness; but, whether -she did or did not observe his salutations, the princess did not -even turn her head. A cold shiver passed through poor De Guiche; -he was unprepared for such utter indifference, for he had neither -seen nor been told of anything that had taken place, and -consequently could guess nothing. Remarking, therefore, that his -obeisance obtained him no acknowledgement, he advanced one step -further, and in a voice which he tried, though vainly, to render -calm, said: "I have the honor to present my most humble respects -to your royal highness."<br> - Upon this Madame deigned to turn her eyes -languishingly towards the comte, observing. "Ah! M. de Guiche, -is that you? good day!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The comte's patience almost -forsook him, as he continued, - "Your royal highness danced just -now most charmingly."<br> - "Do you think so?" she replied with -indifference.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; the character which -your royal highness assumed is in perfect harmony with your -own."<br> - Madame again turned round, and, looking De Guiche -full in the face with a bright and steady gaze, said, - "Why -so?"<br> - "Oh! there can be no doubt of it."<br> - "Explain yourself?"<br> - "You represented a divinity, beautiful, -disdainful, inconstant."<br> - "You mean Pomona, comte?"<br> - "I allude to the goddess."<br> - Madame remained silent for a moment, with her -lips compressed, and then observed, - "But, comte, you, too, are -an excellent dancer."<br> - "Nay, Madame, I am only one of those who are -never noticed, or who are soon forgotten if they ever happen to -be noticed."<br> - With this remark, accompanied by one of those -deep sighs which affect the remotest fibers of one's being, his -heart burdened with sorrow and throbbing fast, his head on fire, -and his gaze wandering, he bowed breathlessly, and withdrew -behind the thicket. The only reply Madame condescended to make -was by slightly raising her shoulders, and, as her ladies of -honor had discreetly retired while the conversation lasted, she -recalled them by a look. The ladies were Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente and Mademoiselle de Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you hear what the Comte -de Guiche said?" the princess inquired.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No."<br> - "It really is very singular," she continued, in a -compassionate tone, "how exile has affected poor M. de Guiche's -wit." And then, in a louder voice, fearful lest her unhappy -victim might lose a syllable, she said, - "In the first place he -danced badly, and afterwards his remarks were very -silly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> She then rose, humming the -air to which she was presently going to dance. De Guiche had -overheard everything. The arrow pierced his heart and wounded -him mortally. Then, at the risk of interrupting the progress of -the <i>fête</i> by his annoyance, he fled from the scene, -tearing his beautiful costume of Autumn in pieces, and -scattering, as he went along, the branches of vines, mulberry and -almond trees, with all the other artificial attributes of his -assumed divinity. A quarter of an hour afterwards he returned to -the theater; but it will be readily believed that it was only a -powerful effort of reason over his great excitement that enabled -him to go back; or perhaps, for love is thus strangely -constituted, he found it impossible even to remain much longer -separated from the presence of one who had broken his heart. -Madame was finishing her figure. She saw, but did not look at De -Guiche, who, irritated and revengeful, turned his back upon her -as she passed him, escorted by her nymphs, and followed by a -hundred flatterers. During this time, at the other end of the -theater, near the lake, a young woman was seated, with her eyes -fixed upon one of the windows of the theater, from which were -issuing streams of light - the window in question being that of -the royal box. As De Guiche quitted the theater for the purpose -of getting into the fresh air he so much needed, he passed close -to this figure and saluted her. When she perceived the young -man, she rose, like a woman surprised in the midst of ideas she -was desirous of concealing from herself. De Guiche stopped as he -recognized her, and said hurriedly, - "Good evening, Mademoiselle -de la Vallière; I am indeed fortunate in meeting -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, also, M. de Guiche, am -glad of this accidental meeting," said the young girl, as she was -about to withdraw.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray do not leave me," said -De Guiche, stretching out his hand towards her, "for you would be -contradicting the kind words you have just pronounced. Remain, I -implore you: the evening is most lovely. You wish to escape from -the merry tumult, and prefer your own society. Well, I can -understand it; all women who are possessed of any feeling do, and -one never finds them dull or lonely when removed from the giddy -vortex of these exciting amusements. Oh! Heaven!" he exclaimed, -suddenly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter, monsieur -le comte?" inquired La Vallière, with some anxiety. "You -seem agitated."<br> - "I! oh, no!"<br> - "Will you allow me, M. de Guiche, to return you -the thanks I had proposed to offer you on the very first -opportunity? It is to your recommendation, I am aware, that I -owe my admission among the number of Madame's maids of -honor."<br> - "Indeed! Ah! I remember now, and I congratulate -myself. Do you love any one?"<br> - "I!" exclaimed La Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me, I hardly know -what I am saying; a thousand times forgive me; Madame was right, -quite right, this brutal exile has completely turned my -brain."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet it seemed to me that -the king received you with kindness."<br> - "Do you think so? Received me with kindness - -perhaps so - yes - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There cannot be a doubt he -received you kindly, for, in fact, you returned without his -permission."<br> - "Quite true, and I believe you are right. But -have you not seen M. de Bragelonne here?"<br> - La Vallière started at the name. "Why do -you ask?" she inquired.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have I offended you again?" -said De Guiche. "In that case I am indeed unhappy, and greatly -to be pitied."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, very unhappy, and very -much to be pitied, Monsieur de Guiche, for you seem to be -suffering terribly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! mademoiselle, why have I -not a devoted sister, or a true friend, such as -yourself?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have friends, Monsieur -de Guiche, and the Vicomte de Bragelonne, of whom you spoke just -now, is, I believe, one of the most devoted."<br> - "Yes, yes, you are right, he is one of my best -friends. Farewell, Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -farewell." And he fled, like one possessed, along the banks of -the lake. His dark shadow glided, lengthening as it disappeared, -among the illumined yews and glittering undulations of the -water. La Vallière looked after him, saying, - "Yes, yes, -he, too, is suffering, and I begin to understand why."<br> - She had hardly finished when her companions, -Mademoiselle de Montalais and Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, -ran forward. They were released from their attendance, and had -changed their costumes of nymphs; delighted with the beautiful -night, and the success of the evening, they returned to look -after their companion.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, already here!" they -said to her. "We thought we should be first at the -rendezvous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have been here this -quarter of an hour," replied La Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did not the dancing amuse -you?"<br> - "No."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But surely the enchanting -spectacle?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No more than the dancing. -As far as beauty is concerned, I much prefer that which these -dark woods present, in whose depths can be seen, now in one -direction and again in another, a light passing by, as though it -were an eye, in color like a midnight rainbow, sometimes open, at -others closed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "La Vallière is quite -a poetess," said Tonnay-Charente.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In other words," said -Montalais, "she is insupportable. Whenever there is a question -of laughing a little or of amusing ourselves, La Vallière -begins to cry; whenever we girls have reason to cry, because, -perhaps, we have mislaid our dresses, or because our vanity as -been wounded, or our costume fails to produce an effect, La -Vallière laughs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As far as I am concerned, -that is not my character," said Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente. -"I am a woman; and there are few like me; whoever loves me, -flatters me; whoever flatters me, pleases me; and whoever pleases -- "<br> - "Well!" said Montalais, "you do not -finish."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is too difficult," -replied Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, laughing loudly. "Do -you, who are so clever, finish for me."<br> - "And you, Louise?" said Montalais, "does any one -please you?"<br> - "That is a matter that concerns no one but -myself," replied the young girl, rising from the mossy bank on -which she had been reclining during the whole time the ballet -lasted. "Now, mesdemoiselles, we have agreed to amuse ourselves -to-night without any one to overlook us, and without any escort. -We are three in number, we like one another, and the night is -lovely. Look yonder, do you not see the moon slowly rising, -silvering the topmost branches of the chestnuts and the oaks. -Oh, beautiful walk! sweet liberty! exquisite soft turf of the -woods, the happiness which your friendship confers upon me! let -us walk arm in arm towards those large trees. Out yonder all are -at this moment seated at table and fully occupied, or preparing -to adorn themselves for a set and formal promenade; horses are -being saddled, or harnessed to the carriages - the queen's mules -or Madame's four white ponies. As for ourselves, we shall soon -reach some retired spot where no eyes can see us and no step -follow ours. Do you not remember, Montalais, the woods of -Cheverny and of Chambord, the innumerable rustling poplars of -Blois, where we exchanged our mutual hopes?"<br> - "And confidences too?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Well," said Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, "I -also think a good deal; but I take care - "<br> - "To say nothing," said Montalais, "so that when -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente thinks, Athenaïs is the only -one who knows it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush!" said Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente, "I hear steps approaching from this -side."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quick, quick, then, among -the high reed-grass," said Montalais; "stoop, Athenaïs, you -are so tall."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente stooped as she was told, and, almost at the same -moment, they saw two gentlemen approaching, their heads bent -down, walking arm in arm, on the fine gravel walk running -parallel with the bank. The young girls had, indeed, made -themselves small - indeed invisible.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is Monsieur de Guiche," -whispered Montalais in Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente's -ear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is Monsieur de -Bragelonne," whispered the latter to La -Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The two young men approached -still closer, conversing in animated tones. "She was here just -now," said the count. "If I had only seen her, I should have -declared it to be a vision, but I spoke to her."<br> - "You are positive, then?"<br> - "Yes; but perhaps I frightened her."<br> - "In what way?"<br> - "Oh! I was still half crazy at you know what; so -that she could hardly have understood what I was saying, and must -have grown alarmed."<br> - "Oh!" said Bragelonne, "do not make yourself -uneasy: she is all kindness, and will excuse you; she is -clear-sighted, and will understand."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but if she should have -understood, and understood too well, she may talk."<br> - "You do not know Louise, count," said Raoul. -"Louise possesses every virtue, and has not a single fault." And -the two young men passed on, and, as they proceeded, their voices -were soon lost in the distance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How is it, La -Vallière," said Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, "that the -Vicomte de Bragelonne spoke of you as Louise?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoBodyText" style= -'punctuation-wrap:hanging; text-autospace:ideograph-other'> - "We were brought up together," replied Louise, -blushing; "M. de Bragelonne has honored me by asking my hand in -marriage, but - "<br> - "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It seems the king will not -consent to it."<br> - "Eh! Why the king? and what has the king to do -with it?" exclaimed Aure, sharply. "Good gracious! has the king -any right to interfere in matters of that kind? Politics are -politics, as M. de Mazarin used to say; but love is love. If, -therefore, you love M. de Bragelonne, marry him. <i>I</i> give -<i>my</i> consent."<br> - Athenaïs began to laugh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! I am speaking -seriously," replied Montalais, "and my opinion in this case is -quite as good as the king's, I suppose; is it not, -Louise?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come," said La -Vallière, "these gentlemen have passed; let us take -advantage of our being alone to cross the open ground and so take -refuge in the woods."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So much the better," said -Athenaïs, "because I see the torches setting out from the -château and the theater, and they seem as if they were -preceding some person of distinction."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us run, then," said all -three. And, gracefully lifting up the long skirts of their silk -dresses, they lightly ran across the open space between the lake -and the thickest covert of the park. Montalais agile as a deer, -Athenaïs eager as a young wolf, bounded through the dry -grass, and, now and then, some bold Acteon might, by the aid of -the faint light, have perceived their straight and well-formed -limbs somewhat displayed beneath the heavy folds of their satin -petticoats. La Vallière, more refined and more bashful, -allowed her dress to flow around her; retarded also by the -lameness of her foot, it was not long before she called out to -her companions to halt, and, left behind, she obliged them both -to wait for her. At this moment, a man, concealed in a dry ditch -planted with young willow saplings, scrambled quickly up its -shelving side, and ran off in the direction of the -château. The three young girls, on their side, reached the -outskirts of the park, every path of which they well knew. The -ditches were bordered by high hedges full of flowers, which on -that side protected the foot-passengers from being intruded upon -by the horses and carriages. In fact, the sound of Madame's and -the queen's carriages could be heard in the distance upon the -hard dry ground of the roads, followed by the mounted cavaliers. -Distant music reached them in response, and when the soft notes -died away, the nightingale, with throat of pride, poured forth -his melodious chants, and his most complicated, learned, and -sweetest compositions to those who had met beneath the thick -covert of the woods. Near the songster, in the dark background -of the large trees, could be seen the glistening eyes of an owl, -attracted by the harmony. In this way the <i>fête</i> of -the whole court was a <i>fête</i> also for the mysterious -inhabitants of the forest; for certainly the deer in the brake, -the pheasant on the branch, the fox in its hole, were all -listening. One could realize the life led by this nocturnal and -invisible population from the restless movements that suddenly -took place among the leaves. Our sylvan nymphs uttered a slight -cry, but, reassured immediately afterwards, they laughed, and -resumed their walk. In this manner they reached the royal oak, -the venerable relic of a tree which in its prime has listened to -the sighs of Henry II. for the beautiful Diana of Poitiers, and -later still to those of Henry IV. for the lovely Gabrielle -d'Estrées. Beneath this oak the gardeners had piled up -the moss and turf in such a manner that never had a seat more -luxuriously rested the wearied limbs of man or monarch. The -trunk, somewhat rough to recline against, was sufficiently large -to accommodate the three young girls, whose voices were lost -among the branches, which stretched upwards to the -sky.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XLI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>What Was Said under the Royal -Oak.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>he softness of the air, the stillness -of the foliage, tacitly imposed upon these young girls an -engagement to change immediately their giddy conversation for one -of a more serious character. She, indeed, whose disposition was -the most lively, - Montalais, for instance, - was the first to -yield to the influence; and she began by heaving a deep sigh, and -saying: - "What happiness to be here alone, and at liberty, with -every right to be frank, especially towards one -another."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente; "for the court, however brilliant it may be, has -always some falsehood concealed beneath the folds of its velvet -robes, or the glitter of its diamonds."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I," replied La -Vallière, "I never tell a falsehood; when I cannot speak -the truth, I remain silent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will not long remain in -favor," said Montalais; "it is not here as it was at Blois, where -we told the dowager Madame all our little annoyances, and all our -longings. There were certain days when Madame remembered that -she herself had been young, and, on those days, whoever talked -with her found in her a sincere friend. She related to us her -flirtations with Monsieur, and we told her of the flirtations she -had had with others, or, at least, the rumors of them that had -spread abroad. Poor woman, so simple-minded! she laughed at -them, as we did. Where is she now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, Montalais, - -laughter-loving Montalais!" cried La Vallière; "you see -you are sighing again; the woods inspire you, and you are almost -reasonable this evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You ought not, either of -you," said Athenaïs, "to regret the court at Blois so much, -unless you do not feel happy with us. A court is a place where -men and women resort to talk of matters which mothers, guardians, -and especially confessors, severely denounce."<br> - "Oh, Athenaïs!" said Louise, -blushing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Athenaïs is frank -to-night," said Montalais; "let us avail ourselves of it."<br> - "Yes, let us take advantage of it, for this -evening I could divulge the softest secrets of my heart."<br> - "Ah, if M. Montespan were here!" said -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you think that I care for -M. de Montespan?" murmured the beautiful young girl.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is handsome, I -believe?"<br> - "Yes. And that is no small advantage in my -eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There now, you see - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will go further, and say, -that of all the men whom one sees here, he is the handsomest, and -the most - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What was that?" said La -Vallière, starting suddenly from the mossy -bank.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A deer hurrying by, -perhaps."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am only afraid of men," -said Athenaïs.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When they do not resemble M. -de Montespan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A truce to raillery. M. de -Montespan is attentive to me, but that does not commit me in any -way. Is not M. de Guiche here, he who is so devoted to -Madame?"<br> - "Poor fellow!" said La -Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why to be pitied? Madame is -sufficiently beautiful, and of high enough rank, I suppose."<br> - La Vallière shook her head sorrowfully, -saying, "When one loves, it is neither beauty nor rank; - when -one loves it should be the heart, or the eyes only, of him, or of -her whom one loves."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Montalais began to laugh -loudly. "Heart, eyes," she said; "oh, sugar-plums!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I speak for myself;" replied -La Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Noble sentiments," said -Athenaïs, with an air of protection, but with -indifference.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are they not your own?" -asked Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly so; but to -continue: how can one pity a man who bestows his attentions upon -such a woman as Madame? If any disproportion exists, it is on -the count's side."<br> - "Oh! no, no," returned La Vallière; "it is -on Madame's side."<br> - "Explain yourself."<br> - "I will. Madame has not even a wish to know what -love is. She diverts herself with the feeling, as children do -with fireworks, form which a spark might set a palace on fire. -It makes a display, and that is all she cares about. Besides, -pleasure forms the tissue of which she wishes her life to be -woven. M. de Guiche loves this illustrious personage, but she -will never love him."<br> - Athenaïs laughed disdainfully. "Do people -really ever love?" she said. "Where are the noble sentiments you -just now uttered? Does not a woman's virtue consist in the -uncompromising refusal of every intrigue that might compromise -her? A properly regulated woman, endowed with a natural heart, -ought to look at men, make herself loved - adored, even, by them, -and say at the very utmost but once in her life, 'I begin to -think that I ought not to have been what I am, - I should have -detested this one less than others.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Therefore," exclaimed La -Vallière, "that is what M. de Montespan has to -expect."<br> - "Certainly; he, as well as every one else. What! -have I not said that I admit he possesses a certain superiority, -and would not that be enough? My dear child, a woman is a queen -during the entire period nature permits her to enjoy sovereign -power - from fifteen to thirty-five years of age. After that, we -are free to have a heart, when we only have that left - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" murmured La -Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Excellent," cried Montalais; -"a very masterly woman; Athenaïs, you will make your way in -the world."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you not approve of what I -say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Completely," replied her -laughing companion.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are not serious, -Montalais?" said Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes; I approve -everything Athenaïs has just said; only - "<br> - "Only <i>what?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I cannot carry it -out. I have the firmest principles; I form resolutions beside -which the laws of the Stadtholder and of the King of Spain are -child's play; but when the moment arrives to put them into -execution, nothing comes of them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your courage fails?" said -Athenaïs, scornfully.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Miserably so."<br> - "Great weakness of nature," returned -Athenaïs. "But at least you make a choice."<br> - "Why, no. It pleases fate to disappoint me in -everything; I dream of emperors, and I find only - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Aure, Aure!" exclaimed La -Vallière, "for pity's sake, do not, for the pleasure of -saying something witty, sacrifice those who love you with such -devoted affection."<br> - "Oh, I do not trouble myself much about that; -those who love me are sufficiently happy that I do not dismiss -them altogether. So much the worse for myself if I have a -weakness for any one, but so much the worse for others if I -revenge myself upon them for it."<br> - "You are right," said Athenaïs, "and, -perhaps, you too will reach the goal. In other words, young -ladies, that is termed being a coquette. Men, who are very silly -in most things, are particularly so in confounding, under the -term of coquetry, a woman's pride, and love of changing her -sentiments as she does her dress. I, for instance, am proud; -that is to say, impregnable. I treat my admirers harshly, but -without any pretention to retain them. Men call me a coquette, -because they are vain enough to think I care for them. Other -women - Montalais, for instance - have allowed themselves to be -influenced by flattery; they would be lost were it not for that -most fortunate principle of instinct which urges them to change -suddenly, and punish the man whose devotion they so recently -accepted."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A very learned -dissertation," said Montalais, in the tone of thorough -enjoyment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is odious!" murmured -Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thanks to that sort of -coquetry, for, indeed, that is genuine coquetry," continued -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente; "the lover who, a little while -since, was puffed up with pride, in a minute afterwards is -suffering at every pore of his vanity and self-esteem. He was, -perhaps, already beginning to assume the airs of a conqueror, but -now he retreats defeated; he was about to assume an air of -protection towards us, but he is obliged to prostrate himself -once more. The result of all this is, that, instead of having a -husband who is jealous and troublesome, free from restraint in -his conduct towards us, we have a lover always trembling in our -presence, always fascinated by our attractions, always -submissive; and for this simple reason, that he finds the same -woman never twice of the same mind. Be convinced, therefore, of -the advantages of coquetry. Possessing that, one reigns a queen -among women in cases where Providence has withheld that precious -faculty of holding one's heart and mind in check."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How clever you are," said -Montalais, "and how well you understand the duty women owe -themselves!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am only settling a case of -individual happiness," said Athenaïs modestly; "and -defending myself, like all weak, loving dispositions, against the -oppressions of the stronger."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "La Vallière does not -say a word."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Does she not approve of what -we are saying?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay; only I do not -understand it," said Louise. "You talk like people not called -upon to live in this world of ours."<br> - "And very pretty your world is," said -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A world," returned -Athenaïs, "in which men worship a woman until she has -fallen, - and insult her when she has fallen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who spoke to you of -falling?" said Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yours is a new theory, then; -will you tell us how you intend to resist yielding to temptation, -if you allow yourself to be hurried away by feelings of -affection?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" exclaimed the young -girl, raising towards the dark heavens her beautiful large eyes -filled with tears, "if you did but know what a heart is, I would -explain, and convince you; a loving heart is stronger than all -your coquetry, more powerful than all your pride. A woman is -never truly loved, I believe; a man never loves with idolatry, -unless he feels sure he is loved in return. Let old men, whom we -read of in comedies, fancy themselves adored by coquettes. A -young man is conscious of, and knows them; if he has a fancy, or -a strong desire, and an absorbing passion, for a coquette, he -cannot mistake her; a coquette may drive him out of his senses, -but will never make him fall in love. Love, such as I conceive -it to be, is an incessant, complete, and perfect sacrifice; but -it is not the sacrifice of one only of the two persons thus -united. It is the perfect abnegation of two who are desirous of -blending their beings into one. If ever I love, I shall implore -my lover to leave me free and pure; I will tell him, and he will -understand, that my heart was torn by my refusal, and he, in his -love for me, aware of the magnitude of my sacrifice, - he, in his -turn, I say, will store his devotion for me, - will respect me, -and will not seek my ruin, to insult me when I shall have fallen, -as you said just now, whilst uttering your blasphemies against -love, such as I understand it. That is <i>my</i> idea of love. -And now you will tell me, perhaps, that my love will despise me; -I defy him to do so, unless he be the vilest of men, and my heart -assures me that it is not such a man I would choose. A look from -me will repay him for the sacrifices he makes, or will inspire -him with the virtues which he would never think he -possessed."<br> - "But, Louise," exclaimed Montalais, "you tell us -this, and do not carry it into practice."<br> - "What do you mean?"<br> - "You are adored by Raoul de Bragelonne, who -worships you on both knees. The poor fellow is made the victim -of your virtue, just as he would be - nay, more than he would be, -even - of my coquetry, or Athenaïs's pride."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All this is simply a -different shade of coquetry," said Athenaïs; "and Louise, I -perceive, is a coquette without knowing it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said La -Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you may call it -instinct, if you please, keenest sensibility, exquisite -refinement of feeling, perpetual play of restrained outbreaks of -affection, which end in smoke. It is very artful too, and very -effective. I should even, now that I reflect upon it, have -preferred this system of tactics to my own pride, for waging war -on members of the other sex, because it offers the advantage -sometimes of thoroughly convincing them; but, at the present -moment, without utterly condemning myself, I declare it to be -superior to the non-complex coquetry of Montalais." And the two -young girls began to laugh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière alone -preserved silence, and quietly shook her head. Then, a moment -after, she added, "If you were to tell me, in the presence of a -man, but a fourth part of what you have just said, or even if I -were assured that you think it, I should die of shame and grief -where I am now."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; die, poor tender -little darling," replied Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente; "for if -there are no men here, there are at least two women, your own -friends, who declare you to be attained and convicted of being a -coquette from instinct; in other words, the most dangerous kind -of coquette the world possesses."<br> - "Oh! mesdemoiselles," replied La Vallière, -blushing, and almost ready to weep. Her two companions again -burst out laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well! I will ask -Bragelonne to tell me."<br> - "Bragelonne?" said Athenaïs.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes! Bragelonne, who is as -courageous as Cæsar, and as clever and witty as M. -Fouquet. Poor fellow! for twelve years he has known you, loved -you, and yet - one can hardly believe it - he has never even -kissed the tips of your fingers."<br> - "Tell us the reason of this cruelty, you who are -all heart," said Athenaïs to La Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let me explain it by a -single word - virtue. You will perhaps deny the existence of -virtue?"<br> - "Come, Louise, tell us the truth," said Aure, -taking her by the hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you wish me to tell -you?" cried La Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whatever you like; but it -will be useless for you to say anything, for I persist in my -opinion of you. A coquette from instinct; in other words, as I -have already said, and I say it again, the most dangerous of all -coquettes."<br> - "Oh! no, no; for pity's sake do not believe -that!"<br> - "What! twelve years of extreme -severity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How can that be, since -twelve years ago I was only five years old? The frivolity of the -child cannot surely be placed to the young girl's account."<br> - "Well! you are now seventeen; three years instead -of twelve. During those three years you have remained constantly -and unchangeably cruel. Against you are arrayed the silent -shades of Blois, the meetings when you diligently conned the -stars together, the evening wanderings beneath the -plantain-trees, his impassioned twenty years speaking to your -fourteen summers, the fire of his glances addressed to -yourself."<br> - "Yes, yes; but so it is!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible!"<br> - "But why impossible?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell us something credible -and we will believe you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet, if you were to suppose -one thing."<br> - "What is that?"<br> - "Suppose that I thought I was in love, and that I -am not."<br> - "What! not in love!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then! if I have acted -in a different manner to what others do when they are in love, it -is because I do not love; and because my hour has not yet -come."<br> - "Louise, Louise," said Montalais, "take care or I -will remind you of the remark you made just now. Raoul is not -here; do not overwhelm him while he is absent; be charitable, and -if, on closer inspection, you think you do not love him, tell him -so, poor fellow!" and she began to laugh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Louise pitied M. de Guiche -just now," said Athenaïs; "would it be possible to detect an -explanation of her indifference for the one in this compassion -for the other?"<br> - "Say what you please," said La Vallière, -sadly; "upbraid me as you like, since you do not understand -me."<br> - "Oh! oh!" replied Montalais, "temper, sorrow, -tears; we are jesting, Louise, and are not, I assure you, quite -the monsters you suppose. Look at the proud Athenaïs, as -she is called; she does not love M. de Montespan, it is true, but -she would be in despair if M. de Montespan did not continue to -love her. Look at me; I laugh at M. Malicorne, but the poor -fellow whom I laugh at knows precisely when he will be permitted -to press his lips upon my hand. And yet the eldest of us is not -twenty yet. What a future before us!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Silly, silly girls!" -murmured Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are quite right," said -Montalais; "and you alone have spoken words of wisdom."<br> - "Certainly."<br> - "I do not dispute it," replied Athenaïs. - "And so it is clear you do not love poor M. de Bragelonne?"<br> - "Perhaps she does," said Montalais; "she is not -yet quite certain of it. But, in any case, listen, -Athenaïs; if M. de Bragelonne is ever free, I will give you -a little friendly advice."<br> - "What is that?"<br> - "To look at him well before you decide in favor -of M. de Montespan."<br> - "Oh! in that way of considering the subject, M. -de Bragelonne is not the only one whom one could look at with -pleasure; M. de Guiche, for instance, has his value also."<br> - "He did not distinguish himself this evening," -said Montalais; "and I know from very good authority that Madame -thought him insupportable."<br> - "M. de Saint-Aignan produced a most brilliant -effect, and I am sure that more than one person who saw him dance -this evening will not soon forget him. Do you not think so, La -Vallière?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why do you ask me? I did -not see him, nor do I know him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! you did not see M. de -Saint-Aignan? Don't you know him?"<br> - "No."<br> - "Come, come, do not affect a virtue more -extravagantly excessive than our vanity! - you have eyes, I -suppose?"<br> - "Excellent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then you must have seen all -those who danced this evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, nearly all."<br> - "That is a very impertinent 'nearly all' for -somebody."<br> - "You must take it for what it is -worth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; now, among all -those gentlemen whom you saw, which do you prefer?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Montalais, "is it -M. de Saint-Aignan, or M. de Guiche, or M. - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I prefer no one; I thought -them all about the same."<br> - "Do you mean, then, that among that brilliant -assembly, the first court in the world, no one pleased you?"<br> - "I do not say that."<br> - "Tell us, then, who your ideal is?"<br> - "It is not an ideal being."<br> - "He exists, then?"<br> - "In very truth," exclaimed La Vallière, -aroused and excited; "I cannot understand you at all. What! you -who have a heart as I have, eyes as I have, and yet you speak of -M. de Guiche, of M. de Saint-Aignan, when the king was there." -These words, uttered in a precipitate manner, and in an agitated, -fervid tone of voice, made her two companions, between whom she -was seated, exclaim in a manner that terrified her, "<i>The -king!</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière buried her -face in her hands. "Yes," she murmured; "the king! the king! -Have you ever seen any one to be compared to the -king?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You were right just now in -saying you had excellent eyes, Louise, for you see a great -distance; too far, indeed. Alas! the king is not one upon whom -our poor eyes have a right to hinge themselves."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is too true," cried La -Vallière; "it is not the privilege of all eyes to gaze -upon the sun; but I will look upon him, even were I to be blinded -in doing so." At this moment, and as though caused by the words -which had just escaped La Vallière's lips, a rustling of -leaves, and of what sounded like some silken material, was heard -behind the adjoining bushes. The young girls hastily rose, -almost terrified out of their senses. They distinctly saw the -leaves move, without being able to see what it was that stirred -them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a wolf or a wild -boar," cried Montalais; "fly! fly!" The three girls, in the -extremity of terror, fled by the first path that presented -itself, and did not stop until they had reached the verge of the -wood. There, breathless, leaning against each other, feeling -their hearts throb wildly, they endeavored to collect their -senses, but could only succeed in doing so after the lapse of -some minutes. Perceiving at last the lights from the windows of -the château, they decided to walk towards them. La -Vallière was exhausted with fatigue, and Aure and -Athenaïs were obliged to support her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We have escaped well," said -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am greatly afraid," said -La Vallière, "that it was something worse than a wolf. -For my part, and I speak as I think, I should have preferred to -have run the risk of being devoured alive by some wild animal -than to have been listened to and overheard. Fool, fool that I -am! How could I have thought, how could I have said what I -did?" And saying this her head bowed like the water tossed plume -of a bulrush; she felt her limbs fail, and her strength -abandoning her, and, gliding almost inanimate from the arms of -her companions, sank down upon the turf.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The King's Uneasiness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>L</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>et us leave poor La Vallière, who had -fainted in the arms of her two companions, and return to the -precincts of the royal oak. The young girls had hardly run -twenty paces, when the sound which had so much alarmed them was -renewed among the branches. A man's figure might indistinctly be -perceived, and putting the branches of the bushes aside, he -appeared upon the verge of the wood, and perceiving that the -place was empty, burst out into a peal of laughter. It is almost -superfluous to add that the form in question was that of a young -and handsome cavalier, who immediately made a sign to another, -who thereupon made his appearance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, sire," said the second -figure, advancing timidly, "has your majesty put our young -sentimentalists to flight?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It seems so," said the king, -"and you can show yourself without fear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, sire, you will be -recognized."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I tell you they are -flown."<br> - "This is a most fortunate meeting, sire; and, if -I dared offer an opinion to your majesty, we ought to follow -them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They are far enough away by -this time."<br> - "They would quickly allow themselves to be -overtaken, especially if they knew who were following them."<br> - "What do you mean by that, coxcomb that you -are?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, one of them seems to -have taken a fancy to me, and another compared you to the -sun."<br> - "The greater reason why we should not show -ourselves, Saint-Aignan. The sun never shows itself in the -night-time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my word, sire, your -majesty seems to have very little curiosity. In your place, I -should like to know who are the two nymphs, the two dryads, the -two hamadryads, who have so good an opinion of us."<br> - "I shall know them again very well, I assure you, -without running after them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By what means?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By their voices, of course. -They belong to the court, and the one who spoke of me had a -remarkably sweet voice."<br> - "Ah! your majesty permits yourself to be -influenced by flattery."<br> - "No one will ever say it is a means <i>you</i> -make use of."<br> - "Forgive my stupidity, sire."<br> - "Come; let us go and look where I told you."<br> - "Is the passion, then, which your majesty -confided to me, already forgotten?"<br> - "Oh! no, indeed. How is it possible to forget -such beautiful eyes as Mademoiselle de la Vallière -has?"<br> - "Yet the other one has a beautiful voice."<br> - "Which one?"<br> - "The lady who has fallen in love with the -sun."<br> - "M. de Saint-Aignan!"<br> - "Forgive me, sire."<br> - "Well, I am not sorry you should believe me to be -an admirer of sweet voices as well as of beautiful eyes. I know -you to be a terrible talker, and to-morrow I shall have to pay -for the confidence I have shown you."<br> - "What do you mean, sire?"<br> - "That to-morrow every one will know that I have -designs upon this little La Vallière; but he careful, -Saint-Aignan, I have confided my secret to no one but you, and if -any one should speak to me about it, I shall know who has -betrayed my secret."<br> - "You are angry, sire."<br> - "No; but you understand I do not wish to -compromise the poor girl."<br> - "Do not be afraid, sire."<br> - "You promise me, then?"<br> - "I give you my word of honor."<br> - "Excellent," thought the king, laughing to -himself; "now every one will know to-morrow that I have been -running about after La Vallière to-night."<br> - Then, endeavoring to see where he was, he said: -"Why we have lost ourselves."<br> - "Not quite so bad as that, sire."<br> - "Where does that gate lead to?"<br> - "To Rond-Point, sire."<br> - "Where were we going when we heard the sound of -women's voices?"<br> - "Yes, sire, and the termination of a conversation -in which I had the honor of hearing my own name pronounced by the -side of your majesty's."<br> - "You return to that subject too frequently, -Saint-Aignan."<br> - "Your majesty will forgive me, but I am delighted -to know that a woman exists whose thoughts are occupied about me, -without my knowledge, and without my having done anything to -deserve it. Your majesty cannot comprehend this satisfaction, -for your rank and merit attract attention, and compel -regard."<br> - "No, no, Saint-Aignan, believe me or not, as you -like," said the king, leaning familiarly upon Saint-Aignan's arm -and taking the path he thought would lead them to the -château; "but this candid confession, this perfectly -disinterested preference of one who will, perhaps, never attract -my attention - in one word, the mystery of this adventure excites -me, and the truth is, that if I were not so taken with La -Vallière - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not let that interfere -with your majesty's intentions: you have time enough before -you."<br> - "What do you mean?"<br> - "La Vallière is said to be very strict in -her ideas."<br> - "You excite my curiosity and I am anxious to see -her again. Come, let us walk on."<br> - The king spoke untruly, for nothing, on the -contrary, could make him less anxious, but he had a part to play, -and so he walked on hurriedly. Saint-Aignan followed him at a -short distance. Suddenly the king stopped; the courtier followed -his example.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Saint-Aignan," he said, "do -you not hear some one moaning?"<br> - "Yes, sire, and weeping, too, it seems."<br> - "It is in this direction," said the king. "It -sounds like the tears and sobs of a woman."<br> - "Run," said the king; and, following a by-path, -they ran across the grass. As they approached, the cries were -more distinctly heard.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Help, help," exclaimed two -voices. The king and his companion redoubled their speed, and, -as they approached nearer, the sighs they had heard were changed -into loud sobs. The cry of "Help! help!" was again repeated; at -the sound of which, the king and Saint-Aignan increased the -rapidity of their pace. Suddenly at the other side of a ditch, -under the branches of a willow, they perceived a woman on her -knees, holding another in her arms who seemed to have fainted. A -few paces from them, a third, standing in the middle of the path, -was calling for assistance. Perceiving the two gentlemen, whose -rank she could not tell, her cries for assistance were -redoubled. The king, who was in advance of his companion, leaped -across the ditch, and reached the group at the very moment when, -from the end of the path which led to the château, a dozen -persons were approaching, who had been drawn to the spot by the -same cries that had attracted the attention of the king and M. de -Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter, young -ladies?" said Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!" exclaimed -Mademoiselle de Montalais, in her astonishment, letting La -Vallière's head fall upon the ground.<br> - "Yes, it is the king; but that is no reason why -you should abandon your companion. Who is she?"<br> - "It is Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -sire."<br> - "Mademoiselle de la Vallière!"<br> - "Yes, sire, she has just fainted."<br> - "Poor child!" said the king. "Quick, quick, -fetch a surgeon." But however great the anxiety with which the -king had pronounced these words may have seemed to others, he had -not so carefully schooled himself but that they appeared, as well -as the gesture which accompanied them, somewhat cold to -Saint-Aignan, to whom the king had confided the sudden love with -which she had inspired him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Saint-Aignan," continued the -king, "watch over Mademoiselle de la Vallière, I beg. -Send for a surgeon. I will hasten forward and inform Madame of -the accident which has befallen one of her maids of honor." And, -in fact, while M. de Saint-Aignan was busily engaged in making -preparations for carrying Mademoiselle de la Vallière to -the château, the king hurried forward, happy to have an -opportunity of approaching Madame, and of speaking to her under a -colorable pretext. Fortunately, a carriage was passing; the -coachman was told to stop, and the persons who were inside, -having been informed of the accident, eagerly gave up their seats -to Mademoiselle de la Vallière. The current of fresh air -produced by the rapid motion of the carriage soon recalled her to -her senses. Having reached the château, she was able, -though very weak, to alight from the carriage, and, with the -assistance of Athenaïs and of Montalais, to reach the inner -apartments. They made her sit down in one of the rooms of the -ground floor. After a while, as the accident had not produced -much effect upon those who had been walking, the promenade was -resumed. During this time, the king had found Madame beneath a -tree with overhanging branches, and had seated himself by her -side.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care, sire," said -Henrietta to him, in a low tone, "you do not show yourself as -indifferent as you ought to be."<br> - "Alas!" replied the king, in the same tone, "I -much fear we have entered into an agreement above our strength to -keep." He then added aloud, "You have heard of the accident, I -suppose?"<br> - "What accident?"<br> - "Oh! in seeing you I forgot I hurried here -expressly to tell you of it. I am, however, painfully affected -by it; one of your maids of honor, Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, has just fainted."<br> - "Indeed! poor girl," said the princess, quietly, -"what was the cause of it?"<br> - She then added in an undertone, "You forget, -sire, that you wish others to believe in your passion for this -girl, and yet you remain here while she is almost dying, perhaps, -elsewhere."<br> - "Ah! Madame," said the king, sighing, "how much -more perfect you are in your part than I am, and how actively you -think of everything."<br> - He then rose, saying loud enough for every one to -hear him, "Permit me to leave you, Madame; my uneasiness is very -great, and I wish to be quite certain, myself, that proper -attention has been given to Mademoiselle de la Vallière." -And the king left again to return to La Vallière, while -those who had been present commented upon the king's remark: - -"My uneasiness is very great."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The King's Secret.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>O</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>n his way Louis met the Comte de -Saint-Aignan. "Well, Saint-Aignan," he inquired, with affected -interest, "how is the invalid."<br> - "Really, sire," stammered Saint-Aignan, "to my -shame, I confess I do not know."<br> - "What! you do not know?" said the king, -pretending to take in a serious manner this want of attention for -the object of his predilection.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will your majesty pardon me; -but I have just met one of our three loquacious wood-nymphs, and -I confess that my attention has been taken away from other -matters."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said the king, eagerly, -"you have found, then - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The one who deigned to speak -of me in such advantageous terms; and, having found mine, I was -searching for yours, sire, when I had the happiness to meet your -majesty."<br> - "Very well; but Mademoiselle de la -Vallière before everything else," said the king, faithful -to the character he had assumed."<br> - "Oh! our charming invalid!" said Saint-Aignan; -"how fortunately her fainting fit came on, since your majesty had -already occupied yourself about her."<br> - "What is the name of your fair lady, -Saint-Aignan? Is it a secret?"<br> - "It ought to be a secret, and a very great one, -even; but your majesty is well aware that no secret can possibly -exist for you."<br> - "Well, what is her name?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente."<br> - "Is she pretty?"<br> - "Exceedingly, sire; and I recognized the voice -which pronounced my name in such tender accents. I accosted her, -questioned her as well as I was able to do, in the midst of the -crowd; and she told me, without suspecting anything, that a -little while ago she was under the great oak, with her two -friends, when the sound of a wolf or a robber had terrified them, -and made them run away."<br> - "But," inquired the king, anxiously, "what are -the names of these two friends?"<br> - "Sire," said Saint-Aignan, "will your majesty -send me forthwith to the Bastile?"<br> - "What for?"<br> - "Because I am an egotist and a fool. My surprise -was so great at such a conquest, and at so fortunate a discovery, -that I went no further in my inquiries. Besides, I did not think -that your majesty would attach any very great importance to what -you heard, knowing how much your attention was taken up by -Mademoiselle de la Vallière; and then, Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente left me precipitately, to return to Mademoiselle -de la Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us hope, then, that I -shall be as fortunate as yourself. Come, Saint-Aignan."<br> - "Your majesty is ambitions, I perceive, and does -not wish to allow any conquest to escape you. Well, I assure you -that I will conscientiously set about my inquiries; and, -moreover, from one or the other of those Three Graces we shall -learn the names of the rest, and by the names their secrets."<br> - "I, too," said the king, "only require to hear -her voice to know it again. Come, let us say no more about it, -but show me where poor La Vallière is."<br> - "Well," thought Saint-Aignan, "the king's regard -is beginning to display itself, and for that girl too. It is -extraordinary; I should never have believed it." And with this -thought passing through his mind, he showed the king the room to -which La Vallière had been carried; the king entered, -followed by Saint-Aignan. In a low chamber, near a large window -looking out upon the gardens, La Vallière, reclining in a -large armchair, was inhaling deep draughts of the perfumed -evening breeze. From the loosened body of her dress, the lace -fell in tumbled folds, mingling with the tresses of her beautiful -fair hair, which lay scattered upon her shoulders. Her -languishing eyes were filled with tears; she seemed as lifeless -as those beautiful visions of our dreams, that pass before the -mental eye of the sleeper, half-opening their wings without -moving them, unclosing their lips without a sound escaping them. -The pearl-like pallor of La Vallière possessed a charm it -would be impossible to describe. Mental and bodily suffering had -produced upon her features a soft and noble expression of grief; -from the perfect passiveness of her arms and bust, she more -resembled one whose soul had passed away, than a living being; -she seemed not to hear either of the whisperings which arose from -the court. She seemed to be communing within herself; and her -beautiful, delicate hands trembled from time to time as though at -the contact of some invisible touch. She was so completely -absorbed in her reverie, that the king entered without her -perceiving him. At a distance he gazed upon her lovely face, -upon which the moon shed its pure silvery light.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good Heavens!" he exclaimed, -with a terror he could not control, "she is dead."<br> - "No, sire," said Montalais, in a low voice; "on -the contrary, she is better. Are you not better, Louise?"<br> - But Louise did not answer. "Louise," continued -Montalais, "the king has deigned to express his uneasiness on -your account."<br> - "The king!" exclaimed Louise, starting up -abruptly, as if a stream of fire had started through her frame to -her heart; "the king uneasy about me?"<br> - "Yes," said Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king is here, then?" -said La Vallière, not venturing to look round -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That voice! that voice!" -whispered Louis, eagerly, to Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, it is so," replied -Saint-Aignan; "your majesty is right; it is she who declared her -love for the sun."<br> - "Hush!" said the king. And then approaching La -Vallière, he said, "You are not well, Mademoiselle de la -Vallière? Just now, indeed, in the park, I saw that you -had fainted. How were you attacked?"<br> - "Sire," stammered out the poor child, pale and -trembling, "I really do not know."<br> - "You have been walking too far," said the king; -"and fatigue, perhaps - "<br> - "No, sire," said Montalais, eagerly, answering -for her friend, "it could not be from fatigue, for we passed most -of the evening seated beneath the royal oak."<br> - "Under the royal oak?" returned the king, -starting. "I was not deceived; it is as I thought." And he -directed a look of intelligence at the comte.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Saint-Aignan, -"under the royal oak, with Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente."<br> - "How do you know that?" inquired -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In a very simple way. -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente told me so."<br> - "In that case, she probably told you the cause of -Mademoiselle de la Vallière's fainting?"<br> - "Why, yes; she told me something about a wolf or -a robber. I forget precisely which." La Vallière -listened, her eyes fixed, her bosom heaving, as if, gifted with -an acuteness of perception, she foresaw a portion of the truth. -Louis imagined this attitude and agitation to be the consequence -of a terror only partially reassured. "Nay, fear nothing," he -said, with a rising emotion which he could not conceal; "the wolf -which terrified you so much was simply a wolf with two legs."<br> - "It was a man, then!" said Louise; "it was a man -who was listening?"<br> - "Suppose it was so, mademoiselle, what great harm -was there in his having listened? Is it likely that, even in -your own opinion, you would have said anything which could not -have been listened to?"<br> - La Vallière wrung her hands, and hid her -face in them, as if to hide her blushes. "In Heaven's name," she -said, "who was concealed there? Who was listening?"<br> - The king advanced towards her, to take hold of -one of her hands. "It was I," he said, bowing with marked -respect. "Is it likely I could have frightened you?" La -Vallière uttered a loud cry; for the second time her -strength forsook her; and moaning in utter despair, she again -fell lifeless in her chair. The king had just time to hold out -his arm; so that she was partially supported by him. -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente and Montalais, who stood a few -paces from the king and La Vallière, motionless and almost -petrified at the recollection of their conversation with La -Vallière, did not even think of offering their assistance, -feeling restrained by the presence of the king, who, with one -knee on the ground, held La Vallière round the waist with -his arm.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You heard, sire!" murmured -Athenaïs. But the king did not reply; he remained with his -eyes fixed upon La Vallière's half-closed eyes, and held -her quiescent hand in his own.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course," replied -Saint-Aignan, who, on his side, hoping that Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente, too, would faint, advancing towards her, holding -his arms extended, - "of course; we did not even lose a single -word." But the haughty Athenaïs was not a woman to faint -easily; she darted a terrible look at Saint-Aignan, and fled. -Montalais, with more courage, advanced hurriedly towards Louise, -and received her from the king's hands, who was already fast -losing his presence of mind, as he felt his face covered by the -perfumed tresses of the seemingly dying girl. "Excellent," -whispered Saint-Aignan. "This is indeed an adventure; and it -will be my own fault if I am not the first to relate it."<br> - The king approached him, and, with a trembling -voice and a passionate gesture, said, "Not a syllable, -comte."<br> - The poor king forgot that, only an hour before, -he had given him a similar recommendation, but with the very -opposite intention; namely, that the comte should be indiscreet. -It followed, as a matter of course, that he latter recommendation -was quite as unnecessary as the former. Half an hour afterwards, -everybody in Fontainebleau knew that Mademoiselle de la -Vallière had had a conversation under the royal oak with -Montalais and Tonnay-Charente, and that in this conversation she -had confessed her affection for the king. It was known, also, -that the king, after having manifested the uneasiness with which -Mademoiselle de la Vallière's health had inspired him, had -turned pale, and trembled very much as he received the beautiful -girl fainting into his arms; so that it was quite agreed among -the courtiers, that the greatest event of the period had just -been revealed; that his majesty loved Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, and that, consequently, Monsieur could now sleep -in perfect tranquillity. It was this, even, that the -queen-mother, as surprised as the others by the sudden change, -hastened to tell the young queen and Philip d'Orléans. -Only she set to work in a different manner, by attacking them in -the following way: - To her daughter-in-law she said, "See, now, -Thérèse, how very wrong you were to accuse the -king; now it is said he is devoted to some other person; why -should there be any greater truth in the report of to-day than in -that of yesterday, or in that of yesterday than in that of -to-day?" To Monsieur, in relating to him the adventure of the -royal oak, she said, "Are you not very absurd in your jealousies, -my dear Philip? It is asserted that the king is madly in love -with that little La Vallière. Say nothing of it to your -wife; for the queen will know all about it very soon." This -latter confidential communication had an immediate result. -Monsieur, who had regained his composure, went triumphantly to -look after his wife, and it was not yet midnight and the -<i>fête</i> was to continue until two in the morning, he -offered her his hand for a promenade. At the end of a few paces, -however, the first thing he did was to disobey his mother's -injunctions.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not tell any one, the -queen least of all," he said mysteriously, "what people say about -the king."<br> - "What do they say about him?" inquired -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That my brother has suddenly -fallen in love."<br> - "With whom?"<br> - "With Mademoiselle de la Vallière."<br> - As it was dark, Madame could smile at her -ease.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" she said, "and how long -is it since this has been the case?"<br> - "For some days, it seems. But that was nothing -but nonsense; it is only this evening that he has revealed his -passion."<br> - "The king shows his good taste," said Madame; "in -my opinion she is a very charming girl."<br> - "I verily believe you are jesting."<br> - "I! in what way?"<br> - "In any case this passion will make some one very -happy, even if it be only La Vallière herself."<br> - "Really," continued the princess, "you speak as -if you had read into the inmost recesses of La Vallière's -heart. Who has told you that she agrees to return the king's -affection?"<br> - "And who has told you that she will not return -it?"<br> - "She loves the Vicomte de Bragelonne."<br> - "You think so?"<br> - "She is even affianced to him."<br> - "She was so."<br> - "What do you mean?"<br> - "When they went to ask the king's permission to -arrange the marriage, he refused his permission."<br> - "Refused?"<br> - "Yes, although the request was preferred by the -Comte de la Fère himself, for whom the king has the -greatest regard, on account of the part he took in your royal -brother's restoration, and in other events, also, which happened -a long time ago."<br> - "Well! the poor lovers must wait until the king -is pleased to change his opinion; they are young, and there is -time enough."<br> - "But, dear me," said Philip, laughing, "I -perceive you do not know the best part of the affair."<br> - "No!"<br> - "That by which the king was most deeply -touched."<br> - "The king, do you say, has been deeply -touched?"<br> - "To the very quick of his heart."<br> - "But how? - in what manner? - tell me -directly."<br> - "By an adventure, the romance of which cannot be -equalled."<br> - "You know how I love to hear of such adventures, -and yet you keep me waiting," said the princess, -impatiently.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then - " and Monsieur -paused.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am listening."<br> - "Under the royal oak - you know where the royal -oak is?"<br> - "What can that matter? Under the royal oak, you -were saying?"<br> - "Well! Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -fancying herself to be alone with her two friends, revealed to -them her affection for the king."<br> - "Ah!" said Madame, beginning to be uneasy, "her -affection for the king?"<br> - "Yes."<br> - "When was this?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "About an hour ago."<br> - Madame started, and then said, "And no one knew -of this affection?"<br> - "No one."<br> - "Not even his majesty?"<br> - "Not even his majesty. The artful little puss -kept her secret strictly to herself, when suddenly it proved -stronger than herself, and so escaped her."<br> - "And from whom did you get this absurd tale?"<br> - "Why, as everybody else did, from La -Vallière herself, who confessed her love to Montalais and -Tonnay-Charente, who were her companions."<br> - Madame stopped suddenly, and by a hasty movement -let go her husband's hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you say it was an hour -ago she made this confession?" Madame inquired.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "About that time."<br> - "Is the king aware of it?"<br> - "Why, that is the very thing which constitutes -the perfect romance of the affair, for the king was behind the -royal oak with Saint-Aignan, and heard the whole of the -interesting conversation without losing a single word of it."<br> - Madame felt struck to the heart, saying -incautiously, "But I have seen the king since, and he never told -me a word about it."<br> - "Of course," said Monsieur; "he took care not to -speak of it to you himself, since he recommended every one not to -say a word about it."<br> - "What do you mean?" said Madame, growing -angry.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I mean that they wished to -keep you in ignorance of the affair altogether."<br> - "But why should they wish to conceal it from -me?"<br> - "From the fear that your friendship for the young -queen might induce you to say something about it to her, nothing -more."<br> - Madame hung down her head; her feelings were -grievously wounded. She could not enjoy a moment's repose until -she had met the king. As a king is, most naturally, the very -last person in his kingdom who knows what is said about him, in -the same way that a lover is the only one who is kept in -ignorance of what is said about his mistress, therefore, when the -king perceived Madame, who was looking for him, he approached her -in some perturbation, but still gracious and attentive in his -manner. Madame waited for him to speak about La Vallière -first; but as he did not speak of her, she said, "And the poor -girl?"<br> - "What poor girl?" said the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "La Vallière. Did you -not tell me, sire, that she had fainted?"<br> - "She is still very ill," said the king, affecting -the greatest indifference.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But surely that will -prejudicially affect the rumor you were going to spread, -sire?"<br> - "What rumor?"<br> - "That your attention was taken up by her."<br> - "Oh!" said the king, carelessly, "I trust it will -be reported all the same."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame still waited; she -wished to know if the king would speak to her of the adventure of -the royal oak. But the king did not say a word about it. -Madame, on her side, did not open her lips about it; so that the -king took leave of her without having reposed the slightest -confidence in her. Hardly had she watched the king move away, -than she set out in search of Saint-Aignan. Saint-Aignan was -never very difficult to find; he was like the smaller vessels -that always follow in the wake of, and as tenders to, the larger -ships. Saint-Aignan was the very man whom Madame needed in her -then state of mind. And as for him, he only looked for worthier -ears than others he had found to have an opportunity of -recounting the event in all its details. And so he did not spare -Madame a single word of the whole affair. When he had finished, -Madame said to him, "Confess, now, that is his all a charming -invention."<br> - "Invention, no; a true story, yes."<br> - "Confess, whether invention or true story, that -it was told to you as you have told it to me, but that you were -not there."<br> - "Upon my honor, Madame, I was there."<br> - "And you think that these confessions may have -made an impression on the king?"<br> - "Certainly, as those of Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente did upon me," replied Saint-Aignan; "do not -forget, Madame, that Mademoiselle de la Vallière compared -the king to the sun; that was flattering enough."<br> - "The king does not permit himself to be -influenced by such flatteries."<br> - "Madame, the king is just as much Adonis as -Apollo; and I saw plain enough just now when La Vallière -fell into his arms."<br> - "La Vallière fell into the king's -arms!"<br> - "Oh! it was the most graceful picture possible; -just imagine, La Vallière had fallen back fainting, and - -"<br> - "Well! what did you see? - tell me - speak!"<br> - "I saw what ten other people saw at the same time -as myself; I saw that when La Vallière fell into his arms, -the king almost fainted himself."<br> - Madame smothered a subdued cry, the only -indication of her smothered anger.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you," she said, -laughing in a convulsive manner, "you relate stories -delightfully, M. de Saint-Aignan." And she hurried away, alone, -and almost suffocated by painful emotion, towards the -château.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLIV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Courses de Nuit.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>M</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>onsieur quitted the princess in the best -possible humor, and feeling greatly fatigued, retired to his -apartments, leaving every one to finish the night as he chose. -When in his room, Monsieur began to dress for the night with -careful attention, which displayed itself from time to time in -paroxysms of satisfaction. While his attendants were engaged in -curling his hair, he sang the principal airs of the ballet which -the violins had played, and to which the king had danced. He -then summoned his tailors, inspected his costumes for the next -day, and, in token of his extreme satisfaction, distributed -various presents among them. As, however, the Chevalier de -Lorraine, who had seen the prince return to the château, -entered the room, Monsieur overwhelmed him with kindness. The -former, after having saluted the prince, remained silent for a -moment, like a sharpshooter who deliberates before deciding in -what direction he will renew his fire; then, seeming to make up -his mind, he said, "Have you remarked a very singular -coincidence, monseigneur?"<br> - "No; what is it?"<br> - "The bad reception which his majesty, in -appearance, gave the Comte de Guiche."<br> - "In appearance?"<br> - "Yes, certainly; since, in reality, he has -restored him to favor."<br> - "I did not notice it," said the -prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, did you not remark, -that, instead of ordering him to go away again into exile, as was -natural, he encouraged him in his opposition by permitting him to -resume his place in the ballet?"<br> - "And you think the king was wrong, chevalier?" -said the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you not of my opinion, -prince?"<br> - "Not altogether so, my dear chevalier; and I -think the king was quite right not to have made a disturbance -against a poor fellow whose want of judgment is more to be -complained of than his intention."<br> - "Really," said the chevalier, "as far as I am -concerned, I confess that this magnanimity astonishes me to the -highest degree."<br> - "Why so?" inquired Philip.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I should have -thought the king had been more jealous," replied the chevalier, -spitefully. During the last few minutes Monsieur had felt there -was something of an irritating nature concealed under his -favorite's remarks; this last word, however, ignited the -powder.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Jealous!" exclaimed the -prince. "Jealous! what do you mean? Jealous of what, if you -please - or jealous of whom?"<br> - The chevalier perceived that he had allowed an -excessively mischievous remark to escape him, as he was in the -habit of doing. He endeavored, therefore, apparently to recall -it while it was still possible to do so. "Jealous of his -authority," he said, with an assumed frankness; "of what else -would you have the king jealous?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said the prince, -"that's very proper."<br> - "Did your royal highness," continued the -chevalier, "solicit dear De Guiche's pardon?"<br> - "No, indeed," said Monsieur. "De Guiche is an -excellent fellow, and full of courage; but as I do not approve of -his conduct with Madame, I wish him neither harm nor good."<br> - The chevalier had assumed a bitterness with -regard to De Guiche, as he had attempted to do with regard to the -king; but he thought he perceived that the time for indulgence, -and even for the utmost indifference, had arrived, and that, in -order to throw some light on the question, it might be necessary -for him to put the lamp, as the saying is, beneath the husband's -very nose.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, very well," said -the chevalier to himself, "I must wait for De Wardes; he will do -more in one day than I in a month; for I verily believe he is -even more envious than I. Then, again, it is not De Wardes I -require so much as that some event or another should happen; and -in the whole of this affair I see none. That De Guiche returned -after he had been sent away is certainly serious enough, but all -its seriousness disappears when I learn that De Guiche has -returned at the very moment Madame troubles herself no longer -about him. Madame, in fact, is occupied with the king, that is -clear; but she will not be so much longer if, as it is asserted, -the king has ceased to trouble his head about her. The moral of -the whole matter is, to remain perfectly neutral, and await the -arrival of some new caprice and let that decide the whole -affair." And the chevalier thereupon settled himself resignedly -in the armchair in which Monsieur permitted him to seat himself -in his presence, and, having no more spiteful or malicious -remarks to make, the consequence was that De Lorraine's wit -seemed to have deserted him. Most fortunately Monsieur was in -high good-humor, and he had enough for two, until the time -arrived for dismissing his servants and gentlemen of the chamber, -and he passed into his sleeping-apartment. As he withdrew, he -desired the chevalier to present his compliments to Madame, and -say that, as the night was cool, Monsieur, who was afraid of the -toothache, would not venture out again into the park during the -remainder of the evening. The chevalier entered the princess's -apartments at the very moment she came in herself. He acquitted -himself faithfully of the commission intrusted to him, and, in -the first place, remarked all the indifference and annoyance with -which Madame received her husband's communication - a -circumstance which appeared to him fraught with something fresh. -If Madame had been about to leave her apartments with that -strangeness of manner, he would have followed her; but she was -returning to them; there was nothing to be done, therefore he -turned upon his heel like an unemployed heron, appearing to -question earth, air, and water about it; shook his head, and -walked away mechanically in the direction of the gardens. He had -hardly gone a hundred paces when he met two young men, walking -arm in arm, with their heads bent down, and idly kicking the -small stones out of their path as they walked on, plunged in -thought. It was De Guiche and De Bragelonne, the sight of whom, -as it always did, produced upon the chevalier, instinctively, a -feeling of repugnance. He did not, however, the less, on that -account, salute them with a very low bow, which they returned -with interest. Then, observing that the park was nearly -deserted, that the illuminations began to burn out, and that the -morning breeze was setting in, he turned to the left, and entered -the château again, by one of the smaller courtyards. The -others turned aside to the right, and continued on their way -towards the large park. As the chevalier was ascending the side -staircase, which led to the private entrance, he saw a woman, -followed by another, make her appearance under the arcade which -led from the small to the large courtyard. The two women walked -so fast that the rustling of their dresses could be distinguished -through the silence of the night. The style of their mantles, -their graceful figures, a mysterious yet haughty carriage which -distinguished them both, especially the one who walked first, -struck the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I certainly know those two," -he said to himself, pausing upon the top step of the small -staircase. Then, as with the instinct of a bloodhound he was -about to follow them, one of the servants who had been running -after him arrested his attention.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," he said, "the -courier has arrived."<br> - "Very well," said the chevalier, "there is time -enough; to-morrow will do."<br> - "There are some urgent letters which you would be -glad to see, perhaps."<br> - "Where from?" inquired the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One from England, and the -other from Calais; the latter arrived by express, and seems of -great importance."<br> - "From Calais! Who the deuce can have to write to -me from Calais?"<br> - "I think I recognize the handwriting of Monsieur -le Comte de Wardes."<br> - "Oh!" cried the chevalier, forgetting his -intention of acting the spy, "in that case I will come up at -once." This he did, while the two unknown beings disappeared at -the end of the court opposite to the one by which they had just -entered. We shall now follow them, and leave the chevalier -undisturbed to his correspondence. When they had arrived at the -grove of trees, the foremost of the two halted, somewhat out of -breath, and, cautiously raising her hood, said, "Are we still far -from the tree?"<br> - "Yes, Madame, more than five hundred paces; but -pray rest awhile, you will not be able to walk much longer at -this rate."<br> - "You are right," said the princes, for it was -she; and she leaned against a tree. "And now," she resumed, -after having recovered her breath, "tell me the whole truth, and -conceal nothing from me."<br> - "Oh, Madame," cried the young girl, "you are -already angry with me."<br> - "No, my dear Athenaïs, reassure yourself, I -am in no way angry with you. After all, these things do not -concern me personally. You are anxious about what you may have -said under the oak; you are afraid of having offended the king, -and I wish to tranquillize you by ascertaining myself if it were -possible you could have been overheard."<br> - "Oh, yes, Madame, the king was close to us."<br> - "Still, you were not speaking so loud that some -of your remarks may not have been lost."<br> - "We thought we were quite alone, Madame."<br> - "There were three of you, you say?"<br> - "Yes; La Vallière, Montalais, and -myself."<br> - "And <i>you</i>, individually, spoke in a light -manner of the king?"<br> - "I am afraid so. Should such be the case, will -your highness have the kindness to make my peace with his -majesty?"<br> - "If there should be any occasion for it, I -promise you I will do so. However, as I have already told you, -it will be better not to anticipate evil. The night is now very -dark, and the darkness is still greater under the trees. It is -not likely you were recognized by the king. To inform him of it, -by being the first to speak, is to denounce yourself."<br> - "Oh, Madame, Madame! if Mademoiselle de la -Vallière were recognized, I must have been recognized -also. Besides, M. de Saint-Aignan left no doubt on the -subject."<br> - "Did you, then, say anything very disrespectful -of the king?"<br> - "Not at all; it was one of the others who made -some very flattering speeches about the king; and my remarks must -have been much in contrast with hers."<br> - "Montalais is such a giddy girl," said -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was not Montalais. -Montalais said nothing; it was La Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame started as if she had -not known it perfectly well already. "No, no," she said, "the -king cannot have heard. Besides, we will now try the experiment -for which we came out. Show me the oak. Do you know where it -is?" she continued.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas! Madame, yes."<br> - "And you can find it again?"<br> - "With my eyes shut."<br> - "Very well; sit down on the bank where you were, -where La Vallière was, and speak in the same tone and to -the same effect as you did before; I will conceal myself in the -thicket, and if I can hear you, I will tell you so."<br> - "Yes, Madame."<br> - "If, therefore, you really spoke loud enough for -the king to have heard you, in that case - "<br> - Athenaïs seemed to await the conclusion of -the sentence with some anxiety.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case," said Madame, -in a suffocated voice, arising doubtless from her hurried -progress, "in that case, I forbid you - " And Madame again -increased her pace. Suddenly, however, she stopped. "An idea -occurs to me," she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A good idea, no doubt, -Madame," replied Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Montalais must be as much -embarrassed as La Vallière and yourself."<br> - "Less so, for she is less compromised, having -said less."<br> - "That does not matter; she will help you, I dare -say, by deviating a little from the exact truth."<br> - "Especially if she knows that your highness is -kind enough to interest yourself about me."<br> - "Very well, I think I have discovered what it is -best for you all to pretend."<br> - "How delightful."<br> - "You had better say that all three of you were -perfectly well aware that the king was behind the tree, or behind -the thicket, whichever it might have been; and that you knew M. -de Saint-Aignan was there too."<br> - "Yes, Madame."<br> - "For you cannot disguise it from yourself, -Athenaïs, Saint-Aignan takes advantage of some very -flattering remarks you made about him."<br> - "Well, Madame, you see very clearly that one can -be overheard," cried Athenaïs, "since M. de Saint-Aignan -overheard us."<br> - Madame bit her lips, for she had thoughtlessly -committed herself. "Oh, you know Saint-Aignan's character very -well," she said, "the favor the king shows him almost turns his -brain, and he talks at random; not only so, he very often -invents. That is not the question; the fact remains, did or did -not the king overhear?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, yes, Madame, he -certainly did," said Athenaïs, in despair.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, do what I -said: maintain boldly that all three of you knew - mind, all -three of you, for if there is a doubt about any one of you, there -will be a doubt about all, - persist, I say, that you knew that -the king and M. de Saint-Aignan were there, and that you wished -to amuse yourself at the expense of those who were -listening."<br> - "Oh, Madame, at the <i>king's</i> expense; we -shall never dare say that!"<br> - "It is a simple jest; an innocent deception -readily permitted in young girls whom men wish to take by -surprise. In this manner everything explains itself. What -Montalais said of Malicorne, a mere jest; what you said of M. de -Saint-Aignan, a mere jest too; and what La Vallière might -have said of - "<br> - "And which she would have given anything to -recall."<br> - "Are you sure of that?"<br> - "Perfectly."<br> - "Very well, an additional reason. Say the whole -affair was a mere joke. M. de Malicorne will have no occasion to -get out of temper; M. de Saint-Aignan will be completely put out -of countenance; <i>he</i> will be laughed at instead of you; and -lastly, the king will be punished for a curiosity unworthy of his -rank. Let people laugh a little at the king in this affair, and -I do not think he will complain of it."<br> - "Oh, Madame, you are indeed an angel of goodness -and sense!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is to my own -advantage."<br> - "In what way?"<br> - "How can you ask me why it is to my advantage to -spare my maids of honor the remarks, annoyances, perhaps even -calumnies, that might follow? Alas! you well know that the court -has no indulgence for this sort of peccadillo. But we have now -been walking for some time, shall we be long before we reach -it?"<br> - "About fifty or sixty paces further; turn to the -left, Madame, if you please."<br> - "And you are sure of Montalais?" said -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, certainly."<br> - "Will she do what you ask her?"<br> - "Everything. She will be delighted."<br> - "And La Vallière - " ventured the -princess.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, there will be some -difficulty with her, Madame; she would scorn to tell a -falsehood."<br> - "Yet, when it is in her interest to do so - "<br> - "I am afraid that that would not make the -slightest difference in her ideas."<br> - "Yes, yes," said Madame. "I have been already -told that; she is one of those overnice and affectedly particular -people who place heaven in the foreground in order to conceal -themselves behind it. But if she refuses to tell a falsehood, - -as she will expose herself to the jests of the whole court, as -she will have annoyed the king by a confession as ridiculous as -it was immodest, - Mademoiselle la Baume le Blanc de la -Vallière will think it but proper I should send her back -again to her pigeons in the country, in order that, in Touraine -yonder, or in Le Blaisois, - I know not where it may be, - she -may at her ease study sentiment and pastoral life combined."<br> - These words were uttered with a vehemence and -harshness that terrified Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente; and the -consequence was, that, as far as she was concerned, she promised -to tell as many falsehoods as might be necessary. It was in this -frame of mind that Madame and her companion reached the precincts -of the royal oak.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here we are," said -Tonnay-Charente.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We shall soon learn if one -can overhear," replied Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hush!" whispered the young -girl, holding Madame back with a hurried gesture, entirely -forgetful of her companion's rank. Madame stopped.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You see that you can hear," -said Athenaïs.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How?"<br> - "Listen."<br> - Madame held her breath; and, in fact, the -following words pronounced by a gentle and melancholy voice, -floated towards them:<br> - "I tell you, vicomte, I tell you I love her -madly; I tell you I love her to distraction."<br> - Madame started at the voice; and, beneath her -hood, a bright joyous smile illumined her features. It was she -who now held back her companion, and with a light step leading -her some twenty paces away, that is to say, out of the reach of -the voice, she said, "Remain here, my dear Athenaïs, and let -no one surprise us. I think it must be you they are conversing -about."<br> - "Me, Madame?"<br> - "Yes, you - or rather your adventure. I will go -and listen; if we were both there, we should be discovered. Or, -stay! - go and fetch Montalais, and then return and wait for me -with her at the entrance of the forest." And then, as -Athenaïs hesitated, she again said "Go!" in a voice which -did not admit of reply. Athenaïs thereupon arranged her -dress so as to prevent its rustling being heard; and, by a path -beyond the group of trees, she regained the flower-garden. As -for Madame, she concealed herself in the thicket, leaning her -back against a gigantic chestnut-tree, one of the branches of -which had been cut in such a manner as to form a seat, and waited -there, full of anxiety and apprehension. "Now," she said, "since -one can hear from this place, let us listen to what M. de -Bragelonne and that other madly-in-love fool, the Comte de -Guiche, have to say about me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>In Which Madame Acquires a Proof -that Listeners Hear What Is Said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>here was a moment's silence, as if the -mysterious sounds of night were hushed to listen, at the same -time as Madame, to the youthful passionate disclosures of De -Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul was about to speak. He -leaned indolently against the trunk of the large oak, and replied -in his sweet and musical voice, "Alas, my dear De Guiche, it is a -great misfortune."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," cried the latter, -"great indeed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You do not understand me, De -Guiche. I say that it is a great misfortune for you, not merely -loving, but not knowing how to conceal your love."<br> - "What do you mean?" said De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you do not perceive one -thing; namely, that it is no longer to the only friend you have, -- in other words, - to a man who would rather die than betray -you; you do not perceive, I say, that it is no longer to your -only friend that you confide your passion, but to the first -person that approaches you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you mad, Bragelonne," -exclaimed De Guiche, "to say such a thing to me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact stands thus, -however."<br> - "Impossible! How, in what manner can I have ever -been indiscreet to such an extent?"<br> - "I mean, that your eyes, your looks, your sighs, -proclaim, in spite of yourself, that exaggerated feeling which -leads and hurries a man beyond his own control. In such a case -he ceases to be master of himself; he is a prey to a mad passion, -that makes him confide his grief to the trees, or to the air, -from the very moment he has no longer any living being in reach -of his voice. Besides, remember this: it very rarely happens -that there is not always some one present to hear, especially the -very things which ought <i>not</i> to be heard." De Guiche -uttered a deep sigh. "Nay," continued Bragelonne, "you distress -me; since your return here, you have a thousand times, and in a -thousand different ways, confessed your love for her; and yet, -had you not said one word, your return alone would have been a -terrible indiscretion. I persist, then, in drawing this -conclusion; that if you do not place a better watch over yourself -than you have hitherto done, one day or other something will -happen that will cause an explosion. Who will save you then? -Answer me. Who will save her? for, innocent as she will be of -your affection, your affection will be an accusation against her -in the hands of her enemies."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas!" murmured De Guiche; -and a deep sigh accompanied the exclamation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is not answering me, De -Guiche."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, what reply have you to -make?"<br> - "This, that when the day arrives I shall be no -more a living being than I feel myself now."<br> - "I do not understand you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So many vicissitudes have -worn me out. At present, I am no more a thinking, acting being; -at present, the most worthless of men is better than I am; my -remaining strength is exhausted, my latest-formed resolutions -have vanished, and I abandon myself to my fate. When a man is -out campaigning, as we have been together, and he sets off alone -and unaccompanied for a skirmish, it sometimes happens that he -may meet with a party of five or six foragers, and although -alone, he defends himself; afterwards, five or six others arrive -unexpectedly, his anger is aroused and he persists; but if six, -eight, or ten others should still be met with, he either sets -spurs to his horse, if he should still happen to retain one, or -lets himself be slain to save an ignominious flight. Such, -indeed, is my own case: first, I had to struggle against myself; -afterwards, against Buckingham; now, since the king is in the -field, I will not contend against the king, nor even, I wish you -to understand, will the king retire; nor even against the nature -of that woman. Still I do not deceive myself; having devoted -myself to the service of such a love, I will lose my life in -it."<br> - "It is not the lady you ought to reproach," -replied Raoul; "it is yourself."<br> - "Why so?"<br> - "You know the princess's character, - somewhat -giddy, easily captivated by novelty, susceptible to flattery, -whether it come from a blind person or a child, and yet you allow -your passion for her to eat your very life away. Look at her, - -love her, if you will, - for no one whose heart is not engaged -elsewhere can see her without loving her. Yet, while you love -her, respect, in the first place, her husband's rank, then -herself, and lastly, your own safety."<br> - "Thanks, Raoul."<br> - "What for?"<br> - "Because, seeing how much I suffer through this -woman, you endeavor to console me, because you tell me all the -good of her you think, and perhaps even that which you do not -think."<br> - "Oh," said Raoul, "there you are wrong, comte; -what I think I do not always say, but in that case I say nothing; -but when I speak, I know not how to feign or to deceive; and -whoever listens to me may believe me."<br> - During this conversation, Madame, her head -stretched forward with eager ear and dilated glance, endeavoring -to penetrate the obscurity, thirstily drank in the faintest sound -of their voices.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, I know her better than -you do, then!" exclaimed Guiche. "She is not merely giddy, but -frivolous; she is not only attracted by novelty, she is utterly -oblivious, and is without faith; she is not simply susceptible to -flattery, she is a practiced and cruel coquette. A thorough -coquette! yes, yes, I am sure of it. Believe me, Bragelonne, I -am suffering all the torments of hell; brave, passionately fond -of danger, I meet a danger greater than my strength and my -courage. But, believe me, Raoul, I reserve for myself a victory -which shall cost her floods of tears."<br> - "A victory," he asked, "and of what kind?"<br> - "Of what kind, you ask?"<br> - "Yes."<br> - "One day I will accost her, and will address her -thus: 'I was young - madly in love, I possessed, however, -sufficient respect to throw myself at your feet, and to prostrate -myself in the dust, if your looks had not raised me to your -hand. I fancied I understood your looks, I rose, and then, -without having done anything more towards you than love you yet -more devotedly, if that were possible - you, a woman without -heart, faith, or love, in very wantonness, dashed me down again -from sheer caprice. You are unworthy, princess of the royal -blood though you may be, of the love of a man of honor; I offer -my life as a sacrifice for having loved you too tenderly, and I -die despairing you.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" cried Raoul, terrified -at the accents of profound truth which De Guiche's words -betrayed, "I was right in saying you were mad, Guiche."<br> - "Yes, yes," exclaimed De Guiche, following out -his own idea; "since there are no wars here now, I will flee -yonder to the north, seek service in the Empire, where some -Hungarian, or Croat, or Turk, will perhaps kindly put me out of -my misery." De Guiche did not finish, or rather as he finished, -a sound made him start, and at the same moment caused Raoul to -leap to his feet. As for De Guiche, buried in his own thoughts, -he remained seated, with his head tightly pressed between his -hands. The branches of the tree were pushed aside, and a woman, -pale and much agitated, appeared before the two young men. With -one hand she held back the branches, which would have struck her -face, and, with the other, she raised the hood of the mantle -which covered her shoulders. By her clear and lustrous glance, -by her lofty carriage, by her haughty attitude, and, more than -all that, by the throbbing of his own heart, De Guiche recognized -Madame, and, uttering a loud cry, he removed his hands from his -temple, and covered his eyes with them. Raoul, trembling and out -of countenance, merely muttered a few words of -respect.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur de Bragelonne," -said the princess, "have the goodness, I beg, to see if my -attendants are not somewhere yonder, either in the walks or in -the groves; and you, M. de Guiche, remain here: I am tired, and -you will perhaps give me your arm."<br> - Had a thunderbolt fallen at the feet of the -unhappy young man, he would have been less terrified than by her -cold and severe tone. However, as he himself had just said, he -was brave; and as in the depths of his own heart he had just -decisively made up his mind, De Guiche arose, and, observing -Bragelonne's hesitation, he turned towards him a glance full of -resignation and grateful acknowledgement. Instead of immediately -answering Madame, he even advanced a step towards the vicomte, -and holding out the arm which the princess had just desired him -to give her, he pressed his friend's hand in his own, with a -sigh, in which he seemed to give to friendship all the life that -was left in the depths of his heart. Madame, who in her pride -had never known what it was to wait, now waited until this mute -colloquy was at an end. Her royal hand remained suspended in the -air, and, when Raoul had left, it sank without anger, but not -without emotion, in that of De Guiche. They were alone in the -depths of the dark and silent forest, and nothing could be heard -but Raoul's hastily retreating footsteps along the obscure -paths. Over their heads was extended the thick and fragrant -vault of branches, through the occasional openings of which the -stars could be seen glittering in their beauty. Madame softly -drew De Guiche about a hundred paces away from that indiscreet -tree which had heard, and had allowed so many things to be heard, -during the evening, and, leading him to a neighboring glade, so -that they could see a certain distance around them, she said in a -trembling voice, "I have brought you here, because yonder where -you were, everything can be overheard."<br> - "Everything can be overheard, did you say, -Madame?" replied the young man, mechanically.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Which means - " murmured De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Which means that I have -heard every syllable you have said."<br> - "Oh, Heaven! this only was wanting to destroy -me," stammered De Guiche; and he bent down his head, like an -exhausted swimmer beneath the wave which engulfs him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And so," she said, "you -judge me as you have said?" De Guiche grew pale, turned his head -aside, and was silent. He felt almost on the point of -fainting.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not complain," -continued the princess, in a tone of voice full of gentleness; "I -prefer a frankness that wounds me, to flattery, which would -deceive me. And so, according to your opinion, M. de Guiche, I -am a coquette, an a worthless creature."<br> - "Worthless," cried the young man; "you -worthless! Oh, no; most certainly I did not say, I could not -have said, that that which was the most precious object in life -for me could be worthless. No, no; I did not say -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A woman who sees a man -perish, consumed by the fire she has kindled, and who does not -allay that fire, is, in my opinion, a worthless -woman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What can it matter to you -what I said?" returned the comte. "What am I compared to you, -and why should you even trouble yourself to know whether I exist -or not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur de Guiche, both you -and I are human beings, and, knowing you as I do, I do not wish -you to risk your life; with you I will change my conduct and -character. I will be, not frank, for I am always so, but -truthful. I implore you, therefore, to love me no more, and to -forget utterly that I have ever addressed a word or a glance -towards you."<br> - De Guiche turned around, bending a look full of -passionate devotion upon her. "You," he said; "<i>you</i> excuse -yourself; <i>you</i> implore me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly; since I have done -evil, I ought to repair the evil I have done. And so, comte, -this is what we will agree to. You will forgive my frivolity and -my coquetry. Nay, do not interrupt me. I will forgive you for -having said I was frivolous and a coquette, or something worse, -perhaps; and you will renounce your idea of dying, and will -preserve for your family, for the king, and for our sex, a -cavalier whom every one esteems, and whom many hold dear." -Madame pronounced this last word in such an accent of frankness, -and even of tenderness, that poor De Guiche's heart felt almost -bursting.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Madame, Madame!" he -stammered out.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, listen further," she -continued. "When you shall have renounced all thought of me -forever, from necessity in the first place, and, next, because -you will yield to my entreaty, then you will judge me more -favorably, and I am convinced you will replace this love - -forgive the frivolity of the expression - by a sincere -friendship, which you will be ready to offer me, and which, I -promise you, shall be cordially accepted."<br> - De Guiche, his forehead bedewed with -perspiration, a feeling of death in his heart, and a trembling -agitation through his whole frame, bit his lip, stamped his foot -on the ground, and, in a word, devoured the bitterness of his -grief. "Madame," he said, "what you offer is impossible, and I -cannot accept such conditions."<br> - "What!" said Madame, "do you refuse my -friendship, then?"<br> - "No, no! I do not need your friendship, Madame. -I prefer to die from love, than to live for -friendship."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Comte!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Madame," cried De -Guiche, "the present is a moment for me, in which no other -consideration and no other respect exist, than the consideration -and respect of a man of honor towards the woman he worships. -Drive me away, curse me, denounce me, you will be perfectly -right. I have uttered complaints against you, but their -bitterness has been owing to my passion for you; I have said I -wish to die, and die I will. If I lived, you would forget me; -but dead, you would never forget me, I am sure."<br> - Henrietta, who was standing buried in thought, -and nearly as agitated as De Guiche himself, turned aside her -head as but a minute before he had turned aside his. Then, after -a moment's pause, she said, "And you love me, then, very -much?"<br> - "Madly; madly enough to die from it, whether you -drive me from you, or whether you listen to me still."<br> - "It is a hopeless case," she said, in a playful -manner; "a case which must be treated with soothing application. -Give me your hand. It is as cold as ice." De Guiche knelt down, -and pressed to his lips, not one, but both of Madame's -hands.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Love me, then," said the -princess, "since it cannot be otherwise." And almost -imperceptibly she pressed his fingers, raising him thus, partly -in the manner of a queen, and partly as a fond and affectionate -woman would have done. De Guiche trembled from head to foot, and -Madame, who felt how passion coursed through every fiber of his -being, knew that he indeed loved truly. "Give me your arm, -comte," she said, "and let us return."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! Madame," said the -comte, trembling and bewildered; "you have discovered a third way -of killing me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But, happily, it is the -slowest way, is it not?" she replied, as she led him towards the -grove of trees they had so lately quitted.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLVI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Aramis's -Correspondence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>W</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>hen De Guiche's affairs, which had been -suddenly set to right without his having been able to guess the -cause of their improvement, assumed the unexpected aspect we have -seen, Raoul, in obedience to the request of the princess, had -withdrawn in order not to interrupt an explanation, the results -of which he was far from guessing; and he soon after joined the -ladies of honor who were walking about in the flower-gardens. -During this time, the Chevalier de Lorraine, who had returned to -his own room, read De Wardes's latter with surprise, for it -informed him by the hand of his valet, of the sword-thrust -received at Calais, and of all the details of the adventure, and -invited him to inform De Guiche and Monsieur, whatever there -might be in the affair likely to be most disagreeable to both of -them. De Wardes particularly endeavored to prove to the -chevalier the violence of Madame's affection for Buckingham, and -he finished his letter by declaring that he thought this feeling -was returned. The chevalier shrugged his shoulders at the last -paragraph, and, in fact, De Wardes was out of date, as we have -seen. De Wardes was still only at Buckingham's affair. The -chevalier threw the letter over his shoulder upon an adjoining -table, and said in a disdainful tone, "It is really incredible; -and yet poor De Wardes is not deficient in ability; but the truth -is, it is not very apparent, so easy is it to grow rusty in the -country. The deuce take the simpleton, who ought to have written -to me about matters of importance, and yet he writes such silly -stuff as that. If it had not been for that miserable letter, -which has no meaning at all in it, I should have detected in the -grove yonder a charming little intrigue, which would have -compromised a woman, would have perhaps have been as good as a -sword-thrust for a man, and have diverted Monsieur for many days -to come."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> He looked at his watch. "It -is now too late," he said. "One o'clock in the morning; every -one must have returned to the king's apartments, where the night -is to be finished; well, the scent is lost, and unless some -extraordinary chance - " And thus saying, as if to appeal to his -good star, the chevalier, greatly out of temper, approached the -window, which looked out upon a somewhat solitary part of the -garden. Immediately, and as if some evil genius was at his -orders, he perceived returning towards the château, -accompanied by a man, a silk mantle of a dark color, and -recognized the figure which had struck his attention half an hour -previously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Admirable!" he thought, -striking his hands together, "this is my providential mysterious -affair." And he started out precipitately, along the staircase, -hoping to reach the courtyard in time to recognize the woman in -the mantle, and her companion. But as he arrived at the door of -the little court, he nearly knocked against Madame, whose radiant -face seemed full of charming revelations beneath the mantle which -protected without concealing her. Unfortunately, Madame was -alone. The chevalier knew that since he had seen her, not five -minutes before, with a gentleman, the gentleman in question could -not be far off. Consequently, he hardly took time to salute the -princess as he drew up to allow her to pass; then when she had -advanced a few steps, with the rapidity of a woman who fears -recognition, and when the chevalier perceived that she was too -much occupied with her own thoughts to trouble herself about him, -he darted into the garden, looked hastily round on every side, -and embraced within his glance as much of the horizon as he -possibly could. He was just in time; the gentleman who had -accompanied Madame was still in sight; only he was hurrying -towards one of the wings of the château, behind which he -was on the point of disappearing. There was not an instant to -lose; the chevalier darted in pursuit of him, prepared to slacken -his pace as he approached the unknown; but in spite of the -diligence he used, the unknown had disappeared behind the flight -of steps before he approached.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was evident, however, that -as the man pursued was walking quietly, in a pensive manner, with -his head bent down, either beneath the weight of grief or -happiness, when once the angle was passed, unless, indeed, he -were to enter by some door or another, the chevalier could not -fail to overtake him. And this, certainly, would have happened, -if, at the very moment he turned the angle, the chevalier had not -run against two persons, who were themselves wheeling in the -opposite direction. The chevalier was ready to seek a quarrel -with these two troublesome intruders, when, looking up, he -recognized the superintendent. Fouquet was accompanied by a -person whom the chevalier now saw for the first time. This -stranger was the bishop of Vannes. Checked by the important -character of the individual, and obliged out of politeness to -make his own excuses when he expected to receive them, the -chevalier stepped back a few paces; and as Monsieur Fouquet -possessed, if not the friendship, at least the respect of every -one; as the king himself, although he was rather his enemy than -his friend, treated M. Fouquet as a man of great consideration, -the chevalier did what the king himself would have done, namely, -he bowed to M. Fouquet, who returned his salutation with kindly -politeness, perceiving that the gentleman had run against him by -mistake and without any intention of being rude. Then, almost -immediately afterwards, having recognized the Chevalier de -Lorraine, he made a few civil remarks, to which the chevalier was -obliged to reply. Brief as the conversation was, De Lorraine -saw, with the most unfeigned displeasure, the figure of his -unknown becoming dimmer in the distance, and fast disappearing in -the darkness. The chevalier resigned himself, and, once -resigned, gave his entire attention to Fouquet: - "You arrive -late, monsieur," he said. "Your absence has occasioned great -surprise, and I heard Monsieur express himself as much astonished -that, having been invited by the king, you had not come."<br> - "It was impossible for me to do so; but I came as -soon as I was free."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is Paris quiet?"<br> - "Perfectly so. Paris has received the last tax -very well."<br> - "Ah! I understand you wished to assure yourself -of this good feeling before you came to participate in our -<i>fêtes</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> I have arrived, however, -somewhat late to enjoy them. I will ask you, therefore, to -inform me if the king is in the château or not, if I am -likely to be able to see him this evening, or if I shall have to -wait until to-morrow."<br> - "We have lost sight of his majesty during the -last half-hour nearly," said the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perhaps he is in Madame's -apartments?" inquired Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not in Madame's apartments, -I should think, for I just now met Madame as she was entering by -the small staircase; and unless the gentleman whom you a moment -ago encountered was the king himself - " and the chevalier -paused, hoping that, in this manner, he might learn who it was he -had been hurrying after. But Fouquet, whether he had or had not -recognized De Guiche, simply replied, "No, monsieur, it was not -the king."<br> - The chevalier, disappointed in his expectation, -saluted them; but as he did so, casting a parting glance around -him, and perceiving M. Colbert in the center of a group, he said -to the superintendent: "Stay, monsieur; there is some one under -the trees yonder, who will be able to inform you better than -myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who?" asked Fouquet, whose -near-sightedness prevented him from seeing through the -darkness.<br> - "M. Colbert," returned the chevalier.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed! That person, then, -who is speaking yonder to those men with torches in their hands, -is M. Colbert?"<br> - "M. Colbert himself. He is giving orders -personally to the workmen who are arranging the lamps for the -illuminations."<br> - "Thank you," said Fouquet, with an inclination of -the head, which indicated that he had obtained all the -information he wished. The chevalier, on his side, having, on -the contrary, learned nothing at all, withdrew with a profound -salutation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> He had scarcely left when -Fouquet, knitting his brows, fell into a deep reverie. Aramis -looked at him for a moment with a mingled feeling of compassion -and silence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What!" he said to him, "the -fellow's name alone seemed to affect you. Is it possible that, -full of triumph and delight as you were just now, the sight -merely of that man is capable of dispiriting you? Tell me, have -you faith in your good star?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," replied Fouquet, -dejectedly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I am too full of -happiness at this present moment," he replied, in a trembling -voice. "You, my dear D'Herblay, who are so learned, will -remember the history of a certain tyrant of Samos. What can I -throw into the sea to avert approaching evil? Yes! I repeat it -once more, I am too full of happiness! so happy that I wish for -nothing beyond what I have... I have risen so high... You know -my motto: '<i>Quo non ascendam?</i>' I have risen so high that -nothing is left me but to descend from my elevation. I cannot -believe in the progress of a success already more than -human."<br> - Aramis smiled as he fixed his kind and -penetrating glance upon him. "If I were aware of the cause of -your happiness," he said, "I should probably fear for your grace; -but you regard me in the light of a true friend; I mean, you turn -to me in misfortune, nothing more. Even that is an immense and -precious boon, I know; but the truth is, I have a just right to -beg you to confide in me, from time to time, any fortunate -circumstances that befall you, in which I should rejoice, you -know, more than if they had befallen myself."<br> - "My dear prelate," said Fouquet, laughing, "my -secrets are of too profane a character to confide them to a -bishop, however great a worldling he may be."<br> - "Bah! in confession."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! I should blush too much -if you were my confessor." And Fouquet began to sigh. Aramis -again looked at him without further betrayal of his thoughts than -a placid smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," he said, "discretion -is a great virtue."<br> - "Silence," said Fouquet; "yonder venomous reptile -has recognized us, and is crawling this way."<br> - "Colbert?"<br> - "Yes; leave me, D'Herblay; I do not wish that -fellow to see you with me, or he will take an aversion to -<i>you</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis pressed his hand, -saying, "What need have I of his friendship, while you are -here?"<br> - "Yes, but I may not always be here," replied -Fouquet, dejectedly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On that day, then, if that -day should ever dawn," said Aramis, tranquilly, "we will think -over a means of dispensing with the friendship, or of braving the -dislike of M. Colbert. But tell me, my dear Fouquet, instead of -conversing with this reptile, as you did him the honor of styling -him, a conversation the need for which I do not perceive, why do -you not pay a visit, if not to the king, at least to Madame?"<br> - "To Madame," said the superintendent, his mind -occupied by his <i>souvenirs</i>. "Yes, certainly, to Madame. -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You remember," continued -Aramis, "that we have been told that Madame stands high in favor -during the last two or three days. It enters into your policy, -and forms part of our plans, that you should assiduously devote -yourself to his majesty's friends. It is a means of -counteracting the growing influence of M. Colbert. Present -yourself, therefore, as soon as possible to Madame, and, for our -sakes, treat this ally with consideration."<br> - "But," said Fouquet, "are you quite sure that it -is upon her that the king has his eyes fixed at the present -moment?"<br> - "If the needle has turned, it must be since the -morning. You know I have my police."<br> - "Very well! I will go there at once, and, at all -events, I shall have a means of introduction in the shape of a -magnificent pair of antique cameos set with diamonds."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have seen them, and -nothing could be more costly and regal."<br> - At this moment they were interrupted by a servant -followed by a courier. "For you, monseigneur," said the courier -aloud, presenting a letter to Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For your grace," said the -lackey in a low tone, handing Aramis a letter. And as the lackey -carried a torch in his hand, he placed himself between the -superintendent and the bishop of Vannes, so that both of them -could read at the same time. As Fouquet looked at the fine and -delicate writing on the envelope, he started with delight. Those -who love, or who are beloved, will understand his anxiety in the -first place, and his happiness in the next. He hastily tore open -the letter, which, however, contained only these words: "It is -but an hour since I quitted you, it is an age since I told you -how much I love you." And that was all. Madame de -Bellière had, in fact, left Fouquet about an hour -previously, after having passed two days with him; and -apprehensive lest his remembrance of her might be effaced for too -long a period from the heart she regretted, she dispatched a -courier to him as the bearer of this important communication. -Fouquet kissed the letter, and rewarded the bearer with a handful -of gold. As for Aramis, he, on his side, was engaged in reading, -but with more coolness and reflection, the following -letter:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"The king has this evening been -struck with a strange fancy; a woman loves him. He learned it -accidentally, as he was listening to the conversation of this -young girl with her companions; and his majesty has entirely -abandoned himself to his new caprice. The girl's name is -Mademoiselle de la Vallière, and she is sufficiently -pretty to warrant this caprice becoming a strong attachment. -Beware of Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> There was not a word about -Madame. Aramis slowly folded the letter and put it in his -pocket. Fouquet was still delightedly inhaling the perfume of -his epistle.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur," said Aramis, -touching Fouquet's arm.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, what is it?" he -asked.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An idea has just occurred to -me. Are you acquainted with a young girl of the name of La -Vallière?</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not at all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Reflect a little."<br> - "Ah! yes, I believe so; one of Madame's maids of -honor."<br> - "That must be the one."<br> - "Well, what then?"<br> - "Well, monseigneur, it is to that young girl that -you must pay your visit this evening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, more than that, it is -to her you must present your cameos."<br> - "Nonsense."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know, monseigneur, that -my advice is not to be regarded lightly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But this is unforeseen - -"<br> - "That is my affair. Pay your court in due form, -and without loss of time, to Mademoiselle de la Vallière. -I will be your guarantee with Madame de Bellière that your -devotion is altogether politic."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean, my dear -D'Herblay, and whose name have you just pronounced?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A name which ought to -convince you that, as I am so well informed about yourself, I may -possibly be just as well informed about others. Pay your court, -therefore, to La Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will pay my court to -whomsoever you like," replied Fouquet, his heart filled with -happiness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, descend again to -the earth, traveler in the seventh heaven," said Aramis; "M. -Colbert is approaching. He has been recruiting while we were -reading; see, how he is surrounded, praised, congratulated; he is -decidedly becoming powerful." In fact, Colbert was advancing, -escorted by all the courtiers who remained in the gardens, every -one of whom complimented him upon the arrangements of the -<i>fête:</i> all of which so puffed him up that he could -hardly contain himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If La Fontaine were here," -said Fouquet, smiling, "what an admirable opportunity for him to -recite his fable of 'The Frog that wanted to make itself as big -as the Ox.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Colbert arrived in the center -of the circle blazing with light; Fouquet awaited his approach, -unmoved and with a slightly mocking smile. Colbert smiled too; -he had been observing his enemy during the last quarter of an -hour, and had been approaching him gradually. Colbert's smile -was a presage of hostility.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" said Aramis, in a -low tone of voice to the superintendent; "the scoundrel is going -to ask you again for more millions to pay for his fireworks and -his colored lamps." Colbert was the first to salute them, and -with an air which he endeavored to render respectful. Fouquet -hardly moved his head.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, monseigneur, what do -your eyes say? Have we shown our good taste?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfect taste," replied -Fouquet, without permitting the slightest tone of raillery to be -remarked in his words.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Colbert, -maliciously, "you are treating us with indulgence. We are poor, -we servants of the king, and Fontainebleau is no way to be -compared as a residence with Vaux."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite true," replied Fouquet -coolly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But what can we do, -monseigneur?" continued Colbert, "we have done our best on -slender resources."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet made a gesture of -assent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," pursued Colbert, "it -would be only a proper display of your magnificence, monseigneur, -if you were to offer to his majesty a <i>fête</i> in your -wonderful gardens - in those gardens which have cost you sixty -millions of francs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Seventy-two," said -Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An additional reason," -returned Colbert; "it would, indeed, be truly -magnificent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoBodyText" style= -'punctuation-wrap:hanging; text-autospace:ideograph-other'> - "But do you suppose, monsieur, that his majesty -would deign to accept my invitation?"<br> - "I have no doubt whatever of it," cried Colbert, -hastily; "I will guarantee that he does."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are exceedingly kind," -said Fouquet. "I may depend on it, then?"<br> - "Yes, monseigneur; yes, certainly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then I will consider the -matter," yawned Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Accept, accept," whispered -Aramis, eagerly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will consider?" repeated -Colbert.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," replied Fouquet; "in -order to know what day I shall submit my invitation to the -king."<br> - "This very evening, monseigneur, this very -evening."<br> - "Agreed," said the superintendent. "Gentlemen, I -should wish to issue my invitations; but you know that wherever -the king goes, the king is in his own palace; it is by his -majesty, therefore, that you must be invited." A murmur of -delight immediately arose. Fouquet bowed and left.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Proud and dauntless man," -thought Colbert, "you accept, and yet you know it will cost you -ten millions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have ruined me," -whispered Fouquet, in a low tone, to Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have saved you," replied -the latter, whilst Fouquet ascended the flight of steps and -inquired whether the king was still visible.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLVII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Orderly Clerk.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he king, anxious to be again quite alone, in -order to reflect well upon what was passing in his heart, had -withdrawn to his own apartments, where M. de Saint-Aignan had, -after his conversation with Madame, gone to meet him. This -conversation has already been related. The favorite, vain of his -twofold importance, and feeling that he had become, during the -last two hours, the confidant of the king, began to treat the -affairs of the court in a somewhat indifferent manner: and, from -the position in which he had placed himself, or rather, where -chance had placed him, he saw nothing but love and garlands of -flowers around him. The king's love for Madame, that of Madame -for the king, that of Guiche for Madame, that of La -Vallière for the king, that of Malicorne for Montalais, -that of Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente for himself, was not all -this, truly, more than enough to turn the head of any courtier? -Besides, Saint-Aignan was the model of courtiers, past, present, -and to come; and, moreover, showed himself such an excellent -narrator, and so discerningly appreciative that the king listened -to him with an appearance of great interest, particularly when he -described the excited manner with which Madame had sought for him -to converse about the affair of Mademoiselle de la -Vallière. While the king no longer experienced for Madame -any remains of the passion he had once felt for her, there was, -in this same eagerness of Madame to procure information about -him, great gratification for his vanity, from which he could not -free himself. He experienced this pleasure then, but nothing -more, and his heart was not, for a single moment, alarmed at what -Madame might, or might not, think of his adventure. When, -however, Saint-Aignan had finished, the king, while preparing to -retire to rest, asked, "Now, Saint-Aignan, you know what -Mademoiselle de la Vallière is, do you not?"<br> - "Not only what she is, but what she will be."<br> - "What do you mean?"<br> - "I mean that she is everything that woman can -wish to be - that is to say, beloved by your majesty; I mean, -that she will be everything your majesty may wish her to be."<br> - "That is not what I am asking. I do not wish to -know what she is to-day, or what she will be to-morrow; as you -have remarked, that is my affair. But tell me what others say of -her."<br> - "They say she is well conducted."<br> - "Oh!" said the king, smiling, "that is mere -report."<br> - "But rare enough, at court, sire, to believe when -it is spread."<br> - "Perhaps you are right. Is she well born?"<br> - "Excellently; the daughter of the Marquis de la -Vallière, and step-daughter of that good M. de -Saint-Rémy."<br> - "Ah, yes! my aunt's major-domo; I remember; and I -remember now that I saw her as I passed through Blois. She was -presented to the queens. I have even to reproach myself that I -did not on that occasion pay her the attention she deserved."<br> - "Oh, sire! I trust that your majesty will now -repair time lost."<br> - "And the report - you tell me - is, that -Mademoiselle de la Vallière never had a lover."<br> - "In any case, I do not think your majesty would -be much alarmed at the rivalry."<br> - "Yet, stay," said the king, in a very serious -tone of voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty?"<br> - "I remember."<br> - "Ah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If she has no lover, she -has, at least, a betrothed."<br> - "A betrothed!"<br> - "What! Count, do you not know that?"<br> - "No."<br> - "You, the man who knows all the news?"<br> - "Your majesty will excuse me. You know this -betrothed, then?"<br> - "Assuredly! his father came to ask me to sign the -marriage contract: it is - " The king was about to pronounce the -Vicomte de Bragelonne's name, when he stopped, and knitted his -brows.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is - " repeated -Saint-Aignan, inquiringly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I don't remember now," -replied Louis XIV., endeavoring to conceal an annoyance he had -some trouble to disguise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Can I put your majesty in -the way?" inquired the Comte de Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; for I no longer remember -to whom I intended to refer; indeed, I only remember very -indistinctly, that one of the maids of honor was to marry - the -name, however, has escaped me."<br> - "Was it Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente he was -going to marry?" inquired Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very likely," said the -king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, the intended -was M. de Montespan; but Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente did not -speak of it, it seemed to me, in such a manner as would frighten -suitors away."<br> - "At all events," said the king, "I know nothing, -or almost nothing, about Mademoiselle de la Vallière. -Saint-Aignan, I rely upon you to procure me every information -about her."<br> - "Yes, sire, and when shall I have the honor of -seeing your majesty again, to give you the latest news?"<br> - "Whenever you have procured it."<br> - "I shall obtain it speedily, then, if the -information can be as quickly obtained as my wish to see your -majesty again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well said, count! By the -by, has Madame displayed any ill-feeling against this poor -girl?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "None, sire."<br> - "Madame did not get angry, then?"<br> - "I do not know; I only know that she laughed -continually."<br> - "That's well; but I think I hear voices in the -ante-rooms - no doubt a courier has just arrived. Inquire, -Saint-Aignan." The count ran to the door and exchanged a few -words with the usher; he returned to the king, saying, "Sire, it -is M. Fouquet who has this moment arrived, by your majesty's -orders, he says. He presented himself, but, because of the -lateness of the hour, he does not press for an audience this -evening, and is satisfied to have his presence here formally -announced."<br> - "M. Fouquet! I wrote to him at three o'clock, -inviting him to be at Fontainebleau the following day, and he -arrives at Fontainebleau at two o'clock in the morning! This is, -indeed, zeal!" exclaimed the king, delighted to see himself so -promptly obeyed. "On the contrary, M. Fouquet shall have his -audience. I summoned him, and will receive him. Let him be -introduced. As for you, count, pursue your inquiries, and be -here to-morrow."<br> - The king placed his finger on his lips; and -Saint-Aignan, his heart brimful of happiness, hastily withdrew, -telling the usher to introduce M. Fouquet, who, thereupon, -entered the king's apartment. Louis rose to receive -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good evening, M. Fouquet," -he said, smiling graciously; "I congratulate you on your -punctuality; and yet my message must have reached you late?"<br> - "At nine in the evening, sire."<br> - "You have been working very hard lately, M. -Fouquet, for I have been informed that you have not left your -rooms at Saint-Mandé during the last three or four -days."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is perfectly true, your -majesty, that I have kept myself shut up for the past three -days," replied Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know, M. Fouquet, -that I had a great many things to say to you?" continued the -king, with a most gracious air.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty overwhelms me, -and since you are so graciously disposed towards me, will you -permit me to remind you of the promise made to grant an -audience?"<br> - "Ah, yes! some church dignitary, who thinks he -has to thank me for something, is it not?"<br> - "Precisely so, sire. The hour is, perhaps, badly -chosen; but the time of the companion whom I have brought with me -is valuable, and as Fontainebleau is on the way to his diocese - -"<br> - "Who is it, then?"<br> - "The bishop of Vannes, whose appointment your -majesty, at my recommendation, deigned, three months since, to -sign."<br> - "That is very possible," said the king, who had -signed without reading; "and he is here?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire; Vannes is an -important diocese; the flock belonging to this pastor needed his -religious consolation; they are savages, whom it is necessary to -polish, at the same time that he instructs them, and M. d'Herblay -is unequalled in such kind of missions."<br> - "M. d'Herblay!" said the king, musingly, as if -his name, heard long since, was not, however, unknown to -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Fouquet, promptly, -"your majesty is not acquainted with the obscure name of one of -your most faithful and valuable servants?"<br> - "No, I confess I am not. And so he wishes to set -off again?"<br> - "He has this very day received letters which -will, perhaps, compel him to leave, so that, before setting off -for that unknown region called Bretagne, he is desirous of paying -his respects to your majesty."<br> - "Is he waiting?"<br> - "He is here, sire."<br> - "Let him enter."<br> - Fouquet made a sign to the usher in attendance, -who was waiting behind the tapestry. The door opened, and Aramis -entered. The king allowed him to finish the compliments which he -addressed to him, and fixed a long look upon a countenance which -no one could forget, after having once beheld it.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Vannes!" he said: "you are -bishop of Vannes, I believe?"<br> - "Yes, sire."<br> - "Vannes is in Bretagne, I think?" Aramis -bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Near the coast?" Aramis -again bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A few leagues from -Bell-Isle, is it not?"<br> - "Yes, sire," replied Aramis; "six leagues, I -believe."<br> - "Six leagues; a mere step, then," said Louis -XIV.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not for us poor Bretons, -sire," replied Aramis: "six leagues, on the contrary, is a great -distance, if it be six leagues on land; and an immense distance, -if it be leagues on the sea. Besides, I have the honor to -mention to your majesty that there are six leagues of sea from -the river to Belle-Isle."<br> - "It is said that M. Fouquet has a very beautiful -house there?" inquired the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, it is said so," replied -Aramis, looking quietly at Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean by 'it is -said so?'" exclaimed the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He has, sire."<br> - "Really, M. Fouquet, I must confess that one -circumstance surprises me."<br> - "What may that be, sire?"<br> - "That you should have at the head of the diocese -a man like M. d'Herblay, and yet should not have shown him -Belle-Isle."<br> - "Oh, sire," replied the bishop, without giving -Fouquet time to answer, "we poor Breton prelates seldom leave our -residences."<br> - "M. de Vannes," said the king, "I will punish M. -Fouquet for his indifference."<br> - "In what way, sire?"<br> - "I will change your bishopric."<br> - Fouquet bit his lips, but Aramis only -smiled.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What income does Vannes -bring you in?" continued the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sixty thousand livres, -sire," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So trifling an amount as -that; but you possess other property, Monsieur de -Vannes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have nothing else, sire; -only M. Fouquet pays me one thousand two hundred livres a year -for his pew in the church."<br> - "Well, M. d'Herblay, I promise you something -better than that."<br> - "Sire - "<br> - "I will not forget you."<br> - Aramis bowed, and the king also bowed to him in a -respectful manner, as he was accustomed to do towards women and -members of the Church. Aramis gathered that his audience was at -an end; he took his leave of the king in the simple, unpretending -language of a country pastor, and disappeared.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is, indeed, a remarkable -face," said the king, following him with his eyes as long as he -could see him, and even to a certain degree when he was no longer -to be seen.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," replied Fouquet, "if -that bishop had been educated early in life, no prelate in the -kingdom would deserve the highest distinctions better than -he."<br> - "His learning is not extensive, then?"<br> - "He changed the sword for the crucifix, and that -rather late in life. But it matters little, if your majesty will -permit me to speak of M. de Vannes again on another occasion - -"<br> - "I beg you to do so. But before speaking of him, -let us speak of yourself, M. Fouquet."<br> - "Of me, sire?"<br> - "Yes, I have to pay you a thousand -compliments."<br> - "I cannot express to your majesty the delight -with which you overwhelm me."<br> - "I understand you, M. Fouquet. I confess, -however, to have had certain prejudices against you."<br> - "In that case, I was indeed unhappy, sire."<br> - "But they exist no longer. Did you not perceive -- "<br> - "I did, indeed, sire; but I awaited with -resignation the day when the truth would prevail; and it seems -that that day has now arrived."<br> - "Ah! you knew, then, you were in disgrace with -me?"<br> - "Alas! sire, I perceived it."<br> - "And do you know the reason?"<br> - "Perfectly well; your majesty thought that I had -been wastefully lavish in expenditure."<br> - "Not so; far from that."<br> - "Or, rather an indifferent administrator. In a -word, you thought that, as the people had no money, there would -be none for your majesty either."<br> - "Yes, I thought so; but I was deceived."<br> - Fouquet bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And no disturbances, no -complaints?"<br> - "And money enough," said Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact is that you have -been profuse with it during the last month."<br> - "I have more, not only for all your majesty's -requirements, but for all your caprices."<br> - "I thank you, Monsieur Fouquet," replied the -king, seriously. "I will not put you to the proof. For the next -two months I do not intend to ask you for anything."<br> - "I will avail myself of the interval to amass -five or six millions, which will be serviceable as money in hand -in case of war."<br> - "Five or six millions!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For the expenses of your -majesty's household only, be it understood."<br> - "You think war probable, M. Fouquet?"<br> - "I think that if Heaven has bestowed on the eagle -a beak and claws, it is to enable him to show his royal -character."<br> - The king blushed with pleasure.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We have spent a great deal -of money these few days past, Monsieur Fouquet; will you not -scold me for it?"<br> - "Sire, your majesty has still twenty years of -youth to enjoy, and a thousand million francs to lavish in those -twenty years."<br> - "That is a great deal of money, M. Fouquet," said -the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will economize, sire. -Besides, your majesty as two valuable servants in M. Colbert and -myself. The one will encourage you to be prodigal with your -treasures - and this shall be myself, if my services should -continue to be agreeable to your majesty; and the other will -economize money for you, and this will be M. Colbert's -province."<br> - "M. Colbert?" returned the king, -astonished.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly, sire; M. Colbert -is an excellent accountant."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this commendation, -bestowed by the traduced on the traducer, the king felt himself -penetrated with confidence and admiration. There was not, -moreover, either in Fouquet's voice or look, anything which -injuriously affected a single syllable of the remark he had made; -he did not pass one eulogium, as it were, in order to acquire the -right of making two reproaches. The king comprehended him, and -yielding to so much generosity and address, he said, "You praise -M. Colbert, then?"<br> - "Yes, sire, I praise him; for, besides being a -man of merit, I believe him to be devoted to your majesty's -interests."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that because he has often -interfered with your own views?" said the king, -smiling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exactly, sire."<br> - "Explain yourself."<br> - "It is simple enough. I am the man who is needed -to make the money come in; he is the man who is needed to prevent -it leaving."<br> - "Nay, nay, monsieur le surintendant, you will -presently say something which will correct this good -opinion."<br> - "Do you mean as far as administrative abilities -are concerned, sire?"<br> - "Yes."<br> - "Not in the slightest."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really?"<br> - "Upon my honor, sire, I do not know throughout -France a better clerk than M. Colbert."<br> - This word "clerk" did not possess, in 1661, the -somewhat subservient signification attached to it in the present -day; but, as spoken by Fouquet, whom the king had addressed as -the superintendent, it seemed to acquire an insignificant and -petty character, that at this juncture served admirably to -restore Fouquet to his place, and Colbert to his own.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And yet," said Louis XIV., -"it was Colbert, however, that, notwithstanding his economy, had -the arrangement of my <i>fêtes</i> here at Fontainebleau; -and I assure you, Monsieur Fouquet, that in now way has he -checked the expenditure of money." Fouquet bowed, but did not -reply.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it not your opinion too?" -said the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think, sire," he replied, -"that M. Colbert has done what he had to do in an exceedingly -orderly manner, and that he deserves, in this respect, all the -praise your majesty may bestow upon him."<br> - The word "orderly" was a proper accompaniment for -the word "clerk." The king possessed that extreme sensitiveness -of organization, that delicacy of perception, which pierced -through and detected the regular order of feelings and -sensations, before the actual sensations themselves, and he -therefore comprehended that the clerk had, in Fouquet's opinion, -been too full of method and order in his arrangements; in other -words, that the magnificent <i>fêtes</i> of Fontainebleau -might have been rendered more magnificent still. The king -consequently felt that there was something in the amusements he -had provided with which some person or another might be able to -find fault; he experienced a little of the annoyance felt by a -person coming from the provinces to Paris, dressed out in the -very best clothes which his wardrobe can furnish, only to find -that the fashionably dressed man there looks at him either too -much or not enough. This part of the conversation, which Fouquet -had carried on with so much moderation, yet with extreme tact, -inspired the king with the highest esteem for the character of -the man and the capacity of the minister. Fouquet took his leave -at a quarter to three in the morning, and the king went to bed a -little uneasy and confused at the indirect lesson he had -received; and a good hour was employed by him in going over again -in memory the embroideries, the tapestries, the bills of fare of -the various banquets, the architecture of the triumphal arches, -the arrangements for the illuminations and fireworks, all the -offspring of the "Clerk Colbert's" invention. The result was, -the king passed in review before him everything that had taken -place during the last eight days, and decided that faults could -be found in his <i>fêtes</i>. But Fouquet, by his -politeness, his thoughtful consideration, and his generosity, had -injured Colbert more deeply than the latter, by his artifice, his -ill-will, and his persevering hatred, had ever yet succeeded in -hurting Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Chapter XLVIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Fontainebleau at Two o'Clock in -the Morning.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'> <span -style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>s we have seen, Saint-Aignan had -quitted the king's apartment at the very moment the -superintendent entered it. Saint-Aignan was charged with a -mission that required dispatch, and he was going to do his utmost -to turn his time to the best advantage. He whom we have -introduced as the king's friend was indeed an uncommon personage; -he was one of those valuable courtiers whose vigilance and -acuteness of perception threw all other favorites into the shade, -and counterbalanced, by his close attention, the servility of -Dangeau, who was not the favorite, but the toady of the king. M. -de Saint-Aignan began to think what was to be done in the present -position of affairs. He reflected that his first information -ought to come from De Guiche. He therefore set out in search of -him, but De Guiche, whom we saw disappear behind one of the -wings, and who seemed to have returned to his own apartments, had -not entered the château. Saint-Aignan therefore went in -quest of him, and after having turned, and twisted, and searched -in every direction, he perceived something like a human form -leaning against a tree. This figure was as motionless as a -statue, and seemed deeply engaged in looking at a window, -although its curtains were closely drawn. As this window -happened to be Madame's, Saint-Aignan concluded that the form in -question must be that of De Guiche. He advanced cautiously, and -found he was not mistaken. De Guiche had, after his conversation -with Madame, carried away such a weight of happiness, that all of -his strength of mind was hardly sufficient to enable him to -support it. On his side, Saint-Aignan knew that De Guiche had -had something to do with La Vallière's introduction to -Madame's household, for a courtier knows everything and forgets -nothing; but he had never learned under what title or conditions -De Guiche had conferred his protection upon La Vallière. -But, as in asking a great many questions it is singular if a man -does not learn something, Saint-Aignan reckoned upon learning -much or little, as the case might be, if he questioned De Guiche -with that extreme tact, and, at the same time, with that -persistence in attaining an object, of which he was capable. -Saint-Aignan's plan was as follows: If the information obtained -was satisfactory, he would inform the king, with alacrity, that -he had lighted upon a pearl, and claim the privilege of setting -the pearl in question in the royal crown. If the information -were unsatisfactory, - which, after all, might be possible, - he -would examine how far the king cared about La Vallière, -and make use of his information in such a manner as to get rid of -the girl altogether, and thereby obtain all the merit of her -banishment with all the ladies of the court who might have the -least pretensions to the king's heart, beginning with Madame and -finishing with the queen. In case the king should show himself -obstinate in his fancy, then he would not produce the damaging -information he had obtained, but would let La Vallière -know that this damaging information was carefully preserved in a -secret drawer of her confidant's memory. In this manner, he -would be able to air his generosity before the poor girl's eyes, -and so keep her in constant suspense between gratitude and -apprehension, to such an extent as to make her a friend at court, -interested, as an accomplice, in trying to make his fortune, -while she was making her own. As far as concerned the day when -the bombshell of the past should burst, if ever there were any -occasion, Saint-Aignan promised himself that he would by that -time have taken all possible precautions, and would pretend an -entire ignorance of the matter to the king; while, with regard to -La Vallière, he would still have an opportunity of being -considered the personification of generosity. It was with such -ideas as these, which the fire of covetousness had caused to dawn -in half an hour, that Saint-Aignan, the son of earth, as La -Fontaine would have said, determined to get De Guiche into -conversation: in other words, to trouble him in his happiness - a -happiness of which Saint-Aignan was quite ignorant. It was long -past one o'clock in the morning when Saint-Aignan perceived De -Guiche, standing, motionless, leaning against the trunk of a -tree, with his eyes fastened upon the lighted window, - the -sleepiest hour of night-time, which painters crown with myrtles -and budding poppies, the hour when eyes are heavy, hearts throb, -and heads feel dull and languid - an hour which casts upon the -day which has passed away a look of regret, while addressing a -loving greeting to the dawning light. For De Guiche it was the -dawn of unutterable happiness; he would have bestowed a treasure -upon a beggar, had one stood before him, to secure him -uninterrupted indulgence in his dreams. It was precisely at this -hour that Saint-Aignan, badly advised, - selfishness always -counsels badly, - came and struck him on the shoulder, at the -very moment he was murmuring a word, or rather a name.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" he cried loudly, "I was -looking for you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For me?" said De Guiche, -starting.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; and I find you -seemingly moon-struck. Is it likely, my dear comte, you have -been attacked by a poetical malady, and are making verses?"<br> - The young man forced a smile upon his lips, while -a thousand conflicting sensations were muttering defiance of -Saint-Aignan in the deep recesses of his heart. "Perhaps," he -said. "But by what happy chance - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! your remark shows that -you did not hear what I said."<br> - "How so?"<br> - "Why, I began by telling you I was looking for -you."<br> - "You were looking for me?"<br> - "Yes: and I find you now in the very act."<br> - "Of doing what, I should like to -know?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of singing the praises of -Phyllis."<br> - "Well, I do not deny it," said De Guiche, -laughing. "Yes, my dear comte, I was celebrating Phyllis's -praises."<br> - "And you have acquired the right to do so."<br> - "I?"<br> - "You; no doubt of it. You; the intrepid -protector of every beautiful and clever woman."<br> - "In the name of goodness, what story have you got -hold of now?"<br> - "Acknowledged truths, I am well aware. But stay -a moment; I am in love."<br> - "You?"<br> - "Yes."<br> - "So much the better, my dear comte; tell me all -about it." And De Guiche, afraid that Saint-Aignan might perhaps -presently observe the window, where the light was still burning, -took the comte's arm and endeavored to lead him away.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said the latter, -resisting, "do not take me towards those dark woods, it is too -damp there. Let us stay in the moonlight." And while he yielded -to the pressure of De Guiche's arm, he remained in the -flower-garden adjoining the château.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said De Guiche, -resigning himself, "lead me where you like, and ask me what you -please."<br> - "It is impossible to be more agreeable than you -are." And then, after a moment's silence, Saint-Aignan -continued, "I wish you to tell me something about a certain -person in who you have interested yourself."<br> - "And with whom you are in love?"<br> - "I will neither admit nor deny it. You -understand that a man does not very readily place his heart where -there is no hope of return, and that it is most essential he -should take measures of security in advance."<br> - "You are right," said De Guiche with a sigh; "a -man's heart is a very precious gift."<br> - "Mine particularly is very tender, and in that -light I present it to you."<br> - "Oh! you are well known, comte. Well?"<br> - "It is simply a question of Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente."<br> - "Why, my dear Saint-Aignan, you are losing your -senses, I should think."<br> - "Why so?"<br> - "I have never shown or taken any interest in -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente."<br> - "Bah!"<br> - "Never."<br> - "Did you not obtain admission for Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente into Madame's household?"<br> - "Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente - and you ought -to know it better than any one else, my dear comte - is of a -sufficiently good family to make her presence here desirable, and -her admittance very easy."<br> - "You are jesting."<br> - "No; and upon my honor I do not know what you -mean."<br> - "And you had nothing, then, to do with her -admission?"<br> - "No."<br> - "You do not know her?"<br> - "I saw her for the first time the day she was -presented to Madame. Therefore, as I have never taken any -interest in her, as I do not know her, I am not able to give you -the information you require." And De Guiche made a movement as -though he were about to leave his questioner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, nay, one moment, my -dear comte," said Saint-Aignan; "you shall not escape me in this -manner."<br> - "Why, really, it seems to me that it is now time -to return to our apartments."<br> - "And yet you were not going in when I - did not -meet, but found you."<br> - "Therefore, my dear comte," said De Guiche, "as -long as you have anything to say to me, I place myself entirely -at your service."<br> - "And you are quite right in doing so. What -matters half an hour more or less? Will you swear that you have -no injurious communications to make to me about her, and that any -injurious communications you might possibly have to make are not -the cause of your silence?"<br> - "Oh! I believe the poor child to be as pure as -crystal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You overwhelm me with joy. -And yet I do not wish to have towards you the appearance of a man -so badly informed as I seem. It is quite certain that you -supplied the princess's household with the ladies of honor. Nay, -a song has even been written about it."<br> - "Oh! songs are written about everything."<br> - "Do you know it?"<br> - "No: sing it to me and I shall make its -acquaintance."<br> - "I cannot tell you how it begins; I only remember -how it ends."<br> - "Very well, at all events, that is -something."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> "When Maids of -Honor happen to run short,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> Lo! - Guiche -will furnish the entire Court."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The idea is weak, and the -rhyme poor," said De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What can you expect, my dear -fellow? it is not Racine's or Molière's, but La -Feuillade's; and a great lord cannot rhyme like a beggarly -poet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is very unfortunate, -though, that you only remember the termination."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay, stay, I have just -recollected the beginning of the second couplet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> "Why, there's -the birdcage, with a pretty pair,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> The charming -Montalais, and..."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And La Vallière," -exclaimed Guiche, impatiently, and completely ignorant besides of -Saint-Aignan's object.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, you have it. You -have hit upon the word, 'La Vallière.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A grand discovery -indeed."<br> - "Montalais and La Vallière, these, then, -are the two young girls in whom you interest yourself," said -Saint-Aignan, laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And so Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente's name is not to be met with in the song?"<br> - "No, indeed."<br> - "And are you satisfied, then?"<br> - "Perfectly; but I find Montalais there," said -Saint-Aignan, still laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! you will find her -everywhere. She is a singularly active young lady."<br> - "You know her?"<br> - "Indirectly. She was the -<i>protégée</i> of a man named Malicorne, who is a -<i>protégée</i> of Manicamp's; Manicamp asked me to -get the situation of maid of honor for Montalais in Madame's -household, and a situation for Malicorne as an officer in -Monsieur's household. Well, I asked for the appointments, for -you know very well that I have a weakness for that droll fellow -Manicamp."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you obtained what you -sought?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For Montalais, yes; for -Malicorne, yes and no; for as yet he is only on trial. Do you -wish to know anything else?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The last word of the couplet -still remains, La Vallière," said Saint-Aignan, resuming -the smile that so tormented Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said the latter, "it -is true that I obtained admission for her in Madame's -household."<br> - "Ah!" said Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," continued Guiche, -assuming a great coldness of manner, "you will oblige me, comte, -not to jest about that name. Mademoiselle la Baume le Blanc de -la Vallière is a young lady perfectly -well-conducted."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly well-conducted do -you say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Then you have not heard the last rumor?" -exclaimed Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, and you will do me a -service, my dear comte, in keeping this report to yourself and to -those who circulate it."<br> - "Ah! bah! you take the matter up very -seriously."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; Mademoiselle de -Vallière is beloved by one of my best friends."<br> - Saint-Aignan started. "Aha!" he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, comte," continued -Guiche; "and consequently, you, the most distinguished man in -France for polished courtesy of manner, will understand that I -cannot allow my friend to be placed in a ridiculous -position."<br> - Saint-Aignan began to bite his nails, partially -from vexation, and partially from disappointed curiosity. Guiche -made him a very profound bow.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You send me away," said -Saint-Aignan, who was dying to know the name of the -friend.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not send you away, my -dear fellow. I am going to finish my lines to Phyllis."<br> - "And those lines - "<br> - "Are a <i>quatrain</i>. You understand, I trust, -that a <i>quatrain</i> is a serious affair?"<br> - "Of course."<br> - "And as, of these four lines, of which it is -composed, I have yet three and a half to make, I need my -undivided attention."<br> - "I quite understand. Adieu! comte. By the by - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What?"<br> - "Are you quick at making verses?"<br> - "Wonderfully so."<br> - "Will you have quite finished the three lines and -a half to-morrow morning?"<br> - "I <i>hope</i> so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Adieu, then, until -to-morrow."<br> - "Adieu, adieu!"<br> - Saint-Aignan was obliged to accept the notice to -quit; he accordingly did so, and disappeared behind the hedge. -Their conversation had led Guiche and Saint-Aignan a good -distance from the château.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Every mathematician, every -poet, and every dreamer has his own subjects of interest. -Saint-Aignan, on leaving Guiche, found himself at the extremity -of the grove, - at the very spot where the outbuildings of the -servants begin, and where, behind the thickets of acacias and -chestnut-trees interlacing their branches, which were hidden by -masses of clematis and young vines, the wall which separated the -woods from the courtyard was erected. Saint-Aignan, alone, took -the path which led towards these buildings; De Guiche going off -in the opposite direction. The one proceeded to the -flower-garden, while the other bent his steps towards the walls. -Saint-Aignan walked on between rows of mountain-ash, lilac, and -hawthorn, which formed an almost impenetrable roof above his -head; his feet were buried in the soft gravel and thick moss. He -was deliberating a means of taking his revenge, which seemed -difficult for him to carry out, and was vexed with himself for -not having learned more about La Vallière, notwithstanding -the ingenious measures he had resorted to in order to acquire -more information about her, when suddenly the murmur of a human -voice attracted his attention. He heard whispers, the -complaining tones of a woman's voice mingled with entreaties, -smothered laughter, sighs, and half-stilted exclamations of -surprise; but above them all, the woman's voice prevailed. -Saint-Aignan stopped to look about him; he perceived from the -greatest surprise that the voices proceeded, not from the ground, -but from the branches of the trees. As he glided along under the -covered walk, he raised his head, and observed at the top of the -wall a woman perched upon a ladder, in eager conversation with a -man seated on a branch of a chestnut-tree, whose head alone could -be seen, the rest of his body being concealed in the thick covert -of the chestnut. <b><sup>5</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter XLIX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Labyrinth.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>S</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>aint-Aignan, who had only been seeking for -information, had met with an adventure. This was indeed a piece -of good luck. Curious to learn why, and particularly what about, -this man and woman were conversing at such an hour, and in such a -singular position, Saint-Aignan made himself as small as he -possibly could, and approached almost under the rounds of the -ladder. And taking measures to make himself as comfortable as -possible, he leaned his back against a tree and listened, and -heard the following conversation. The woman was the first to -speak.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, Monsieur Manicamp," -she said, in a voice which, notwithstanding the reproaches she -addressed to him, preserved a marked tone of coquetry, "really -your indiscretion is of a very dangerous character. We cannot -talk long in this manner without being observed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is very probable," said -the man, in the calmest and coolest of tones.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, then, what -would people say? Oh! if any one were to see me, I declare I -should die of very shame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! that would be very -silly; I do not believe you would."<br> - "It might have been different if there had been -anything between us; but to injure myself gratuitously is really -very foolish of me; so, adieu, Monsieur Manicamp."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So far so good; I know the -man, and now let me see who the woman is," said Saint-Aignan, -watching the rounds of the ladder, on which were standing two -pretty little feet covered with blue satin shoes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, nay, for pity's sake, -my dear Montalais," cried Manicamp, "deuce take it, do not go -away; I have a great many things to say to you, of the greatest -importance, still."<br> - "Montalais," said Saint-Aignan to himself, "one -of the three. Each of the three gossips had her adventure, only -I imagined the hero of this one's adventure was Malicorne and not -Manicamp."<br> - At her companion's appeal, Montalais stopped in -the middle of her descent, and Saint-Aignan could observe the -unfortunate Manicamp climb from one branch of the chestnut-tree -to another, either to improve his situation or to overcome the -fatigue consequent upon his inconvenient position.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, listen to me," said he; -"you quite understand, I hope, that my intentions are perfectly -innocent?"<br> - "Of course. But why did you write me a letter -stimulating my gratitude towards you? Why did you ask me for an -interview at such an hour and in such a place as this?"<br> - "I stimulated your gratitude in reminding you -that it was I who had been the means of your becoming attached to -Madame's household; because most anxiously desirous of obtaining -the interview you have been kind enough to grant me, I employed -the means which appeared to me most certain to insure it. And my -reason for soliciting it, at such an hour and in such a locality, -was, that the hour seemed to me to be the most prudent, and the -locality the least open to observation. Moreover, I had occasion -to speak to you upon certain subjects which require both prudence -and solitude."<br> - "Monsieur Manicamp!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But everything I wish to say -is perfectly honorable, I assure you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think, Monsieur Manicamp, -it will be more becoming in me to take my leave."<br> - "No, no! - listen to me, or I will jump from my -perch here to yours; and be careful how you set me at defiance, -for a branch of this chestnut-tree causes me a good deal of -annoyance, and may provoke me to extreme measures. Do not follow -the example of this branch, then, but listen to me."<br> - "I am listening, and I agree to do so; but be as -brief as possible, for if you have a branch of the chestnut-tree -which annoys you, I wish you to understand that one of the rounds -of the ladder is hurting the soles of my feet, and my shoes are -being cut through."<br> - "Do me the kindness to give me your hand."<br> - "Why?"<br> - "Will you have the goodness to do so?"<br> - "There is my hand, then; but what are you going -to do?"<br> - "To draw you towards me."<br> - "What for? You surely do not wish me to join you -in the tree?"<br> - "No; but I wish you to sit down upon the wall; -there, that will do; there is quite room enough, and I would give -a great deal to be allowed to sit down beside you."<br> - "No, no; you are very well where you are; we -should be seen."<br> - "Do you really think so?" said Manicamp, in an -insinuating voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am sure of it."<br> - "Very well, I remain in my tree, then, although I -cannot be worse placed."<br> - "Monsieur Manicamp, we are wandering away from -the subject."<br> - "You are right, we are so."<br> - "You wrote me a letter?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did."<br> - "Why did you write?"<br> - "Fancy, at two o'clock to-day, De Guiche -left."<br> - "What then?"<br> - "Seeing him set off, I followed him, as I usually -do."<br> - "Of course, I see that, since you are here -now."<br> - "Don't be in a hurry. You are aware, I suppose, -that De Guiche is up to his very neck in disgrace?"<br> - "Alas! yes."<br> - "It was the very height of imprudence on his -part, then, to come to Fontainebleau to seek those who had at -Paris sent him away into exile, and particularly those from whom -he had been separated."<br> - "Monsieur Manicamp, you reason like -Pythagoras."<br> - "Moreover, De Guiche is as obstinate as a man in -love can be, and he refused to listen to any of my -remonstrances. I begged, I implored him, but he would not listen -to anything. Oh, the deuce!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What's the matter?"<br> - "I beg your pardon, Mademoiselle Montalais, but -this confounded branch, about which I have already had the honor -of speaking to you, has just torn a certain portion of my -dress."<br> - "It is quite dark," replied Montalais, laughing; -"so, pray continue, M. Manicamp."<br> - "De Guiche set off on horseback as hard as he -could, I following him, at a slower pace. You quite understand -that to throw one's self into the water, for instance, with a -friend, at the same headlong rate as he himself would do it, -would be the act either of a fool or a madman. I therefore -allowed De Guiche to get in advance, and I proceeded on my way -with a commendable slowness of pace, feeling quite sure that my -unfortunate friend would not be received, or, if he had been, -that he would ride off again at the very first cross, -disagreeable answer; and that I should see him returning much -faster than he went, without having, myself, gone much farther -than Ris or Melun - and that even was a good distance you will -admit, for it is eleven leagues to get there and as many to -return."<br> - Montalais shrugged her shoulders.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Laugh as much as you like; -but if, instead of being comfortably seated on the top of the -wall as you are, you were sitting on this branch as if you were -on horseback, you would, like Augustus, aspire to -descend."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be patient, my dear M. -Manicamp; a few minutes will soon pass away; you were saying, I -think, that you had gone beyond Ris and Melun."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I went through Ris and -Melun, and I continued to go on, more and more surprised that I -did not see him returning; and here I am at Fontainebleau; I look -for and inquire after De Guiche everywhere, but no one has seen -him, no one in the town has spoken to him; he arrived riding at -full gallop, he entered the château; and there he has -disappeared. I have been here at Fontainebleau since eight -o'clock this evening inquiring for De Guiche in every direction, -but no De Guiche can be found. I am dying with uneasiness. You -understand that I have not been running my head into the lion's -den, in entering the château, as my imprudent friend has -done; I came at once to the servants' offices, and I succeeded in -getting a letter conveyed to you; and now, for Heaven's sake, my -dear young lady, relieve me from my anxiety."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There will be no difficulty -in that, my dear M. Manicamp; your friend De Guiche has been -admirably received."<br> - "Bah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king made quite a fuss -over him."<br> - "The king, who exiled him!"<br> - "Madame smiled upon him, and Monsieur appears to -like him better than ever."<br> - "Ah! ah!" said Manicamp, "that explains to me, -then, why and how he has remained. And did he not say anything -about me?"<br> - "Not a word."<br> - "That is very unkind. What is he doing -now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In all probability he is -asleep, or, if not asleep, dreaming."<br> - "And what have they been doing all the -evening?"<br> - "Dancing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The famous ballet? How did -De Guiche look?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Superb!"<br> - "Dear fellow! And now, pray forgive me, -Mademoiselle Montalais; but all I now have to do is pass from -where I now am to your apartment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean?"<br> - "I cannot suppose that the door of the -château will be opened for me at this hour; and as for -spending the night upon this branch, I possibly might not object -to do so, but I declare it is impossible for any other animal -than a boa-constrictor to do it."<br> - "But, M. Manicamp, I cannot introduce a man over -the wall in that manner."<br> - "Two, if you please," said a second voice, but in -so timid a tone that it seemed as if its owner felt the utter -impropriety of such a request.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good gracious!" exclaimed -Montalais, "who is that speaking to me?"<br> - "Malicorne, Mademoiselle Montalais."<br> - And as Malicorne spoke, he raised himself from -the ground to the lowest branches, and thence to the height of -the wall.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur Malicorne! why, you -are both mad!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you do, Mademoiselle -Montalais?" inquired Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I needed but this!" said -Montalais, in despair.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Mademoiselle -Montalais," murmured Malicorne; "do not be so severe, I beseech -you."<br> - "In fact," said Manicamp, "we are your friends, -and you cannot possibly wish your friends to lose their lives; -and to leave us to pass the night on these branches is in fact -condemning us to death."<br> - "Oh!" said Montalais, "Monsieur Malicorne is so -robust that a night passed in the open air with the beautiful -stars above him will not do him any harm, and it will be a just -punishment for the trick he has played me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be it so, then; let -Malicorne arrange matters with you in the best way he can; I pass -over," said Manicamp. And bending down the famous branch against -which he had directed such bitter complaints, he succeeded, by -the assistance of his hands and feet, in seating himself side by -side with Montalais, who tried to push him back, while he -endeavored to maintain his position, and, moreover, he -succeeded. Having taken possession of the ladder, he stepped on -it, and then gallantly offered his hand to his fair antagonist. -While this was going on, Malicorne had installed himself in the -chestnut-tree, in the very place Manicamp had just left, -determining within himself to succeed him in the one he now -occupied. Manicamp and Montalais descended a few rounds of the -ladder, Manicamp insisting, and Montalais laughing and -objecting.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Suddenly Malicorne's voice -was heard in tones of entreaty:<br> - "I entreat you, Mademoiselle Montalais, not to -leave me here. My position is very insecure, and some accident -will be certain to befall me, if I attempt unaided to reach the -other side of the wall; it does not matter if Manicamp tears his -clothes, for he can make use of M. de Guiche's wardrobe; but I -shall not be able to use even those belonging to M. Manicamp, for -they will be torn."<br> - "My opinion," said Manicamp, without taking any -notice of Malicorne's lamentations, "is that the best thing to be -done is to go and look for De Guiche without delay, for, by and -by, perhaps, I may not be able to get to his apartments."<br> - "That is my own opinion, too," replied Montalais; -"so, go at once, Monsieur Manicamp."<br> - "A thousand thanks. Adieu Mademoiselle -Montalais," said Manicamp, jumping to the ground; "your -condescension cannot be repaid."<br> - "Farewell, M. Manicamp; I am now going to get rid -of M. Malicorne."<br> - Malicorne sighed. Manicamp went away a few -paces, but returning to the foot of the ladder, he said, "By the -by, how do I get to M. de Guiche's apartments?"<br> - "Nothing easier. You go along by the hedge until -you reach a place where the paths cross."<br> - "Yes."<br> - "You will see four paths."<br> - "Exactly."<br> - "One of which you will take."<br> - "Which of them?"<br> - "That to the right."<br> - "That to the right?"<br> - "No, to the left."<br> - "The deuce!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, wait a minute - -"<br> - "You do not seem to be quite sure. Think again, -I beg."<br> - "You take the middle path."<br> - "But there are <i>four</i>."<br> - "So there are. All I know is, that one of the -four paths leads straight to Madame's apartments; and that one I -am well acquainted with."<br> - "But M. de Guiche is not in Madame's apartments, -I suppose?"<br> - "No, indeed."<br> - "Well, then the path which leads to Madame's -apartments is of no use to me, and I would willingly exchange it -for the one that leads to where M. de Guiche is lodging."<br> - "Of course, and I know that as well; but as for -indicating it from where we are, it is quite impossible."<br> - "Well, let us suppose that I have succeeded in -finding that fortunate path."<br> - "In that case, you are almost there, for you have -nothing else to do but cross the labyrinth."<br> - "<i>Nothing</i> more than that? The deuce! so -there is a labyrinth as well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, and complicated enough -too; even in daylight one may sometimes be deceived, - there are -turnings and windings without end: in the first place, you must -turn three times to the right, then twice to the left, then turn -once - stay, is it once or twice, though? at all events, when you -get clear of the labyrinth, you will see an avenue of sycamores, -and this avenue leads straight to the pavilion in which M. de -Guiche is lodging."<br> - "Nothing could be more clearly indicated," said -Manicamp; "and I have not the slightest doubt in the world that -if I were to follow your directions, I should lose my way -immediately. I have, therefore, a slight service to ask of -you."<br> - "What may that be?"<br> - "That you will offer me your arm and guide me -yourself, like another - like another - I used to know mythology, -but other important matters have made me forget it; pray come -with me, then?"<br> - "And am I to be abandoned, then?" cried -Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is quite impossible, -monsieur," said Montalais to Manicamp; "if I were to be seen with -you at such an hour, what would be said of me?"<br> - "Your own conscience would acquit you," said -Manicamp, sententiously.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible, monsieur, -impossible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, let me assist -Malicorne to get down; he is a very intelligent fellow, and -possesses a very keen scent; he will guide me, and if we lose -ourselves, both of us will be lost, and the one will save the -other. If we are together, and should be met by any one, we -shall look as if we had some matter of business in hand; whilst -alone I should have the appearance either of a lover or a -robber. Come, Malicorne, here is the ladder."<br> - Malicorne had already stretched out one of his -legs towards the top of the wall, when Manicamp said, in a -whisper, "Hush!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What's the matter?" inquired -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I hear footsteps."<br> - "Good heavens!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> In fact the fancied footsteps -soon became a reality; the foliage was pushed aside, and -Saint-Aignan appeared, with a smile on his lips, and his hand -stretched out towards them, taking every one by surprise; that is -to say, Malicorne upon the tree with his head stretched out, -Montalais upon the round of the ladder and clinging to it -tightly, and Manicamp on the ground with his foot advanced ready -to set off. "Good-evening, Manicamp," said the comte, "I am glad -to see you, my dear fellow; we missed you this evening, and a -good many inquiries have been made about you. Mademoiselle de -Montalais, your most obedient servant."<br> - Montalais blushed. "Good heavens!" she -exclaimed, hiding her face in both her hands.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray reassure yourself; I -know how perfectly innocent you are, and I shall give a good -account of you. Manicamp, do you follow me: the hedge, the -cross-paths, and labyrinth, I am well acquainted with them all; I -will be your Ariadne. There now, your mythological name is found -at last."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Perfectly true, comte."<br> - "And take M. Malicorne away with you at the same -time," said Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, indeed," said Malicorne; -"M. Manicamp has conversed with you as long as he liked, and now -it is my turn, if you please; I have a multitude of things to -tell you about our future prospects."<br> - "You hear," said the comte, laughing; "stay with -him, Mademoiselle Montalais. This is, indeed, a night for -secrets." And, taking Manicamp's arm, the comte led him rapidly -away in the direction of the road Montalais knew so well, and -indicated so badly. Montalais followed them with her eyes as -long as she could perceive them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter L:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>How Malicorne Had Been Turned Out -of the Hotel of the Beau Paon.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>W</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>hile Montalais was engaged in looking after -the comte and Manicamp, Malicorne had taken advantage of the -young girl's attention being drawn away to render his position -somewhat more tolerable, and when she turned round, she -immediately noticed the change which had taken place; for he had -seated himself, like a monkey, upon the wall, the foliage of the -wild vine and honeysuckle curled around his head like a faun, -while the twisted ivy branches represented tolerably enough his -cloven feet. Montalais required nothing to make her resemblance -to a dryad as complete as possible. "Well," she said, ascending -another round of the ladder, "are you resolved to render me -unhappy? have you not persecuted me enough, tyrant that you -are?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I a tyrant?" said -Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you are always -compromising me, Monsieur Malicorne; you are a perfect monster of -wickedness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?"<br> - "What have you to do with Fontainebleau? Is not -Orléans your place of residence?"<br> - "Do you ask me what I have to do here? I wanted -to see you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, great need of that."<br> - "Not as far as concerns yourself, perhaps, but as -far as I am concerned, Mademoiselle Montalais, you know very well -that I have left my home, and that, for the future, I have no -other place of residence than that which you may happen to have. -As you, therefore, are staying at Fontainebleau at the present -moment, I have come to Fontainebleau."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Montalais shrugged her -shoulders. "You wished to see me, did you not?" she -said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course."<br> - "Very well, you have seen me, - you are -satisfied; so now go away."<br> - "Oh, no," said Malicorne; "I came to talk with -you as well as to see you."<br> - "Very well, we will talk by and by, and in -another place than this."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By and by! Heaven only -knows if I shall meet you by and by in another place. We shall -never find a more favorable one than this."<br> - "But I cannot this evening, nor at the present -moment."<br> - "Why not?"<br> - "Because a thousand things have happened -to-night."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, my affair will -make a thousand and one."<br> - "No, no; Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente is -waiting for me in our room to communicate something of the very -greatest importance."<br> - "How long has she been waiting?"<br> - "For an hour at least."<br> - "In that case," said Malicorne, tranquilly, "she -can wait a few minutes longer."<br> - "Monsieur Malicorne," said Montalais, "you are -forgetting yourself."<br> - "You should rather say that it is you who are -forgetting me, and that I am getting impatient at the part you -make me play here indeed! For the last week I have been prowling -about among the company, and you have not once deigned to notice -my presence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Have you been prowling about -here for a week, M. Malicorne?"<br> - "Like a wolf; sometimes I have been burnt by the -fireworks, which have singed two of my wigs; at others, I have -been completely drenched in the osiers by the evening damps, or -the spray from the fountains, - half-famished, fatigued to death, -with the view of a wall always before me, and the prospect of -having to scale it perhaps. Upon my word, this is not the sort -of life for any one to lead who is neither a squirrel, a -salamander, nor an otter; and since you drive your inhumanity so -far as to wish to make me renounce my condition as a man, I -declare it openly. A man I am, indeed, and a man I will remain, -unless by superior orders."<br> - "Well, then, tell me, what do you wish, - what do -you require, - what do you insist upon?" said Montalais, in a -submissive tone.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you mean to tell me that -you did not know I was at Fontainebleau?"<br> - "I?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, be frank."<br> - "I suspected so."<br> - "Well, then, could you not have contrived during -the last week to have seen me once a day, at least?"<br> - "I have always been prevented, M. Malicorne."<br> - "Fiddlesticks!"<br> - "Ask my companion, if you do not believe me."<br> - "I shall ask no one to explain matters, I know -better than any one."<br> - "Compose yourself, M. Malicorne: things will -change."<br> - "They must indeed."<br> - "You know that, whether I see you or not, I am -thinking of you," said Montalais, in a coaxing tone of -voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, you are thinking of me, -are you? well, and is there anything new?"<br> - "What about?"<br> - "About my post in Monsieur's household."<br> - "Ah, my dear Malicorne, no one has ventured -lately to approach his royal highness."<br> - "Well, but now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now it is quite a different -thing; since yesterday he has left off being jealous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! how has his jealousy -subsided?"<br> - "It has been diverted into another channel."<br> - "Tell me all about it."<br> - "A report was spread that the king had fallen in -love with some one else, and Monsieur was tranquillized -immediately."<br> - "And who spread the report?"<br> - Montalais lowered her voice. "Between -ourselves," she said, "I think that Madame and the king have come -to a secret understanding about it."<br> - "Ah!" said Malicorne; "that was the only way to -manage it. But what about poor M. de Guiche?"<br> - "Oh, as for him, he is completely turned -off."<br> - "Have they been writing to each other?"<br> - "No, certainly not; I have not seen a pen in -either of their hands for the last week."<br> - "On what terms are you with Madame?"<br> - "The very best."<br> - "And with the king?"<br> - "The king always smiles at me whenever I pass -him."<br> - "Good. Now tell me whom have the two lovers -selected to serve as their screen?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "La Vallière."<br> - "Oh, oh, poor girl! We must prevent that!"<br> - "Why?"<br> - "Because, if M. Raoul Bragelonne were to suspect -it, he would either kill her or kill himself."<br> - "Raoul, poor fellow! do you think so?"<br> - "Women pretend to have a knowledge of the state -of people's affections," said Malicorne, "and they do not even -know how to read the thoughts of their own minds and hearts. -Well, I can tell you that M. de Bragelonne loves La -Vallière to such a degree that, if she deceived him, he -would, I repeat, either kill himself or kill her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But the king is there to -defend her," said Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!" exclaimed -Malicorne; "Raoul would kill the king as he would a common -thief."<br> - "Good heavens!" said Montalais; "you are mad, M. -Malicorne."<br> - "Not in the least. Everything I have told you -is, on the contrary, perfectly serious; and, for my own part, I -know one thing."<br> - "What is that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That I shall quietly tell -Raoul of the trick."<br> - "Hush!" said Montalais, mounting another round of -the ladder, so as to approach Malicorne more closely, "do not -open your lips to poor Raoul."<br> - "Why not?"<br> - "Because, as yet you know nothing at all."<br> - "What is the matter, then?"<br> - "Why, this evening - but no one is listening, I -hope?"<br> - "No."<br> - "This evening, then, beneath the royal oak, La -Vallière said aloud, and innocently enough, 'I cannot -conceive that when one has once seen the king, one can ever love -another man.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne almost jumped off -the wall. "Unhappy girl! did she really say that?"<br> - "Word for word."<br> - "And she thinks so?"<br> - "La Vallière always thinks what she -says."<br> - "That positively cries aloud for vengeance. Why, -women are the veriest serpents," said Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Compose yourself, my dear -Malicorne, compose yourself."<br> - "No, no; let us take the evil in time, on the -contrary. There is time enough yet to tell Raoul of it."<br> - "Blunderer, on the contrary, it is too late," -replied Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How so?"<br> - "La Vallière's remark, which was intended -for the king, reached its destination."<br> - "The king knows it, then? The king was told of -it, I suppose?"<br> - "The king heard it."<br> - "<i>Ahimé!</i> as the cardinal used to -say."<br> - "The king was hidden in the thicket close to the -royal oak."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It follows, then," said -Malicorne, "that for the future, the plan which the king and -Madame have arranged, will go as easily as if it were on wheels, -and will pass over poor Bragelonne's body."<br> - "Precisely so."<br> - "Well," said Malicorne, after a moment's -reflection, "do not let us interpose our poor selves between a -large oak-tree and a great king, for we should certainly be -ground to pieces."<br> - "The very thing I was going to say to you."<br> - "Let us think of ourselves, then."<br> - "My own idea."<br> - "Open your beautiful eyes, then."<br> - "And you your large ears."<br> - "Approach your little mouth for a kiss."<br> - "Here," said Montalais, who paid the debt -immediately in ringing coin.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now let us consider. First, -we have M. de Guiche, who is in love with Madame; then La -Vallière, who is in love with the king; next, the king, -who is in love both with Madame and La Vallière; lastly -Monsieur, who loves no one but himself. Among all these loves, a -noodle would make his fortune: a greater reason, therefore, for -sensible people like ourselves to do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There you are with your -dreams again."<br> - "Nay, rather with realities. Let me still lead -you, darling. I do not think you have been very badly off -hitherto?"<br> - "No."<br> - "Well, the future is guaranteed by the past. -Only, since all here think of themselves before anything else, -let us do so too."<br> - "Perfectly right."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But of ourselves only."<br> - "Be it so."<br> - "An offensive and defensive alliance."<br> - "I am ready to swear it."<br> - "Put out your hand, then, and say, 'All for -Malicorne.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "All for Malicorne."<br> - "And I, 'All for Montalais,'" replied Malicorne, -stretching out his hand in his turn.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And now, what is to be -done?"<br> - "Keep your eyes and ears constantly open; collect -every means of attack which may be serviceable against others; -never let anything lie about which can be used against -ourselves."<br> - "Agreed."<br> - "Decided."<br> - "Sworn to. And now the agreement entered into, -good-bye."<br> - "What do you mean by 'good-bye?'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course you can now return -to your inn."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To my inn?"<br> - "Yes; are you not lodging at the sign of the Beau -Paon?"<br> - "Montalais, Montalais, you now betray that you -were aware of my being at Fontainebleau."<br> - "Well; and what does that prove, except that I -occupy myself about you more than you deserve?"<br> - "Hum!"<br> - "Go back, then, to the Beau Paon."<br> - "That is now quite out of the question."<br> - "Have you not a room there?"<br> - "I had, but have it no longer."<br> - "Who has taken it from you, then?"<br> - "I will tell you. Some little time ago I was -returning there, after I had been running about after you; and -having reached my hotel quite out of breath, I perceived a -litter, upon which four peasants were carrying a sick monk."<br> - "A monk?"<br> - "Yes, an old gray-bearded Franciscan. As I was -looking at the monk, they entered the hotel; and as they were -carrying him up the staircase, I followed, and as I reached the -top of the staircase I observed that they took him into my -room."<br> - "Into your room?"<br> - "Yes, into my own apartment. Supposing it to be -a mistake, I summoned the landlord, who said that the room which -had been let to me for the past eight days was let to the -Franciscan for the ninth."<br> - "Oh, oh!"<br> - "That was exactly what I said; nay, I did even -more, for I was inclined to get out of temper. I went up-stairs -again. I spoke to the Franciscan himself, and wished to prove to -him the impropriety of the step; when this monk, dying though he -seemed to be, raised himself upon his arm, fixed a pair of -blazing eyes upon me, and, in a voice which was admirably suited -for commanding a charge of cavalry, said, 'Turn this fellow out -of doors;' which was done, immediately by the landlord and the -four porters, who made me descend the staircase somewhat faster -than was agreeable. This is how it happens, dearest, that I have -no lodging."<br> - "Who can this Franciscan be?" said Montalais. -"Is he a general?"<br> - "That is exactly the very title that one of the -bearers of the litter gave him as he spoke to him in a low -tone."<br> - "So that - " said Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So that I have no room, no -hotel, no lodging; and I am as determined as my friend Manicamp -was just now, not to pass the night in the open air."<br> - "What is to be done, then?" said -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing easier," said a -third voice; whereupon Montalais and Malicorne uttered a -simultaneous cry, and Saint-Aignan appeared. "Dear Monsieur -Malicorne," said Saint-Aignan, "a very lucky accident has brought -me back to extricate you from your embarrassment. Come, I can -offer you a room in my own apartments, which, I can assure you, -no Franciscan will deprive you of. As for you, my dear lady, -rest easy. I already knew Mademoiselle de la Vallière's -secret, and that of Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente; your own you -have just been kind enough to confide to me; for which I thank -you. I can keep three quite as well as one." Malicorne and -Montalais looked at each other, like children detected in a -theft; but as Malicorne saw a great advantage in the proposition -which had been made to him, he gave Montalais a sign of assent, -which she returned. Malicorne then descended the ladder, round -by round, reflecting at every step on the means of obtaining -piecemeal from M. de Saint-Aignan all he might possibly know -about the famous secret. Montalais had already darted away like -a deer, and neither cross-road nor labyrinth was able to lead her -wrong. As for Saint-Aignan, he carried off Malicorne with him to -his apartments, showing him a thousand attentions, enchanted to -have so close at hand the very two men who, even supposing De -Guiche were to remain silent, could give him the best information -about the maids of honor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>What Actually Occurred at the Inn -Called the Beau Paon.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>I</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>n the first place, let us supply our readers -with a few details about the inn called Beau Paon. It owed its -name to its sign, which represented a peacock spreading its -tail. But, in imitation of certain painters who bestowed the -face of a handsome young man on the serpent which tempted Eve, -the limner of the sign had conferred upon the peacock the -features of a woman. This famous inn, an architectural epigram -against that half of the human race which renders existence -delightful, was situated at Fontainebleau, in the first turning -on the left-hand side, which divides the road from Paris, the -large artery that constitutes in itself alone the entire town of -Fontainebleau. The side street in question was then known as the -Rue de Lyon, doubtless because, geographically, it led in the -direction of the second capital of the kingdom. The street -itself was composed of two houses occupied by persons of the -class of tradespeople, the houses being separated by two large -gardens bordered with hedges running round them. Apparently, -however, there were three houses in the street. Let us explain, -notwithstanding appearances, how there were in fact only two. -The inn of the Beau Paon had its principal front towards the main -street; but upon the Rue de Lyon there were two ranges of -buildings divided by courtyards, which comprised sets of -apartments for the reception of all classes of travelers, whether -on foot or on horseback, or even with their own carriages; and in -which could be supplied, not only board and lodging, but also -accommodation for exercise, or opportunities of solitude for even -the wealthiest courtiers, whenever, after having received some -check at the court, they wished to shut themselves up to their -own society, either to devour an affront, or to brood on -revenge. From the windows of this part of the building travelers -could perceive, in the first place, the street with the grass -growing between the stones, which were being gradually loosened -by it; next the beautiful hedges of elder and thorn, which -embraced, as though within two green and flowery arms, the house -of which we have spoken; and then, in the spaces between those -houses, forming the groundwork of the picture, and appearing an -almost impassable barrier, a line of thick trees, the advanced -sentinels of the vast forest which extends in front of -Fontainebleau. It was therefore easy, provided one secured an -apartment at the angle of the building, to obtain, by the main -street from Paris, a view of, as well as to hear, the passers-by -and the <i>fêtes;</i> and, by the Rue de Lyon, to look upon -and to enjoy the calm of the country. And this without reckoning -that, in cases of urgent necessity, at the very moment people -might be knocking at the principal door in the Rue de Paris, one -could make one's escape by the little door in the Rue de Lyon, -and, creeping along the gardens of the private houses, attain the -outskirts of the forest. Malicorne, who, it will be remembered, -was the first to speak about this inn, by way of deploring his -being turned out of it, being then absorbed in his own affairs, -had not told Montalais all that could be said about this curious -inn; and we will try to repair the omission. With the exception -of the few words he had said about the Franciscan friar, -Malicorne had not given any particulars about the travelers who -were staying in the inn. The manner in which they had arrived, -the manner in which they had lived, the difficulty which existed -for every one but certain privileged travelers, of entering the -hotel without a password, or living there without certain -preparatory precautions, must have struck Malicorne; and, we will -venture to say, really did so. But Malicorne, as we have already -said, had personal matters of his own to occupy his attention -which prevented him from paying much attention to others. In -fact, all the apartments of the hotel were engaged and retained -by certain strangers, who never stirred out, who were -incommunicative in their address, with countenances full of -thoughtful preoccupation, and not one of whom was known to -Malicorne. Every one of these travelers had reached the hotel -after his own arrival there; each man had entered after having -given a kind of password, which had at first attracted -Malicorne's attention; but having inquired, in an indiscreet -manner, about it, he had been informed that the host had given as -a reason for this extreme vigilance, that, as the town was so -full of wealthy noblemen, it must also be as full of clever and -zealous pickpockets. The reputation of an honest inn like that -of the Beau Paon was concerned in not allowing its visitors to be -robbed. It occasionally happened that Malicorne asked himself, -as he thought matters carefully over in his mind, and reflected -upon his own position in the inn, how it was that they had -allowed him to become an inmate of the hotel, when he had -observed, since his residence there, admission refused to so -many. He asked himself, too, how it was that Manicamp, who, in -his opinion, must be a man to be looked upon with veneration by -everybody, having wished to bait his horse at the Beau Paon, on -arriving there, both horse and rider had been incontinently -turned away with a <i>nescio vos</i> of the most positive -character. All this for Malicorne, whose mind being fully -occupied by his own love affair and personal ambition, was a -problem he had not applied himself to solve. Had he wished to do -so, we should hardly venture, notwithstanding the intelligence we -have accorded as his due, to say he would have succeeded. A few -words will prove to the reader that no one but Œdipus in -person could have solved the enigma in question. During the -week, seven travelers had taken up their abode in the inn, all of -them having arrived there the day after the fortunate day on -which Malicorne had fixed his choice on the Beau Paon. These -seven persons, accompanied by a suitable retinue, were the -following: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> First of all, a brigadier in -the German army, his secretary, physician, three servants, and -seven horses. The brigadier's name was the Comte de Wostpur. - A -Spanish cardinal, with two nephews, two secretaries, an officer -of his household, and twelve horses. The cardinal's name was -Monseigneur Herrebia. - A rich merchant of Bremen, with his -man-servant and two horses. This merchant's name was Meinheer -Bonstett. - A Venetian senator with his wife and daughter, both -extremely beautiful. The senator's name was Signor Marini. - A -Scottish laird, with seven highlanders of his clan, all on foot. -The laird's name was MacCumnor. - An Austrian from Vienna without -title or coat of arms, who had arrived in a carriage; a good deal -of the priest, and something of the soldier. He was called the -Councilor. - And, finally, a Flemish lady, with a man-servant, a -lady's maid, and a female companion, a large retinue of servants, -great display, and immense horses. She was called the Flemish -lady.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> All these travelers had -arrived on the same day, and yet their arrival had occasioned no -confusion in the inn, no stoppage in the street; their apartments -had been fixed upon beforehand, by their couriers or secretaries, -who had arrived the previous evening or that very morning. -Malicorne, who had arrived the previous day, riding an -ill-conditioned horse, with a slender valise, had announced -himself at the hotel of the Beau Paon as the friend of a nobleman -desirous of witnessing the <i>fêtes</i>, and who would -himself arrive almost immediately. The landlord, on hearing -these words, had smiled as if he were perfectly well acquainted -either with Malicorne or his friend the nobleman, and had said to -him, "Since you are the first arrival, monsieur, choose what -apartment you please." And this was said with that -obsequiousness of manners, so full of meaning with landlords, -which means, "Make yourself perfectly easy, monsieur: we know -with whom we have to do, and you will be treated accordingly." -These words, and their accompanying gesture, Malicorne had -thought very friendly, but rather obscure. However, as he did -not wish to be very extravagant in his expenses, and as he -thought that if he were to ask for a small apartment he would -doubtless have been refused, on account of his want of -consequence, he hastened to close at once with the innkeeper's -remark, and deceive him with a cunning equal to his own. So, -smiling as a man would do for whom whatever might be done was but -simply his due, he said, "My dear host, I shall take the best and -the gayest room in the house."<br> - "With a stable?"<br> - "Yes, with a stable."<br> - "And when will you take it?"<br> - "Immediately if it be possible."<br> - "Quite so."<br> - "But," said Malicorne, "I shall leave the large -room unoccupied for the present."<br> - "Very good!" said the landlord, with an air of -intelligence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certain reasons, which you -will understand by and by, oblige me to take, at my own cost, -this small room only."<br> - "Yes, yes," said the host.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When my friend arrives, he -will occupy the large apartment: and as a matter of course, as -this larger apartment will be his own affair, he will settle for -it himself."<br> - "Certainly," said the landlord, "certainly; let -it be understood in that manner."<br> - "It is agreed, then, that such shall be the -terms?"<br> - "Word for word."<br> - "It is extraordinary," said Malicorne to -himself. "You quite understand, then?"<br> - "Yes."<br> - "There is nothing more to be said. Since you -understand, - for you do clearly understand, do you not?"<br> - "Perfectly."<br> - "Very well; and now show me to my room."<br> - The landlord, cap in hand, preceded Malicorne, -who installed himself in his room, and became more and more -surprised to observe that the landlord, at every ascent or -descent, looked and winked at him in a manner which indicated the -best possible intelligence between them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is some mistake here," -said Malicorne to himself; "but until it is cleared up, I shall -take advantage of it, which is the best thing I can possibly -do." And he darted out of his room, like a hunting-dog following -a scent, in search of all the news and curiosities of the court, -getting himself burnt in one place and drowned in another, as he -had told Mademoiselle de Montalais. The day after he had been -installed in his room, he had noticed the seven travelers arrive -successively, who speedily filled the whole hotel. When he saw -this perfect multitude of people, of carriages, and retinue, -Malicorne rubbed his hands delightedly, thinking that, one day -later, he should not have found a bed to lie upon after his -return from his exploring expeditions. When all the travelers -were lodged, the landlord entered Malicorne's room, and with his -accustomed courteousness, said to him, "You are aware, my dear -monsieur, that the large room in the third detached building is -still reserved for you?"<br> - "Of course I am aware of it."<br> - "I am really making you a present of it."<br> - "Thank you."<br> - "So that when your friend comes - "<br> - "Well!"<br> - "He will be satisfied with me, I hope: or, if he -be not, he will be very difficult to please."<br> - "Excuse me, but will you allow me to say a few -words about my friend?"<br> - "Of course, for you have a perfect right to do -so."<br> - "He intended to come, as you know."<br> - "And he does so still."<br> - "He may possibly have changed his opinion."<br> - "No."<br> - "You are quite sure, then?"<br> - "Quite sure."<br> - "But in case you should have some doubt."<br> - "Well!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I can only say that I do not -positively assure you that he will come."<br> - "Yet he told you - "<br> - "He certainly did tell me; but you know that man -proposes and God disposes, - <i>verba volant, scripta -manent</i>."<br> - "Which is as much to say - "<br> - "That what is spoken flies away, and what is -written remains; and, as he did not write to me, but contented -himself by saying to me, 'I will authorize you, yet without -specifically instructing you,' you must feel that it places me in -a very embarrassing position."<br> - "What do you authorize me to do, then?"<br> - "Why, to let your rooms if you find a good tenant -for them."<br> - "I?"<br> - "Yes, you."<br> - "Never will I do such a thing, monsieur. If he -has not written to you, he has written to me."<br> - "Ah! what does he say? Let us see if his letter -agrees with his words."<br> - "These are almost his very words. 'To the -landlord of the Beau Paon Hotel, - You will have been informed of -the meeting arranged to take place in your inn between some -people of importance; I shall be one of those who will meet with -the others at Fontainebleau. Keep for me, then, a small room for -a friend who will arrive either before or after me - ' and you -are the friend, I suppose," said the landlord, interrupting his -reading of the letter. Malicorne bowed modestly. The landlord -continued:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "'And a large apartment for -myself. The large apartment is my own affair, but I wish the -price of the smaller room to be moderate, as it is destined for a -fellow who is deucedly poor.' It is still you he is speaking of, -is he not?" said the host.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, certainly," said -Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Then we are agreed; your -friend will settle for his apartment, and you for your own."<br> - "May I be broken alive on the wheel," said -Malicorne to himself, "if I understand anything at all about it," -and then he said aloud, "Well, then, are you satisfied with the -name?"<br> - "With what name?"<br> - "With the name at the end of the letter. Does it -give you the guarantee you require?"<br> - "I was going to ask you the name."<br> - "What! was the letter not signed?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," said the landlord, -opening his eyes very wide, full of mystery and -curiosity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case," said -Malicorne, imitating his gesture and his mysterious look, "if he -has not given you his name, you understand, he must have his -reasons for it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, of course."<br> - "And, therefore, I, his friend, his confidant, -must not betray him."<br> - "You are perfectly right, monsieur," said the -landlord, "and I do not insist upon it."<br> - "I appreciate your delicacy. As for myself, as -my friend told you, my room is a separate affair, so let us come -to terms about it. Short accounts make long friends. How much -is it?"<br> - "There is no hurry."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never mind, let us reckon it -all up all the same. Room, my own board, a place in the stable -for my horse, and his feed. How much per day?"<br> - "Four livres, monsieur."<br> - "Which will make twelve livres for the three days -I have been here?"<br> - "Yes, monsieur."<br> - "Here are your twelve livres, then."<br> - "But why settle now?"<br> - "Because," said Malicorne, lowering his voice, -and resorting to his former air of mystery, because he saw that -the mysterious had succeeded, "because if I had to set off -suddenly, to decamp at any moment, my account would be -settled."<br> - "You are right, monsieur."<br> - "I may consider myself at home, then?"<br> - "Perfectly."<br> - "So far so well. Adieu!" And the landlord -withdrew. Malicorne, left alone, reasoned with himself in the -following manner: "No one but De Guiche or Manicamp could have -written to this fellow; De Guiche, because he wishes to secure a -lodging for himself beyond the precincts of the court, in the -event of his success or failure, as the case might be; Manicamp, -because De Guiche must have intrusted him with his commission. -And De Guiche or Manicamp will have argued in this manner. The -large apartment would serve for the reception, in a befitting -manner, of a lady thickly veiled, reserving to the lady in -question a double means of exit, either in a street somewhat -deserted, or closely adjoining the forest. The smaller room -might either shelter Manicamp for a time, who is De Guiche's -confidant, and would be the vigilant keeper of the door, or De -Guiche himself, acting, for greater safety, the part of a master -and confidant at the same time. Yet," he continued, "how about -this meeting which is to take place, and which has actually taken -place, in this hotel? No doubt they are persons who are going to -be presented to the king. And the 'poor devil,' for whom the -smaller room is destined, is a trick, in order to better conceal -De Guiche or Manicamp. If this be the case, as very likely it -is, there is only half the mischief done, for there is simply the -length of a purse string between Manicamp and Malicorne." After -he had thus reasoned the matter out, Malicorne slept soundly, -leaving the seven travelers to occupy, and in every sense of the -word to walk up and down, their several lodgings in the hotel. -Whenever there was nothing at court to put him out, when he had -wearied himself with his excursions and investigations, tired of -writing letters which he could never find an opportunity of -delivering to the people they were intended for, he returned home -to his comfortable little room, and leaning upon the balcony, -which was filled with nasturtiums and white pinks, for whom -Fontainebleau seemed to possess no attractions with all its -illuminations, amusements, and <i>fêtes</i>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Things went on in this manner -until the seventh day, a day of which we have given such full -details, with its night also, in the preceding chapters. On that -night Malicorne was enjoying the fresh air, seated at his window, -toward one o'clock in the morning, when Manicamp appeared on -horseback, with a thoughtful and listless air.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good!" said Malicorne to -himself, recognizing him at the first glance; "there's my friend, -who is come to take possession of his apartment, that is to say, -of my room." And he called to Manicamp, who looked up and -immediately recognized Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! by Jove!" said the -former, his countenance clearing up, "glad to see you, -Malicorne. I have been wandering about Fontainebleau, looking -for three things I cannot find: De Guiche, a room, and a -stable."<br> - "Of M. de Guiche I cannot give you either good or -bad news, for I have not seen him; but as far as concerns your -room and a stable, that's another matter, for they have been -retained here for you."<br> - "Retained - and by whom?"<br> - "By yourself, I presume."<br> - "By <i>me?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you mean to say you did -not take lodgings here?"<br> - "By no means," said Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment the landlord -appeared on the threshold of the door.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I want a room," said -Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you engage one, -monsieur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No."<br> - "Then I have no rooms to let."<br> - "In that case, I have engaged a room," said -Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A room simply, or -lodgings?"<br> - "Anything you please."<br> - "By letter?" inquired the landlord.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne nodded -affirmatively to Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course by letter," said -Manicamp. "Did you not receive a letter from me?"<br> - "What was the date of the letter?" inquired the -host, in whom Manicamp's hesitation had aroused some -suspicion.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp rubbed his ear, and -looked up at Malicorne's window; but Malicorne had left his -window and was coming down the stairs to his friend's -assistance. At the very same moment, a traveler, wrapped in a -large Spanish cloak, appeared at the porch, near enough to hear -the conversation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I ask you what was the date -of the letter you wrote to me to retain apartments here?" -repeated the landlord, pressing the question.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Last Wednesday was the -date," said the mysterious stranger, in a soft and polished tone -of voice, touching the landlord on the shoulder.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp drew back, and it -was now Malicorne's turn, who appeared on the threshold, to -scratch his ear. The landlord saluted the new arrival as a man -who recognizes his true guest.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monsieur," he said to him, -with civility, "your apartment is ready for you, and the stables -too, only - " He looked round him and inquired, "Your -horses?"<br> - "My horses may or may not arrive. That, however, -matters but little to you, provided you are paid for what has -been engaged." The landlord bowed lower still.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You have," continued the -unknown traveler, "kept for me in addition, the small room I -asked for?"<br> - "Oh!" said Malicorne, endeavoring to hide -himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your friend has occupied it -during the last week," said the landlord, pointing to Malicorne, -who was trying to make himself as small as possible. The -traveler, drawing his cloak round him so as to cover the lower -part of his face, cast a rapid glance at Malicorne, and said, -"This gentleman is no friend of mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The landlord started -violently.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am not acquainted with -this gentleman," continued the traveler.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What!" exclaimed the host, -turning to Malicorne, "are you not this gentleman's friend, -then?"<br> - "What does it matter whether I am or not, -provided you are paid?" said Malicorne, parodying the stranger's -remark in a very majestic manner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It matters so far as this," -said the landlord, who began to perceive that one person had been -taken for another, "that I beg you, monsieur, to leave the rooms, -which had been engaged beforehand, and by some one else instead -of you."<br> - "Still," said Malicorne, "this gentleman cannot -require at the same time a room on the first floor and an -apartment on the second. If this gentleman will take the room, I -will take the apartment: if he prefers the apartment, I will be -satisfied with the room."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am exceedingly distressed, -monsieur," said the traveler in his soft voice, "but I need both -the room and the apartment."<br> - "At least, tell me for whom?" inquired -Malicorne.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The apartment I require for -myself."<br> - "Very well; but the room?"<br> - "Look," said the traveler, pointing towards a -sort of procession which was approaching.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne looked in the -direction indicated, and observed borne upon a litter, the -arrival of the Franciscan, whose installation in his apartment he -had, with a few details of his own, related to Montalais, and -whom he had so uselessly endeavored to convert to humbler views. -The result of the arrival of the stranger, and of the sick -Franciscan, was Malicorne's expulsion, without any consideration -for his feelings, from the inn, by the landlord and the peasants -who had carried the Franciscan. The details have already been -given of what followed this expulsion; of Manicamp's conversation -with Montalais; how Manicamp, with greater cleverness than -Malicorne had shown, had succeeded in obtaining news of De -Guiche, of the subsequent conversation of Montalais with -Malicorne, and, finally, of the billets with which the Comte de -Saint-Aignan had furnished Manicamp and Malicorne. It remains -for us to inform our readers who was the traveler in the cloak - -the principal tenant of the double apartment, of which Malicorne -had only occupied a portion - and the Franciscan, quite as -mysterious a personage, whose arrival, together with that of the -stranger, unfortunately upset the two friends' plans.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>A Jesuit of the Eleventh -Year.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>I</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>n the first place, in order not to weary the -reader's patience, we will hasten to answer the first question. -The traveler with the cloak held over his face was Aramis, who, -after he had left Fouquet, and taken from a portmanteau, which -his servant had opened, a cavalier's complete costume, quitted -the château, and went to the hotel of the Beau Paon, where, -by letters, seven or eight days previously, he had, as the -landlord had stated, directed a room and an apartment to be -retained for him. Immediately after Malicorne and Manicamp had -been turned out, Aramis approached the Franciscan, and asked him -whether he would prefer the apartment or the room. The -Franciscan inquired where they were both situated. He was told -that the room was on the first, and the apartment on the second -floor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The room, then," he -said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis did not contradict -him, but, with great submissiveness, said to the landlord: "The -room." And bowing with respect he withdrew into the apartment, -and the Franciscan was accordingly carried at once into the -room. Now, is it not extraordinary that this respect should be -shown by a prelate of the Church for a simple monk, for one, too, -belonging to a mendicant order; to whom was given up, without a -request for it even, a room which so many travelers were desirous -of obtaining? How, too, can one explain the unexpected arrival -of Aramis at the hotel - he who had entered the château -with M. Fouquet, and could have remained at the château -with M. Fouquet if he had liked? The Franciscan supported his -removal up the staircase without uttering a complaint, although -it was evident he suffered very much, and that every time the -litter knocked against the wall or the railing of the staircase, -he experienced a terrible shock throughout his frame. And -finally, when he had arrived in the room, he said to those who -carried him: "Help me to place myself in that armchair." The -bearers of the litter placed it on the ground, and lifting the -sick man up as gently as possible, carried him to the chair he -had indicated, which was situated at the head of the bed. "Now," -he added, with a marked benignity of gesture and tone, "desire -the landlord to come."<br> - They obeyed, and five minutes afterwards the -landlord appeared at the door.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be kind enough," said the -Franciscan to him, "to send these excellent fellows away; they -are vassals of the Vicomte de Melun. They found me when I had -fainted on the road overcome by the heat, and without thinking of -whether they would be paid for their trouble, they wished to -carry me to their own home. But I know at what cost to -themselves is the hospitality which the poor extend to a sick -monk, and I preferred this hotel, where, moreover, I was -expected."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The landlord looked at the -Franciscan in amazement, but the latter, with his thumb, made the -sign of the cross in a peculiar manner upon his breast. The host -replied by making a similar sign on his left shoulder. "Yes, -indeed," he said, "we did expect you, but we hoped that you would -arrive in a better state of health." And as the peasants were -looking at the innkeeper, usually so supercilious, and saw how -respectful he had become in the presence of a poor monk, the -Franciscan drew from a deep pocket three or four pieces of gold -which he held out.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My friends," said he, "here -is something to repay you for the care you have taken of me. So -make yourselves perfectly easy, and do not be afraid of leaving -me here. The order to which I belong, and for which I am -traveling, does not require me to beg; only, as the attention you -have shown me deserves to be rewarded, take these two louis and -depart in peace."<br> - The peasants did not dare to take them; the -landlord took the two louis out of the monk's hand and placed -them in that of one of the peasants, all four of whom withdrew, -opening their eyes wider than ever. The door was then closed; -and, while the innkeeper stood respectfully near it, the -Franciscan collected himself for a moment. He then passed across -his sallow face a hand which seemed dried up by fever, and rubbed -his nervous and agitated fingers across his beard. His large -eyes, hollowed by sickness and inquietude, seemed to peruse in -the vague distance a mournful and fixed idea.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What physicians have you at -Fontainebleau?" he inquired, after a long pause.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We have three, holy -father."<br> - "What are their names?"<br> - "Luiniguet first."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The next one?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A brother of the Carmelite -order, named Brother Hubert."<br> - "The next?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A secular member, named -Grisart."<br> - "Ah! Grisart?" murmured the monk, "send for M. -Grisart immediately."<br> - The landlord moved in prompt obedience to the -direction.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me what priests are -there here?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What priests?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; belonging to what -orders?"<br> - "There are Jesuits, Augustines, and Cordeliers; -but the Jesuits are the closest at hand. Shall I send for a -confessor belonging to the order of Jesuits?"<br> - "Yes, immediately."<br> - It will be imagined that, at the sign of the -cross which they had exchanged, the landlord and the invalid monk -had recognized each other as two affiliated members of the -well-known Society of Jesus. Left to himself, the Franciscan -drew from his pocket a bundle of papers, some of which he read -over with the most careful attention. The violence of his -disorder, however, overcame his courage; his eyes rolled in their -sockets, a cold sweat poured down his face, and he nearly -fainted, and lay with his head thrown backwards and his arms -hanging down on both sides of his chair. For more than five -minutes he remained without any movement, when the landlord -returned, bringing with him the physician, whom he hardly allowed -time to dress himself. The noise they made in entering the room, -the current of air, which the opening of the door occasioned, -restored the Franciscan to his senses. He hurriedly seized hold -of the papers which were lying about, and with his long and bony -hand concealed them under the cushions of the chair. The -landlord went out of the room, leaving patient and physician -together.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come here, Monsieur -Grisart," said the Franciscan to the doctor; "approach closer, -for there is no time to lose. Try, by touch and sound, and -consider and pronounce your sentence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The landlord," replied the -doctor, "told me I had the honor of attending an affiliated -brother."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," replied the -Franciscan, "it is so. Tell me the truth, then; I feel very ill, -and I think I am about to die."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The physician took the monk's -hand, and felt his pulse. "Oh, oh," he said, "a dangerous -fever."<br> - "What do you call a dangerous fever?" inquired -the Franciscan, with an imperious look.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To an affiliated member of -the first or second year," replied the physician, looking -inquiringly at the monk, "I should say - a fever that may be -cured."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But to me?" said the -Franciscan. The physician hesitated.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Look at my grey hair, and my -forehead, full of anxious thought," he continued: "look at the -lines in my face, by which I reckon up the trials I have -undergone; I am a Jesuit of the eleventh year, Monsieur -Grisart." The physician started, for, in fact, a Jesuit of the -eleventh year was one of those men who had been initiated in all -the secrets of the order, one of those for whom science has no -more secrets, the society no further barriers to present - -temporal obedience, no more trammels.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case," said Grisart, -saluting him with respect, "I am in the presence of a -master?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; act, therefore, -accordingly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you wish to know?"<br> - "My real state."<br> - "Well," said the physician, "it is a brain fever, -which has reached its highest degree of intensity."<br> - "There is no hope, then?" inquired the -Franciscan, in a quick tone of voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not say that," replied -the doctor; "yet, considering the disordered state of the brain, -the hurried respiration, the rapidity of the pulse, and the -burning nature of the fever which is devouring you - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And which has thrice -prostrated me since this morning," said the monk.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoBodyText" style= -'punctuation-wrap:hanging; text-autospace:ideograph-other'> - "All things considered, I shall call it a -terrible attack. But why did you not stop on your road?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I was expected here, and I -was obliged to come."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Even at the risk of your -life?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, at the risk of dying on -the way."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well. Considering all -the symptoms of your case, I must tell you that your condition is -almost desperate."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Franciscan smiled in a -strange manner.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What you have just told me -is, perhaps, sufficient for what is due to an affiliated member, -even of the eleventh year; but for what is due to me, Monsieur -Grisart, it is too little, and I have a right to demand more. -Come, then, let us be more candid still, and as frank as if you -were making your own confession to Heaven. Besides, I have -already sent for a confessor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! I have hopes, however," -murmured the doctor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Answer me," said the sick -man, displaying with a dignified gesture a golden ring, the stone -of which had until that moment been turned inside, and which bore -engraved thereon the distinguishing mark of the Society of -Jesus.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Grisart uttered loud -exclamation. "The general!" he cried.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Silence," said the -Franciscan., "you can now understand that the whole truth is all -important."<br> - "Monseigneur, monseigneur," murmured Grisart, -"send for the confessor, for in two hours, at the next seizure, -you will be attacked by delirium, and will pass away in its -course."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said the -patient, for a moment contracting his eyebrows, "I have still two -hours to live then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; particularly if you -take the potion I will send you presently."<br> - "And that will give me two hours of life?"<br> - "Two hours."<br> - "I would take it, were it poison, for those two -hours are necessary not only for myself, but for the glory of the -order."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What a loss, what a -catastrophe for us all!" murmured the physician.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is the loss of one man - -nothing more," replied the Franciscan, "for Heaven will enable -the poor monk, who is about to leave you, to find a worthy -successor. Adieu, Monsieur Grisart; already even, through the -goodness of Heaven, I have met with you. A physician who had not -been one of our holy order, would have left me in ignorance of my -condition; and, confident that existence would be prolonged a few -days further, I should not have taken the necessary precautions. -You are a learned man, Monsieur Grisart, and that confers an -honor upon us all; it would have been repugnant to my feelings to -have found one of our order of little standing in his -profession. Adieu, Monsieur Grisart; send me the cordial -immediately."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Give me your blessing, at -least, monseigneur."<br> - "In my mind, I do; go, go; in my mind, I do so, I -tell you - <i>animo</i>, Maître Grisart, <i>viribus -impossibile</i>." And he again fell back on the armchair, in an -almost senseless state. M. Grisart hesitated, whether he should -give him immediate assistance, or should run to prepare the -cordial he had promised. He decided in favor of the cordial, for -he darted out of the room and disappeared down the staircase. -<b><sup>6</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The State Secret.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span> <span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>few moments after the doctor's departure, the -confessor arrived. He had hardly crossed the threshold of the -door when the Franciscan fixed a penetrating look upon him, and, -shaking his head, murmured - "A weak mind, I see; may Heaven -forgive me if I die without the help of this living piece of -human infirmity." The confessor, on his side, regarded the dying -man with astonishment, almost with terror. He had never beheld -eyes so burningly bright at the very moment they were about to -close, nor looks so terrible at the moment they were about to be -quenched in death. The Franciscan made a rapid and imperious -movement of his hand. "Sit down, there, my father," he said, -"and listen to me." The Jesuit confessor, a good priest, a -recently initiated member of the order, who had merely seen the -beginning of its mysteries, yielded to the superiority assumed by -the penitent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There are several persons -staying in this hotel," continued the Franciscan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," inquired the Jesuit, -"I thought I had been summoned to listen to a confession. Is -your remark, then, a confession?"<br> - "Why do you ask?"<br> - "In order to know whether I am to keep your words -secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My remarks are part of my -confession; I confide them to you in your character of a -confessor."<br> - "Very well," said the priest, seating himself on -the chair which the Franciscan had, with great difficulty, just -left, to lie down on the bed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Franciscan continued, - -"I repeat, there are several persons staying in this inn."<br> - "So I have heard."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They ought to be eight in -number."<br> - The Jesuit made a sign that he understood him. -"The first to whom I wish to speak," said the dying man, "is a -German from Vienna, whose name is Baron de Wostpur. Be kind -enough to go to him, and tell him the person he expected has -arrived." The confessor, astounded, looked at his penitent; the -confession seemed a singular one.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Obey," said the Franciscan, -in a tone of command impossible to resist. The good Jesuit, -completely subdued, rose and left the room. As soon as he had -gone, the Franciscan again took up the papers which a crisis of -the fever had already, once before, obliged him to put -aside.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Baron de Wostpur? -Good!" he said; "ambitious, a fool, and straitened in -means."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> He folded up the papers, -which he thrust under his pillow. Rapid footsteps were heard at -the end of the corridor. The confessor returned, followed by the -Baron de Wostpur, who walked along with his head raised, as if he -were discussing with himself the possibility of touching the -ceiling with the feather in his hat. Therefore, at the -appearance of the Franciscan, at his melancholy look, and seeing -the plainness of the room, he stopped, and inquired, - "Who has -summoned me?"<br> - "I," said the Franciscan, who turned towards the -confessor, saying, "My good father, leave us for a moment -together; when this gentleman leaves, you will return here." The -Jesuit left the room, and, doubtless, availed himself of this -momentary exile from the presence of the dying man to ask the -host for some explanation about this strange penitent, who -treated his confessor no better than he would a man servant. The -baron approached the bed, and wished to speak, but the hand of -the Franciscan imposed silence upon him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Every moment is precious," -said the latter, hurriedly. "You have come here for the -competition, have you not?"<br> - "Yes, my father."<br> - "You hope to be elected general of the -order?"<br> - "I hope so."<br> - "You know on what conditions only you can -possibly attain this high position, which makes one man the -master of monarchs, the equal of popes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who are you," inquired the -baron, "to subject me to these interrogations?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am he whom you -expected."<br> - "The elector-general?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am the elected."<br> - "You are - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Franciscan did not give -him time to reply; he extended his shrunken hand, on which -glittered the ring of the general of the order. The baron drew -back in surprise; and then, immediately afterwards, bowing with -the profoundest respect, he exclaimed, - "Is it possible that you -are here, monseigneur; you, in this wretched room; you, upon this -miserable bed; you, in search of and selecting the future -general, that is, your own successor?"<br> - "Do not distress yourself about that, monsieur, -but fulfil immediately the principal condition, of furnishing the -order with a secret of importance, of such importance that one of -the greatest courts of Europe will, by your instrumentality, -forever be subjected to the order. Well! do you possess the -secret which you promised, in your request, addressed to the -grand council?"<br> - "Monseigneur - "<br> - "Let us proceed, however, in due order," said the -monk. "You are the Baron de Wostpur?"<br> - "Yes, monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And this letter is from -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The general of the Jesuits -drew a paper from his bundle, and presented it to the baron, who -glanced at it, and made a sign in the affirmative, saying, "Yes, -monseigneur, this letter is mine."<br> - "Can you show me the reply which the secretary of -the grand council returned to you?"<br> - "Here it is," said the baron, holding towards the -Franciscan a letter bearing simply the address, "To his -excellency the Baron de Wostpur," and containing only this -phrase, "From the 15th to the 22nd May, Fontainebleau, the hotel -of the Beau Paon. - A. M. D. G." <b><sup>7</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Right," said the Franciscan, -"and now speak."<br> - "I have a body of troops, composed of 50,000 men; -all the officers are gained over. I am encamped on the Danube. -I four days I can overthrow the emperor, who is, as you are -aware, opposed to the progress of our order, and can replace him -by whichever of the princes of his family the order may determine -upon." The Franciscan listened, unmoved.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that all?" he -said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A revolution throughout -Europe is included in my plan," said the baron.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, Monsieur de -Wostpur, you will receive a reply; return to your room, and leave -Fontainebleau within a quarter of an hour." The baron withdrew -backwards, as obsequiously as if he were taking leave of the -emperor he was ready to betray.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no secret there," -murmured the Franciscan, "it is a plot. Besides," he added, -after a moment's reflection, "the future of Europe is no longer -in the hands of the House of Austria."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And with a pencil he held in -his hand, he struck the Baron de Wostpur's name from the -list.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now for the cardinal," he -said; "we ought to get something more serious from the side of -Spain."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raising his head, he -perceived the confessor, who was awaiting his orders as -respectfully as a school-boy.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, ah!" he said, noticing -his submissive air, "you have been talking with the -landlord."<br> - "Yes, monseigneur; and to the -physician."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To Grisart?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "He is here, then?"<br> - "He is waiting with the potion he promised."<br> - "Very well; if I require him, I will call; you -now understand the great importance of my confession, do you -not?"<br> - "Yes, monseigneur."<br> - "Then go and fetch me the Spanish Cardinal -Herrebia. Make haste. Only, as you now understand the matter in -hand, you will remain near me, for I begin to feel -faint."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Shall I summon the -physician?"<br> - "Not yet, not yet... the Spanish cardinal, no one -else. Fly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Five minutes afterwards, the -cardinal, pale and disturbed, entered the little room.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am informed, monseigneur, -- "stammered the cardinal.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To the point," said the -Franciscan, in a faint voice, showing the cardinal a letter which -he had written to the grand council. "Is that your -handwriting?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And your -summons?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The cardinal hesitated to -answer. His purple revolted against the mean garb of the poor -Franciscan, who stretched out his hand and displayed the ring, -which produced its effect, greater in proportion to the greatness -of the person over whom the Franciscan exercised his -influence.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quick, the secret, the -secret!" said the dying man, leaning upon his -confessor.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Coram isto?</i>" inquired -the Spanish cardinal. <b><sup>8</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Speak in Spanish," said the -Franciscan, showing the liveliest attention.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are aware, monseigneur," -said the cardinal, continuing the conversation in Castilian, -"that the condition of the marriage of the Infanta with the king -of France was the absolute renunciation of the rights of the said -Infanta, as well as of King Louis XIV., to all claim to the crown -of Spain." The Franciscan made a sign in the -affirmative.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The consequence is," -continued the cardinal, "that the peace and alliance between the -two kingdoms depend upon the observance of that clause of the -contract." A similar sign from the Franciscan. "Not only France -and Spain," continued the cardinal, "but the whole of Europe -even, would be violently rent asunder by the faithlessness of -either party." Another movement of the dying man's -head.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It further results," -continued the speaker, "that the man who might be able to foresee -events, and to render certain that which is no more than a vague -idea floating in the mind of man, that is to say, the idea of a -future good or evil, would preserve the world from a great -catastrophe; and the event, which has no fixed certainty even in -the brain of him who originated it, could be turned to the -advantage of our order."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Pronto</i>, -<i>pronto!</i>" murmured the Franciscan, in Spanish, who suddenly -became paler, and leaned upon the priest. The cardinal -approached the ear of the dying man, and said, "Well, -monseigneur, I know that the king of France has determined that, -at the very first pretext, a death for instance, either that of -the king of Spain, or that of a brother of the Infanta, France -will, arms in hand, claim the inheritance, and I have in my -possession, already prepared, the plan of policy agreed upon by -Louis XIV. for this occasion."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And this plan?" said the -Franciscan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Here it is," returned the -cardinal.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In whose handwriting is -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My own."<br> - "Have you anything further to say to -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think I have said a good -deal, my lord," replied the cardinal.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, you have rendered the -order a great service. But how did you procure the details, by -the aid of which you have constructed your plan?"<br> - "I have the under-servants of the king of France -in my pay, and I obtain from them all the waste papers, which -have been saved from being burnt."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very ingenious," murmured -the Franciscan, endeavoring to smile; "you will leave this hotel, -cardinal, in a quarter of an hour, and a reply shall be sent -you." The cardinal withdrew.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Call Grisart, and desire the -Venetian Marini to come," said the sick man.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> While the confessor obeyed, -the Franciscan, instead of striking out the cardinal's name, as -he had done the baron's, made a cross at the side of it. Then, -exhausted by the effort, he fell back on his bed, murmuring the -name of Dr. Grisart. When he returned to his senses, he had -drunk about half of the potion, of which the remainder was left -in the glass, and he found himself supported by the physician, -while the Venetian and the confessor were standing close to the -door. The Venetian submitted to the same formalities as his two -predecessors, hesitated as they had done at the sight of the two -strangers, but his confidence restored by the order of the -general, he revealed that the pope, terrified at the power of the -order, was weaving a plot for the general expulsion of the -Jesuits, and was tampering with the different courts of Europe in -order to obtain their assistance. He described the pontiff's -auxiliaries, his means of action, and indicated the particular -locality in the Archipelago where, by a sudden surprise, two -cardinals, adepts of the eleventh year, and, consequently, high -in authority, were to be transported, together with thirty-two of -the principal affiliated members of Rome. The Franciscan thanked -the Signor Marini. It was by no means a slight service he had -rendered the society by denouncing this pontifical project. The -Venetian thereupon received directions to set off in a quarter of -an hour, and left as radiant as if he already possessed the ring, -the sign of the supreme authority of the society. As, however, -he was departing, the Franciscan murmured to himself: "All these -men are either spies, or a sort of police, not one of them a -general; they have all discovered a plot, but not one of them a -secret. It is not by means of ruin, or war, or force, that the -Society of Jesus is to be governed, but by that mysterious -influence moral superiority alone confers. No, the man is not -yet found, and to complete the misfortune, Heaven strikes me -down, and I am dying. Oh! must the society indeed fall with me -for want of a column to support it? Must death, which is waiting -for me, swallow up with me the future of the order; that future -which ten years more of my own life would have rendered eternal? -for that future, with the reign of the new king, is opening -radiant and full of splendor." These words, which had been -half-reflected, half-pronounced aloud, were listened to by the -Jesuit confessor with a terror similar to that with which one -listens to the wanderings of a person attacked by fever, whilst -Grisart, with a mind of higher order, devoured them as the -revelations of an unknown world, in which his looks were plunged -without ability to comprehend. Suddenly the Franciscan recovered -himself.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us finish this," he -said; "death is approaching. Oh! just now I was dying -resignedly, for I hoped... while now I sink in despair, unless -those who remain... Grisart, Grisart, give me to live a single -hour longer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Grisart approached the dying -monk, and made him swallow a few drops, not of the potion which -was still left in the glass, but of the contents of a small -bottle he had upon his person.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Call the Scotchman!" -exclaimed the Franciscan; "call the Bremen merchant. Call, call -quickly. I am dying. I am suffocated."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The confessor darted forward -to seek assistance, as if there had been any human strength which -could hold back the hand of death, which was weighing down the -sick man; but, at the threshold of the door, he found Aramis, -who, with his finger on his lips, like the statue of Harpocrates, -the god of silence, by a look motioned him back to the end of the -apartment. The physician and the confessor, after having -consulted each other by looks, made a movement as if to push -Aramis aside, who, however, with two signs of the cross, each -made in a different manner, transfixed them both in their -places.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A chief!" they both -murmured.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis slowly advanced into -the room where the dying man was struggling against the first -attack of the agony which had seized him. As for the Franciscan, -whether owing to the effect of the elixir, or whether the -appearance of Aramis had restored his strength, he made a -movement, and his eyes glaring, his mouth half open, and his hair -damp with sweat, sat up upon the bed. Aramis felt that the air -of the room was stifling; the windows were closed; the fire was -burning upon the hearth; a pair of candles of yellow wax were -guttering down in the copper candlesticks, and still further -increased, by their thick smoke, the temperature of the room. - Aramis opened the window, and fixing upon the dying man a look -full of intelligence and respect, said to him: "Monseigneur, pray -forgive my coming in this manner, before you summoned me, but -your state alarms me, and I thought you might possibly die before -you had seen me, for I am but the sixth upon your -list."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The dying man started and -looked at the list.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are, therefore, he who -was formerly called Aramis, and since, the Chevalier d'Herblay? -You are the bishop of Vannes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, my lord."<br> - "I know you, I have seen you."<br> - "At the last jubilee, we were with the Holy -Father together."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, I remember; and -you place yourself on the list of candidates?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur, I have heard it -said that the order required to become possessed of a great state -secret, and knowing that from modesty you had in anticipation -resigned your functions in favor of the person who should be the -depositary of such a secret, I wrote to say that I was ready to -compete, possessing alone a secret I believe to be -important."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Speak," said the Franciscan; -"I am ready to listen to you, and to judge the importance of the -secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A secret of the value of -that which I have the honor to confide to you cannot be -communicated by word of mouth. Any idea which, when once -expressed, has thereby lost its safeguard, and has become -vulgarized by any manifestation or communication of it whatever, -no longer is the property of him who gave it birth. My words may -be overheard by some listener, or perhaps by an enemy; one ought -not, therefore, to speak at random, for, in such a case, the -secret would cease to be one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you propose, then, to -convey your secret?" inquired the dying monk.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> With one hand Aramis signed -to the physician and the confessor to withdraw, and with the -other he handed to the Franciscan a paper enclosed in a double -envelope.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is not writing more -dangerous still than language?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, my lord," said Aramis, -"for you will find within this envelope characters which you and -I alone can understand." The Franciscan looked at Aramis with an -astonishment which momentarily increased.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is a cipher," continued -the latter, "which you used in 1655, and which your secretary, -Juan Jujan, who is dead, could alone decipher, if he were -restored to life."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You knew this cipher, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was I who taught it him," -said Aramis, bowing with a gracefulness full of respect, and -advancing towards the door as if to leave the room: but a gesture -of the Franciscan accompanied by a cry for him to remain, -restrained him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "<i>Ecce homo!</i>" he -exclaimed; then reading the paper a second time, he called out, -"Approach, approach quickly!"<br> - Aramis returned to the side of the Franciscan, -with the same calm countenance and the same respectful manner, -unchanged. The Franciscan, extending his arm, burnt by the flame -of the candle the paper which Aramis had handed him. Then, -taking hold of Aramis's hand, he drew him towards him, and -inquired: "In what manner and by whose means could you possibly -become acquainted with such a secret?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Through Madame de Chevreuse, -the intimate friend and <i>confidante</i> of the -queen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And Madame de Chevreuse - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is dead."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did any others know -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A man and a woman only, and -they of the lower classes."<br> - "Who are they?"<br> - "Persons who had brought him up."<br> - "What has become of them?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dead also. This secret -burns like vitriol."<br> - "But you survive?"<br> - "No one is aware that I know it."<br> - "And for what length of time have you possessed -this secret?"<br> - "For the last fifteen years."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you have kept -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I wished to -live."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you give it to the order -without ambition, without acknowledgement?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I give it to the order with -ambition and with a hope of return," said Aramis; "for if you -live, my lord, you will make of me, now you know me, what I can -and ought to be."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And as I am dying," -exclaimed the Franciscan, "I constitute you my successor... -Thus." And drawing off the ring, he passed it on Aramis's -finger. Then, turning towards the two spectators of this scene, -he said: "Be ye witnesses of this, and testify, if need be, that, -sick in body, but sound in mind, I have freely and voluntarily -bestowed this ring, the token of supreme authority, upon -Monseigneur d'Herblay, bishop of Vannes, whom I nominate my -successor, and before whom I, an humble sinner, about to appear -before Heaven, prostrate myself, as an example for all to -follow." And the Franciscan bowed lowly and submissively, whilst -the physician and the Jesuit fell on their knees. Aramis, even -while he became paler than the dying man himself, bent his looks -successively upon all the actors of this scene. Profoundly -gratified ambition flowed with life-blood towards his -heart.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We must lose no time," said -the Franciscan; "what I had still to do on earth was urgent. I -shall never succeed in carrying it out."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will do it," said -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is well," said the -Franciscan, and then turning towards the Jesuit and the doctor, -he added, "Leave us alone," a direction they instantly -obeyed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With this sign," he said, -"you are the man needed to shake the world from one end to the -other; with this sign you will overthrow; with this sign you will -edify; <i>in hoc signo vinces!</i>" -<b><sup>9</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Close the door," continued -the Franciscan after a pause. Aramis shut and bolted the door, -and returned to the side of the Franciscan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The pope is conspiring -against the order," said the monk; "the pope must die."<br> - "He shall die," said Aramis, quietly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Seven hundred thousand -livres are owing to a Bremen merchant of the name of Bonstett, -who came here to get the guarantee of my signature."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He shall be paid," said -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Six knights of Malta, whose -names are written here, have discovered, by the indiscretion of -one of the affiliated of the eleventh year, the three mysteries; -it must be ascertained what else these men have done with the -secret, to get it back again and bury it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It shall be done."<br> - "Three dangerous affiliated members must be sent -away into Tibet, there to perish; they stand condemned. Here are -their names."<br> - "I will see that the sentence be carried -out."<br> - "Lastly, there is a lady at Anvers, grand-niece -of Ravaillac; she holds certain papers in her hands that -compromise the order. There has been payable to the family -during the last fifty-one years a pension of fifty thousand -livres. The pension is a heavy one, and the order is not -wealthy. Redeem the papers, for a sum of money paid down, or, in -case of refusal, stop the pension - but run no risk."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will quickly decide what -is best to be done," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoBodyText" style= -'punctuation-wrap:hanging; text-autospace:ideograph-other'> - "A vessel chartered from Lima entered the port of -Lisbon last week; ostensibly it is laden with chocolate, in -reality with gold. Every ingot is concealed by a coating of -chocolate. The vessel belongs to the order; it is worth -seventeen millions of livres; you will see that it is claimed; -here are the bills of landing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To what port shall I direct -it to be taken?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To Bayonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Before three weeks are over -it shall be there, wind and weather permitting. Is that all?" -The Franciscan made a sign in the affirmative, for he could no -longer speak; the blood rushed to his throat and his head, and -gushed from his mouth, his nostrils, and his eyes. The dying man -had barely time to press Aramis's hand, when he fell in -convulsions from his bed upon the floor. Aramis placed his hand -upon the Franciscan's heart, but it had ceased to beat. As he -stooped down, Aramis observed that a fragment of the paper he had -given the Franciscan had escaped being burnt. He picked it up, -and burnt it to the last atom. Then, summoning the confessor and -the physician, he said to the former: "Your penitent is in -heaven; he needs nothing more than prayers and the burial -bestowed upon the pious dead. Go and prepare what is necessary -for a simple interment, such as a poor monk only would require. -Go."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Jesuit left the room. -Then, turning towards the physician, and observing his pale and -anxious face, he said, in a low tone of voice: "Monsieur Grisart, -empty and clean this glass; <i>there is too much left in it of -what the grand council desired you to put in.</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Grisart, amazed, overcome, -completely astounded, almost fell backwards in his extreme -terror. Aramis shrugged his shoulders in sign of pity, took the -glass, and poured out the contents among the ashes of the -hearth. He then left the room, carrying the papers of the dead -man with him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LIV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>A Mission.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he next day, or rather the same day (for the -events we have just described were concluded only at three -o'clock in the morning), before breakfast was served, and as the -king was preparing to go to mass with the two queens; as -Monsieur, with the Chevalier de Lorraine, and a few other -intimate companions, was mounting his horse to set off for the -river, to take one of those celebrated baths with which the -ladies of the court were so infatuated, as, in fact, no one -remained in the château, with the exception of Madame who, -under the pretext of indisposition, would not leave her room; -Montalais was seen, or rather not was not seen, to glide -stealthily out of the room appropriated to the maids of honor, -leading La Vallière after her, who tried to conceal -herself as much as possible, and both of them, hurrying secretly -through the gardens, succeeded, looking round them at every step -they took, in reaching the thicket. The weather was cloudy, a -warm breeze bowed the flowers and the shrubs, the burning dust, -swept along in clouds by the wind, was whirled in eddies towards -the trees. Montalais, who, during their progress, had discharged -the functions of a clever scout, advanced a few steps further, -and turning round again, to be quite sure that no one was either -listening or approaching, said to her companion, "Thank goodness, -we are quite alone! Since yesterday every one spies on us here, -and a circle seems to be drawn round us, as if we were -plague-stricken." La Vallière bent down her head and -sighed. "It is positively unheard of," continued Montalais; -"from M. Malicorne to M. de Saint-Aignan, every one wishes to get -hold of our secret. Come, Louise, let us take counsel, you and -I, together, in order that I may know what to do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière lifted -towards her companion her beautiful eyes, pure and deep as the -azure of a spring sky, "And I," she said, "will ask you why we -have been summoned to Madame's own room? Why have we slept close -to her apartment, instead of sleeping as usual in our own? Why -did you return so late, and whence are these measures of strict -supervision which have been adopted since this morning, with -respect to us both?"<br> - "My dear Louise, you answer my question by -another, or rather, by ten others, which is not answering me at -all. I will tell you all you want to know later, and as it is of -secondary importance, you can wait. What I ask you - for -everything will depend upon that - is, whether there is or is not -any secret?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not know if there is -any secret," said La Vallière; "but I do know, for my part -at least, that there has been great imprudence committed. Since -the foolish remark I made, and my still more silly fainting -yesterday, every one here is making remarks about us."<br> - "Speak for yourself," said Montalais, laughing, -"speak for yourself and for Tonnay-Charente; for both of you made -your declarations of love to the skies, which unfortunately were -intercepted."<br> - La Vallière hung down her head. "Really -you overwhelm me," she said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?"<br> - "Yes, you torture me with your jests."<br> - "Listen to me, Louise. These are no jests, for -nothing is more serious; on the contrary, I did not drag you out -of the château; I did not miss attending mass; I did not -pretend to have a cold, as Madame did, which she has no more than -I have; and, lastly, I did not display ten times more diplomacy -than M. Colbert inherited from M. de Mazarin, and makes use of -with respect to M. Fouquet, in order to find means of confiding -my perplexities to you, for the sole end and purpose that, when -at last we were alone, with no one to listen to us, you should -deal hypocritically with me. No, no; believe me, that when I ask -you a question, it is not from curiosity alone, but really -because the position is a critical one. What you said yesterday -is now known, - it is a text on which every one is discoursing. -Every one embellishes it to the utmost, and according to his own -fancy; you had the honor last night, and you have it still -to-day, of occupying the whole court, my dear Louise; and the -number of tender and witty remarks which have been ascribed to -you, would make Mademoiselle de Scudéry and her brother -burst from very spite, if they were faithfully reported."<br> - "But, dearest Montalais," said the poor girl, -"you know better than any one exactly what I said, since you were -present when I said it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I know. But that is -not the question. I have not forgotten a single syllable you -uttered, but did you think what you were saying?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Louise became confused. -"What," she exclaimed, "more questions still! Oh, heavens! when -I would give the world to forget what I did say, how does it -happen that every one does all he possibly can to remind me of -it? Oh, this is indeed terrible!"<br> - "What is?"<br> - "To have a friend who ought to spare me, who -might advise me and help me to save myself, and yet who is -undoing me - is killing me."<br> - "There, there, that will do," said Montalais; -"after having said too little, you now say too much. No one -thinks of killing you, nor even of robbing you, even of your -secret; I wish to have it voluntarily, and in no other way; for -the question does not concern your own affairs only, but ours -also; and Tonnay-Charente would tell you as I do, if she were -here. For, the fact is, that last evening she wished to have -some private conversation in our room, and I was going there -after the Manicamp and Malicorne colloquies terminated, when I -learned, on my return, rather late, it is true, that Madame had -sequestered her maids of honor, and that we were to sleep in her -apartments, instead of our own. Moreover, Madame has shut up her -maids of honor in order that they should not have the time to -concert any measures together, and this morning she was closeted -with Tonnay-Charente with the same object. Tell me, then, to -what extent Athenaïs and I can rely upon you, as we will -tell you in what way you can rely upon us?"<br> - "I do not clearly understand the question you -have put," said Louise, much agitated.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Hum! and yet, on the -contrary, you seem to understand me very well. However, I will -put my questions in a more precise manner, in order that you may -not be able, in the slightest degree, to evade them. Listen to -me: <i>Do you love M. de Bragelonne?</i> That is plain enough, -is it not?"<br> - At this question, which fell like the first -bombshell of a besieging army into a doomed town, Louise -started. "You ask me," she exclaimed, "if I love Raoul, the -friend of my childhood, - my brother almost?"<br> - "No, no, no! Again you evade me, or rather, you -wish to escape me. I do not ask if you love Raoul, your -childhood's friend, - your brother; but I ask if you love the -Vicomte de Bragelonne, your affianced husband?"<br> - "Good heavens! dear Montalais," said Louise, "how -severe your tone is!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You deserve no indulgence, - -I am neither more nor less severe than usual. I put a question -to you, so answer it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You certainly do not," said -Louise, in a choking voice, "speak to me like a friend; but I -will answer you as a true friend."<br> - "Well, do so."<br> - "Very well; my heart is full of scruples and -silly feelings of pride, with respect to everything that a woman -ought to keep secret, and in this respect no one has ever read -into the bottom of my soul."<br> - "That I know very well. If I had read it, I -should not interrogate you as I have done; I should simply say, - -'My good Louise, you have the happiness of an acquaintance with -M. de Bragelonne, who is an excellent young man, and an -advantageous match for a girl without fortune. M. de la -Fère will leave something like fifteen thousand livres a -year to his son. At a future day, then, you, as this son's wife, -will have fifteen thousand livres a year; which is not bad. -Turn, then, neither to the right hand nor to the left, but go -frankly to M. de Bragelonne; that is to say, to the altar to -which he will lead you. Afterwards, why - afterwards, according -to his disposition, you will be emancipated or enslaved; in other -words, you will have a right to commit any piece of folly people -commit who have either too much liberty or too little.' That is, -my dear Louise, what I should have told you at first, if I had -been able to read your heart."<br> - "And I should have thanked you," stammered out -Louise, "although the advice does not appear to me to be -altogether sound."<br> - "Wait, wait. But immediately after having given -you that advice, I should have added, - 'Louise, it is very -dangerous to pass whole days with your head drooping, your hands -unoccupied, your eyes restless and full of thought; it is -dangerous to prefer the least frequented paths, and no longer be -amused with such diversions as gladden young girls' hearts; it is -dangerous, Louise, to scrawl with the point of your foot, as you -do, upon the gravel, certain letters it is useless for you to -efface, but which appear again under your heel, particularly when -those letters rather resemble the letter L than the letter B; -and, lastly, it is dangerous to allow the mind to dwell on a -thousand wild fancies, the fruits of solitude and heartache; -these fancies, while they sink into a young girl's mind, make her -cheeks sink in also, so that it is not unusual, on such -occasions, to find the most delightful persons in the world -become the most disagreeable, and the wittiest to become the -dullest.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thank you, dearest Aure," -replied La Vallière, gently; "it is like you to speak to -me in this manner, and I thank you for it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It was only for the benefit -of wild dreamers, such as I have just described, that I spoke; do -not take any of my words, then, to yourself, except such as you -think you deserve. Stay, I hardly know what story recurs to my -memory of some silly or melancholy girl, who was gradually pining -away because she fancied that the prince, or the king, or the -emperor, whoever it was - and it does not matter much which - had -fallen in love with her; while on the contrary, the prince, or -the king, or the emperor, whichever you please, was plainly in -love with some one else, and - a singular circumstance, one, -indeed, which she could not perceive, although every one around -and about her perceived it clearly enough - made use of her as a -screen for his own love affair. You laugh as I do, at this poor -silly girl, do you not, Louise?"<br> - "I? - oh! of course," stammered Louise, pale as -death.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are right, too, for -the thing is amusing enough. The story, whether true or false, -amused me, and so I remembered it and told it to you. Just -imagine then, my good Louise, the mischief that such a melancholy -would create in anybody's brain, - a melancholy, I mean, of that -kind. For my own part, I resolved to tell you the story; for if -such a thing were to happen to either of <i>us</i>, it would be -most essential to be assured of its truth; to-day it is a snare, -to-morrow it would become a jest and mockery, the next day it -would mean death itself." La Vallière started again, and -became, if possible, still paler.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whenever a king takes notice -of us," continued Montalais, "he lets us see it easily enough, -and, if we happen to be the object he covets, he knows very well -how to gain his object. You see, then, Louise, that, in such -circumstances, between young girls exposed to such a danger as -the one in question, the most perfect confidence should exist, in -order that those hearts which are not disposed towards melancholy -may watch over those likely to become so."<br> - "Silence, silence!" said La Vallière; -"some one approaches."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Some one is approaching -fast, in fact," said Montalais; "but who can it possibly be? -Everybody is away, either at mass with the king, or bathing with -Monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At the end of the walk the -young girls perceived almost immediately, beneath the arching -trees, the graceful carriage and noble stature of a young man, -who, with his sword under his arm and a cloak thrown across his -shoulders, booted and spurred besides, saluted them from the -distance with a gentle smile. "Raoul!" exclaimed -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "M. de Bragelonne!" murmured -Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A very proper judge to -decide upon our difference of opinion," said -Montalais.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Montalais, Montalais, -for pity's sake," exclaimed La Vallière, "after having -been so cruel, show me a little mercy." These words, uttered -with all the fervor of a prayer, effaced all trace of irony, if -not from Montalais's heart, at least from her face.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, you are as handsome as -Amadis, Monsieur de Bragelonne," she cried to Raoul, "and armed -and booted like him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A thousand compliments, -young ladies," replied Raoul, bowing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But why, I ask, are you -booted in this manner?" repeated Montalais, whilst La -Vallière, although she looked at Raoul with a surprise -equal to that of her companion, nevertheless uttered not a -word.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why?" inquired -Raoul.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes!" ventured -Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I am about to set -off," said Bragelonne, looking at Louise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young girl seemed as -though smitten by some superstitious feeling of terror, and -tottered. "You are going away, Raoul!" she cried; "and where are -you going?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Dearest Louise," he replied, -with that quiet, composed manner which was natural to him, "I am -going to England."<br> - "What are you going to do in England?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king has sent me -there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!" exclaimed Louise -and Aure together, involuntarily exchanging glances, the -conversation which had just been interrupted recurring to them -both. Raoul intercepted the glance, but could not understand its -meaning, and, naturally enough, attributed it to the interest -both the young girls took in him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "His majesty," he said, "has -been good enough to remember that the Comte de la Fère is -high in favor with King Charles II. This morning, as he was on -his way to attend mass, the king, seeing me as he passed, signed -to me to approach, which I accordingly did. 'Monsieur de -Bragelonne,' he said to me, 'you will call upon M. Fouquet, who -has received from me letters for the king of Great Britain; you -will be the bearer of them.' I bowed. 'Ah!' his majesty added, -'before you leave, you will be good enough to take any -commissions which Madame may have for the king her -brother.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Gracious heaven!" murmured -Louise, much agitated, and yet full of thought at the same -time.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So quickly! You are desired -to set off in such haste!" said Montalais, almost paralyzed by -this unforeseen event.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Properly to obey those whom -we respect," said Raoul, "it is necessary to obey quickly. -Within ten minutes after I had received the order, I was ready. -Madame, already informed, is writing the letter which she is good -enough to do me the honor of intrusting to me. In the meantime, -learning from Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente that it was likely -you would be in this direction, I came here, and am happy to find -you both."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And both of us very sad, as -you see," said Montalais, going to Louise's assistance, whose -countenance was visibly altered.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Suffering?" responded Raoul, -pressing Louise's hand with a tender curiosity. "Your hand is -like ice."<br> - "It is nothing."<br> - "This coldness does not reach your heart, Louise, -does it?" inquired the young man, with a tender smile. Louise -raised her head hastily, as if the question had been inspired by -some suspicion, and had aroused a feeling of remorse.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! you know," she said, -with an effort, "that my heart will never be cold towards a -friend like yourself, Monsieur de Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Thank you, Louise. I know -both your heart and your mind; it is not by the touch of the hand -that one can judge of an affection like yours. You know, Louise, -how devotedly I love you, with what perfect and unreserved -confidence I reserve my life for you; will you not forgive me, -then, for speaking to you with something like the frankness of a -child?"<br> - "Speak, Monsieur Raoul," said Louise, trembling -painfully, "I am listening."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I cannot part from you, -carrying away with me a thought that tortures me; absurd I know -it to be, and yet one which rends my very heart."<br> - "Are you going away, then, for any length of -time?" inquired La Vallière, with faltering utterance, -while Montalais turned her head aside.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; probably I shall not be -absent more than a fortnight." La Vallière pressed her -hand upon her heart, which felt as though it were -breaking.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is strange," pursued -Raoul, looking at the young girl with a melancholy expression; "I -have often left you when setting off on adventures fraught with -danger. Then I started joyously enough - my heart free, my mind -intoxicated by thoughts of happiness in store for me, hopes of -which the future was full; and yet I was about to face the -Spanish cannon, or the halberds of the Walloons. To-day, without -the existence of any danger or uneasiness, and by the sunniest -path in the world, I am going in search of a glorious recompense, -which this mark of the king's favor seems to indicate, for I am, -perhaps, going to win <i>you</i>, Louise. What other favor, more -precious than yourself, could the king confer upon me? Yet, -Louise, in very truth I know not how or why, but this happiness -and this future seem to vanish before my very eyes like mist - -like an idle dream; and I feel here, here at the very bottom of -my heart, a deep-seated grief, a dejection I cannot overcome - -something heavy, passionless, death-like, - resembling a corpse. -Oh! Louise, too well do I know why; it is because I have never -loved you so truly as now. God help me!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this last exclamation, -which issued as it were from a broken heart, Louise burst into -tears, and threw herself into Montalais's arms. The latter, -although she was not easily moved, felt the tears rush to her -eyes. Raoul noted only the tears Louise shed; his look, however, -did not penetrate - nay, sought not to penetrate - beyond those -tears. He bent his knee before her, and tenderly kissed her -hand; and it was evident that in that kiss he poured out his -whole heart.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Rise, rise," said Montalais -to him, ready to cry, "for Athenaïs is coming."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul rose, brushed his knee -with the back of his hand, smiled again upon Louise, whose eyes -were fixed on the ground, and, having pressed Montalais's hand -gratefully, he turned round to salute Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente, the sound of whose silken robe was already heard -upon the gravel walk. "Has Madame finished her letter?" he -inquired, when the young girl came within reach of his -voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, the letter is finished, -sealed, and her royal highness is ready to receive -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Raoul, at this remark, hardly -gave himself time to salute Athenaïs, cast one look at -Louise, bowed to Montalais, and withdrew in the direction of the -château. As he withdrew he again turned round, but at -last, at the end of the grand walk, it was useless to do so -again, as he could no longer see them. The three young girls, on -their side, had, with widely different feelings, watched him -disappear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At last," said -Athenaïs, the first to interrupt the silence, "at last we -are alone, free to talk of yesterday's great affair, and to come -to an understanding upon the conduct it is advisable for us to -pursue. Besides, if you will listen to me," she continued, -looking round on all sides, "I will explain to you, as briefly as -possible, in the first place, our own duty, such as I imagine it -to be, and, if you do not understand a hint, what is Madame's -desire on the subject." And Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente -pronounced these words in such a tone as to leave no doubt, in -her companion's minds, upon the official character with which she -was invested.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame's desire!" exclaimed -Montalais and La Vallière together.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Her <i>ultimatum</i>," -replied Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, -diplomatically.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," murmured La -Vallière, "does Madame know, then - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame knows more about the -matter than we said, even," said Athenaïs, in a formal, -precise manner. "Therefore let us come to a proper -understanding."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, indeed," said -Montalais, "and I am listening in breathless -attention."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Gracious heavens!" murmured -Louise, trembling, "shall I ever survive this cruel evening?"<br> - "Oh! do not frighten yourself in that manner," -said Athenaïs; "we have found a remedy." So, seating -herself between her two companions, and taking each of them by -the hand, which she held in her own, she began. The first words -were hardly spoke, when they heard a horse galloping away over -the stones of the public high-road, outside the gates of the -château.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Happy as a Prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>t the very moment he was about entering the -château, Bragelonne met De Guiche. But before having been -met by Raoul, De Guiche had met Manicamp, who had met Malicorne. -How was it that Malicorne had met Manicamp? Nothing more simple, -for he had awaited his return from mass, where he had accompanied -M. de Saint-Aignan. When they met, they congratulated each other -upon their good fortune, and Manicamp availed himself of the -circumstance to ask his friend if he had not a few crowns still -remaining at the bottom of his pocket. The latter, without -expressing any surprise at the question, which he perhaps -expected, answered that every pocket which is always being drawn -upon without anything ever being put in it, resembles those wells -which supply water during the winter, but which gardeners render -useless by exhausting during the summer; that his, Malicorne's, -pocket certainly was deep, and that there would be a pleasure in -drawing on it in times of plenty, but that, unhappily, abuse had -produced barrenness. To this remark, Manicamp, deep in thought, -had replied, "Quite true!"<br> - "The question, then, is how to fill it?" -Malicorne added.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course; but in what -way?"<br> - "Nothing easier, my dear Monsieur Manicamp."<br> - "So much the better. How?"<br> - "A post in Monsieur's household, and the pocket -is full again."<br> - "You have the post?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is, I have the promise -of being nominated."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but the promise of -nomination, without the post itself, is like a purse with no -money in it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite true," Manicamp -replied a second time.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us try for the post, -then," the candidate had persisted.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear fellow," sighed -Manicamp, "an appointment in his royal highness's household is -one of the gravest difficulties of our position."<br> - "Oh! oh!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is no question that, -at the present moment, we cannot ask Monsieur for anything."<br> - "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because we are not on good -terms with him."<br> - "A great absurdity, too," said Malicorne, -promptly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! and if we were to show -Madame any attention," said Manicamp, "frankly speaking, do you -think we should please Monsieur?"<br> - "Precisely; if we show Madame any attention, and -do it adroitly, Monsieur ought to adore us."<br> - "Hum!"<br> - "Either that or we are great fools. Make haste, -therefore, M. Manicamp, you who are so able a politician, and -make M. de Guiche and his royal highness friendly -again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell me, what did M. de -Saint-Aignan tell you, Malicorne?"<br> - "Tell me? nothing; he asked me several questions, -and that was all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, was he less discreet, -then, with me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did he tell -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That the king is -passionately in love with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We knew that already," -replied Malicorne, ironically; "and everybody talks about it loud -enough for all to know it; but in the meantime, do what I advise -you; speak to M. de Guiche, and endeavor to get him to make -advances to Monsieur. Deuce take it! he owes his royal highness -that, at least."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But we must see De Guiche, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There does not seem to be -any great difficulty in that; try to see him in the same way I -tried to see you; wait for him; you know that he is naturally -very fond of walking."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; but whereabouts does he -walk?"<br> - "What a question to ask! Do you not know that he -is in love with Madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So it is said."<br> - "Very well; you will find him walking about on -the side of the château where her apartments -are."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay, my dear Malicorne, you -were not mistaken, for here he is coming."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why should I be mistaken? -Have you ever noticed that I am in the habit of making a -mistake? Come, we only need to understand each other. Are you -in want of money?"<br> - "Ah!" exclaimed Manicamp, mournfully.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I want my -appointment. Let Malicorne have the appointment, and Manicamp -shall have the money. There is no greater difficulty in the way -than that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; in that case make -yourself easy. I will do my best."<br> - "Do."<br> - De Guiche approached, Malicorne stepped aside, -and Manicamp caught hold of De Guiche, who was thoughtful and -melancholy. "Tell me, my dear comte, what rhyme you were trying -to find," said Manicamp. "I have an excellent one to match -yours, particularly if yours ends in <i>ame</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche shook his head, and -recognizing a friend, he took him by the arm. "My dear -Manicamp," he said, "I am in search of something very different -from a rhyme."<br> - "What is it you are looking for?"<br> - "You will help me to find what I am in search -of," continued the comte: "you who are such an idle fellow, in -other words, a man with a mind full of ingenious devices."<br> - "I am getting my ingenuity ready, then, my dear -comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This is the state of the -case, then: I wish to approach a particular house, where I have -some business."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You must get near the house, -then," said Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good; but in this house -dwells a husband who happens to be jealous."<br> - "Is he more jealous than the dog Cerberus?"<br> - "Not more, but quite as much so."<br> - "Has he three mouths, as that obdurate guardian -of the infernal regions had? Do not shrug your shoulders, my -dear comte: I put the question to you with an excellent reason, -since poets pretend that, in order to soften Monsieur Cerberus, -the visitor must take something enticing with him - a cake, for -instance. Therefore, I, who view the matter in a prosaic light, -that is to say in the light of reality, I say: one cake is very -little for three mouths. If your jealous husband has three -mouths, comte, get three cakes."<br> - "Manicamp, I can get such advice as that from M. -de Beautru."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In order to get better -advice," said Manicamp, with a comical seriousness of expression, -"you will be obliged to adopt a more precise formula than you -have used towards me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If Raoul were here," said De -Guiche, "he would be sure to understand me."<br> - "So I think, particularly if you said to him: 'I -should very much like to see Madame a little nearer, but I fear -Monsieur, because he is jealous.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Manicamp!" cried the comte, -angrily, and endeavoring to overwhelm his tormentor by a look, -who did not, however, appear to be in the slightest degree -disturbed by it.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter now, my -dear comte?" inquired Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What! is it thus you -blaspheme the most sacred of names?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What names?"<br> - "Monsieur! Madame! the highest names in the -kingdom."<br> - "You are very strangely mistaken, my dear comte. -I never mentioned the highest names in the kingdom. I merely -answered you in reference to the subject of a jealous husband, -whose name you did not tell me, and who, as a matter of course, -has a wife. I therefore replied to you, in order to see Madame, -you must get a little more intimate with Monsieur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Double-dealer that you are," -said the comte, smiling; "was that what you said?"<br> - "Nothing else."<br> - "Very good; what then?"<br> - "Now," added Manicamp, "let the question be -regarding the Duchess - or the Duke -; very well, I shall say: -Let us get into the house in some way or other, for that is a -tactic which cannot in any case be unfavorable to your love -affair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! Manicamp, if you could -but find me a pretext, a good pretext."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A pretext; I can find you a -hundred, nay, a thousand. If Malicorne were here, he would have -already hit upon a thousand excellent pretexts."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Who is Malicorne?" replied -De Guiche, half-shutting his eyes, like a person reflecting, "I -seem to know the name."<br> - "Know him! I should think so: you owe his father -thirty thousand crowns."<br> - "Ah, indeed! so it's that worthy fellow from -Orléans."<br> - "Whom you promised an appointment in Monsieur's -household; not the jealous husband, but the other."<br> - "Well, then, since your friend Malicorne is such -an inventive genius, let him find me a means of being adored by -Monsieur, and a pretext to make my peace with him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good: I'll talk to him -about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But who is that -coming?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Vicomte de -Bragelonne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Raoul! yes, it is he," said -De Guiche, as he hastened forward to meet him. "You here, -Raoul?" said De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes: I was looking for you -to say farewell," replied Raoul, warmly, pressing the comte's -hand. "How do you do, Monsieur Manicamp?"<br> - "How is this, vicomte, you are leaving -us?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, a mission from the -king."<br> - "Where are you going?"<br> - "To London. On leaving you, I am going to -Madame; she has a letter to give me for his majesty, Charles -II."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will find her alone, for -Monsieur has gone out; gone to bathe, in fact."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, you, who are -one of Monsieur's gentlemen in waiting, will undertake to make my -excuses to him. I would have waited in order to receive any -directions he might have to give me, if the desire for my -immediate departure had not been intimated to me by M. Fouquet on -behalf of his majesty."<br> - Manicamp touched De Guiche's elbow, saying, -"There's a pretext for you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What?"<br> - "M. de Bragelonne's excuses."<br> - "A weak pretext," said De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "An excellent one, if -Monsieur is not angry with you; but a paltry one if he bears you -ill-will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, Manicamp; a -pretext, however poor it may be, is all I require. And so, a -pleasant journey to you, Raoul!" And the two friends took a warm -leave of each other.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Five minutes afterwards Raoul -entered Madame's apartments, as Mademoiselle de Montalais had -begged him to do. Madame was still seated at the table where she -had written her letter. Before her was still burning the -rose-colored taper she had used to seal it. Only in her deep -reflection, for Madame seemed to be buried in thought, she had -forgotten to extinguish the light. Bragelonne was a very model -of elegance in every way; it was impossible to see him once -without always remembering him; and not only had Madame seen him -once, but it will not be forgotten he was one of the very first -who had gone to meet her, and had accompanied her from Le Havre -to Paris. Madame preserved therefore an excellent recollection -of him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! M. de Bragelonne," she -said to him, "you are going to see my brother, who will be -delighted to pay to the son a portion of the debt of gratitude he -contracted with the father."<br> - "The Comte de la Fère, Madame, has been -abundantly recompensed for the little service he had the -happiness to render the king, by the kindness manifested towards -him, and it is I who will have to convey to his majesty the -assurance of the respect, devotion, and gratitude of both father -and son."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know my brother?"<br> - "No, your highness; I shall have the honor of -seeing his majesty for the first time."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You require no -recommendation to him. At all events, however, if you have any -doubt about your personal merit, take me unhesitatingly for your -surety."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your royal highness -overwhelms me with kindness."<br> - "No! M. de Bragelonne, I well remember that we -were fellow-travelers once, and that I remarked your extreme -prudence in the midst of the extravagant absurdities committed, -on both sides, by two of the greatest simpletons in the world, - -M. de Guiche and the Duke of Buckingham. Let us not speak of -them, however; but of yourself. Are you going to England to -remain there permanently? Forgive my inquiry: it is not -curiosity, but a desire to be of service to you in anything I -can."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, Madame; I am going to -England to fulfil a mission which his majesty has been kind -enough to confide to me - nothing more."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you propose to return to -France?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As soon as I have -accomplished my mission; unless, indeed, his majesty, King -Charles II., should have other orders for me."<br> - "He well beg you, at the very least, I am sure, -to remain near him as long as possible."<br> - "In that case, as I shall not know how to refuse, -I will now beforehand entreat your royal highness to have the -goodness to remind the king of France that one of his devoted -servants is far away from him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Take care that when you -<i>are</i> recalled, you do not consider his command an abuse of -power."<br> - "I do not understand you, Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The court of France is not -easily matched, I am aware, but yet we have some pretty women at -the court of England also."<br> - Raoul smiled.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Madame, "yours is -a smile which portends no good to my countrywomen. It is as -though you were telling them, Monsieur de Bragelonne: 'I visit -you, but I leave my heart on the other side of the Channel.' Did -not your smile indicate that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness is gifted with -the power of reading the inmost depths of the soul, and you will -understand, therefore, why, at present, any prolonged residence -at the court of England would be a matter of the deepest -regret."<br> - "And I need not inquire if so gallant a knight is -recompensed in return?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have been brought up, -Madame, with her whom I love, and I believe our affection is -mutual."<br> - "In that case, do not delay your departure, -Monsieur de Bragelonne, and delay not your return, for on your -return we shall see two persons happy; for I hope no obstacle -exists to your felicity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There is a great obstacle, -Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed! what is -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king's wishes on the -subject."<br> - "The king opposes your marriage?"<br> - "He postpones it, at least. I solicited his -majesty's consent through the Comte de la Fère, and, -without absolutely refusing it, he positively said it must be -deferred."<br> - "Is the young lady whom you love unworthy of you, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She is worthy of a king's -affection, Madame." </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I mean, she is not, perhaps, -of birth equal to your own."<br> - "Her family is excellent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is she young, -beautiful?"<br> - "She is seventeen, and, in my opinion, -exceedingly beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is she in the country, or at -Paris?"<br> - "She is here at Fontainebleau, Madame."<br> - "At the court?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "Do I know her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She has the honor to form -one of your highness's household."<br> - "Her name?" inquired the princess, anxiously; "if -indeed," she added, hastily, "her name is not a -secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, Madame, my affection is -too pure for me to make a secret of it to any one, and with still -greater reason to your royal highness, whose kindness towards me -has been so extreme. It is Mademoiselle Louise de la -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame could not restrain an -exclamation, in which a feeling stronger than surprise might have -been detected. "Ah!" she said, "La Vallière - she who -yesterday - " she paused, and then continued, "she who was taken -ill, I believe."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, Madame; it was only -this morning that I heard of the accident that had befallen -her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you see her before you -came to me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I had the honor of taking -leave of her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you say," resumed -Madame, making a powerful effort over herself, "that the king has -- deferred your marriage with this young girl."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, Madame, deferred -it."<br> - "Did he assign any reason for this -postponement?"<br> - "None."<br> - "How long is it since the Comte de la Fère -preferred his request to the king?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "More than a month, -Madame."<br> - "It is very singular," said the princess, as -something like a film clouded her eyes.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A month?" she -repeated.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "About a month."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right, vicomte" said -the princess, with a smile, in which De Bragelonne might have -remarked a kind of restraint; "my brother must not keep you too -long in England; set off at once, and in the first letter I write -to England, I will claim you in the king's name." And Madame -rose to place her letter in Bragelonne's hands. Raoul understood -that his audience was at an end; he took the letter, bowed lowly -to the princess, and left the room.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A month!" murmured the -princess; "could I have been blind, then, to so great an extent, -and could he have loved her for this last month?" And as Madame -had nothing to do, she sat down to begin a letter to her brother, -the postscript of which was a summons for Bragelonne to -return.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The Comte de Guiche, as we -have seen, had yielded to the pressing persuasions of Manicamp, -and allowed himself to be led to the stables, where they desired -their horses to be got ready for them; then, by one of the side -paths, a description of which has already been given, they -advanced to meet Monsieur, who, having just finished bathing, was -returning towards the château, wearing a woman's veil to -protect his face from getting burnt by the sun, which was shining -very brightly. Monsieur was in one of those fits of good humor -to which the admiration of his own good looks sometimes gave -occasion. As he was bathing he had been able to compare the -whiteness of his body with that of the courtiers, and, thanks to -the care which his royal highness took of himself, no one, not -even the Chevalier de Lorraine, was able to stand the -comparison. Monsieur, moreover, had been tolerably successful in -swimming, and his muscles having been exercised by the healthy -immersion in the cool water, he was in a light and cheerful state -of mind and body. So that, at the sight of Guiche, who advanced -to meet him at a hand gallop, mounted upon a magnificent white -horse, the prince could not restrain an exclamation of -delight.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I think matters look well," -said Manicamp, who fancied he could read this friendly -disposition upon his royal highness's countenance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good day, De Guiche, good -day," exclaimed the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Long life to your royal -highness!" replied De Guiche, encouraged by the tone of Philip's -voice; "health, joy, happiness, and prosperity to your -highness."<br> - "Welcome, De Guiche, come on my right side, but -keep your horse in hand, for I wish to return at a walking pace -under the cool shade of these trees."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As you please, monseigneur," -said De Guiche, taking his place on the prince's right as he had -been invited to do.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, my dear De Guiche," -said the prince, "give me a little news of that De Guiche whom I -used to know formerly, and who used to pay attentions to my -wife."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Guiche blushed to the very -whites of his eyes, while Monsieur burst out laughing, as though -he had made the wittiest remark in the world. The few privileged -courtiers who surrounded Monsieur thought it their duty to follow -his example, although they had not heard the remark, and a noisy -burst of laughter immediately followed, beginning with the first -courtier, passing on through the whole company, and only -terminating with the last. De Guiche, although blushing scarlet, -put a good countenance on the matter; Manicamp looked at -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! monseigneur," replied De -Guiche, "show a little charity towards such a miserable fellow as -I am: do not hold me up to the ridicule of the Chevalier de -Lorraine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If he hears you ridicule me, -he will go beyond your highness, and will show no -pity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "About your passion and the -princess, do you mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For mercy's sake, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, De Guiche, -confess that you <i>did</i> get a little sweet upon Madame."<br> - "I will never confess such a thing, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Out of respect for me, I -suppose; but I release you from your respect, De Guiche. -Confess, as if it were simply a question about Mademoiselle de -Chalais or Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Then breaking off, he said, -beginning to laugh again, "Comte, that wasn't at all bad! - a -remark like a sword, which cuts two ways at once. I hit you and -my brother at the same time, Chalais and La Vallière, your -affianced bride and his future lady love."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, monseigneur" said -the comte, "you are in a most brilliant humor to-day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact is, I feel well, -and then I am pleased to see you again. But you were angry with -me, were you not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I, monseigneur? Why should -I have been so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I interfered with -your sarabands and your other Spanish amusements. Nay, do not -deny it. On that day you left the princess's apartments with -your eyes full of fury; that brought you ill-luck, for you danced -in the ballet yesterday in a most wretched manner. Now don't get -sulky, De Guiche, for it does you no good, but makes you look -like a tame bear. If the princess did not look at you -attentively yesterday, I am quite sure of one thing."<br> - "What is that, monseigneur? Your highness alarms -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She has quite forsworn you -now," said the prince, with a burst of loud laughter.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Decidedly," thought -Manicamp, "rank has nothing to do with it, and all men are -alike."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The prince continued: "At all -events, you have now returned, and it is to be hoped that the -chevalier will become amiable again."<br> - "How so, monseigneur: and by what miracle can I -exercise such an influence over M. de Lorraine?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The matter is very simple, -he is jealous of you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah! it is not -possible."<br> - "It is the case, though."<br> - "He does me too much honor."<br> - "The fact is, that when you are here, he is full -of kindness and attention, but when you are gone he makes me -suffer a perfect martyrdom. I am like a see-saw. Besides, you -do not know the idea that has struck me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not even suspect -it."<br> - "Well, then; when you were in exile - for you -really were exiled, my poor De Guiche - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should think so, indeed; -but whose fault was it?" said De Guiche, pretending to speak in -an angry tone.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not mine, certainly, my dear -comte," replied his royal highness, "upon my honor, I did not ask -for the king to exile you - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, not you, monseigneur, I -am well aware; but - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But Madame; well, as far as -that goes, I do not say it was not the case. Why, what the deuce -did you do or say to Madame?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, monseigneur - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Women, I know, have their -grudges, and my wife is not free from caprices of that nature. -But if she were the cause of your being exiled I bear you no -ill-will."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, monseigneur," -said De Guiche. "I am not altogether unhappy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Manicamp, who was following -closely behind De Guiche and who did not lose a word of what the -prince was saying, bent down to his very shoulders over his -horse's neck, in order to conceal the laughter he could not -repress.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides, your exile started -a project in my head."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "When the chevalier - finding -you were no longer here, and sure of reigning undisturbed - began -to bully me, I, observing that my wife, in the most perfect -contrast to him, was most kind and amiable towards me who had -neglected her so much, the idea occurred to me of becoming a -model husband - a rarity, a curiosity, at the court; and I had an -idea of getting very fond of my wife."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche looked at the -prince with a stupefied expression of countenance, which was not -assumed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! monseigneur," De Guiche -stammered out; "surely, that never seriously occurred to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed it did. I have some -property that my brother gave me on my marriage; she has some -money of her own, and not a little either, for she gets money -from her brother and brother-in-law of England and France at the -same time. Well! we should have left the court. I should have -retired to my château at Villers-Cotterêts, situated -in the middle of a forest, in which we should have led a most -sentimental life in the very same spot where my grandfather, -Henry IV., sojourned with La Belle Gabrielle. What do you think -of that idea, De Guiche?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, it is enough to make -one shiver, monseigneur," replied De Guiche, who shuddered in -reality.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! I see you would never -be able to endure being exiled a second time."<br> - "I, monseigneur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will not carry you off -with us, as I had first intended."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, with you, -monseigneur?"<br> - "Yes; if the idea should occur to me again of -taking a dislike to the court."<br> - "Oh! do not let that make any difference, -monseigneur; I would follow your highness to the end of the -world."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Clumsy fellow that you are!" -said Manicamp, grumblingly, pushing his horse towards De Guiche, -so as almost to unseat him, and then, as he passed close to him, -as if he had lost command over the horse, he whispered, "For -goodness' sake, think what you are saying."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, it is agreed, then," -said the prince; "since you are so devoted to me, I shall take -you with me."<br> - "Anywhere, monseigneur," replied De Guiche in a -joyous tone, "whenever you like, and at once, too. Are you -ready?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And De Guiche, laughingly, -gave his horse the rein, and galloped forward a few -yards.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One moment," said the -prince. "Let us go to the château first."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What for?"<br> - "Why, to take my wife, of course."<br> - "What for?" asked De Guiche.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, since I tell you that -it is a project of conjugal affection, it is necessary I should -take my wife with me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, monseigneur," -replied the comte, "I am greatly concerned, but no De Guiche for -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes. - Why do you take -Madame with you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because I begin to fancy I -love her," said the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> De Guiche turned slightly -pale, but endeavored to preserve his seeming -cheerfulness.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If you love Madame, -monseigneur," he said, "that ought to be quite enough for you, -and you have no further need of your friends."<br> - "Not bad, not bad," murmured Manicamp.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There, your fear of Madame -has begun again," replied the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, monseigneur, I have -experienced that to my cost; a woman who was the cause of my -being exiled!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What a revengeful -disposition you have, De Guiche, how virulently you bear -malice."<br> - "I should like the case to be your own, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Decidedly, then, that was -the reason why you danced so badly yesterday; you wished to -revenge yourself, I suppose, by trying to make Madame make a -mistake in her dancing; ah! that is very paltry, De Guiche, and I -will tell Madame of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You may tell her whatever -you please, monseigneur, for her highness cannot hate me more -than she does."<br> - "Nonsense, you are exaggerating; and this because -merely of the fortnight's sojourn in the country she imposed on -you."<br> - "Monseigneur, a fortnight is a fortnight; and -when the time is passed in getting sick and tired of everything, -a fortnight is an eternity."<br> - "So that you will not forgive her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, De Guiche, be a -better disposed fellow than that. I wish to make your peace with -her; you will find, in conversing with her, that she has no -malice or unkindness in her nature, and that she is very -talented."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Monseigneur - "<br> - "You will see that she can receive her friends -like a princess, and laugh like a citizen's wife; you will see -that, when she pleases, she can make the pleasant hours pass like -minutes. Come, De Guiche, you must really make up your -differences with my wife."<br> - "Upon my word," said Manicamp to himself, "the -prince is a husband whose wife's name will bring him ill-luck, -and King Candaules, of old, was a tiger beside his royal -highness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events," added the -prince, "I am sure you will make it up with my wife: I guarantee -you will do so. Only, I must show you the way now. There is -nothing commonplace about her: it is not every one who takes her -fancy."<br> - "Monseigneur - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No resistance, De Guiche, or -I shall get out of temper," replied the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, since he will have it -so," murmured Manicamp, in Guiche's ear, "do as he wants you to -do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, monseigneur," said the -comte, "I obey."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And to begin," resumed the -prince, "there will be cards, this evening, in Madame's -apartment; you will dine with me, and I will take you there with -me."<br> - "Oh! as for that, monseigneur," objected De -Guiche, "you will allow me to object."<br> - "What, again! this is positive rebellion."<br> - "Madame received me too indifferently, yesterday, -before the whole court."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really!" said the prince, -laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, so much so, indeed, -that she did not even answer me when I addressed her; it may be a -good thing to have no self-respect at all, but to have too little -is not enough, as the saying is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Comte! after dinner, you -will go to your own apartments and dress yourself, and then you -will come to fetch me. I shall wait for you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since your highness -absolutely commands it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Positively."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will not lose his hold," -said Manicamp; "these are the things to which husbands cling most -obstinately. Ah! what a pity M. Molière could not have -heard this man; he would have turned him into verse if he -had."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The prince and his court, -chatting in this manner, returned to the coolest apartments of -the château.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By the by," said De Guiche, -as they were standing by the door, "I had a commission for your -royal highness."<br> - "Execute it, then."<br> - "M. de Bragelonne has, by the king's order, set -off for London, and he charged me with his respects for you; -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A pleasant journey to the -vicomte, whom I like very much. Go and dress yourself, De -Guiche, and come back for me. If you don't come back - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What will happen, -monseigneur?"<br> - "I will have you sent to the Bastile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said De Guiche, -laughing, "his royal highness, monseigneur, is decidedly the -counterpart of her royal highness, Madame. Madame gets me sent -into exile, because she does not care for me sufficiently; and -monseigneur gets me imprisoned, because he cares for me too -much. I thank monseigneur, and I thank Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come," said the -prince, "you are a delightful companion, and you know I cannot do -without you. Return as soon as you can."<br> - "Very well; but I am in the humor to prove myself -difficult to be pleased, in <i>my</i> turn, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Bah!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So, I will not return to -your royal highness, except upon one condition."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Name it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I want to oblige the friend -of one of my friends."<br> - "What's his name?"<br> - "Malicorne."<br> - "An ugly name."<br> - "But very well borne, monseigneur."<br> - "That may be. Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, I owe M. Malicorne a -place in your household, monseigneur."<br> - "What kind of a place?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Any kind of a place; a -supervision of some sort or another, for instance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That happens very -fortunately, for yesterday I dismissed my chief usher of the -apartments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That will do admirably. -What are his duties?"<br> - "Nothing, except to look about and make his -report."<br> - "A sort of interior police?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exactly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, how excellently that -will suit Malicorne," Manicamp ventured to say.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know the person we are -speaking of, M. Manicamp?" inquired the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Intimately, monseigneur. He -is a friend of mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And your opinion -is?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That your highness could -never get a better usher of the apartments than he will -make."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How much does the -appointment bring in?" inquired the comte of the -prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I don't know at all, only I -have always been told that he could make as much as he pleased -when he was thoroughly in earnest."<br> - "What do you call being thoroughly in earnest, -prince?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It means, of course, when -the functionary in question is a man who has his wits about -him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case I think your -highness will be content, for Malicorne is as sharp as the devil -himself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good! the appointment will -be an expensive one for me, in that case," replied the prince, -laughing. "You are making me a positive present, -comte."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe so, -monseigneur."<br> - "Well, go and announce to your M. -Mélicorne - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Malicorne, monseigneur."<br> - "I shall never get hold of that name."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You say Manicamp very well, -monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, I ought to say Malicorne -very well, too. The alliteration will help me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Say what you like, -monseigneur, I can promise you your inspector of apartments will -not be annoyed; he has the very happiest disposition that can be -met with."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, then, my dear De -Guiche, inform him of his nomination. But, stay - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it, -monseigneur?"<br> - "I wish to see him beforehand; if he be as ugly -as his name, I retract every word I have said."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your highness knows him, for -you have already seen him at the Palais Royal; nay, indeed, it -was I who presented him to you."<br> - "Ah, I remember now - not a bad-looking -fellow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know you must have noticed -him, monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes, yes. You see, De -Guiche, I do not wish that either my wife or myself should have -ugly faces before our eyes. My wife will have all her maids of -honor pretty; I, all the gentlemen about me good-looking. In -this way, De Guiche, you see, that any children we may have will -run a good chance of being pretty, if my wife and myself have -handsome models before us."<br> - "Most magnificently argued, monseigneur," said -Manicamp, showing his approval by look and voice at the same -time.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As for De Guiche, he very -probably did not find the argument so convincing, for he merely -signified his opinion by a gesture, which, moreover, exhibited in -a marked manner some indecision of mind on the subject. Manicamp -went off to inform Malicorne of the good news he had just -learned. De Guiche seemed very unwilling to take his departure -for the purpose of dressing himself. Monsieur, singing, -laughing, and admiring himself, passed away the time until the -dinner-hour, in a frame of mind that justified the proverb of -"Happy as a prince."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LVI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Story of a Dryad and a -Naiad.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>E</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>very one had partaken of the banquet at the -château, and afterwards assumed their full court dresses. -The usual hour for the repast was five o'clock. If we say, then, -that the repast occupied an hour, and the toilette two hours, -everybody was ready about eight o'clock in the evening. Towards -eight o'clock, then, the guests began to arrive at Madame's, for -we have already intimated that it was Madame who "received" that -evening. And at Madame's <i>soirées</i> no one failed to -be present; for the evenings passed in her apartments always had -that perfect charm about them which the queen, that pious and -excellent princess, had not been able to confer upon her -<i>réunions</i>. For, unfortunately, one of the -advantages of goodness of disposition is that it is far less -amusing than wit of an ill-natured character. And yet, let us -hasten to add, that such a style of wit could not be assigned to -Madame, for her disposition of mind, naturally of the very -highest order, comprised too much true generosity, too many noble -impulses and high-souled thoughts, to warrant her being termed -ill-natured. But Madame was endowed with a spirit of resistance -- a gift frequently fatal to its possessor, for it breaks where -another disposition would have bent; the result was that blows -did not become deadened upon her as upon what might be termed the -cotton-wadded feelings of Maria Theresa. Her heart rebounded at -each attack, and therefore, whenever she was attacked, even in a -manner that almost stunned her, she returned blow for blow to any -one imprudent enough to tilt against her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Was this really maliciousness -of disposition or simply waywardness of character? We regard -those rich and powerful natures as like the tree of knowledge, -producing good and evil at the same time; a double branch, always -blooming and fruitful, of which those who wish to eat know how to -detect the good fruit, and from which the worthless and frivolous -die who have eaten of it - a circumstance which is by no means to -be regarded as a great misfortune. Madame, therefore, who had a -well-disguised plan in her mind of constituting herself the -second, if not even the principal, queen of the court, rendered -her receptions delightful to all, from the conversation, the -opportunities of meeting, and the perfect liberty she allowed -every one of making any remark he pleased, on the condition, -however, that the remark was amusing or sensible. And it will -hardly be believed, that, by that means, there was less talking -among the society Madame assembled together than elsewhere. -Madame hated people who talked much, and took a remarkably cruel -revenge upon them, for she allowed them to talk. She disliked -pretension, too, and never overlooked that defect, even in the -king himself. It was more than a weakness of Monsieur, and the -princess had undertaken the amazing task of curing him of it. As -for the rest, poets, wits, beautiful women, all were received by -her with the air of a mistress superior to her slaves. -Sufficiently meditative in her liveliest humors to make even -poets meditate; sufficiently pretty to dazzle by her attractions, -even among the prettiest; sufficiently witty for the most -distinguished persons who were present, to be listened to with -pleasure - it will easily be believed that the -<i>réunions</i> held in Madame's apartments must naturally -have proved very attractive. All who were young flocked there, -and when the king himself happens to be young, everybody at court -is so too. And so, the older ladies of the court, the -strong-minded women of the regency, or of the last reign, pouted -and sulked at their ease; but others only laughed at the fits of -sulkiness in which these venerable individuals indulged, who had -carried the love of authority so far as even to take command of -bodies of soldiers in the wars of the Fronde, in order, as Madame -asserted, not to lose their influence over men altogether. As -eight o'clock struck her royal highness entered the great -drawing-room accompanied by her ladies in attendance, and found -several gentlemen belonging to the court already there, having -been waiting for some minutes. Among those who had arrived -before the hour fixed for the reception she looked round for one -who, she thought, ought to have been first in attendance, but he -was not there. However, almost at the very moment she completed -her investigation, Monsieur was announced. Monsieur looked -splendid. All the precious stones and jewels of Cardinal -Mazarin, which of course that minister could not do otherwise -than leave; all the queen-mother's jewels as well as a few -belonging to his wife - Monsieur wore them all, and he was as -dazzling as the rising sun. Behind him followed De Guiche, with -hesitating steps and an air of contrition admirably assumed; De -Guiche wore a costume of French-gray velvet, embroidered with -silver, and trimmed with blue ribbons: he wore also Mechlin lace -as rare and beautiful in its own way as the jewels of Monsieur in -theirs. The plume in his hat was red. Madame, too, wore several -colors, and preferred red for embroidery, gray for dress, and -blue for flowers. M. de Guiche, dressed as we have described, -looked so handsome that he excited every one's observation. An -interesting pallor of complexion, a languid expression of the -eyes, his white hands seen through the masses of lace that -covered them, the melancholy expression of his mouth - it was -only necessary, indeed, to see M. de Guiche to admit that few men -at the court of France could hope to equal him. The consequence -was that Monsieur, who was pretentious enough to fancy he could -eclipse a star even, if a star had adorned itself in a similar -manner to himself, was, on the contrary, completely eclipsed in -all imaginations, which are silent judges certainly, but very -positive and firm in their convictions. Madame looked at De -Guiche lightly, but light as her look had been, it brought a -delightful color to his face. In fact, Madame found De Guiche so -handsome and so admirably dressed, that she almost ceased -regretting the royal conquest she felt she was on the point of -escaping her. Her heart, therefore, sent the blood to her face. -Monsieur approached her. He had not noticed the princess's -blush, or if he had seen it, he was far from attributing it to -its true cause.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame," he said, kissing -his wife's hand, "there is some one present here, who has fallen -into disgrace, an unhappy exile whom I venture to recommend to -your kindness. Do not forget, I beg, that he is one of my best -friends, and that a gentle reception of him will please me -greatly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What exile? what disgraced -person are you speaking of?" inquired Madame, looking all round, -and not permitting her glance to rest more on the count than on -the others.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> This was the moment to -present De Guiche, and the prince drew aside and let De Guiche -pass him, who, with a tolerably well-assumed awkwardness of -manner, approached Madame and made his reverence to -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What!" exclaimed Madame, as -if she were greatly surprised, "is M. de Guiche the disgraced -individual you speak of, the exile in question?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, certainly," returned -the duke.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Indeed," said Madame, "he -seems almost the only person here!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are unjust, Madame," -said the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?"<br> - "Certainly. Come, forgive the poor -fellow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive him what? What have -I to forgive M. de Guiche?"<br> - "Come, explain yourself, De Guiche. What do you -wish to be forgiven?" inquired the prince.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Alas! her royal highness -knows very well what it is," replied the latter, in a -hypocritical tone.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come, come, give him your -hand, Madame," said Philip.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If it will give you any -pleasure, Monsieur," and, with a movement of her eyes and -shoulders, which it would be impossible to describe, Madame -extended towards the young man her beautiful and perfumed hand, -upon which he pressed his lips. It was evident that he did so -for some little time, and that Madame did not withdraw her hand -too quickly, for the duke added:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "De Guiche is not wickedly -disposed, Madame; so do not be afraid, he will not bite -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A pretext was given in the -gallery by the duke's remark, which was not, perhaps, very -laughable, for every one to laugh excessively. The situation was -odd enough, and some kindly disposed persons had observed it. -Monsieur was still enjoying the effect of his remark, when the -king was announced. The appearance of the room at that moment -was as follows: - in the center, before the fireplace, which was -filled with flowers, Madame was standing up, with her maids of -honor formed in two wings, on either side of her; around whom the -butterflies of the court were fluttering. Several other groups -were formed in the recesses of the windows, like soldiers -stationed in their different towers who belong to the same -garrison. From their respective places they could pick up the -remarks which fell from the principal group. From one of these -groups, the nearest to the fireplace, Malicorne, who had been at -once raised to the dignity, through Manicamp and De Guiche, of -the post of master of the apartments, and whose official costume -had been ready for the last two months, was brilliant with gold -lace, and shone upon Montalais, standing on Madame's extreme -left, with all the fire of his eyes and splendor of his velvet. -Madame was conversing with Mademoiselle de Châtillon and -Mademoiselle de Créquy, who were next to her, and -addressed a few words to Monsieur, who drew aside as soon as the -king was announced. Mademoiselle de la Vallière, like -Montalais, was on Madame's left hand, and the last but one on the -line, Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente being on her right. She -was stationed as certain bodies of troops are, whose weakness is -suspected, and who are placed between two experienced regiments. -Guarded in this manner by the companions who had shared her -adventure, La Vallière, whether from regret at Raoul's -departure, or still suffering from the emotion caused by recent -events, which had begun to render her name familiar on the lips -of the courtiers, La Vallière, we repeat, hid her eyes, -red with weeping, behind her fan, and seemed to give the greatest -attention to the remarks which Montalais and Athenaïs, -alternately, whispered to her from time to time. As soon as the -king's name was announced a general movement took place in the -apartment. Madame, in her character as hostess, rose to receive -the royal visitor; but as she rose, notwithstanding her -preoccupation of mind, she glanced hastily towards her right; her -glance, which the presumptuous De Guiche regarded as intended for -himself, rested, as it swept over the whole circle, upon La -Vallière, whose warm blush and restless emotion it -instantly perceived.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king advanced to the -middle of the group, which had now become a general one, by a -movement which took place from the circumference to the center. -Every head bowed low before his majesty, the ladies bending like -frail, magnificent lilies before King Aquilo. There was nothing -very severe, we will even say, nothing very royal that evening -about the king, except youth and good looks. He wore an air of -animated joyousness and good-humor which set all imaginations at -work, and, thereupon, all present promised themselves a -delightful evening, for no other reason than from having remarked -the desire his majesty had to amuse himself in Madame's -apartments. If there was any one in particular whose high -spirits and good-humor equalled the king's, it was M. de -Saint-Aignan, who was dressed in a rose-colored costume, with -face and ribbons of the same color, and, in addition, -particularly rose-colored in his ideas, for that evening M. de -Saint-Aignan was prolific in jests. The circumstance which had -given a new expansion to the numerous ideas germinating in his -fertile brain was, that he had just perceived that Mademoiselle -de Tonnay-Charente was, like himself, dressed in rose-color. We -would not wish to say, however, that the wily courtier had not -know beforehand that the beautiful Athenaïs was to wear that -particular color; for he very well knew the art of unlocking the -lips of a dress-maker or a lady's maid as to her mistress's -intentions. He cast as many killing glances at Mademoiselle -Athenaïs as he had bows of ribbons on his stockings and -doublet; in other words he discharged a prodigious number. The -king having paid Madame the customary compliments, and Madame -having requested him to be seated, the circle was immediately -formed. Louis inquired of Monsieur the particulars of the day's -bathing; and stated, looking at the ladies present while he -spoke, that certain poets were engaged turning into verse the -enchanting diversion of the baths of Vulaines, and that one of -them particularly, M. Loret, seemed to have been intrusted with -the confidence of some water-nymph, as he had in his verses -recounted many circumstances that were actually true - at which -remark more than one lady present felt herself bound to blush. -The king at this moment took the opportunity of looking round him -at more leisure; Montalais was the only one who did not blush -sufficiently to prevent her looking at the king, and she saw him -fix his eyes devouringly on Mademoiselle de la Vallière. -This undaunted maid of honor, Mademoiselle de Montalais, be it -understood, forced the king to lower his gaze, and so saved -Louise de la Vallière from a sympathetic warmth of feeling -this gaze might possibly have conveyed. Louis was appropriated -by Madame, who overwhelmed him with inquiries, and no one in the -world knew how to ask questions better than she did. He tried, -however, to render the conversation general, and, with the view -of effecting this, he redoubled his attention and devotion to -her. Madame coveted complimentary remarks, and, determined to -procure them at any cost, she addressed herself to the king, -saying:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, your majesty, who is -aware of everything which occurs in your kingdom, ought to know -beforehand the verses confided to M. Loret by this nymph; will -your majesty kindly communicate them to us?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame," replied the king, -with perfect grace of manner, "I dare not - you, personally, -might be in no little degree confused at having to listen to -certain details - but Saint-Aignan tells a story well, and has a -perfect recollection of the verses. If he does not remember -them, he will invent. I can certify he is almost a poet -himself." Saint-Aignan, thus brought prominently forward, was -compelled to introduce himself as advantageously as possible. -Unfortunately, however, for Madame, he thought of his own -personal affairs only; in other words, instead of paying Madame -the compliments she so much desired and relished, his mind was -fixed upon making as much display as possible of his own good -fortune. Again glancing, therefore, for the hundredth time at -the beautiful Athenaïs, who carried into practice her -previous evening's theory of not even deigning to look at her -adorer, he said: -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty will perhaps -pardon me for having too indifferently remembered the verses -which the nymph dictated to Loret; but if the king has not -retained any recollection of them, how could I possibly -remember?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame did not receive this -shortcoming of the courtier very favorably.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! madame," added -Saint-Aignan, "at present it is no longer a question what the -water-nymphs have to say; and one would almost be tempted to -believe that nothing of any interest now occurs in those liquid -realms. It is upon earth, madame, important events happen. Ah! -Madame, upon the earth, how many tales are there full of - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," said Madame, "and -what is taking place upon the earth?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That question must be asked -of the Dryads," replied the comte; "the Dryads inhabit the -forest, as your royal highness is aware."<br> - "I am aware also, that they are naturally very -talkative, Monsieur de Saint-Aignan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Such is the case, Madame; -but when they say such delightful things, it would be ungracious -to accuse them of being too talkative."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do they talk so -delightfully, then?" inquired the princess, indifferently. -"Really, Monsieur de Saint-Aignan, you excite my curiosity; and, -if I were the king, I would require you immediately to tell us -what the delightful things are these Dryads have been saying, -since you alone seem to understand their language."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am at his majesty's -orders, Madame, in that respect," replied the comte, -quickly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What a fortunate fellow this -Saint-Aignan is to understand the language of the Dryads," said -Monsieur.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I understand it perfectly, -monseigneur, as I do my own language."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Tell us all about them, -then," said Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king felt embarrassed, -for his confidant was, in all probability, about to embark in a -difficult matter. He felt that it would be so, from the general -attention excited by Saint-Aignan's preamble, and aroused too by -Madame's peculiar manner. The most reserved of those who were -present seemed ready to devour every syllable the comte was about -to pronounce. They coughed, drew closer together, looked -curiously at some of the maids of honor, who, in order to support -with greater propriety, or with more steadiness, the fixity of -the inquisitorial looks bent upon them, adjusted their fans -accordingly, and assumed the bearing of a duelist about to be -exposed to his adversary's fire. At this epoch, the fashion of -ingeniously constructed conversations, and hazardously dangerous -recitals, so prevailed, that, where, in modern times, a whole -company assembled in a drawing-room would begin to suspect some -scandal, or disclosure, or tragic event, and would hurry away in -dismay, Madame's guests quietly settled themselves in their -places, in order not to lose a word or gesture of the comedy -composed by Monsieur de Saint-Aignan for their benefit, and the -termination of which, whatever the style and the plot might be, -must, as a matter of course, be marked by the most perfect -propriety. The comte as known as a man of extreme refinement, -and an admirable narrator. He courageously began, then, amidst a -profound silence, which would have been formidable to any one but -himself: - "Madame, by the king's permission, I address myself, -in the first place, to your royal highness, since you admit -yourself to be the person present possessing the greatest -curiosity. I have the honor, therefore, to inform your royal -highness that the Dryad more particularly inhabits the hollows of -oaks; and, as Dryads are mythological creatures of great beauty, -they inhabit the most beautiful trees, in other words, the -largest to be found."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this exordium, which -recalled, under a transparent veil, the celebrated story of the -royal oak, which had played so important a part in the last -evening, so many hearts began to beat, both from joy and -uneasiness, that, if Saint-Aignan had not had a good and sonorous -voice, their throbbings might have been heard above the sound of -his voice.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There must surely be Dryads -at Fontainebleau, then," said Madame, in a perfectly calm voice; -"for I have never, in all my life, seen finer oaks than in the -royal park." And as she spoke, she directed towards De Guiche a -look of which he had no reason to complain, as he had of the one -that preceded it; which, as we have already mentioned, had -reserved a certain amount of indefiniteness most painful for so -loving a heart as his.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely, Madame, it is of -Fontainebleau I was about to speak to your royal highness," said -Saint-Aignan; "for the Dryad whose story is engaging our -attention, lives in the park belonging to the château of -his majesty."<br> - The affair was fairly embarked on; the action was -begun, and it was no longer possible for auditory or narrator to -draw back.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It will be worth listening -to," said Madame; "for the story not only appears to me to have -all the interest of a national incident, but still more, seems to -be a circumstance of very recent occurrence."<br> - "I ought to begin at the beginning," said the -comte. "In the first place, then, there lived at Fontainebleau, -in a cottage of modest and unassuming appearance, two shepherds. -The one was the shepherd Tyrcis, the owner of extensive domains -transmitted to him from his parents, by right of inheritance. -Tyrcis was young and handsome, and, from his many qualifications, -he might be pronounced to be the first and foremost among the -shepherds in the whole country; one might even boldly say he was -the king of shepherds." A subdued murmur of approbation -encouraged the narrator, who continued: - "His strength equals -his courage; no one displays greater address in hunting wild -beasts, nor greater wisdom in matters where judgment is -required. Whenever he mounts and exercises his horse in the -beautiful plains of his inheritance, or whenever he joins with -the shepherds who owe him allegiance, in different games of skill -and strength, one might say that it is the god Mars hurling his -lance on the plains of Thrace, or, even better, that it was -Apollo himself, the god of day, radiant upon earth, bearing his -flaming darts in his hand." Every one understood that this -allegorical portrait of the king was not the worst exordium the -narrator could have chosen; and consequently it did not fail to -produce its effect, either upon those who, from duty or -inclination, applauded it to the very echo, or on the king -himself, to whom flattery was very agreeable when delicately -conveyed, and whom, indeed, it did not always displease, even -when it was a little too broad. Saint-Aignan then continued: - -"It is not in games of glory only, ladies, that the shepherd -Tyrcis had acquired that reputation by which he was regarded as -the king of the shepherds."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of the shepherds of -Fontainebleau," said the king, smilingly, to Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" exclaimed Madame, -"Fontainebleau is selected arbitrarily by the poet; but I should -say, of the shepherds of the whole world." The king forgot his -part of a passive auditor, and bowed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is," paused Saint-Aignan, -amidst a flattering murmur of applause, "it is with ladies fair -especially that the qualities of this king of the shepherds are -most prominently displayed. He is a shepherd with a mind as -refined as his heart is pure; he can pay a compliment with a -charm of manner whose fascination it is impossible to resist; and -in his attachments he is so discreet, that beautiful and happy -conquests may regard their lot as more than enviable. Never a -syllable of disclosure, never a moment's forgetfulness. Whoever -has seen and heard Tyrcis must love him; whoever loves and is -beloved by him, has indeed found happiness." Saint-Aignan here -paused; he was enjoying the pleasure of all these compliments; -and the portrait he had drawn, however grotesquely inflated it -might be, had found favor in certain ears, in which the -perfections of the shepherd did not seem to have been -exaggerated. Madame begged the orator to continue. "Tyrcis," -said the comte, "had a faithful companion, or rather a devoted -servant, whose name was - Amyntas."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said Madame, archly, -"now for the portrait of Amyntas; you are such an excellent -painter, Monsieur de Saint-Aignan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! comte, do not, I entreat -you, sacrifice poor Amyntas; I should never forgive -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame, Amyntas is of too -humble a position, particularly beside Tyrcis, for his person to -be honored by a parallel. There are certain friends who resemble -those followers of ancient times, who caused themselves to be -buried alive at their masters' feet. Amyntas's place, too, is at -the feet of Tyrcis; he cares for no other; and if, sometimes, the -illustrious hero - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Illustrious shepherd, you -mean?" said Madame, pretending to correct M. de -Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your royal highness is -right; I was mistaken," returned the courtier; "if, I say, the -shepherd Tyrcis deigns occasionally to call Amyntas his friend, -and to open his heart to him, it is an unparalleled favor, which -the latter regards as the most unbounded felicity."<br> - "All that you say," interrupted Madame, -"establishes the extreme devotion of Amyntas to Tyrcis, but does -not furnish us with the portrait of Amyntas. Comte, do not -flatter him, if you like; but describe him to us. I will have -Amyntas's portrait." Saint-Aignan obeyed, after having bowed -profoundly to his majesty's sister-in-law.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Amyntas," he said, "is -somewhat older than Tyrcis; he is not an ill-favored shepherd; it -is even said that the muses condescended to smile upon him at his -birth, even as Hebe smiled upon youth. He is not ambitious of -display, but he is ambitious of being loved; and he might not, -perhaps, he found unworthy of it, if he were only sufficiently -well-known."<br> - This latter paragraph, strengthened by a killing -glance, was directed straight to Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, -who received them both unmoved. But the modesty and tact of the -allusion had produced a good effect; Amyntas reaped the benefit -of it in the applause bestowed upon him: Tyrcis's head even gave -the signal for it by a consenting bow, full of good -feeling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One evening," continued -Saint-Aignan, "Tyrcis and Amyntas were walking together in the -forest, talking of their love disappointments. Do not forget, -ladies, that the story of the Dryad is now beginning, otherwise -it would be easy to tell you what Tyrcis and Amyntas, the two -most discreet shepherds of the whole earth, were talking about. -They reached the thickest part of the forest, for the purpose of -being quite alone, and of confiding their troubles more freely to -each other, when suddenly the sound of voices struck upon their -ears."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, ah!" said those who -surrounded the narrator. "Nothing can be more -interesting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this point, Madame, like a -vigilant general inspecting his army, glanced at Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente, who could not help wincing as they drew -themselves up.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "These harmonious voices," -resumed Saint-Aignan, "were those of certain shepherdesses, who -had been likewise desirous of enjoying the coolness of the shade, -and who, knowing the isolated and almost unapproachable situation -of the place, had betaken themselves there to interchange their -ideas upon - " A loud burst of laughter occasioned by this -remark of Saint-Aignan, and an imperceptible smile of the king, -as he looked at Tonnay-Charente, followed this sally.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Dryad affirms -positively," continued Saint-Aignan, "that the shepherdesses were -three in number, and that all three were young and -beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What were their names?" said -Madame, quickly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Their names?" said -Saint-Aignan, who hesitated from fear of committing an -indiscretion.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course; you call your -shepherds Tyrcis and Amyntas; give your shepherdesses names in a -similar manner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Madame, I am not an -inventor; I relate simply what took place as the Dryad related it -to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What did your Dryad, then, -call these shepherdesses? You have a very treacherous memory, I -fear. This Dryad must have fallen out with the goddess -Mnemosyne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "These shepherdesses, -Madame? Pray remember that it is a crime to betray a woman's -name."<br> - "From which a woman absolves you, comte, on the -condition that you will reveal the names of the -shepherdesses."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Their names were Phyllis, -Amaryllis, and Galatea."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Exceedingly well! - they -have not lost by the delay," said Madame, "and now we have three -charming names. But now for their portraits."<br> - Saint-Aignan again made a slight -movement.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, comte, let us proceed -in due order," returned Madame. "Ought we not, sire, to have the -portraits of the shepherdesses?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, who expected this -determined perseverance, and who began to feel some uneasiness, -did not think it safe to provoke so dangerous an interrogator. -He thought, too, that Saint-Aignan, in drawing the portraits, -would find a means of insinuating some flattering allusions which -would be agreeable to the ears of one his majesty was interested -in pleasing. It was with this hope and with this fear that Louis -authorized Saint-Aignan to sketch the portraits of the -shepherdesses, Phyllis, Amaryllis, and Galatea.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, then; be it so," -said Saint-Aignan, like a man who has made up his mind, and he -began.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LVII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Conclusion of the Story of a -Naiad and of a Dryad.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>"P</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>hyllis," said Saint-Aignan, with a glance of -defiance at Montalais, such as a fencing-master would give who -invites an antagonist worthy of him to place himself on guard, -"Phyllis is neither fair nor dark, neither tall nor short, -neither too grave nor too gay; though but a shepherdess, she is -as witty as a princess, and as coquettish as the most finished -flirt that ever lived. Nothing can equal her excellent vision. -Her heart yearns for everything her gaze embraces. She is like a -bird, which, always warbling, at one moment skims the ground, at -the next rises fluttering in pursuit of a butterfly, then rests -itself upon the topmost branch of a tree, where it defies the -bird-catchers either to come and seize it or to entrap it in -their nets." The portrait bore such a strong resemblance to -Montalais, that all eyes were directed towards her; she, however, -with her head raised, and with a steady, unmoved look, listened -to Saint-Aignan, as if he were speaking of an utter -stranger.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is that all, Monsieur de -Saint-Aignan?" inquired the princess.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! your royal highness, the -portrait is but a mere sketch, and many more additions could be -made, but I fear to weary your patience, or offend the modesty of -the shepherdess, and I shall therefore pass on to her companion, -Amaryllis."<br> - "Very well," said Madame, "pass on to Amaryllis, -Monsieur de Saint-Aignan, we are all attention."<br> - "Amaryllis is the eldest of the three, and yet," -Saint-Aignan hastened to add, "this advanced age does not reach -twenty years."<br> - Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, who had slightly -knitted her brows at the commencement of the description, unbent -them with a smile.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She is tall, with an -astonishing abundance of beautiful hair, which she fastens in the -manner of the Grecian statues; her walk is full of majesty, her -attitude haughty; she has the air, therefore, rather of a goddess -than a mere mortal, and among the goddesses, she most resembles -Diana the huntress; with this sole difference, however, that the -cruel shepherdess, having stolen the quiver of young love, while -poor Cupid was sleeping in a thicket of roses, instead of -directing her arrows against the inhabitants of the forest, -discharges them pitilessly against all poor shepherds who pass -within reach of her bow and of her eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! what a wicked -shepherdess!" said Madame. "She may some day wound herself with -one of those arrows she discharges, as you say, so mercilessly on -all sides."<br> - "It is the hope of shepherds, one and all!" said -Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And that of the shepherd -Amyntas in particular, I suppose?" said Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The shepherd Amyntas is so -timid," said Saint-Aignan, with the most modest air he could -assume, "that if he cherishes such a hope as that, no one has -ever known anything about it, for he conceals it in the very -depths of his heart." A flattering murmur of applause greeted -this profession of faith on behalf of the shepherd.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And Galatea?" inquired -Madame. "I am impatient to see a hand so skillful as yours -continue the portrait where Virgil left it, and finish it before -our eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame," said Saint-Aignan, -"I am indeed a poor dumb post beside the mighty Virgil. Still, -encouraged by your desire, I will do my best."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Saint-Aignan extended his -foot and hand, and thus began: - "White as milk, she casts upon -the breeze the perfume of her fair hair tinged with golden hues, -as are the ears of corn. One is tempted to inquire if she is not -the beautiful Europa, who inspired Jupiter with a tender passion -as she played with her companions in the flower-spangled -meadows. From her exquisite eyes, blue as azure heaven on the -clearest summer day, emanates a tender light, which reverie -nurtures, and love dispenses. When she frowns, or bends her -looks towards the ground, the sun is veiled in token of -mourning. When she smiles, on the contrary, nature resumes her -jollity, and the birds, for a brief moment silenced, recommence -their songs amid the leafy covert of the trees. Galatea," said -Saint-Aignan, in conclusion, "is worthy of the admiration of the -whole world; and if she should ever bestow her heart upon -another, happy will that man be to whom she consecrates her first -affections."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame, who had attentively -listened to the portrait Saint-Aignan had drawn, as, indeed, had -all the others, contented herself with accentuating her -approbation of the most poetic passage by occasional inclinations -of her head; but it was impossible to say if these marks of -assent were accorded to the ability of the narrator of the -resemblance of the portrait. The consequence, therefore, was, -that as Madame did not openly exhibit any approbation, no one -felt authorized to applaud, not even Monsieur, who secretly -thought that Saint-Aignan dwelt too much upon the portraits of -the shepherdesses, and had somewhat slightingly passed over the -portraits of the shepherds. The whole assembly seemed suddenly -chilled. Saint-Aignan, who had exhausted his rhetorical skill -and his palette of artistic tints in sketching the portrait of -Galatea, and who, after the favor with which his other -descriptions had been received, already imagined he could hear -the loudest applause allotted to this last one, was himself more -disappointed than the king and the rest of the company. A -moment's silence followed, which was at last broken by -Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, sir," she inquired, -"What is your majesty's opinion of these three -portraits?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, who wished to -relieve Saint-Aignan's embarrassment without compromising -himself, replied, "Why, Amaryllis, in my opinion, is -beautiful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For my part," said Monsieur, -"I prefer Phyllis; she is a capital girl, or rather a -good-sort-of-fellow of a nymph."<br> - A gentle laugh followed, and this time the looks -were so direct, that Montalais felt herself blushing almost -scarlet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," resumed Madame, "what -were those shepherdesses saying to each other?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Saint-Aignan, however, whose -vanity had been wounded, did not feel himself in a position to -sustain an attack of new and refreshed troops, and merely said, -"Madame, the shepherdesses were confiding to one another their -little preferences."<br> - "Nay, nay! Monsieur de Saint-Aignan, you are a -perfect stream of pastoral poesy," said Madame, with an amiable -smile, which somewhat comforted the narrator.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They confessed that love is -a mighty peril, but that the absence of love is the heart's -sentence of death."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What was the conclusion they -came to?" inquired Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "They came to the conclusion -that love was necessary."<br> - "Very good! Did they lay down any -conditions?"<br> - "That of choice, simply," said Saint-Aignan. "I -ought even to add, - remember it is the Dryad who is speaking, - -that one of the shepherdesses, Amaryllis, I believe, was -completely opposed to the necessity of loving, and yet she did -not positively deny that she had allowed the image of a certain -shepherd to take refuge in her heart."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Was it Amyntas or -Tyrcis?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Amyntas, Madame," said -Saint-Aignan, modestly. "But Galatea, the gentle and soft-eyed -Galatea, immediately replied, that neither Amyntas, nor -Alphesibœus, nor Tityrus, nor indeed any of the handsomest -shepherds of the country, were to be compared to Tyrcis; that -Tyrcis was as superior to all other men, as the oak to all other -trees, as the lily in its majesty to all other flowers. She drew -even such a portrait of Tyrcis that Tyrcis himself, who was -listening, must have felt truly flattered at it, notwithstanding -his rank as a shepherd. Thus Tyrcis and Amyntas had been -distinguished by Phyllis and Galatea; and thus had the secrets of -two hearts revealed beneath the shades of evening, and amid the -recesses of the woods. Such, Madame, is what the Dryad related -to me; she who knows all that takes place in the hollows of oaks -and grassy dells; she who knows the loves of the birds, and all -they wish to convey by their songs; she who understands, in fact, -the language of the wind among the branches, the humming of the -insect with its gold and emerald wings in the corolla of the -wild-flowers; it was she who related the particulars to me, and I -have repeated them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And now you have finished, -Monsieur de Saint-Aignan, have you not?" said Madame, with a -smile that made the king tremble.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite finished," replied -Saint-Aignan, "and but too happy if I have been able to amuse -your royal highness for a few moments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Moments which have been too -brief," replied the princess; "for you have related most -admirably all you know; but, my dear Monsieur de Saint-Aignan, -you have been unfortunate enough to obtain your information from -one Dryad only, I believe?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, Madame, only from one, -I confess."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact was, that you -passed by a little Naiad, who pretended to know nothing at all, -and yet knew a great deal more than your Dryad, my dear -comte."<br> - "A Naiad!" repeated several voices, who began to -suspect that the story had a continuation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course close beside the -oak you are speaking of, which, if I am not mistaken, is called -the royal oak - is it not so, Monsieur de Saint-Aignan?"<br> - Saint-Aignan and the king exchanged -glances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, Madame," the former -replied.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, close beside the oak -there is a pretty little spring, which runs murmuringly over the -pebbles, between banks of forget-me-nots and -daffodils."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe you are correct," -said the king, with some uneasiness, and listening with some -anxiety to his sister-in-law's narrative.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! there is one, I can -assure you," said Madame; "and the proof of it is, that the Naiad -who resides in that little stream stopped me as I was about to -come."<br> - "Ah?" said Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, indeed," continued the -princess, "and she did so in order to communicate to me many -particulars Monsieur de Saint-Aignan has omitted in his -recital."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Pray relate them yourself, -then," said Monsieur, "you can relate stories in such a charming -manner." The princess bowed at the conjugal compliment paid -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not possess the -poetical powers of the comte, nor his ability to bring to light -the smallest details."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You will not be listened to -with less interest on that account," said the king, who already -perceived that something hostile was intended in his -sister-in-law's story.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I speak, too," continued -Madame, "in the name of that poor little Naiad, who is indeed the -most charming creature I ever met. Moreover, she laughed so -heartily while she was telling me her story, that, in pursuance -of that medical axiom that laughter is the finest physic in the -world, I ask permission to laugh a little myself when I recollect -her words."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king and Saint-Aignan, -who noticed spreading over many of the faces present a distant -and prophetic ripple of the laughter Madame announced, finished -by looking at each other, as if asking themselves whether there -was not some little conspiracy concealed beneath these words. -But Madame was determined to turn the knife in the wound over and -over again; she therefore resumed with the air of the most -perfect candor, in other words, with the most dangerous of all -her airs: "Well, then, I passed that way," she said, "and as I -found beneath my steps many fresh flowers newly blown, no doubt -Phyllis, Amaryllis, Galatea, and all your shepherdesses had -passed the same way before me."<br> - The king bit his lips, for the recital was -becoming more and more threatening. "My little Naiad," continued -Madame, "was cooing over her quaint song in the bed of the -rivulet; as I perceived that she accosted me by touching the hem -of my dress, I could not think of receiving her advances -ungraciously, and more particularly so, since, after all, a -divinity, even though she be of a second grade, is always of -greater importance than a mortal, though a princess. I thereupon -accosted the Naiad, and bursting into laughter, this is what she -said to me:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "'Fancy, princess...' You -understand, sire, it is the Naiad who is speaking?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king bowed assentingly; -and Madame continued: - "'Fancy, princess, the banks of my little -stream have just witnessed a most amusing scene. Two shepherds, -full of curiosity, even indiscreetly so, have allowed themselves -to be mystified in a most amusing manner by three nymphs, or -three shepherdesses,' - I beg your pardon, but I do not now -remember if it was nymphs or shepherdesses she said; but it does -not much matter, so we will continue."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, at this opening, -colored visibly, and Saint-Aignan, completely losing countenance, -began to open his eyes in the greatest possible -anxiety.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "'The two shepherds,' pursued -my nymph, still laughing, 'followed in the wake of the three -young ladies,' - no, I mean, of the three nymphs; forgive me, I -ought to say, of the three shepherdesses. It is not always wise -to do that, for it may be awkward for those who are followed. I -appeal to all the ladies present, and not one of them, I am sure, -will contradict me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, who was much -disturbed by what he suspected was about to follow, signified his -assent by a gesture.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "'But,' continued the Naiad, -'the shepherdesses had noticed Tyrcis and Amyntas gliding into -the wood, and, by the light of the moon, they had recognized them -through the grove of the trees.' Ah, you laugh!" interrupted -Madame; "wait, wait, you are not yet at the end."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king turned pale; -Saint-Aignan wiped his forehead, now dewed with perspiration. -Among the groups of ladies present could be heard smothered -laughter and stealthy whispers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "'The shepherdesses, I was -saying, noticing how indiscreet the two shepherds were, proceeded -to sit down at the foot of the royal oak; and, when they -perceived that their over-curious listeners were sufficiently -near, so that not a syllable of what they might say could be -lost, they addressed towards them very innocently, in the most -artless manner in the world indeed, a passionate declaration, -which from the vanity natural to all men, and even to the most -sentimental of shepherds, seemed to the two listeners as sweet as -honey.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, at these words, -which the assembly was unable to hear without laughing, could not -restrain a flash of anger darting from his eyes. As for -Saint-Aignan, he let his head fall upon his breast, and -concealed, under a silly laugh, the extreme annoyance he -felt.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh," said the king, drawing -himself up to his full height, "upon my word, that is a most -amusing jest, certainly; but, really and truly, are you sure you -quite understood the language of the Naiads?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The comte, sire, pretends to -have perfectly understood that of the Dryads," retorted Madame, -icily.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt," said the king; -"but you know the comte has the weakness to aspire to become a -member of the Academy, so that, with this object in view, he has -learnt all sorts of things of which very happily you are -ignorant; and it might possibly happen that the language of the -Nymph of the Waters might be among the number of things you have -not studied."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course, sire," replied -Madame, "for facts of that nature one does not altogether rely -upon one's self alone; a woman's ear is not infallible, so says -Saint Augustine; and I, therefore, wished to satisfy myself by -other opinions beside my own, and as my Naiad, who, in her -character of a goddess, is polyglot, - is not that the -expression, M. de Saint-Aignan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe so," said the -latter, quite out of countenance.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well," continued the -princess, "as my Naiad, who, in her character of a goddess, had, -at first spoken to me in English, I feared, as you suggest, that -I might have misunderstood her, and I requested Mesdemoiselles de -Montalais, de Tonnay-Charente, and de la Vallière, to come -to me, begging my Naiad to repeat to me in the French language, -the recital she had already communicated to me in -English."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And did she do so?" inquired -the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, she is the most polite -divinity it is possible to imagine! Yes, sire, she did so; so -that no doubt whatever remains on the subject. Is it not so, -young ladies?" said the princess, turning towards the left of her -army; "did not the Naiad say precisely what I have related, and -have I, in any one particular, exceeded the truth, Phyllis? I -beg your pardon, I mean Mademoiselle Aure de -Montalais?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Precisely as you have -stated, Madame," articulated Mademoiselle de Montalais, very -distinctly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it true, Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The perfect truth," replied -Athenaïs, in a voice quite as firm, but not yet so -distinct.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you, La -Vallière?" asked Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The poor girl felt the king's -ardent look fixed upon her, - she dared not deny - she dared not -tell a falsehood; she merely bowed her head; and everybody took -it for a token of assent. Her head, however, was not raised -again, chilled as she was by a coldness more bitter than that of -death. This triple testimony overwhelmed the king. As for -Saint-Aignan, he did not even attempt to dissemble his despair, -and, hardly knowing what he said, he stammered out, "An excellent -jest! admirably played!"<br> - "A just punishment for curiosity," said the king, -in a hoarse voice. "Oh! who would think, after the chastisement -that Tyrcis and Amyntas had suffered, of endeavoring to surprise -what is passing in the heart of shepherdesses? Assuredly I shall -not, for one; and, you, gentlemen?"<br> - "Nor I! nor I!" repeated, in a chorus, the group -of courtiers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame was filled with -triumph at the king's annoyance; and was full of delight, -thinking that her story had been, or was to be, the termination -of the whole affair. As for Monsieur, who had laughed at the two -stories without comprehending anything about them, he turned -towards De Guiche, and said to him, "Well, comte, you say -nothing; can you not find something to say? Do you pity M. -Tyrcis and M. Amyntas, for instance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I pity them with all my -soul," replied De Guiche; "for, in very truth, love is so sweet a -fancy, that to lose it, fancy though it may be, is to lose more -than life itself. If, therefore, these two shepherds thought -themselves beloved, - if they were happy in that idea, and if, -instead of that happiness, they meet not only that empty void -which resembles death, but jeers and jests at love itself, which -is worse than a thousand deaths, - in that case, I say that -Tyrcis and Amyntas are the two most unhappy men I -know."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are right, too, -Monsieur de Guiche," said the king; "for, in fact, the injury in -question is a very hard return for a little harmless -curiosity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is as much to say, -then, that the story of my Naiad has displeased the king?" asked -Madame, innocently.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, Madame, undeceive -yourself," said Louis, taking the princess by the hand; "your -Naiad, on the contrary, has pleased me, and the more so, because -she was so truthful, and because her tale, I ought to add, is -confirmed by the testimony of unimpeachable -witnesses."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> These words fell upon La -Vallière, accompanied by a look that on one, from Socrates -to Montaigne, could have exactly defined. The look and the -king's remark succeeded in overpowering the unhappy girl, who, -with her head upon Montalais's shoulder, seemed to have fainted -away. The king rose, without remarking this circumstance, of -which no one, moreover, took any notice, and, contrary to his -usual custom, for generally he remained late in Madame's -apartments, he took his leave, and retired to his own side of the -palace. Saint-Aignan followed him, leaving the rooms in as much -despair as he had entered them with delight. Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente, less sensitive than La Vallière, was not -much frightened, and did not faint. However, it may be that the -last look of Saint-Aignan had hardly been so majestic as the -king's.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LVIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Royal Psychology.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he king returned to his apartments with -hurried steps. The reason he walked as fast as he did was -probably to avoid tottering in his gait. He seemed to leave -behind him as he went along a trace of a mysterious sorrow. That -gayety of manner, which every one had remarked in him on his -arrival, and which they had been delighted to perceive, had not -perhaps been understood in its true sense: but his stormy -departure, his disordered countenance, all knew, or at least -thought they could tell the reason of. Madame's levity of -manner, her somewhat bitter jests, - bitter for persons of a -sensitive disposition, and particularly for one of the king's -character; the great resemblance which naturally existed between -the king and an ordinary mortal, were among the reasons assigned -for the precipitate and unexpected departure of his majesty. -Madame, keen-sighted enough in other respects, did not, however, -at first see anything extraordinary in it. It was quite -sufficient for her to have inflicted some slight wound upon the -vanity or self-esteem of one who, so soon forgetting the -engagements he had contracted, seemed to have undertaken to -disdain, without cause, the noblest and highest prize in France. -It was not an unimportant matter for Madame, in the present -position of affairs, to let the king perceive the difference -which existed between the bestowal of his affections on one in a -high station, and the running after each passing fancy, like a -youth fresh from the provinces. With regard to those higher -placed affections, recognizing their dignity and their -illimitable influence, acknowledging in them a certain etiquette -and display - a monarch not only did not act in a manner -derogatory to his high position, but found even repose, security, -mystery, and general respect therein. On the contrary, in the -debasement of a common or humble attachment, he would encounter, -even among his meanest subjects, carping and sarcastic remarks; -he would forfeit his character of infallibility and -inviolability. Having descended to the region of petty human -miseries, he would be subjected to paltry contentions. In one -word, to convert the royal divinity into a mere mortal by -striking at his heart, or rather even at his face, like the -meanest of his subjects, was to inflict a terrible blow upon the -pride of that generous nature. Louis was more easily captivated -by vanity than affection. Madame had wisely calculated her -vengeance, and it has been seen, also, in what manner she carried -it out. Let it not be supposed, however, that Madame possessed -such terrible passions as the heroines of the middle ages, or -that she regarded things from a pessimistic point of view; on the -contrary, Madame, young, amiable, of cultivated intellect, -coquettish, loving in her nature, but rather from fancy, or -imagination, or ambition, than from her heart - Madame, we say, -on the contrary, inaugurated that epoch of light and fleeting -amusements, which distinguished the hundred and twenty years that -intervened between the middle of the seventeenth century, and the -last quarter of the eighteenth. Madame saw, therefore, or rather -fancied she saw, things under their true aspect; she knew that -the king, her august brother-in-law, had been the first to -ridicule the humble La Vallière, and that, in accordance -with his usual custom, it was hardly probable he would ever love -the person who had excited his laughter, even had it been only -for a moment. Moreover, was not her vanity ever present, that -evil influence which plays so important a part in that comedy of -dramatic incidents called the life of a woman? Did not her -vanity tell her, aloud, in a subdued voice, in a whisper, in -every variety of tone, that she could not, in reality, she a -princess, young, beautiful, and rich, be compared to the poor La -Vallière, as youthful as herself it is true, but far less -pretty, certainly, and utterly without money, protectors, or -position? And surprise need not be excited with respect to -Madame; for it is known that the greatest characters are those -who flatter themselves the most in the comparisons they draw -between themselves and others, between others and themselves. It -may perhaps be asked what was Madame's motive for an attack so -skillfully conceived and executed. Why was there such a display -of forces, if it were not seriously her intention to dislodge the -king from a heart that had never been occupied before, in which -he seemed disposed to take refuge? Was there any necessity, -then, for Madame to attach so great an importance to La -Vallière, if she did not fear her? Yet Madame did not -fear La Vallière in that direction in which an historian, -who knows everything, sees into the future, or rather, the past. -Madame was neither a prophetess nor a sibyl; nor could she, any -more than another, read what was written in that terrible and -fatal book of the future, which records in its most secret pages -the most serious events. No, Madame desired simply to punish the -king for having availed himself of secret means altogether -feminine in their nature; she wished to prove to him that if he -made use of offensive weapons of that nature, she, a woman of -ready wit and high descent, would assuredly discover in the -arsenal of her imagination defensive weapons proof even against -the thrusts of a monarch. Moreover, she wished him to learn -that, in a war of that description, kings are held of no account, -or, at all events, that kings who fight on their own behalf, like -ordinary individuals, may witness the fall of their crown in the -first encounter; and that, in fact, if he had expected to be -adored by all the ladies of the court from the very first, from a -confident reliance on his mere appearance, it was a pretension -which was most preposterous and insulting even, for certain -persons who filled a higher position than others, and that a -lesson taught in season to this royal personage, who assumed too -high and haughty a carriage, would be rendering him a great -service. Such, indeed, were Madame's reflections with respect to -the king. The sequel itself was not thought of. And in this -manner, it will be seen that she had exercised all her influence -over the minds of her maids of honor, and with all its -accompanying details, had arranged the comedy which had just been -acted. The king was completely bewildered by it; for the first -time since he had escaped from the trammels of M. de Mazarin, he -found himself treated as a man. Similar severity from any of his -subjects would have been at once resisted by him. Strength comes -with battle. But to match one's self with women, to be attacked -by them, to have been imposed upon by mere girls from the -country, who had come from Blois expressly for that purpose; it -was the depth of dishonor for a young sovereign full of the pride -his personal advantages and royal power inspired him with. There -was nothing he could do - neither reproaches, nor exile - nor -could he even show the annoyance he felt. To manifest vexation -would have been to admit that he had been touched, like Hamlet, -by a sword from which the button had been removed - the sword of -ridicule. To show animosity against women - humiliation! -especially when the women in question have laughter on their -side, as a means of vengeance. If, instead of leaving all the -responsibility of the affair to these women, one of the courtiers -had had anything to do with the intrigue, how delightedly would -Louis have seized the opportunity of turning the Bastile to -personal account. But there, again, the king's anger paused, -checked by reason. To be the master of armies, of prisons, of an -almost divine authority, and to exert such majesty and might in -the service of a petty grudge, would be unworthy not only of a -monarch, but even of a man. It was necessary, therefore, simply -to swallow the affront in silence, and to wear his usual -gentleness and graciousness of expression. It was essential to -treat Madame as a friend. As a friend! - Well, and why not? -Either Madame had been the instigator of the affair, or the -affair itself had found her passive. If she had been the -instigator of it, it certainly was a bold measure on her part, -but, at all events, it was but natural in her. Who was it that -had sought her in the earliest moments of her married life to -whisper words of love in her ear? Who was it that had dared to -calculate the possibility of committing a crime against the -marriage vow - a crime, too, still more deplorable on account of -the relationship between them? Who was it that, shielded behind -his royal authority, had said to this young creature: be not -afraid, love but the king of France, who is above all, and a -movement of whose sceptered hand will protect you against all -attacks, even from your own remorse? And she had listened to and -obeyed the royal voice, had been influenced by his ensnaring -tones; and when, morally speaking, she had sacrificed her honor -in listening to him, she saw herself repaid for her sacrifice by -an infidelity the more humiliating, since it was occasioned by a -woman far beneath her in the world.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Had Madame, therefore, been -the instigator of the revenge, she would have been right. If, on -the contrary, she had remained passive in the whole affair, what -grounds had the king to be angry with her on that account? Was -it for her to restrain, or rather could she restrain, the -chattering of a few country girls? and was it for her, by an -excess of zeal that might have been misinterpreted, to check, at -the risk of increasing it, the impertinence of their conduct? -All these various reasonings were like so many actual stings to -the king's pride; but when he had carefully, in his own mind, -gone over all the various causes of complaint, Louis was -surprised, upon due reflection - in other words, after the wound -has been dressed - to find that there were other causes of -suffering, secret, unendurable, and unrevealed. There was one -circumstance he dared not confess, even to himself; namely, that -the acute pain from which he was suffering had its seat in his -heart. The fact is, he had permitted his heart to be gratified -by La Vallière's innocent confusion. He had dreamed of a -pure affection - of an affection for Louis the man, and not the -sovereign - of an affection free from all self-interest; and his -heart, simpler and more youthful than he had imagined it to be, -had to meet that other heart that had revealed itself to him by -its aspirations. The commonest thing in the complicated history -of love, is the double inoculation of love to which any two -hearts are subjected; the one loves nearly always before the -other, in the same way that the latter finishes nearly always by -loving after the other. In this way, the electric current is -established, in proportion to the intensity of the passion which -is first kindled. The more Mademoiselle de la Vallière -showed her affection, the more the king's affection had -increased. And it was precisely that which had annoyed his -majesty. For it was now fairly demonstrated to him, that no -sympathetic current had been the means of hurrying his heart away -in its course, because there had been no confession of love in -the case - because the confession was, in fact, an insult towards -the man and towards the sovereign; and finally, because - and the -word, too, burnt like a hot iron - because, in fact, it was -nothing but a mystification after all. This girl, therefore, -who, in strictness, could not lay claim to beauty, or birth, or -great intelligence - who had been selected by Madame herself, on -account of her unpretending position, had not only aroused the -king's regard, but had, moreover, treated him with disdain - he, -the king, a man who, like an eastern potentate, had but to bestow -a glance, to indicate with his finger, to throw his -handkerchief. And, since the previous evening, his mind had been -so absorbed with this girl that he could think and dream of -nothing else. Since the previous evening his imagination had -been occupied by clothing her image with charms to which she -could not lay claim. In very truth, he whom such vast interests -summoned, and whom so many women smiled upon invitingly, had, -since the previous evening, consecrated every moment of his time, -every throb of his heart, to this sole dream. It was, indeed, -either too much, or not sufficient. The indignation of the king, -making him forget everything, and, among others, that -Saint-Aignan was present, was poured out in the most violent -imprecations. True it is, that Saint-Aignan had taken refuge in -a corner of the room; and from his corner, regarded the tempest -passing over. His own personal disappointment seemed -contemptible, in comparison with the anger of the king. He -compared with his own petty vanity the prodigious pride of -offended majesty; and, being well read in the hearts of kings in -general, and in those of powerful kings in particular, he began -to ask himself if this weight of anger, as yet held in suspense, -would not soon terminate by falling upon his own head, for the -very reason that others were guilty, and he innocent. In point -of fact, the king, all at once, did arrest his hurried pace; and, -fixing a look full of anger upon Saint-Aignan, suddenly cried -out: "And you, Saint-Aignan?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Saint-Aignan made a sign -which was intended to signify, "Well, sire?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; you have been as silly -as myself, I think."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," stammered out -Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You permitted us to be -deceived by this shameless trick."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," said Saint-Aignan, -whose agitation was such as to make him tremble in every limb, -"let me entreat your majesty not to exasperate yourself. Women, -you know, are characters full of imperfections, created for the -misfortune of mankind: to expect anything good from them is to -require them to perform impossibilities."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, who had the -greatest consideration for himself, and who had begun to acquire -over his emotions that command which he preserved over them all -his life, perceived that he was doing an outrage to his own -dignity in displaying so much animosity about so trifling an -object. "No," he said, hastily; "you are mistaken, Saint-Aignan; -I am not angry; I can only wonder that we should have been turned -into ridicule so cleverly and with such audacity by these young -girls. I am particularly surprised that, although we might have -informed ourselves accurately on the subject, we were silly -enough to leave the matter for our own hearts to -decide."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The heart, sire, is an organ -which requires positively to be reduced to its material -functions, but which, for the sake of humanity's peace of mind, -should be deprived of all its metaphysical inclinations. For my -own part, I confess, when I saw that your majesty's heart was so -taken up by this little - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My heart taken up! I! My -mind might, perhaps, have been so; but as for my heart, it was - -" Louis again perceived that, in order to fill one gulf, he was -about to dig another. "Besides," he added, "I have no fault to -find with the girl. I was quite aware that she was in love with -some one else."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The Vicomte de Bragelonne. -I informed your majesty of the circumstance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You did so: but you were not -the first who told me. The Comte de la Fère had solicited -from me Mademoiselle de la Vallière's hand for his son. -And, on his return from England, the marriage shall be -celebrated, since they love each other."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I recognize your majesty's -great generosity of disposition in that act."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So, Saint-Aignan, we will -cease to occupy ourselves with these matters any longer," said -Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, we will digest the -affront, sire," replied the courtier, with -resignation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides, it will be an easy -matter to do so," said the king, checking a sigh.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And, by way of a beginning, -I will set about the composition of an epigram upon all three of -them. I will call it 'The Naiad and Dryad,' which will please -Madame."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do so, Saint-Aignan, do so," -said the king, indifferently. "You shall read me your verses; -they will amuse me. Ah! it does not signify, Saint-Aignan," -added the king, like a man breathing with difficulty, "the blow -requires more than human strength to support in a dignified -manner." As the king thus spoke, assuming an air of the most -angelic patience, one of the servants in attendance knocked -gently at the door. Saint-Aignan drew aside, out of -respect.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come in," said the king. -The servant partially opened the door. "What is it?" inquired -Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The servant held out a letter -of a triangular shape. "For your majesty," he said.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "From whom?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not know. One of the -officers on duty gave it to me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The valet, in obedience to a -gesture of the king, handed him the letter. The king advanced -towards the candles, opened the note, read the signature, and -uttered a loud cry. Saint-Aignan was sufficiently respectful not -to look on; but, without looking on, he saw and heard all, and -ran towards the king, who with a gesture dismissed the servant. -"Oh, heavens!" said the king, as he read the note.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is your majesty unwell?" -inquired Saint-Aignan, stretching forward his arms.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no, Saint-Aignan - -read!" and he handed him the note.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Saint-Aignan's eyes fell upon -the signature. "La Vallière!" he exclaimed. "Oh, -sire!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Read, -<i>read!</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And Saint-Aignan -read:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"Forgive my importunity, sire; -and forgive, also, the absence of the formalities which may be -wanting in this letter. A note seems to be more speedy and more -urgent than a dispatch. I venture, therefore, to address this -note to your majesty. I have retired to my own room, overcome -with grief and fatigue, sire; and I implore your majesty to grant -me the favor of an audience, which will enable me to confess the -<i>truth</i> to my sovereign.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'><span -style='font-size: 10.0pt;'>"LOUISE de la -VALLIÈRE."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'><span -style='font-size: 10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well?" asked the king, -taking the letter from Saint-Aignan's hands, who was completely -bewildered by what he had just read.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well!" repeated -Saint-Aignan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you think of -it?"<br> - "I hardly know."<br> - "Still, what is your opinion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, the young lady must -have heard the muttering of the thunder, and has got -frightened."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Frightened at what?" asked -Louis with dignity.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, your majesty has a -thousand reasons to be angry with the author or authors of so -hazardous a joke; and, if your majesty's memory were to be -awakened in a disagreeable sense, it would be a perpetual menace -hanging over the head of this imprudent girl."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Saint-Aignan, I do not think -as you do."<br> - "Your majesty doubtless sees more clearly than -myself."<br> - "Well! I see affliction and restraint in these -lines; more particularly since I recall some of the details of -the scene which took place this evening in Madame's apartments - -" The king suddenly stopped, leaving his meaning -unexpressed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In fact," resumed -Saint-Aignan, "your majesty will grant an audience; nothing is -clearer than that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will do better, -Saint-Aignan."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is that, -sire?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Put on your cloak."<br> - "But, sire - "<br> - "You know the suite of rooms where Madame's maids -of honor are lodged?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Certainly."<br> - "You know some means of obtaining an entrance -there."<br> - "As far as that is concerned, I do -not."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At all events, you must be -acquainted with some one there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, your majesty is the -source of every good idea."<br> - "You do know some one, then. Who is -it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know a certain gentleman, -who is on very good terms with a certain young lady -there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One of the maids of -honor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, sire."<br> - "With Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, I -suppose?" said the king, laughing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Fortunately, no, sire; with -Montalais."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is his name?"<br> - "Malicorne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you can depend on -him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe so, sire. He -ought to have a key of some sort in his possession; and if he -should happen to have one, as I have done him a service, why, he -will let us have it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing could be better. -Let us set off immediately."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king threw his cloak over -Saint-Aignan's shoulders, asked him for his, and both went out -into the vestibule.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LIX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Something That neither Naiad nor -Dryad Foresaw.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>S</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>aint-Aignan stopped at the foot of the -staircase leading to the <i>entresol</i>, where the maids of -honor were lodged, and to the first floor, where Madame's -apartments were situated. Then, by means of one of the servants -who was passing, he sent to apprise Malicorne, who was still with -Monsieur. After having waited ten minutes, Malicorne arrived, -full of self-importance. The king drew back towards the darkest -part of the vestibule. Saint-Aignan, on the contrary, advanced -to meet him, but at the first words, indicating his wish, -Malicorne drew back abruptly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" he said, "you want -me to introduce you into the rooms of the maids of -honor?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "You know very well that I cannot do anything of -the kind, without being made acquainted with your object."<br> - "Unfortunately, my dear Monsieur Malicorne, it is -quite impossible for me to give you any explanation; you must -therefore confide in me as in a friend who got you out of a great -difficulty yesterday, and who now begs you to draw him out of one -to-day."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet I told you, monsieur, -what my object was; which was, not to sleep out in the open air, -and any man might express the same wish, whilst you, however, -admit nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Believe me, my dear Monsieur -Malicorne," Saint-Aignan persisted, "that if I were permitted to -explain myself, I would do so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, my dear -monsieur, it is impossible for me to allow you to enter -Mademoiselle de Montalais's apartment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know why, better than -any one else, since you caught me on the wall paying my addresses -to Mademoiselle de Montalais; it would, therefore, be an excess -of kindness on my part, you will admit, since I am paying my -attentions to her, to open the door of her room to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But who told you it was on -her account I asked you for the key?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For whom, then?"<br> - "She does not lodge there alone, I -suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, certainly; for -Mademoiselle de la Vallière shares her rooms with her; -but, really, you have nothing more to do with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière than with Mademoiselle de Montalais, and there -are only two men to whom I would give this key; to M. de -Bragelonne, if he begged me to give it to him, and to the king, -if he commanded me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, give me the -key, monsieur: I order you to do so," said the king, advancing -from the obscurity, and partially opening his cloak. -"Mademoiselle de Montalais will step down to talk with you, while -we go up-stairs to Mademoiselle de la Vallière, for, in -fact, it is she only whom we desire to see."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!" exclaimed -Malicorne, bowing to the very ground.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, the king," said Louis, -smiling: "the king, who is as pleased with your resistance as -with your capitulation. Rise, monsieur, and render us the -service we request of you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I obey, your majesty," said -Malicorne, leading the way up the staircase.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Get Mademoiselle de -Montalais to come down," said the king, "and do not breathe a -word to her of my visit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Malicorne bowed in token of -obedience, and proceeded up the staircase. But the king, after a -hasty reflection, followed him, and that, too, with such -rapidity, that, although Malicorne was already more than half-way -up the staircase, the king reached the room at the same moment. -He then observed, by the door which remained half-opened behind -Malicorne, La Vallière, sitting in an armchair with her -head thrown back, and in the opposite corner Montalais, who, in -her dressing-gown, was standing before a looking-glass, engaged -in arranging her hair, and parleying the while with Malicorne. -The king hurriedly opened the door and entered the room. -Montalais called out at the noise made by the opening of the -door, and, recognizing the king, made her escape. La -Vallière rose from her seat, like a dead person -galvanized, and then fell back in her armchair. The king -advanced slowly towards her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You wished for an audience, -I believe," he said coldly. "I am ready to hear you. -Speak."<br> - Saint-Aignan, faithful to his character of being -deaf, blind, and dumb, had stationed himself in a corner of the -door, upon a stool which by chance he found there. Concealed by -the tapestry which covered the doorway, and leaning his back -against the wall, he could thus listen without being seen; -resigning himself to the post of a good watch-dog, who patiently -waits and watches without ever getting in his master's -way.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière, -terror-stricken at the king's irritated aspect, rose a second -time, and assuming a posture full of humility and entreaty, -murmured, "Forgive me, sire."<br> - "What need is there for my forgiveness?" asked -Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, I have been guilty of -a great fault; nay, more than a great fault, a great crime."<br> - "You?"<br> - "Sire, I have offended your majesty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not in the slightest degree -in the world," replied Louis XIV.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I implore you, sire, not to -maintain towards me that terrible seriousness of manner which -reveals your majesty's just anger. I feel I have offended you, -sire; but I wish to explain to you how it was that I have not -offended you of my own accord."<br> - "In the first place," said the king, "in what way -can you possibly have offended me? I cannot perceive how. -Surely not on account of a young girl's harmless and very -innocent jest? You turned the credulity of a young man into -ridicule - it was very natural to do so: any other woman in your -place would have done the same."<br> - "Oh! your majesty overwhelms me by your -remark."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because, if I had been the -author of the jest, it would not have been innocent."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, is that all you had to -say to me in soliciting an audience?" said the king, as though -about to turn away.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Thereupon La Vallière, -in an abrupt and a broken voice, her eyes dried up by the fire of -her tears, made a step towards the king, and said, "Did your -majesty hear everything?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Everything, -what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Everything I said beneath -the royal oak."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not lose a -syllable."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And now, after your majesty -really heard all, are you able to think I abused your -credibility?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Credulity; yes, indeed, you -have selected the very word."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And your majesty did not -suppose that a poor girl like myself might possibly be compelled -to submit to the will of others?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me," returned the -king; "but I shall never be able to understand that she, who of -her own free will could express herself so unreservedly beneath -the royal oak, would allow herself to be influenced to such an -extent by the direction of others."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But the threat held out -against me, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Threat! who threatened you - -who dared to threaten you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Those who have the right to -do so, sire."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not recognize any one -as possessing the right to threaten the humblest of my -subjects."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Forgive me, sire, but near -your majesty, even, there are persons sufficiently high in -position to have, or to believe that they possess, the right of -injuring a young girl, without fortune, and possessing only her -reputation."<br> - "In what way injure her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In depriving her of her -reputation, by disgracefully expelling her from the -court."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! Mademoiselle de la -Vallière," said the king bitterly, "I prefer those persons -who exculpate themselves without incriminating -others."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; and I confess that I -greatly regret to perceive, that an easy justification, as your -own would have been, is now complicated in my presence by a -tissue of reproaches and imputations against others."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And which you do not -believe?" exclaimed La Vallière. The king remained -silent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, but tell me!" repeated -La Vallière, vehemently.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I regret to confess it," -repeated the king, bowing coldly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The young girl uttered a deep -groan, striking her hands together in despair. "You do not -believe me, then," she said to the king, who still remained -silent, while poor La Vallière's features became visibly -changed at his continued silence. "Therefore, you believe," she -said, "that I pre-arranged this ridiculous, this infamous plot, -of trifling, in so shameless a manner, with your majesty."<br> - "Nay," said the king, "it was neither ridiculous -nor infamous; it was not even a plot; merely a jest, more or less -amusing, and nothing more."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" murmured the young -girl, "the king does not, and will not believe me, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, indeed, I will not -believe you," said the king. "Besides, in point of fact, what -can be more natural? The king, you argue, follows me, listens to -me, watches me; the king wishes perhaps to amuse himself at my -expense, I will amuse myself at his, and as the king is very -tender-hearted, I will take his heart by storm."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière hid her -face in her hands, as she stifled her sobs. The king continued -pitilessly; he was revenging himself upon the poor victim before -him for all he had himself suffered.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Let us invent, then, this -story of my loving him and preferring him to others. The king is -so simple and so conceited that he will believe me; and then we -can go and tell others how credulous the king is, and can enjoy a -laugh at his expense."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" exclaimed La -Vallière, "you think that, you believe that! - it is -frightful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And," pursued the king, -"that is not all; if this self-conceited prince take our jest -seriously, if he should be imprudent enough to exhibit before -others anything like delight at it, well, in that case, the king -will be humiliated before the whole court; and what a delightful -story it will be, too, for him to whom I am really attached, in -fact part of my dowry for my husband, to have the adventure to -relate of the monarch who was so amusingly deceived by a young -girl."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire!" exclaimed La -Vallière, her mind bewildered, almost wandering, indeed, -"not another word, I implore you; do you not see that you are -killing me?"<br> - "A jest, nothing but a jest," murmured the king, -who, however, began to be somewhat affected.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière fell upon -her knees, and that so violently, that the sound could be heard -upon the hard floor. "Sire," she said, "I prefer shame to -disloyalty."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What do you mean?" inquired -the king, without moving a step to raise the young girl from her -knees.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, when I shall have -sacrificed my honor and my reason both to you, you will perhaps -believe in my loyalty. The tale which was related to you in -Madame's apartments, and by Madame herself, is utterly false; and -that which I said beneath the great oak - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well!"<br> - "That is the only truth."<br> - "What!" exclaimed the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," exclaimed La -Vallière, hurried away by the violence of her emotions, -"were I to die of shame on the very spot where my knees are -fixed, I would repeat it until my latest breath; I said that I -loved you, and it is true; I do love you."<br> - "You!"<br> - "I have loved you, sire, from the very first day -I ever saw you; from the moment when at Blois, where I was pining -away my existence, your royal looks, full of light and life, were -first bent upon me. I love you still, sire; it is a crime of -high treason, I know, that a poor girl like myself should love -her sovereign, and should presume to tell him so. Punish me for -my audacity, despise me for my shameless immodesty; but do not -ever say, do not ever think, that I have jested with or deceived -you. I belong to a family whose loyalty has been proved, sire, -and I, too, love my king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Suddenly her strength, voice, -and respiration ceased, and she fell forward, like the flower -Virgil alludes to, which the scythe of the reaper severed in the -midst of the grass. The king, at these words, at this vehement -entreaty, no longer retained any ill-will or doubt in his mind: -his whole heart seemed to expand at the glowing breath of an -affection which proclaimed itself in such noble and courageous -language. When, therefore, he heard the passionate confession, -his strength seemed to fail him, and he hid his face in his -hands. But when he felt La Vallière's hands clinging to -his own, when their warm pressure fired his blood, he bent -forward, and passing his arm round La Vallière's waist, he -raised her from the ground and pressed her against his heart. -But she, her drooping head fallen forward on her bosom, seemed to -have ceased to live. The king, terrified, called out for -Saint-Aignan. Saint-Aignan, who had carried his discretion so -far as to remain without stirring in his corner, pretending to -wipe away a tear, ran forward at the king's summons. He then -assisted Louis to seat the young girl upon a couch, slapped her -hands, sprinkled some Hungary water over her face, calling out -all the while, "Come, come, it is all over; the king believes -you, and forgives you. There, there now! take care, or you will -agitate his majesty too much; his majesty is so sensitive, so -tender-hearted. Now, really, Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -you must pay attention, for the king is very pale."<br> - The fact was, the king was visibly losing color. -But La Vallière did not move.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do pray recover," continued -Saint-Aignan. "I beg, I implore you; it is really time you -should; think only of one thing, that if the king should become -unwell, I should be obliged to summon his physician. What a -state of things that would be! So do pray rouse yourself; make -an effort, pray do, and do so at once, my dear."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> It was difficult to display -more persuasive eloquence than Saint-Aignan did, but something -still more powerful, and of a more energetic nature than this -eloquence, aroused La Vallière. The king, who was -kneeling before her, covered the palms of her hands with those -burning kisses which are to the hands what a kiss upon the lips -is to the face. La Vallière's senses returned to her; she -languidly opened her eyes and, with a dying look, murmured, "Oh! -sire, has your majesty pardoned me, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king did not reply, for -he was still too much overcome. Saint-Aignan thought it was his -duty again to retire, for he observed the passionate devotion -which was displayed in the king's gaze. La Vallière -rose.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And now, sire, that I have -justified myself, at least I trust so, in your majesty's eyes, -grant me leave to retire into a convent. I shall bless your -majesty all my life, and I shall die thanking and loving Heaven -for having granted me one hour of perfect happiness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, no," replied the king, -"you will live here blessing Heaven, on the contrary, but loving -Louis, who will make your existence one of perfect felicity - -Louis who loves you - Louis who swears it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! sire, sire!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And upon this doubt of La -Vallière, the king's kisses became so warm that -Saint-Aignan thought it was his duty to retire behind the -tapestry. These kisses, however, which she had not the strength -at first to resist, began to intimidate the young -girl.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! sire," she exclaimed, -"do not make me repeat my loyalty, for this would show me that -your majesty despises me still."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Mademoiselle de la -Vallière," said the king, suddenly, drawing back with an -air full of respect, "there is nothing in the world that I love -and honor more than yourself, and nothing in my court, I call -Heaven to witness, shall be so highly regarded as you shall be -henceforward. I entreat your forgiveness for my transport; it -arose from an excess of affection, but I can prove to you that I -love you more than ever by respecting you as much as you can -possibly desire or deserve." Then, bending before her, and -taking her by the hand, he said to her, "Will you honor me by -accepting the kiss I press upon your hand?" And the king's lips -were pressed respectfully and lightly upon the young girl's -trembling hand. "Henceforth," added Louis, rising and bending -his glance upon La Vallière, "henceforth you are under my -safeguard. Do not speak to any one of the injury I have done -you, forgive others that which they may have attempted. For the -future, you shall be so far above all those, that, far from -inspiring you with fear, they shall be even beneath your pity." -And he bowed as reverently as though he were leaving a place of -worship. Then calling to Saint-Aignan, who approached with great -humility, he said, "I hope, comte, that Mademoiselle de la -Vallière will kindly confer a little of her friendship -upon you, in return for that which I have vowed to her -eternally."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Saint-Aignan bent his knee -before La Vallière, saying, "How happy, indeed, would such -an honor make me!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will send your companion -back to you," said the king. "Farewell! or, rather, adieu till -we meet again; do not forget me in your prayers, I -entreat."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" cried La -Vallière, "be assured that you and Heaven are in my heart -together."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> These words of Louise elated -the king, who, full of happiness, hurried Saint-Aignan down the -stairs. Madame had not anticipated this -<i>dénouement;</i> and neither the Naiad nor the Dryad had -breathed a word about it.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LX:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The New General of the -Jesuits.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>W</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>hile La Vallière and the king were -mingling, in their first confession of love, all the bitterness -of the past, the happiness of the present, and hopes of the -future, Fouquet had retired to the apartments which had been -assigned to him in the château, and was conversing with -Aramis precisely upon the very subjects which the king at that -moment was forgetting.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now tell me," said Fouquet, -after having installed his guest in an armchair and seated -himself by his side, "tell me, Monsieur d'Herblay, what is our -position with regard to the Belle-Isle affair, and whether you -have received any news about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Everything is going on in -that direction as we wish," replied Aramis; "the expenses have -been paid, and nothing has transpired of our designs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But what about the soldiers -the king wished to send there?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have received news this -morning they arrived there fifteen days ago."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And how have they been -treated?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the best manner -possible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What has become of the -former garrison?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The soldiers were landed at -Sarzeau, and then transferred immediately to Quimper."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the new -garrison?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Belongs to us from this very -moment."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Are you sure of what you -say, my dear Monsieur de Vannes?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite sure, and, moreover, -you will see by and by how matters have turned out."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Still you are very well -aware, that, of all the garrison towns, Belle-Isle is precisely -the very worst."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know it, and have acted -accordingly; no space to move about, no gayety, no cheerful -society, no gambling permitted: well, it is a great pity," added -Aramis, with one of those smiles so peculiar to him, "to see how -much young people at the present day seek amusement, and how -much, consequently, they incline to the man who procures and pays -for their favorite pastimes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But if they amuse themselves -at Bell-Isle?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If they amuse themselves -through the king's means, they will attach themselves to the -king; but if they get bored to death through the king's means, -and amuse themselves through M. Fouquet, they will attach -themselves to M. Fouquet."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you informed my -intendant, of course? - so that immediately on their arrival - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By no means; they were left -alone a whole week, to weary themselves at their ease; but, at -the end of the week, they cried out, saying that former officers -amused themselves much better. Whereupon they were told that the -old officers had been able to make a friend of M. Fouquet, and -that M. Fouquet, knowing them to be friends of his, had from that -moment done all he possibly could to prevent their getting -wearied or bored upon his estates. Upon this they began to -reflect. Immediately afterwards, however, the intendant added, -that without anticipating M. Fouquet's orders, he knew his master -sufficiently well to be aware that he took an interest in every -gentleman in the king's service, and that, although he did not -know the new-comers, he would do as much for them as he had done -for the others."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Excellent! and I trust that -the promises were followed up; I desire, as you know, that no -promise should ever be made in my name without being -kept."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Without a moment's loss of -time, our two privateers, and your own horses, were placed at the -disposal of the officers; the keys of the principal mansion were -handed over to them, so that they made up hunting-parties, and -walking excursions with such ladies as are to be found in -Belle-Isle; and such other as they are enabled to enlist from the -neighborhood, who have no fear of sea-sickness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And there is a fair -sprinkling to be met with at Sarzeau and Vannes, I believe, your -eminence?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; in fact all along the -coast," said Aramis, quietly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And now, how about the -soldiers?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Everything precisely the -same, in a relative degree, you understand; the soldiers have -plenty of wine, excellent provisions, and good pay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good; so that - -"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "So that this garrison can be -depended upon, and it is a better one than the last."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The result is, if Fortune -favors us, so that the garrisons are changed in this manner, only -every two months, that, at the end of every three years, the -whole army will, in its turn, have been there; and, therefore, -instead of having one regiment in our favor, we shall have fifty -thousand men."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, yes; I knew perfectly -well," said Fouquet, "that no friend could be more incomparable -and invaluable than yourself, my dear Monsieur d'Herblay; but," -he added, laughing, "all this time we are forgetting our friend, -Du Vallon; what has become of him? During the three days I spent -at Saint-Mandé, I confess I have forgotten him -completely."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not forget him, -however," returned Aramis. "Porthos is at Saint-Mandé; -his joints are kept well greased, the greatest care is being -taken care of him with regard to the food he eats, and the wines -he drinks; I advise him to take daily airings in the small park, -which you have kept for your own use, and he makes us of it -accordingly. He begins to walk again, he exercises his muscular -powers by bending down young elm-trees, or making the old oaks -fly into splinters, as Milo of Crotona used to do; and, as there -are no lions in the park, it is not unlikely we shall find him -alive. Porthos is a brave fellow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but in the mean time he -will get bored to death."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, no; he never does -that."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will be asking -questions?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He sees no one."<br> - "At all events, he is looking or hoping for -something or another."<br> - "I have inspired in him a hope which we will -realize some fine morning, and on that he subsists."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That of being presented to -the king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! in what -character?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "As the engineer of -Belle-Isle, of course."<br> - "Is it possible?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite true."<br> - "Shall we not be obliged, then, to send him back -to Belle-Isle?"<br> - "Most certainly; I am even thinking of sending -him as soon as possible. Porthos is very fond of display; he is -man whose weakness D'Artagnan, Athos, and myself are alone -acquainted with; he never commits himself in any way; he is -dignity himself; to the officers there, he would seem like a -Paladin of the time of the Crusades. He would make the whole -staff drunk, without getting tipsy in the least himself, and -every one will regard him with admiration and sympathy; if, -therefore, it should happen that we have any orders requiring to -be carried out, Porthos is an incarnation of the order itself, -and whatever he chose to do others would find themselves obliged -to submit to."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Send him back, -then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is what I intend to do; -but only in a few days; for I must not omit to tell you one -thing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I begin to mistrust -D'Artagnan. He is not at Fontainebleau, as you may have noticed, -and D'Artagnan is never absent, or apparently idle, without some -object in view. And now that my own affairs are settled, I am -going to try and ascertain what the affairs are in which -D'Artagnan is engaged."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your own affairs are -settled, you say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "You are very fortunate in that case, then, and I -should like to be able to say the same."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I hope you do not make -yourself uneasy."<br> - "Hum!"<br> - "Nothing could be better than the king's -reception of you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "True."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And Colbert leaves you in -peace."<br> - "Nearly so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case," said Aramis, -with that connection of ideas which marked him, "in that case, -then, we can bestow a thought upon the young girl I was speaking -to you about yesterday."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whom do you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What, have you forgotten -already? I mean La Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah! of course, of -course."<br> - "Do you object, then, to try and make a conquest -of her?"<br> - "In one respect only; my heart is engaged in -another direction, and I positively do not care about the girl in -the least."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" said Aramis, "your -heart is engaged, you say. The deuce! we must take care of -that."<br> - "Why?"<br> - "Because it is terrible to have the heart -occupied, when others, besides yourself, have so much need of the -head."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are right. So you see, -at your first summons, I left everything. But to return to this -girl. What good do you see in my troubling myself about -her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "This. - The king, it is -said, has taken a fancy to her; at least, so it is supposed."<br> - "But you, who know everything, know very -differently."<br> - "I know that the king is greatly and suddenly -changed; that the day before yesterday he was crazy over Madame; -that a few days ago, Monsieur complained of it, even to the -queen-mother; and that some conjugal misunderstandings and -maternal scoldings were the consequence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How do you know all -that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do know it; at all events, -since these misunderstandings and scoldings, the king has not -addressed a word, has not paid the slightest attention, to her -royal highness."<br> - "Well, what next?"<br> - "Since then, he has been taken up with -Mademoiselle de la Vallière. Now, Mademoiselle de la -Vallière is one of Madame's maids of honor. You happen to -know, I suppose, what is called a <i>chaperon</i> in matters of -love. Well, then, Mademoiselle de la Vallière is Madame's -<i>chaperon</i>. It is for you to take advantage of this state -of things. You have no occasion for me to tell you that. But, -at all events, wounded vanity will render the conquest an easier -one; the girl will get hold of the king, and Madame's secret, and -you can scarcely predict what a man of intelligence can do with a -secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But how to get at -her?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, you, of all men, to ask -me such a question!" said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very true. I shall not have -any time to take any notice of her."<br> - "She is poor and unassuming, you will create a -position for her, and whether she tames the king as his lady -confessor, or his sweetheart, you will have enlisted a new and -valuable ally."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good," said Fouquet. -"What is to be done, then, with regard to this girl?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whenever you have taken a -fancy to any lady, Monsieur Fouquet, what course have you -generally pursued?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have written to her, -protesting my devotion to her. I have added, how happy I should -be to render her any service in my power, and have signed -'Fouquet,' at the end of the letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And has any one offered -resistance?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One person only," replied -Fouquet. "But, four days ago, she yielded, as the others had -done."<br> - "Will you take the trouble to write?" said -Aramis, holding a pen towards him, which Fouquet took, -saying:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will write at your -dictation. My head is so taken up in another direction, that I -should not be able to write a couple lines."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said Aramis, -"write."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And he dictated, as follows: -"Mademoiselle - I have seen you - and you will not be surprised -to learn, I think you very beautiful. But, for want of the -position you merit at court, your presence there is a waste of -time. The devotion of a man of honor, should ambition of any -kind inspire you, might possibly serve as a means of display for -your talent and beauty. I place my devotion at your feet; but, -as an affection, however reserved and unpresuming it may be, -might possibly compromise the object of its worship, it would ill -become a person of your merit running the risk of being -compromised, without her future being assured. If you would -deign to accept, and reply to my affection, my affection shall -prove its gratitude to you in making you free and independent -forever."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Having finished writing, -Fouquet looked at Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sign it," said the -latter.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it absolutely -necessary?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your signature at the foot -of that letter is worth a million; you forget that." Fouquet -signed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now, by whom do you intend -to send this letter?" asked Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By an excellent servant of -mine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Can you rely on him?"<br> - "He is a man who has been with me all my -life."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well. Besides, in this -case, we are not playing for very heavy stakes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How so? For if what you say -be true of the accommodating disposition of this girl for the -king and Madame, the king will give her all the money she can ask -for."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king has money, then?" -asked Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I suppose so, for he has not -asked me for any more."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be easy, he will ask for -some, soon."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nay, more than that, I had -thought he would have spoken to me about the <i>fête</i> at -Vaux, but he never said a word about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He will be sure to do so, -though."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You must think the king's -disposition a very cruel one, Monsieur d'Herblay."<br> - "It is not he who is so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He is young, and therefore -his disposition is a kind one."<br> - "He is young, and either he is weak, or his -passions are strong; and Monsieur Colbert holds his weakness and -his passions in his villainous grasp."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You admit that you fear -him?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not deny it."<br> - "I that case I am lost."<br> - "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My only influence with the -king has been through the money I commanded, and now I am a -ruined man."<br> - "Not so."<br> - "What do you mean by 'not so?' Do you know my -affairs better than myself?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is not unlikely."<br> - "If he were to request this <i>fête</i> to -be given?"<br> - "You would give it, of course."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But where is the money to -come from?"<br> - "Have you ever been in want of any?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! if you only knew at what -a cost I procured the last supply."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The next shall cost you -nothing."<br> - "But who will give it me?"<br> - "I will."<br> - "What, give me six millions?"<br> - "Ten, if necessary."<br> - "Upon my word, D'Herblay," said Fouquet, "your -confidence alarms me more than the king's displeasure. Who can -you possibly be, after all?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You know me well enough, I -should think."<br> - "Of course; but what is it you are aiming -at?"<br> - "I wish to see upon the throne of France a king -devoted to Monsieur Fouquet, and I wish Monsieur Fouquet to be -devoted to me."<br> - "Oh!" exclaimed Fouquet, pressing his hand, - "as -for being devoted to you, I am yours, entirely; but believe me, -my dear D'Herblay, you are deceiving yourself."<br> - "In what respect?"<br> - "The king will never become devoted to -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not remember to have -said that King Louis would ever become devoted to you."<br> - "Why, on the contrary, you have this moment said -so."<br> - "I did not say <i>the</i> king; I said <i>a</i> -king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it not all the -same?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, on the contrary, it is -altogether different."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I do not understand -you."<br> - "You will do so, shortly, then; suppose, for -instance, the king in question were to be a very different person -to Louis XIV."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Another person."<br> - "Yes, who is indebted for everything to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Impossible."<br> - "His very throne, even."<br> - "You are mad, D'Herblay. There is no man living -besides Louis XIV. who can sit on the throne of France. I know -of none, not one."<br> - "<i>But</i> I know one."<br> - "Unless it be Monsieur," said Fouquet, looking at -Aramis uneasily; "yet Monsieur - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is <i>not</i> -Monsieur."<br> - "But how can it be, that a prince not of the -royal line, that a prince without any right - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My king, or rather your -king, will be everything that is necessary, be assured of -that."<br> - "Be careful, Monsieur d'Herblay, you make my -blood run cold, and my head swim."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis smiled. "There is but -little occasion for that," he replied.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Again, I repeat, you terrify -me," said Fouquet. Aramis smiled.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You laugh," said -Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The day will come when you -will laugh too; only at the present moment I must laugh -alone."<br> - "But explain yourself."<br> - "When the proper time comes, I will explain all. -Fear nothing. Have faith in me, and doubt nothing."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The fact is, I cannot but -doubt, because I do not see clearly, or even at all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is because of your -blindness; but a day will come when you will be -enlightened."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Fouquet, "how -willingly would I believe."<br> - "You, without belief! you, who, through my means, -have ten times crossed the abyss yawning at your feet, and in -which, had you been alone, you would have been irretrievably -swallowed; you, without belief; you, who from procureur-general -attained the rank of intendant, from the rank of intendant, that -of the first minister of the crown, and who from the rank of -first minister will pass to that of mayor of the palace. But -no," he said, with the same unaltered smile, "no, no, you cannot -see, and consequently cannot believe - what I tell you." And -Aramis rose to withdraw.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One word more," said -Fouquet; "you have never yet spoken to me in this manner, you -have never yet shown yourself so confident, I should rather say -so daring."<br> - "Because it is necessary, in order to speak -confidently, to have the lips unfettered."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And that is now your -case?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since a very short time, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Since yesterday, only."<br> - "Oh! Monsieur d'Herblay, take care, your -confidence is becoming audacity."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "One can well be audacious -when one is powerful."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you are -powerful?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have already offered you -ten millions; I repeat the offer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet rose, profoundly -agitated.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Come," he said, "come; you -spoke of overthrowing kings and replacing them by others. If, -indeed, I am not really out of my senses, is or is not that what -you said just now?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are by no means out of -your senses, for it is perfectly true I did say all that just -now."<br> - "And why did you say so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because it is easy to speak -in this manner of thrones being cast down, and kings being raised -up, when one is, one's self, far above all kings and thrones, of -this world at least."<br> - "Your power is infinite, then?" cried -Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have told you so already, -and I repeat it," replied Aramis, with glistening eyes and -trembling lips.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet threw himself back in -his chair, and buried his face in his hands. Aramis looked at -him for a moment, as the angel of human destinies might have -looked upon a simple mortal.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Adieu," he said to him, -"sleep undisturbed, and send your letter to La Vallière. -To-morrow we shall see each other again."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, to-morrow," said -Fouquet, shaking his hands like a man returning to his senses. -"But where shall we see each other?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At the king's promenade, if -you like."<br> - "Agreed." And they separated.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LXI:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Storm.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>he dawn of the following day was dark and -gloomy, and as every one knew that the promenade was down in the -royal programme, every one's gaze, as his eyes were opened, was -directed towards the sky. Just above the tops of the trees a -thick, suffocating vapor seemed to remain suspended, with barely -sufficient power to rise thirty feet above the ground under the -influence of the sun's rays, which was scarcely visible as a -faint spot of lesser darkness through the veil of heavy mist. No -dew had fallen in the morning; the turf was dried up for want of -moisture, the flowers withered. The birds sang less inspiringly -than usual upon the boughs, which remained motionless as the -limbs of corpses. The strange confused and animated murmurs, -which seemed born and to exist in virtue of the sun, that -respiration of nature which is unceasingly heard amidst all other -sounds, could not be heard now, and never had the silence been so -profound.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king had noticed the -cheerless aspect of the heavens as he approached the window -immediately upon rising. But as all the necessary directions had -been given respecting the promenade, and every preparation had -been made accordingly, and as, which was far more imperious than -anything else, Louis relied upon this promenade to satisfy the -cravings of his imagination, and we will even already say, the -clamorous desires of his heart - the king unhesitatingly decided -that the appearance of the heavens had nothing whatever to do -with the matter; that the promenade was arranged, and that, -whatever the state of the weather, the promenade should take -place. Besides, there are certain terrestrial sovereigns who -seem to have accorded them privileged existences, and there are -certain times when it might almost be supposed that the expressed -wish of an earthly monarch has its influence over the Divine -will. It was Virgil who observed of Augustus: <i>Nocte pluit -tota redeunt spectacula mâne.</i> -<b><sup>10</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Louis attended mass as usual, but it was -evident that his attention was somewhat distracted from the -presence of the Creator by the remembrance of the creature. His -mind was occupied during the service in reckoning more than once -the number of minutes, then of seconds, which separated him from -the blissful moment when the promenade would begin, that is to -say, the moment when Madame would set out with her maids of -honor. Besides, as a matter of course, everybody at the -château was ignorant of the interview which had taken place -between La Vallière and the king. Montalais, perhaps, -with her usual chattering propensity, might have been disposed to -talk about it; but Montalais on this occasion was held in check -by Malicorne, who had securely fastened on her pretty lips the -golden padlock of mutual interest. As for Louis XIV., his -happiness was so extreme that he had forgiven Madame, or nearly -so, her little piece of malice of the previous evening. In fact, -he had occasion to congratulate himself rather than to complain -of it. Had it not been for her ill-natured action, he would not -have received the letter from La Vallière; had it not been -for the letter, he would have had no interview; and had it not -been for the interview he would have remained undecided. His -heart was filled with too much happiness for any ill-feeling to -remain in it, at that moment at least. Instead, therefore, of -knitting his brows into a frown when he perceived his -sister-in-law, Louis resolved to receive her in a more friendly -and gracious manner than usual. But on one condition only, that -she would be ready to set out early. Such was the nature of -Louis's thoughts during mass; which made him, during the -ceremony, forget matters which, in his character of Most -Christian King and of the eldest son of the Church, ought to have -occupied his attention. He returned to the château, and as -the promenade was fixed for midday, and it was at present just -ten o'clock, he set to work desperately with Colbert and Lyonne. -But even while he worked Louis went from the table to the window, -inasmuch as the window looked out upon Madame's pavilion: he -could see M. Fouquet in the courtyard, to whom the courtiers, -since the favor shown towards him on the previous evening, paid -greater attention than ever. The king, instinctively, on -noticing Fouquet, turned towards Colbert, who was smiling, and -seemed full of benevolence and delight, a state of feeling which -had arisen from the very moment one of his secretaries had -entered and handed him a pocket-book, which he had put unopened -into his pocket. But, as there was always something sinister at -the bottom of any delight expressed by Colbert, Louis preferred, -of the smiles of the two men, that of Fouquet. He beckoned to -the superintendent to come up, and turning towards Lyonne and -Colbert, he said: - "Finish this matter, place it on my desk, and -I will read it at my leisure." And he left the room. At the -sign the king had made to him, Fouquet had hastened up the -staircase, while Aramis, who was with the superintendent, quietly -retired among the group of courtiers and disappeared without -having been even observed by the king. The king and Fouquet met -at the top of the staircase.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," said Fouquet, -remarking the gracious manner in which Louis was about to receive -him, "your majesty has overwhelmed me with kindness during the -last few days. It is not a youthful monarch, but a being of -higher order, who reigns over France, one whom pleasure, -happiness, and love acknowledge as their master." The king -colored. The compliment, although flattering, was not the less -somewhat pointed. Louis conducted Fouquet to a small room that -divided his study from his sleeping-apartment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know why I summoned -you?" said the king as he seated himself upon the edge of the -window, so as not to lose anything that might be passing in the -gardens which fronted the opposite entrance to Madame's -pavilion.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, sire," replied Fouquet, -"but I am sure for something agreeable, if I am to judge from -your majesty's gracious smile."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are mistaken, then."<br> - "I, sire?"<br> - "For I summoned you, on the contrary, to pick a -quarrel with you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With me, sire?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes: and that a serious -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty alarms me - and -yet I was most confident in your justice and -goodness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do you know I am told, -Monsieur Fouquet, that you are preparing a grand -<i>fête</i> at Vaux."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet smiled, as a sick man -would do at the first shiver of a fever which has left him but -returns again.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And that you have not -invited me!" continued the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," replied Fouquet, "I -have not even thought of the <i>fête</i> you speak of, and -it was only yesterday evening that one of my <i>friends</i>," -Fouquet laid a stress upon the word, "was kind enough to make me -think of it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yet I saw you yesterday -evening, Monsieur Fouquet, and you said nothing to me about -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How dared I hope that your -majesty would so greatly descend from your own exalted station as -to honor my dwelling with your royal presence?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Excuse me, Monsieur Fouquet, -you did not speak to me about your <i>fête</i>."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I did not allude to the -<i>fête</i> to your majesty, I repeat, in the first place, -because nothing had been decided with regard to it, and, -secondly, because I feared a refusal."<br> - "And something made you fear a refusal, Monsieur -Fouquet? You see I am determined to push you hard."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The profound wish I had that -your majesty should accept my invitation - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, Monsieur Fouquet, -nothing is easier, I perceive, than our coming to an -understanding. Your wish is to invite me to your -<i>fête</i>, my own is to be present at it; invite me and I -will go."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Is it possible that your -majesty will deign to accept?" murmured the -superintendent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why, really, monsieur," said -the king, laughing, "I think I do more than accept; I rather -fancy I am inviting myself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Your majesty overwhelms me -with honor and delight," exclaimed Fouquet, "but I shall be -obliged to repeat what M. Vieuville said to your ancestor, Henry -IV., <i>Domine non sum dignus.</i>" -<b><sup>11</sup></b></span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To which I reply, Monsieur -Fouquet, that if you give a <i>fête</i>, I will go, whether -I am invited or not."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I thank your majesty -deeply," said Fouquet, as he raised his head beneath this favor, -which he was convinced would be his ruin.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But how could your majesty -have been informed of it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "By a public rumor, Monsieur -Fouquet, which says such wonderful things of yourself and the -marvels of your house. Would you become proud, Monsieur Fouquet, -if the king were to be jealous of you?"<br> - "I should be the happiest man in the world, sire, -since the very day on which your majesty were to be jealous of -Vaux, I should possess something worthy of being offered to -you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, Monsieur Fouquet, -prepare your <i>fête</i>, and open the door of your house -as wide as possible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is for your majesty to -fix the day."<br> - "This day month, then."<br> - "Has your majesty any further commands?"<br> - "Nothing, Monsieur Fouquet, except from the -present moment until then to have you near me as much as -possible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have the honor to form one -of your majesty's party for the promenade."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very good; indeed, I am now -setting out; for there are the ladies, I see, who are going to -start."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> With this remark, the king, -with all the eagerness, not only of a young man, but of a young -man in love, withdrew from the window, in order to take his -gloves and cane, which his valet held ready for him. The -neighing of the horses and the crunching of the wheels on the -gravel of the courtyard could be distinctly heard. The king -descended the stairs, and at the moment he appeared upon the -flight of steps, every one stopped. The king walked straight up -to the young queen. The queen-mother, who was still suffering -more than ever from the illness with which she was afflicted, did -not wish to go out. Maria Theresa accompanied Madame in her -carriage, and asked the king in what direction he wished the -promenade to drive. The king, who had just seen La -Vallière, still pale from the event of the previous -evening, get into a carriage with three of her companions, told -the queen that he had no preference, and wherever she would like -to go, there would he be with her. The queen then desired that -the outriders should proceed in the direction of Apremont. The -outriders set off accordingly before the others. The king rode -on horseback, and for a few minutes accompanied the carriage of -the queen and Madame. The weather had cleared up a little, but a -kind of veil of dust, like a thick gauze, was still spread over -the surface of the heavens, and the sun made every atom glisten -within the circuit of its rays. The heat was stifling; but, as -the king did not seem to pay any attention to the appearance of -the heavens, no one made himself uneasy about it, and the -promenade, in obedience to the orders given by the queen, took -its course in the direction of Apremont. The courtiers who -followed were in the very highest spirits; it was evident that -every one tried to forget, and to make others forget, the bitter -discussions of the previous evening. Madame, particularly, was -delightful. In fact, seeing the king at the door of her -carriage, as she did not suppose he would be there for the -queen's sake, she hoped that her prince had returned to her. -Hardly, however, had they proceeded a quarter of a mile on the -road, when the king, with a gracious smile, saluted them and drew -up his horse, leaving the queen's carriage to pass on, then that -of the principal ladies of honor, and then all the others in -succession, who, seeing the king stop, wished in their turn to -stop too; but the king made a sign to them to continue their -progress. When La Vallière's carriage passed, the king -approached it, saluted the ladies who were inside, and was -preparing to accompany the carriage containing the maids of -honor, in the same way he had followed that in which Madame was, -when suddenly the whole file of carriages stopped. It was -probable that Madame, uneasy at the king having left her, had -just given directions for the performance of this maneuver, the -direction in which the promenade was to take place having been -left to her. The king, having sent to inquire what her object -was in stopping the cavalcade, was informed in reply, that she -wished to walk. She most likely hoped that the king, who was -following the carriages of the maids of honor on horseback, would -not venture to follow the maids of honor themselves on foot. -They had arrived in the middle of the forest.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The promenade, in fact, was -not ill-timed, especially for those who were dreamers or lovers. -From the little open space where the halt had taken place, three -beautiful long walks, shady and undulating, stretched out before -them. These walks were covered with moss or with leaves that -formed a carpet from the loom of nature; and each walk had its -horizon in the distance, consisting of about a hand-breadth of -sky, apparent through the interlacing of the branches of the -trees. At the end of almost every walk, evidently in great -tribulation and uneasiness, the startled deer were seen hurrying -to and fro, first stopping for a moment in the middle of the -path, and then raising their heads they fled with the speed of an -arrow or bounded into the depths of the forest, where they -disappeared from view; now and then a rabbit, of philosophical -mien, might be noticed quietly sitting upright, rubbing his -muzzle with his fore paws, and looking about inquiringly, as -though wondering whether all these people, who were approaching -in his direction, and who had just disturbed him in his -meditations and his meal, were not followed by their dogs, or had -not their guns under their arms. All alighted from their -carriages as soon as they observed that the queen was doing so. -Maria Theresa took the arm of one of her ladies of honor, and, -with a side glance towards the king, who did not perceive that he -was in the slightest degree the object of the queen's attention, -entered the forest by the first path before her. Two of the -outriders preceded her majesty with long poles, which they used -for the purpose of putting the branches of the trees aside, or -removing the bushes that might impede her progress. As soon as -Madame alighted, she found the Comte de Guiche at her side, who -bowed and placed himself at her disposal. Monsieur, delighted -with his bath of the two previous days, had announced his -preference for the river, and, having given De Guiche leave of -absence, remained at the château with the Chevalier de -Lorraine and Manicamp. He was not in the slightest degree -jealous. He had been looked for to no purpose among those -present; but as Monsieur was a man who thought a great deal of -himself, and usually added very little to the general pleasure, -his absence was rather a subject of satisfaction than regret. -Every one had followed the example which the queen and Madame had -set, doing just as they pleased, according as chance or fancy -influenced them. The king, we have already observed, remained -near La Vallière, and, throwing himself off his horse at -the moment the door of her carriage was opened, he offered her -his hand to alight. Montalais and Tonnay-Charente immediately -drew back and kept at a distance; the former from calculated, the -latter from natural motives. There was this difference, however, -between the two, that the one had withdrawn from a wish to please -the king, the other for a very opposite reason. During the last -half-hour the weather also had undergone a change; the veil which -had been spread over the sky, as if driven by a blast of heated -air, had become massed together in the western part of the -heavens; and afterwards, as if driven by a current of air from -the opposite direction, was now advancing slowly and heavily -towards them. The approach of the storm could be felt, but as -the king did not perceive it, no one thought it proper to do so. -The promenade was therefore continued; some of the company, with -minds ill at ease on the subject, raised their eyes from time to -time towards the sky; others, even more timid still, walked about -without wandering too far from the carriages, where they relied -upon taking shelter in case the storm burst. The greater number -of these, however, observing that the king fearlessly entered the -wood with La Vallière, followed his majesty. The king, -noticing this, took La Vallière's hand, and led her to a -lateral forest-alley; where no one this time ventured to follow -him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LXII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Shower of Rain.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:20.0pt; font-family:Black-Chance'> A</span><span -style='font-size:10.0pt;'>t this moment, and in the same -direction, too, that the king and La Vallière had taken, -except that they were in the wood itself instead of following the -path, two men were walking together, utterly indifferent to the -appearance of the heavens. Their heads were bent down in the -manner of people occupied with matters of great moment. They had -not observed either De Guiche or Madame, the king or La -Vallière. Suddenly something fell through the air like a -colossal sheet of flame, followed by a loud but distant rumbling -noise.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah!" said one of them, -raising his head, "here comes the storm. Let us reach our -carriages, my dear D'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis looked inquiringly at -the heavens. "There is no occasion to hurry yet," he said; and -then resuming the conversation where it had doubtless been -interrupted, he said, "You were observing that the letter we -wrote last evening must by this time have reached its -destination?"<br> - "I was saying that she certainly has -it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Whom did you send it -by?"<br> - "By my own servant, as I have already told -you."<br> - "Did he bring back an answer?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have not seen him since; -the young girl was probably in attendance on Madame, or was in -her own room dressing, and he may have had to wait. Our time for -leaving arrived, and we set off, of course; I cannot, therefore, -know what is going on yonder."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Did you see the king before -leaving?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."<br> - "How did he seem?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing could have passed -off better, or worse; according as he be sincere or -hypocritical."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And the -<i>fête?</i>"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Will take place in a -month."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "He invited himself, you -say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With a pertinacity in which -I detected Colbert's influence. But has not last night removed -your illusions?"<br> - "What illusions?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "With respect to the -assistance you may be able to give me under these -circumstances."<br> - "No; I have passed the night writing, and all my -orders are given."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Do not conceal it from -yourself, D'Herblay, but the <i>fête</i> will cost some -millions."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will supply six; do you on -your side get two or three."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are a wonderful man, my -dear D'Herblay."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis smiled.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," inquired Fouquet, with -some remaining uneasiness, "how is it that while you are now -squandering millions in this manner, a few days ago you did not -pay the fifty thousand francs to Baisemeaux out of your own -pocket?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Because a few days ago I was -as poor as Job."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And to-day?"<br> - "To-day I am wealthier than the king -himself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well," said Fouquet; "I -understand men pretty well; I know you are incapable of -forfeiting your word; I do not wish to wrest your secret from -you, and so let us talk no more about it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At this moment a dull, heavy -rumbling was heard, which suddenly developed into a violent clap -of thunder.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" said Fouquet, "I -was quite right in what I said."<br> - "Come," said Aramis, "let us rejoin the -carriages."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We shall not have time," -said Fouquet," for here comes the rain."<br> - In fact, as he spoke, and as if the heavens were -opened, a shower of large drops of rain was suddenly heard -pattering on the leaves about them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We shall have time," said -Aramis, "to reach the carriages before the foliage becomes -saturated."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It will be better," said -Fouquet, "to take shelter somewhere - in a grotto, for -instance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, but where are we to -find a grotto?" inquired Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I know one," said Fouquet, -smiling, "not ten paces from here." Then looking round him, he -added: "Yes, we are quite right."<br> - "You are very fortunate to have so good a -memory," said Aramis, smiling in his turn, "but are you not -afraid that your coachman, finding we do not return, will suppose -we have taken another road back, and that he will not follow the -carriages belonging to the court?"<br> - "Oh, there is no fear of that," said Fouquet; -"whenever I place my coachman and my carriage in any particular -spot, nothing but an express order from the king could stir them; -and more than that, too, it seems that we are not the only ones -who have come so far, for I hear footsteps and the sound of -voices."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> As he spoke, Fouquet turned -round, and opened with his cane a mass of foliage which hid the -path from his view. Aramis's glance as well as his own plunged -at the same moment through the aperture he had made.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "A woman," said -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And a man," said -Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "It is La Vallière and -the king," they both exclaimed together.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" said Aramis, "is -his majesty aware of your cavern as well? I should not be -astonished if he were, for he seems to be on very good terms with -the dryads of Fontainebleau."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Never mind," said Fouquet; -"let us get there. If he is not aware of it, we shall see what -he will do if he should know it, as it has two entrances, so that -whilst he enters by one, we can leave by the other."<br> - "Is it far?" asked Aramis, "for the rain is -beginning to penetrate."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We are there now," said -Fouquet, as he pushed aside a few branches, and an excavation in -the solid rock could be observed, hitherto concealed by heaths, -ivy, and a thick covert of small shrubs.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet led the way, followed -by Aramis; but as the latter entered the grotto, he turned round, -saying: "Yes, they are entering the wood; and, see, they are -bending their steps this way."<br> - "Very well; let us make room for them," said -Fouquet, smiling and pulling Aramis by his cloak; "but I do not -think the king knows of my grotto."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," said Aramis, "they are -looking about them, but it is only for a thicker -tree."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Aramis was not mistaken, the -king's looks were directed upward, and not around him. He held -La Vallière's arm within his own, and held her hand in -his. La Vallière's feet began to sleep on the damp -grass. Louis again looked round him with greater attention than -before, and perceiving an enormous oak with wide-spreading -branches, he hurriedly drew La Vallière beneath its -protecting shelter. The poor girl looked round her on all sides, -and seemed half afraid, half desirous of being followed. The -king made her lean back against the trunk of the tree, whose vast -circumference, protected by the thickness of the foliage, was as -dry as if at that moment the rain had not been falling in -torrents. He himself remained standing before her with his head -uncovered. After a few minutes, however, some drops of rain -penetrated through the branches of the tree and fell on the -king's forehead, who did not pay any attention to -them.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, sire!" murmured La -Vallière, pushing the king's hat towards him. But the -king simply bowed, and determinedly refused to cover his -head.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now or never is the time to -offer your place," said Fouquet in Aramis's ear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Now or never is the time to -listen, and not lose a syllable of what they may have to say to -each other," replied Aramis in Fouquet's ear.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> In fact they both remained -perfectly silent, and the king's voice reached them where they -were.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Believe me," said the king, -"I perceive, or rather I can imagine your uneasiness; believe me, -I sincerely regret having isolated you from the rest of the -company, and brought you, also, to a spot where you will be -inconvenienced by the rain. You are wet already, and perhaps -cold too?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No, sire."<br> - "And yet you tremble?"<br> - "I am afraid, sire, that my absence may be -misinterpreted; at a moment, too, when all the others are -reunited."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I would not hesitate to -propose returning to the carriages, Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, but pray look and listen, and tell me if it be -possible to attempt to make the slightest progress at -present?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> In fact the thunder was still -rolling, and the rain continued to fall in torrents.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Besides," continued the -king, "no possible interpretation can be made which would be to -your discredit. Are you not with the king of France; in other -words, with the first gentleman of the kingdom?"<br> - "Certainly, sire," replied La Vallière, -"and it is a very distinguished honor for me; it is not, -therefore, for myself that I fear any interpretations that may be -made."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For whom, then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "For you, sire."<br> - "For <i>me?</i>" said the king, smiling, "I do -not understand you."<br> - "Has your majesty already forgotten what took -place yesterday evening in her royal highness's apartments?"<br> - "Oh! forget that, I beg, or allow me to remember -it for no other purpose than to thank you once more for your -letter, and - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire," interrupted La -Vallière, "the rain is falling, and your majesty's head is -uncovered."<br> - "I entreat you not to think of anything but -yourself."<br> - "Oh! I," said La Vallière, smiling, "I am -a country girl, accustomed to roaming through the meadows of the -Loire and the gardens of Blois, whatever the weather may be. -And, as for my clothes," she added, looking at her simple muslin -dress, "your majesty sees there is but little room for -injury."<br> - "Indeed, I have already noticed, more than once, -that you owed nearly everything to yourself and nothing to your -toilette. Your freedom from coquetry is one of your greatest -charms in my eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sire, do not make me out -better than I am, and say merely, 'You cannot possibly be a -coquette.'"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why so?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Because," said La Vallière, smiling, -"I am not rich."<br> -"You admit, then," said the king, quickly, "that you have a love -for beautiful things?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Sire, I only regard those things as -beautiful which are within my reach. Everything which is too -highly placed for me - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You are indifferent to?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Is foreign to me, as being -prohibited."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"And I," said the king, "do not find that you -are at my court on the footing you should be. The services of -your family have not been sufficiently brought under my notice. -The advancement of your family was cruelly neglected by my -uncle."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"On the contrary, sire. His royal highness, -the Duke of Orléans, was always exceedingly kind towards -M. de Saint-Rémy, my step-father. The services rendered -were humble, and, properly speaking, our services have been -adequately recognized. It is not every one who is happy enough -to find opportunities of serving his sovereign with distinction. -I have no doubt at all, that, if ever opportunities had been met -with, my family's actions would have been as lofty as their -loyalty was firm: but that happiness was never ours."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"In that case, Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, it belongs to kings to repair the want of -opportunity, and most delightedly do I undertake to repair, in -your instance, and with the least possible delay, the wrongs of -fortune towards you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Nay, sire," cried La Vallière, -eagerly; "leave things, I beg, as they are now."<br> -"Is it possible! you refuse what I ought, and what I wish to do -for you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"All I desired has been granted me, when the -honor was conferred upon me of forming one of Madame's -household."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But if you refuse for yourself, at least -accept for your family."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Your generous intentions, sire, bewilder me -and make me apprehensive, for, in doing for my family what your -kindness urges you to do, your majesty will raise up enemies for -us, and enemies for yourself, too. Leave me in the ranks of -middle life, sire; of all the feelings and sentiments I -experience, leave me to enjoy the pleasing instinct of -disinterestedness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"The sentiments you express," said the king, -"are indeed admirable."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Quite true," murmured Aramis in Fouquet's -ear, "and he cannot be accustomed to them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But," replied Fouquet, "suppose she were to -make a similar reply to my letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"True!" said Aramis, "let us not anticipate, -but wait the conclusion."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"And then, dear Monsieur d'Herblay," added -the superintendent, hardly able to appreciate the sentiments -which La Vallière had just expressed, "it is very often -sound calculation to seem disinterested with -monarchs."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Exactly what I was thinking this very -minute," said Aramis. "Let us listen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The king approached nearer to La -Vallière, and as the rain dripped more and more through -the foliage of the oak, he held his hat over the head of the -young girl, who raised her beautiful blue eyes towards the royal -hat which sheltered her, and shook her head, sighing deeply as -she did so.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"What melancholy thought," said the king, -"can possibly reach your heart when I place mine as a rampart -before it?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I will tell you, sire. I had already once -before broached this question, which is so difficult for a young -girl of my age to discuss, but your majesty imposed silence on -me. Your majesty belongs not to yourself alone: you are married; -and every sentiment which would separate your majesty from the -queen, in leading you to take notice of me, will be a source of -profoundest sorrow for the queen." The king endeavored to -interrupt the young girl, but she continued with a suppliant -gesture. "The Queen Maria, with an attachment which can be well -understood, follows with her eyes every step of your majesty -which separates you from her. Happy enough in having had her -fate united to your own, she weepingly implores Heaven to -preserve you to her, and is jealous of the faintest throb of your -heart bestowed elsewhere." The king again seemed anxious to -speak, but again did La Vallière venture to prevent him. - -"Would it not, therefore, be a most blamable action," she -continued, "if your majesty, a witness of this anxious and -disinterested affection, gave the queen any cause for jealousy? -Forgive me, sire, for the expressions I have used. I well know -it is impossible, or rather that it would be impossible, that the -greatest queen of the whole world could be jealous of a poor girl -like myself. But though a queen, she is still a woman, and her -heart, like that of the rest of her sex, cannot close itself -against the suspicions which such as are evilly disposed, -insinuate. For Heaven's sake, sire, think no more of me; I am -unworthy of your regard."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Do you not know that in speaking as you have -done, you change my esteem for you into the profoundest -admiration?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Sire, you assume my words to be contrary to -the truth; you suppose me to be better than I really am, and -attach a greater merit to me than God ever intended should be the -case. Spare me, sire; for, did I not know that your majesty was -the most generous man in your kingdom, I should believe you were -jesting."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You do not, I know, fear such a thing; I am -quite sure of that," exclaimed Louis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I shall be obliged to believe it, if your -majesty continues to hold such language towards me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I am most unhappy, then," said the king, in -a tone of regret which was not assumed; "I am the unhappiest -prince in the Christian world, since I am powerless to induce -belief in my words, in one whom I love the best in the wide -world, and who almost breaks my heart by refusing to credit my -regard for her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh, sire!" said La Vallière, gently -putting the king aside, who had approached nearer to her, "I -think the storm has passed away now, and the rain has ceased." -At the very moment, however, as the poor girl, fleeing as it were -from her own heart, which doubtless throbbed but too well in -unison with the king's, uttered these words, the storm undertook -to contradict her. A dead-white flash of lightning illumined the -forest with a weird glare, and a peal of thunder, like a -discharge of artillery, burst over their heads, as if the height -of the oak that sheltered them had attracted the storm. The -young girl could not repress a cry of terror. The king with one -hand drew her towards his heart, and stretched the other above -her head, as though to shield her from the lightning. A moment's -silence ensued, as the group, delightful as everything young and -loving is delightful, remained motionless, while Fouquet and -Aramis contemplated it in attitudes as motionless as La -Vallière and the king. "Oh, sire!" murmured La -Vallière, "do you hear?" and her head fell upon his -shoulder.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Yes," said the king. "You see, the storm -has not passed away."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"<i>It is a warning, sire</i>." The king -smiled. "Sire, it is the voice of Heaven in anger."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Be it so," said the king. "I agree to -accept that peal of thunder as a warning, and even as a menace, -if, in five minutes from the present moment, it is renewed with -equal violence; but if not, permit me to think that the storm is -a storm simply, and nothing more." And the king, at the same -moment, raised his head, as if to interrogate the heavens. But, -as if the remark had been heard and accepted, during the five -minutes which elapsed after the burst of thunder which had -alarmed them, no renewed peal was heard; and, when the thunder -was again heard, it was passing as plainly as if, during those -same five minutes, the storm, put to flight, had traversed the -heavens with the wings of the wind. "Well, Louise," said the -king, in a low tone of voice, "do you still threaten me with the -anger of Heaven? and, since you wished to regard the storm as a -warning, do you still believe it bodes misfortune?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The young girl looked up, and saw that while -they had been talking, the rain had penetrated the foliage above -them, and was trickling down the king's face. "Oh, sire, sire!" -she exclaimed, in accents of eager apprehensions, which greatly -agitated the king. "Is it for me," she murmured, "that the king -remains thus uncovered, and exposed to the rain? What am I, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You are, you perceive," said the king, "the -divinity who dissipates the storm, and brings back fine -weather." In fact, even as the king spoke, a ray of sunlight -streamed through the forest, and caused the rain-drops which -rested upon the leaves, or fell vertically among the openings in -the branches of the trees, to glisten like diamonds.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Sire," said La Vallière, almost -overcome, but making a powerful effort over herself, "think of -the anxieties your majesty will have to submit to on my account. -At this very moment, they are seeking you in every direction. -The queen must be full of uneasiness; and Madame - oh, Madame!" -the young girl exclaimed, with an expression almost resembling -terror.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>This name had a certain effect upon the -king. He started, and disengaged himself from La -Vallière, whom he had, till that moment, held pressed -against his heart. He then advanced towards the path, in order -to look round, and returned, somewhat thoughtfully, to La -Vallière. "Madame, did you say?" he remarked.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Yes, Madame; she, too, is jealous," said La -Vallière, with a marked tone of voice; and her eyes, so -timorous in their expression, and so modestly fugitive in their -glance, for a moment, ventured to look inquiringly into the -king's.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Still," returned Louis, making an effort -over himself, "it seems to me that Madame has no reason, no right -to be jealous of me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Alas!" murmured La -Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Are you, too," said the king, almost in a -tone of reproach, "are you among those who think the sister has a -right to be jealous of the brother?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"It is not for me, sire, to seek to penetrate -your majesty's secrets."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You <i>do</i> believe it, then?" exclaimed -the king.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I believe Madame is jealous, sire," La -Vallière replied, firmly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Is it possible," said the king with some -anxiety, "that you have perceived it, then, from her conduct -towards you? Have her manners in any way been such towards you -that you can attribute them to the jealousy you speak -of?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Not at all, sire; I am of so little -importance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh! if it were really the case - " exclaimed -Louis, violently.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Sire," interrupted the young girl, "it has -ceased raining; some one is coming, I think." And, forgetful of -all etiquette, she had seized the king by the arm.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Well," replied the king, "let them come. -Who is there who would venture to think I had done wrong in -remaining alone with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"For pity's sake, sire! they will think it -strange to see you wet through, in this manner, and that you -should have run such risk for me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I have simply done my duty as a gentleman," -said Louis; "and woe to him who may fail in his, in criticising -his sovereign's conduct." In fact, at this moment a few eager -and curious faces were seen in the walk, as if engaged in a -search. Catching glimpses at last of the king and La -Vallière, they seemed to have found what they were -seeking. They were some of the courtiers who had been sent by -the queen and Madame, and uncovered themselves, in token of -having perceived his majesty. But Louis, notwithstanding La -Vallière's confusion, did not quit his respectful and -tender attitude. Then, when all the courtiers were assembled in -the walk - when every one had been able to perceive the -extraordinary mark of deference with which he had treated the -young girl, by remaining standing and bare-headed during the -storm - he offered her his arm, led her towards the group who -were waiting, recognized by an inclination of the head the -respectful salutations which were paid him on all sides; and, -still holding his hat in his hand, he conducted her to her -carriage. And, as a few sparse drops of rain continued to fall - -a last adieu of the vanishing storm - the other ladies, whom -respect had prevented from getting into their carriages before -the king, remained altogether unprotected by hood or cloak, -exposed to the rain from which the king was protecting, as well -as he was able, the humblest among them. The queen and Madame -must, like the others, have witnessed this exaggerated courtesy -of the king. Madame was so disconcerted at it, that she touched -the queen with her elbow, saying at the same time, "Look there, -look there."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The queen closed her eyes as if she had been -suddenly seized with a fainting-spell. She lifted her hands to -her face and entered her carriage, Madame following her. The -king again mounted his horse, and without showing a preference -for any particular carriage door, he returned to Fontainebleau, -the reins hanging over his horse's neck, absorbed in thought. As -soon as the crowd had disappeared, and the sound of the horses -and carriages grew fainter in the distance, and when they were -certain, in fact, that no one could see them, Aramis and Fouquet -came out of their grotto, and both of them in silence passed -slowly on towards the walk. Aramis looked most narrowly not only -at the whole extent of the open space stretching out before and -behind him, but even into the very depth of the wood.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Monsieur Fouquet," he said, when he had -quite satisfied himself that they were alone, "we must get back, -at any cost, that letter you wrote to La -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"That will be easy enough," said Fouquet, "if -my servant has not given it to her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"In any case it must be had, do you -understand?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Yes. The king is in love with the girl, you -mean?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Deeply, and what is worse is, that on her -side, the girl is passionately attached to him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"As much as to say that we must change our -tactics, I suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Not a doubt of it; you have no time to -lose. You must see La Vallière, and, without thinking any -more of becoming her lover, which is out of the question, must -declare yourself her most devoted friend and her most humble -servant."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I will do so," replied Fouquet, "and without -the slightest feeling of disinclination, for she seems a -good-hearted girl."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Or a very clever one," said Aramis; "but in -that case, all the greater reason." Then he added, after a -moment's pause, "If I am not mistaken, that girl will become the -strongest passion of the king's life. Let us return to our -carriage, and, as fast as possible, to the -château."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LXIII:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Toby.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>T</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>wo hours after the superintendent's carriage -had set off by Aramis's directions, conveying them both towards -Fontainebleau with the fleetness of the clouds the last breath of -the tempest was hurrying across the face of heaven, La -Vallière was closeted in her own apartment, with a simple -muslin wrapper round her, having just finished a slight repast, -which was placed upon a marble table. Suddenly the door was -opened, and a servant entered to announce M. Fouquet, who had -called to request permission to pay his respects to her. She -made him repeat the message twice over, for the poor girl only -knew M. Fouquet by name, and could not conceive what business she -could possibly have with a superintendent of finances. However, -as he might represent the king - and, after the conversation we -have recorded, it was very likely - she glanced at her mirror, -drew out still more the ringlets of her hair, and desired him to -be admitted. La Vallière could not, however, refrain from -a certain feeling of uneasiness. A visit from the superintendent -was not an ordinary event in the life of any woman attached to -the court. Fouquet, so notorious for his generosity, his -gallantry, and his sensitive delicacy of feeling with regard to -women generally, had received more invitations than he had -requested audiences. In many houses, the presence of the -superintendent had been significant of fortune; in many hearts, -of love. Fouquet entered the apartment with a manner full of -respect, presenting himself with that ease and gracefulness of -manner which was the distinctive characteristic of the men of -eminence of that period, and which at the present day seems no -longer to be understood, even through the interpretation of the -portraits of the period, in which the painter has endeavored to -recall them to being. La Vallière acknowledged the -ceremonious salutation which Fouquet addressed to her by a gentle -inclination of the head, and motioned him to a seat. But -Fouquet, with a bow, said, "I will not sit down until you have -pardoned me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I?" asked La -Vallière, "pardon what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet fixed a most piercing -look upon the young girl, and fancied he could perceive in her -face nothing but the most unaffected surprise. "I observe," he -said, "that you have as much generosity as intelligence, and I -read in your eyes the forgiveness I solicit. A pardon pronounced -by your lips is insufficient for me, and I need the forgiveness -of your heart and mind."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my honor, monsieur," -said La Vallière, "I assure you most positively I do not -understand your meaning."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Again, that is a delicacy on -your part which charms me," replied Fouquet, "and I see you do -not wish me to blush before you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Blush! blush before -<i>me!</i> Why should you blush?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Can I have deceived myself," -said Fouquet; "and can I have been happy enough not to have -offended you by my conduct towards you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, monsieur," said La -Vallière, shrugging her shoulders, "you speak in enigmas, -and I suppose I am too ignorant to understand you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Be it so," said Fouquet; "I -will not insist. Tell me, only, I entreat you, that I may rely -upon your full and complete forgiveness."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have but one reply to make -to you, monsieur," said La Vallière, somewhat impatiently, -"and I hope that will satisfy you. If I knew the wrong you have -done me, I would forgive you, and I now do so with still greater -reason since I am ignorant of the wrong you allude -to."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet bit his lips, as -Aramis would have done. "In that case," he said, "I may hope, -that, notwithstanding what has happened, our good understanding -will remain undisturbed, and that you will kindly confer the -favor upon me of believing in my respectful -friendship."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière fancied -that she now began to understand, and said to herself, "I should -not have believed M. Fouquet so eager to seek the source of a -favor so very recent," and then added aloud, "Your friendship, -monsieur! you offer me your friendship. The honor, on the -contrary, is mine, and I feel overpowered by it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am aware," replied -Fouquet, "that the friendship of the master may appear more -brilliant and desirable than that of the servant; but I assure -you the latter will be quite as devoted, quite as faithful, and -altogether disinterested."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> La Vallière bowed, -for, in fact, the voice of the superintendent seemed to convey -both conviction and real devotion in its tone, and she held out -her hand to him, saying, "I believe you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet eagerly took hold of -the young girl's hand. "You see no difficulty, therefore," he -added, "in restoring me that unhappy letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What letter?" inquired La -Vallière.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Fouquet interrogated her with -his most searching gaze, as he had already done before, but the -same ingenious expressions, the same transparently candid look -met his. "I am obliged to confess," he said, after this denial, -"that your heart is the most delicate in the world, and I should -not feel I was a man of honor and uprightness if I were to -suspect anything from a woman so generous as -yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really, Monsieur Fouquet," -replied La Vallière, "it is with profound regret I am -obliged to repeat that I absolutely understand nothing of what -you refer to."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In fact, then, upon your -honor, mademoiselle, you have not received any letter from -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Upon my honor, none," -replied La Vallière, firmly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well, that is quite -sufficient; permit me, then, to renew the assurance of my utmost -esteem and respect," said Fouquet. Then, bowing, he left the -room to seek Aramis, who was waiting for him in his own -apartment, and leaving La Vallière to ask herself whether -the superintendent had not lost his senses.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well!" inquired Aramis, who -was impatiently waiting Fouquet's return, "are you satisfied with -the favorite?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Enchanted," replied Fouquet; -"she is a woman full of intelligence and fine -feeling."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She did not get angry, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Far from that - she did not -even seem to understand."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To understand -what?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To understand that I had -written to her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "She must, however, have -understood you sufficiently to give the letter back to you, for I -presume she returned it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Not at all."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "At least, you satisfied -yourself that she had burnt it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My dear Monsieur d'Herblay, -I have been playing at cross-purposes for more than an hour, and, -however amusing it may be, I begin to have had enough of this -game. So understand me thoroughly: the girl pretended not to -understand what I was saying to her; she denied having received -any letter; therefore, having positively denied its receipt, she -was unable either to return or burn it."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, oh!" said Aramis, with -uneasiness, "what is this you tell me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I say that she swore most -positively she had not received any letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is too much. And did -you not insist?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "On the contrary, I did -insist, almost impertinently even."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And she persisted in her -denial?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Unhesitatingly."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And did she not contradict -herself?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Not once."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But, in that case, then, you have left our -letter in her hands?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"How could I do otherwise?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh! it was a great mistake."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"What the deuce would you have done in my -place?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"One could not force her, certainly, but it -is very embarrassing; such a letter ought not to remain in -existence against us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh! the young girl's disposition is -generosity itself; I looked at her eyes, and I can read eyes -well."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You think she can be relied -upon?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"From my heart I do."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Well, I think we are mistaken."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"In what way?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I think that, in point of fact, as she -herself told you, she did not receive the letter."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"What! do you suppose - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I suppose that, from some motive, of which -we know nothing, your man did not deliver the letter to -her."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Fouquet rang the bell. A servant appeared. -"Send Toby here," he said. A moment afterwards a man made his -appearance, with an anxious, restless look, shrewd expression of -the mouth, with short arms, and his back somewhat bent. Aramis -fixed a penetrating look upon him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Will you allow me to interrogate him -myself?" inquired Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Do so," said Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Aramis was about to say something to the -lackey, when he paused. "No," he said; "he would see that we -attach too much importance to his answer; therefore question him -yourself; I will pretend to be writing." Aramis accordingly -placed himself at a table, his back turned towards the old -attendant, whose every gesture and look he watched in a -looking-glass opposite to him.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Come here, Toby," said Fouquet to the valet, -who approached with a tolerably firm step. "How did you execute -my commission?" inquired Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"In the usual way, monseigneur," replied the -man.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But how, tell me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I succeeded in penetrating as far as -Mademoiselle de la Vallière's apartment; but she was at -mass, and so I placed the note on her toilette-table. Is not -that what you told me to do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Precisely; and is that all?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Absolutely all, monseigneur."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"No one was there?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"No one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Did you conceal yourself as I told -you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"And she returned?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Ten minutes afterwards."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"And no one could have taken the -letter?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"No one; for no one had entered the -room."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"From the outside, but from the -interior?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"From the place where I was secreted, I could -see to the very end of the room."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Now listen to me," said Fouquet, looking -fixedly at the lackey; "if this letter did not reach its proper -destination, confess it; for, if a mistake has been made, your -head shall be the forfeit."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Toby started, but immediately recovered -himself. "Monseigneur," he said, "I placed the letter on the -very place I told you: and I ask only half an hour to prove to -you that the letter is in Mademoiselle de la Vallière's -hand, or to bring you back the letter itself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Aramis looked at the valet scrutinizingly. -Fouquet was ready in placing confidence in people, and for twenty -years this man had served him faithfully. "Go," he said; "but -bring me the proof you speak of." The lackey quitted the -room.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Well, what do you think of it?" inquired -Fouquet of Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I think that you must, by some means or -another, assure yourself of the truth, either that the letter -has, or has not, reached La Vallière; that, in the first -case, La Vallière must return it to you, or satisfy you by -burning it in your presence; that, in the second, you must have -the letter back again, even were it to cost you a million. Come, -is not that your opinion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Yes; but still, my dear bishop, I believe -you are exaggerating the importance of the affair."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Blind, how blind you are!" murmured -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"La Vallière," returned Fouquet, "whom -we assume to be a schemer of the first ability, is simply nothing -more than a coquette, who hopes that I shall pay my court to her, -because I have already done so, and who, now that she has -received a confirmation of the king's regard, hopes to keep me in -leading strings with the letter. It is natural -enough."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Aramis shook his head.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Is not that your opinion?" said -Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"She is not a coquette," he -replied.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Allow me to tell you - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh! I am well enough acquainted with women -who are coquettes," said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"My dear friend!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"It is a long time ago since I finished my -education, you mean. But women are the same, throughout the -centuries."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"True; but men change, and you at the present -day are far more suspicious than you formerly were." And then, -beginning to laugh, he added, "Come, if La Vallière is -willing to love me only to the extent of a third, and the king -two-thirds, do you think the condition acceptable?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Aramis rose impatiently. "La -Vallière," he said, "has never loved, and never will love, -any one but the king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"At all events," said Fouquet, "what would -you do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Ask me rather what I would have -done?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Well! what would you have done?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"In the first place, I should not have -allowed that man to depart."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Toby?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Yes; Toby is a traitor. Nay, I am sure of -it, and I would not have let him go until he had told me the -truth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"There is still time. I will recall him, and -do you question him in your turn."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Agreed."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But I assure you it is useless. He has been -with me for twenty years, and has never made the slightest -mistake, and yet," added Fouquet, laughing, "it would have been -easy enough for him to have done so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Still, call him back. This morning I fancy -I saw that face, in earnest conversation with one of M. Colbert's -men."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Where was that?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Opposite the stables."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Bah! all my people are at daggers drawn with -that fellow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I saw him, I tell you, and his face, which -should have been unknown to me when he entered just now, struck -me as disagreeably familiar."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Why did you not say something, then, while -he was here?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Because it is only at this very minute that -my memory is clear upon the subject."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Really," said Fouquet, "you alarm me." And -he again rang the bell.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Provided that it is not already too late," -said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Fouquet once more rang impatiently. The -valet usually in attendance appeared. "Toby!" said Fouquet, -"send Toby." The valet again shut the door.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You leave me at perfect liberty, I -suppose?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Entirely so."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I may employ all means, then, to ascertain -the truth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"All."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Intimidation, even?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I constitute you public prosecutor in my -place."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>They waited ten minutes longer, but -uselessly, and Fouquet, thoroughly out of patience, again rang -loudly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Toby!" he exclaimed.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Monseigneur," said the valet, "they are -looking for him."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"He cannot be far distant, I have not given -him any commission to execute."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I will go and see, monseigneur," replied the -valet, as he closed the door. Aramis, during the interview, -walked impatiently, but without a syllable, up and down the -cabinet. They waited a further ten minutes. Fouquet rang in a -manner to alarm the very dead. The valet again presented -himself, trembling in a way to induce a belief that he was the -bearer of bad news.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Monseigneur is mistaken," he said, before -even Fouquet could interrogate him, "you must have given Toby -some commission, for he has been to the stables and taken your -lordship's swiftest horse, and saddled it himself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Well?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"And he has gone off."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Gone!" exclaimed Fouquet. "Let him be -pursued, let him be captured."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Nay, nay," whispered Aramis, taking him by -the hand, "be calm, the evil is done."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>The valet quietly went out.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"The evil is done, you say?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"No doubt; I was sure of it. And now, let us -give no cause for suspicion; we must calculate the result of the -blow, and ward it off, if possible."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"After all," said Fouquet, "the evil is not -great."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You think so?" said Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Of course. Surely a man is allowed to write -a love-letter to a woman."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"A man, certainly; a subject, no; especially, -too, when the woman in question is one with whom the king is in -love."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But the king was not in love with La -Vallière a week ago! he was not in love with her -yesterday, and the letter is dated yesterday; I could not guess -the king was in love, when the king's affection was not even yet -in existence."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"As you please," replied Aramis; "but -unfortunately the letter is not dated, and it is that -circumstance particularly which annoys me. If it had only been -dated yesterday, I should not have the slightest shadow of -uneasiness on your account."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Fouquet shrugged his shoulders.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Am I not my own master," he said, "and is -the king, then, king of my brain and of my flesh?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You are right," replied Aramis, "do not let -us attach greater importance to matters than is necessary; and -besides… Well! if we are menaced, we have means of -defense."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh! menaced!" said Fouquet, "you do not -place this gnat bite, as it were, among the number of menaces -which may compromise my fortune and my life, do you?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Do not forget, Monsieur Fouquet, that the -bit of an insect can kill a giant, if the insect be -venomous."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"But has this sovereign power you were -speaking of, already vanished?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"I am all-powerful, it is true, but I am not -immortal."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Come, then, the most pressing matter is to -find Toby again, I suppose. Is not that your -opinion?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Oh! as for that, you will not find him -again," said Aramis, "and if he were of any great value to you, -you must give him up for lost."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"At all events he is somewhere or another in -the world," said Fouquet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"You're right, let me act," replied -Aramis.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LXIV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>Madame's Four Chances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>A</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>nne of Austria had begged the young queen to -pay her a visit. For some time past suffering most acutely, and -losing both her youth and beauty with that rapidity which -signalizes the decline of women for whom life has been one long -contest, Anne of Austria had, in addition to her physical -sufferings, to experience the bitterness of being no longer held -in any esteem, except as a surviving remembrance of the past, -amidst the youthful beauties, wits, and influential forces of her -court. Her physician's opinions, her mirror also, grieved her -far less than the inexorable warnings which the society of the -courtiers afforded, who, like rats in a ship, abandon the hold -into which on the very next voyage the water will infallibly -penetrate, owing to the ravages of decay. Anne of Austria did -not feel satisfied with the time her eldest son devoted to her. -The king, a good son, more from affectation than from affection, -had at first been in the habit of passing an hour in the morning -and one in the evening with his mother; but, since he had himself -undertaken the conduct of state affairs, the duration of the -morning and evening's visit had been reduced by one half; and -then, by degrees, the morning visit had been suppressed -altogether. They met at mass; the evening visit was replaced by -a meeting, either at the king's assembly or at Madame's, which -the queen attended obligingly enough, out of regard to her two -sons.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The result of this was, that -Madame gradually acquired an immense influence over the court, -which made her apartments the true royal place of meeting. This, -Anne of Austria perceived; knowing herself to be very ill, and -condemned by her sufferings to frequent retirement, she was -distressed at the idea that the greater part of her future days -and evenings would pass away solitary, useless, and in -despondency. She recalled with terror the isolation in which -Cardinal Richelieu had formerly left her, those dreaded and -insupportable evenings, during which, however, she had both youth -and beauty, which are ever accompanied by hope, to console her. -She next formed the project of transporting the court to her own -apartments, and of attracting Madame, with her brilliant escort, -to her gloomy and already sorrowful abode, where the widow of a -king of France, and the mother of a king of France, was reduced -to console, in her artificial widowhood, the weeping wife of a -king of France.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne began to reflect. She -had intrigued a good deal in her life. In the good times past, -when her youthful mind nursed projects that were, ultimately, -invariably successful, she had by her side, to stimulate her -ambition and her love, a friend of her own sex, more eager, more -ambitious than herself, - a friend who had loved her, a rare -circumstance at courts, and whom some petty considerations had -removed from her forever. But for many years past - except -Madame de Motteville, and La Molena, her Spanish nurse, a -<i>confidante</i> in her character of countrywoman and woman too -- who could boast of having given good advice to the queen? Who, -too, among all the youthful heads there, could recall the past -for her, - that past in which alone she lived? Anne of Austria -remembered Madame de Chevreuse, in the first place exiled rather -by her wish than the king's, and then dying in exile, the wife of -a gentleman of obscure birth and position. She asked herself -what Madame de Chevreuse would have advised her to do in similar -circumstances, in their mutual difficulties arising from their -intrigues; and after serious reflection, it seemed as if the -clever, subtle mind of her friend, full of experience and sound -judgment, answered her in the well-remembered ironical tones: -"All the insignificant young people are poor and greedy of gain. -They require gold and incomes to supply means of amusement; it is -by interest you must gain them over." And Anne of Austria -adopted this plan. Her purse was well filled, and she had at her -disposal a considerable sum of money, which had been amassed by -Mazarin for her, and lodged in a place of safety. She possessed -the most magnificent jewels in France, and especially pearls of a -size so large that they made the king sigh every time he saw -them, because the pearls of his crown were like millet seed -compared to them. Anne of Austria had neither beauty nor charms -any longer at her disposal. She gave out, therefore, that her -wealth was great, and as an inducement for others to visit her -apartments she let it be known that there were good gold crowns -to be won at play, or that handsome presents were likely to be -made on days when all went well with her; or windfalls, in the -shape of annuities which she had wrung from the king by entreaty, -and thus she determined to maintain her credit. In the first -place, she tried these means upon Madame; because to gain her -consent was of more importance than anything else. Madame, -notwithstanding the bold confidence which her wit and beauty -inspired her, blindly ran head foremost into the net thus -stretched out to catch her. Enriched by degrees by these -presents and transfers of property, she took a fancy to -inheritances by anticipation. Anne of Austria adopted the same -means towards Monsieur, and even towards the king himself. She -instituted lotteries in her apartments. The day on which the -present chapter opens, invitations had been issued for a late -supper in the queen-mother's apartments, as she intended that two -beautiful diamond bracelets of exquisite workmanship should be -put into a lottery. The medallions were antique cameos of the -greatest value; the diamonds, in point of intrinsic value, did -not represent a very considerable amount, but the originality and -rarity of the workmanship were such, that every one at court not -only wished to possess the bracelets, but even to see the queen -herself wear them; for, on the days she wore them, it was -considered as a favor to be admitted to admire them in kissing -her hands. The courtiers had, even with regard to this subject, -adopted various expressions of gallantry to establish the -aphorism, that the bracelets would have been priceless in value -if they had not been unfortunate enough to be placed in contact -with arms as beautiful as the queen's. This compliment had been -honored by a translation into all the languages of Europe, and -numerous verses in Latin and French had been circulated on the -subject. The day that Anne of Austria had selected for the -lottery was a decisive moment; the king had not been near his -mother for a couple of days; Madame, after the great scene of the -Dryads and Naiads, was sulking by herself. It is true, the -king's fit of resentment was over, but his mind was absorbingly -occupied by a circumstance that raised him above the stormy -disputes and giddy pleasures of the court.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria effected a -diversion by the announcement of the famous lottery to take place -in her apartments on the following evening. With this object in -view, she saw the young queen, whom, as we have already seen, she -had invited to pay her a visit in the morning. "I have good news -to tell you," she said to her; "the king has been saying the most -tender things about you. He is young, you know, and easily drawn -away; but so long as you keep near me, he will not venture to -keep away from you, to whom, besides, he is most warmly and -affectionately attached. I intend to have a lottery this evening -and shall expect to see you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have heard," said the -young queen, with a sort of timid reproach, "that your majesty -intends to put in the lottery those lovely bracelets whose rarity -is so great that we ought not to allow them to pass out of the -custody of the crown, even were there no other reason than that -they had once belonged to you."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "My daughter," said Anne of -Austria, who read the young queen's thoughts, and wished to -console her for not having received the bracelets as a present, -"it is positively necessary that I should induce Madame to pass -her time in my apartments."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Madame!" said the young -queen, blushing.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Of course: would you not -prefer to have a rival near you, whom you could watch and -influence, to knowing the king is with her, always as ready to -flirt as to be flirted with by her? The lottery I have proposed -is my means of attraction for that purpose; do you blame -me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, no!" returned Maria -Theresa, clapping her hands with a childlike expression of -delight.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you no longer regret, -then, that I did not give you these bracelets, as I at first -intended to do?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, no, no!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Very well; make yourself -look as beautiful as possible that our supper may be very -brilliant; the gayer you seem, the more charming you appear, and -you will eclipse all the ladies present as much by your -brilliancy as by your rank."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Maria Theresa left full of -delight. An hour afterwards, Anne of Austria received a visit -from Madame, whom she covered with caresses, saying, "Excellent -news! the king is charmed with my lottery."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But I," replied Madame, "am -not so greatly charmed: to see such beautiful bracelets on any -one's arms but yours or mine, is what I cannot reconcile myself -to."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well, well," said Anne of -Austria, concealing by a smile a violent pang she had just -experienced, "do not look at things in the worst light -immediately."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Ah, Madame, Fortune is -blind, and I am told there are two hundred tickets."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Quite as many as that; but -you cannot surely forget that there can only be one -winner."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No doubt. But who will that -be? Can you tell?" said Madame, in despair.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You remind me that I had a -dream last night; my dreams are always good, - I sleep so -little."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What was your dream? - but -are you suffering?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," said the queen, -stifling with wonderful command the torture of a renewed attack -of shooting pains in her bosom; "I dreamed that the king won the -bracelets."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!"<br> - "You are going to ask me, I think, what the king -could possibly do with the bracelets?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And you would not add, -perhaps, that it would be very fortunate if the king were really -to win, for he would be obliged to give the bracelets to some one -else."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "To restore them to you, for -instance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In which case I should -immediately give them away; for you do not think, I suppose," -said the queen, laughing, "that I have put these bracelets up to -a lottery from necessity. My object was to give them without -arousing any one's jealousy; but if Fortune will not get me out -of my difficulty - well, I will teach Fortune a lesson - and I -know very well to whom I intend to offer the bracelets." These -words were accompanied by so expressive a smile, that Madame -could not resist paying her by a grateful kiss.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "But," added Anne of Austria, -"do you not know, as well as I do, that if the king were to win -the bracelets, he would not restore them to me?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You mean he would give them -to the queen?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No; and for the very same -reason that he would not give them back again to me; since, if I -had wished to make the queen a present of them, I had no need of -him for that purpose."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame cast a side glance -upon the bracelets, which, in their casket, were dazzlingly -exposed to view upon a table close beside her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "How beautiful they are," she -said, sighing. "But stay," Madame continued, "we are quite -forgetting that your majesty's dream was nothing but a -dream."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I should be very much -surprised," returned Anne of Austria, "if my dream were to -deceive me; that has happened to me very seldom."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "We may look upon you as a -prophetess, then."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I have already said, that I -dream but very rarely; but the coincidence of my dream about this -matter, with my own ideas, is extraordinary! it agrees so -wonderfully with my own views and arrangements."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What arrangements do you -allude to?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That you will get the -bracelets, for instance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In that case, it will not be -the king."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh!" said Anne of Austria, -"there is not such a very great distance between his majesty's -heart and your own; for, are you not his sister, for whom he has -a great regard? There is not, I repeat, so very wide a distance, -that my dream can be pronounced false on that account. Come, let -us reckon up the chances in its favor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I will count -them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "In the first place, we will -begin with the dream. If the king wins, he is sure to give you -the bracelets."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I admit that is -one."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "If you win them, they are -yours."<br> - "Naturally; that may be admitted -also."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Lastly; - if Monsieur were -to win them!"<br> - "Oh!" said Madame, laughing heartily, "he would -give them to the Chevalier de Lorraine."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Anne of Austria laughed as -heartily as her daughter-in-law; so much so, indeed, that her -sufferings again returned, and made her turn suddenly pale in the -very midst of her enjoyment.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What is the matter?" -inquired Madame, terrified.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Nothing, nothing; a pain in -my side. I have been laughing too much. We were at the fourth -chance, I think."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I cannot see a -fourth."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I beg your pardon; I am not -excluded from the chance of winning, and if I be the winner, you -are sure of me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! thank you, thank you!" -exclaimed Madame.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I hope that you look upon -yourself as one whose chances are good, and that my dream now -begins to assure the solid outlines of reality."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, indeed: you give me -both hope and confidence," said Madame, "and the bracelets, won -in this manner, will be a hundred times more precious to -me."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Well! then, good-bye, until -this evening." And the two princesses separated. Anne of -Austria, after her daughter-in-law had left her, said to herself, -as she examined the bracelets, "They are, indeed, precious; -since, by their means, this evening, I shall have won over a -heart to my side, at the same time, fathomed an important -secret."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Then turning towards the -deserted recess in her room, she said, addressing vacancy, - "Is -it not thus that you would have acted, my poor Chevreuse? Yes, -yes; I know it is."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And, like a perfume of other, -fairer days, her youth, her imagination, and her happiness seemed -to be wafted towards the echo of this invocation.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chapter LXV:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>The Lottery.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'>B</span><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>y eight o'clock in the evening, every one had -assembled in the queen-mother's apartments. Anne of Austria, in -full dress, beautiful still, from former loveliness, and from all -the resources coquetry can command at the hands of clever -assistants, concealed, or rather pretended to conceal, from the -crowd of courtiers who surrounded her, and who still admired her, -thanks to the combination of circumstances which we have -indicated in the preceding chapter, the ravages, which were -already visible, of the acute suffering to which she finally -yielded a few years later. Madame, almost as great a coquette as -Anne of Austria, and the queen, simple and natural as usual, were -seated beside her, each contending for her good graces. The -ladies of honor, united in a body, in order to resist with -greater effect, and consequently with more success, the witty and -lively conversations which the young men held about them, were -enabled, like a battalion formed in a square, to offer each other -the means of attack and defense which were thus at their -command. Montalais, learned in that species of warfare which -consists of sustained skirmishing, protected the whole line by a -sort of rolling fire she directed against the enemy. -Saint-Aignan, in utter despair at the rigor, which became almost -insulting from the very fact of her persisting in it, -Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente displayed, tried to turn his back -upon her; but, overcome by the irresistible brilliancy of her -eyes, he, every moment, returned to consecrate his defeat by new -submissions, to which Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente did not -fail to reply by fresh acts of impertinence. Saint-Aignan did -not know which way to turn. La Vallière had about her, -not exactly a court, but sprinklings of courtiers. Saint-Aignan, -hoping by this maneuver to attract Athenaïs's attention -towards him, approached the young girl, and saluted her with a -respect that induced some to believe that he wished to balance -Athenaïs by Louise. But these were persons who had neither -been witnesses of the scene during the shower, nor had heard it -spoken of. As the majority was already informed, and well -informed, too, on the matter, the acknowledged favor with which -she was regarded had attracted to her side some of the most -astute, as well as the least sensible, members of the court. The -former, because they said with Montaigne, "How do I know?" and -the latter, who said with Rabelais, "Perhaps." The greatest -number had followed in the wake of the latter, just as in hunting -five or six of the best hounds alone follow the scent of the -animal hunted, whilst the remainder of the pack follow only the -scent of the hounds. The two queens and Madame examined with -particular attention the toilettes of their ladies and maids of -honor; and they condescended to forget they were queens in -recollecting that they were women. In other words, they -pitilessly picked to pieces every person present who wore a -petticoat. The looks of both princesses simultaneously fell upon -La Vallière, who, as we have just said, was completely -surrounded at that moment. Madame knew not what pity was, and -said to the queen-mother, as she turned towards her, "If Fortune -were just, she would favor that poor La -Vallière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That is not possible," said -the queen-mother, smiling.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Why not?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "There are only two hundred -tickets, so that it was not possible to inscribe every one's name -on the list."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "And hers is not there, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "What a pity! she might have -won them, and then sold them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Sold them!" exclaimed the -queen.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes; it would have been a -dowry for her, and she would not have been obliged to marry -without her <i>trousseau</i>, as will probably be the -case."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Really," answered the -queen-mother, "poor little thing: has she no dresses, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And she pronounced these -words like a woman who has never been able to understand the -inconveniences of a slenderly filled purse.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Stay, look at her. Heaven -forgive me, if she is not wearing the very same petticoat this -evening that she had on this morning during the promenade, and -which she managed to keep clean, thanks to the care the king took -of her, in sheltering her from the rain."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> At the very moment Madame -uttered these words the king entered the room. The two queens -would not perhaps have observed his arrival, so completely were -they occupied in their ill-natured remarks, had not Madame -noticed that, all at once, La Vallière, who was standing -up facing the gallery, exhibited certain signs of confusion, and -then said a few words to the courtiers who surrounded her, who -immediately dispersed. This movement induced Madame to look -towards the door, and at that moment, the captain of the guards -announced the king. At this moment La Vallière, who had -hitherto kept her eyes fixed upon the gallery, suddenly cast them -down as the king entered. His majesty was dressed magnificently -and in the most perfect taste; he was conversing with Monsieur -and the Duc de Roquelaure, Monsieur on his right, and the Duc de -Roquelaure on his left. The king advanced, in the first place, -towards the queens, to whom he bowed with an air full of graceful -respect. He took his mother's hand and kissed it, addressed a -few compliments to Madame upon the beauty of her toilette, and -then began to make the round of the assembly. La Vallière -was saluted in the same manner as the others, but with neither -more nor less attention. His majesty then returned to his mother -and his wife. When the courtiers noticed that the king had only -addressed some ordinary remark to the young girl who had been so -particularly noticed in the morning, they immediately drew their -own conclusion to account for this coldness of manner; this -conclusion being, that although the king may have taken a sudden -fancy to her, that fancy had already disappeared. One thing, -however, must be remarked, that close beside La Vallière, -among the number of the courtiers, M. Fouquet was to be seen; and -his respectfully attentive manner served to sustain the young -girl in the midst of the varied emotions that visibly agitated -her.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> M. Fouquet was just on the -point, moreover, of speaking in a more friendly manner with -Mademoiselle de la Vallière, when M. Colbert approached, -and after having bowed to Fouquet with all the formality of -respectful politeness, he seemed to take up a post beside La -Vallière, for the purpose of entering into conversation -with her. Fouquet immediately quitted his place. These -proceedings were eagerly devoured by the eyes of Montalais and -Malicorne, who mutually exchanged their observations on the -subject. De Guiche, standing within the embrasure of one of the -windows, saw no one but Madame. But as Madame, on her side, -frequently glanced at La Vallière, De Guiche's eyes, -following Madame's, were from time to time cast upon the young -girl. La Vallière instinctively felt herself sinking -beneath the weight of all these different looks, inspired, some -by interest, others by envy. She had nothing to compensate her -for her sufferings, not a kind word from her companions, nor a -look of affection from the king. No one could possibly express -the misery the poor girl was suffering. The queen-mother next -directed the small table to be brought forward, on which the -lottery-tickets were placed, two hundred in number, and begged -Madame de Motteville to read the list of the names. It was a -matter of course that this list had been drawn out in strict -accordance with the laws of etiquette. The king's name was first -on the list, next the queen-mother, then the queen, Monsieur, -Madame, and so on. All hearts throbbed anxiously as the list was -read out; more than three hundred persons had been invited, and -each of them was anxious to learn whether his or her name was to -be found in the number of privileged names. The king listened -with as much attention as the others, and when the last name had -been pronounced, he noticed that La Vallière had been -omitted from the list. Every one, of course, remarked this -omission. The king flushed as if much annoyed; but La -Vallière, gentle and resigned, as usual, exhibited nothing -of the sort. While the list was being read, the king had not -taken his eyes off the young girl, who seemed to expand, as it -were, beneath the happy influence she felt was shed around her, -and who was delighted and too pure in spirit for any other -thought than that of love to find an entrance either to her mind -or her heart. Acknowledging this touching self-denial by the -fixity of his attention, the king showed La Vallière how -much he appreciated its delicacy. When the list was finished, -the different faces of those who had been omitted or forgotten -fully expressed their disappointment. Malicorne was also left -out from amongst the men; and the grimace he made plainly said to -Montalais, who was also forgotten, "Cannot we contrive to arrange -matters with Fortune in such a manner that she shall not forget -us?" to which a smile full of intelligence from Mademoiselle -Aure, replied: "Certainly we can."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The tickets were distributed -to each according to the number listed. The king received his -first, next the queen-mother, then Monsieur, then the queen and -Madame, and so on. After this, Anne of Austria opened a small -Spanish leather bag, containing two hundred numbers engraved upon -small balls of mother-of-pearl, and presented the open sack to -the youngest of her maids of honor, for the purpose of taking one -of the balls out of it. The eager expectation of the throng, -amidst all the tediously slow preparations, was rather that of -cupidity than curiosity. Saint-Aignan bent towards Mademoiselle -de Tonnay-Charente to whisper to her, "Since we have each a -number, let us unite our two chances. The bracelet shall be -yours if I win, and if you are successful, deign to give me but -one look of your beautiful eyes."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "No," said Athenaïs, "if -you win the bracelet, keep it, every one for himself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "You are without any pity," -said Saint-Aignan, "and I will punish you by a quatrain: --</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style='font-size:8.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> "Beautiful -Iris, to my vows</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;'> You are too -opposed - "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style='font-size:8.0pt;'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Silence," said -Athenaïs, "you will prevent me hearing the winning -number."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Number one," said the young -girl who had drawn the mother-of-pearl from the Spanish leather -bag.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king!" exclaimed the -queen-mother.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "The king has won," repeated -the queen, delightedly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh! the king! your dream!" -said Madame, joyously, in the ear of Anne of Austria.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king was the only one who -did not exhibit any satisfaction. He merely thanked Fortune for -what she had done for him, in addressing a slight salutation to -the young girl who had been chosen as her proxy. Then receiving -from the hands of Anne of Austria, amid the eager desire of the -whole assembly, the casket inclosing the bracelets, he said, "Are -these bracelets really beautiful, then?"<br> - "Look at them," said Anne of Austria, "and judge -for yourself."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king looked at them, and -said, "Yes, indeed, an admirable medallion. What perfect -finish!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Queen Maria Theresa easily -saw, and that, too at the very first glance, that the king would -not offer the bracelets to her; but, as he did not seem the least -degree in the world disposed to offer them to Madame, she felt -almost satisfied, or nearly so. The king sat down. The most -intimate among the courtiers approached, one by one, for the -purpose of admiring more closely the beautiful piece of -workmanship, which soon, with the king's permission, was handed -about from person to person. Immediately, every one, -connoisseurs or not, uttered various exclamations of surprise, -and overwhelmed the king with congratulations. There was, in -fact, something for everybody to admire - the brilliance for -some, and the cutting for others. The ladies present visibly -displayed their impatience to see such a treasure monopolized by -the gentlemen.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Gentlemen, gentlemen," said -the king, whom nothing escaped, "one would almost think that you -wore bracelets as the Sabines used to do; hand them round for a -while for the inspection of the ladies, who seem to have, and -with far greater right, an excuse for understanding such -matters!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> These words appeared to -Madame the commencement of a decision she expected. She -gathered, besides, this happy belief from the glances of the -queen-mother. The courtier who held them at the moment the king -made this remark, amidst the general agitation, hastened to place -the bracelets in the hands of the queen, Maria Theresa, who, -knowing too well, poor woman, that they were not designed for -her, hardly looked at them, and almost immediately passed them on -to Madame. The latter, and even more minutely, Monsieur, gave -the bracelets a long look of anxious and almost covetous desire. -She then handed the jewels to those ladies who were near her, -pronouncing this single word, but with an accent which was worth -a long phrase, "Magnificent!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The ladies who had received -the bracelets from Madame's hands looked at them as long as they -chose to examine them, and then made them circulate by passing -them on towards the right. During this time the king was -tranquilly conversing with De Guiche and Fouquet, rather -passively letting them talk than himself listening. Accustomed -to the set form of ordinary phrases, his ear, like that of all -men who exercise an incontestable superiority over others, merely -selected from the conversations held in various directions the -indispensable word which requires reply. His attention, however, -was now elsewhere, for it wandered as his eyes did.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente was the last of the ladies inscribed for tickets; -and, as if she had ranked according to her name upon the list, -she had only Montalais and La Vallière near her. When the -bracelets reached these two latter, no one appeared to take any -further notice of them. The humble hands which for a moment -touched these jewels, deprived them, for the time, of their -importance - a circumstance which did not, however, prevent -Montalais from starting with joy, envy, and covetous desire, at -the sight of the beautiful stones still more than at their -magnificent workmanship. It is evident that if she were -compelled to decide between the pecuniary value and the artistic -beauty, Montalais would unhesitatingly have preferred diamonds to -cameos, and her disinclination, therefore, to pass them on to her -companion, La Vallière, was very great. La -Vallière fixed a look almost of indifference upon the -jewels.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, how beautiful, how -magnificent these bracelets are!" exclaimed Montalais; "and yet -you do not go into ecstasies about them, Louise! You are no true -woman, I am sure."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes, I am, indeed," replied -the young girl, with an accent of the most charming melancholy; -"but why desire that which can never, by any possibility, be -ours?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> The king, his head bent -forward, was listening to what Louise was saying. Hardly had the -vibration of her voice reached his ear than he rose, radiant with -delight, and passing across the whole assembly, from the place -where he stood, to La Vallière, "You are mistaken, -mademoiselle," he said, "you are a woman, and every woman has a -right to wear jewels, which are a woman's -appurtenance."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Oh, sire!" said La -Vallière, "your majesty will not absolutely believe in my -modesty?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I believe you possess every -virtue, mademoiselle; frankness as well as every other; I entreat -you, therefore, to say frankly what you think of these -bracelets?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "That they are beautiful, -sire, and cannot be offered to any other than a -queen."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "I am delighted that such is -your opinion, mademoiselle; the bracelets are yours, and the king -begs your acceptance of them."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And as, with a movement -almost resembling terror, La Vallière eagerly held out the -casket to the king, the king gently pushed back her trembling -hand.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> A silence of astonishment, -more profound than that of death, reigned in the -assembly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> And yet, from the side where -the queens were, no one had heard what he had said, nor -understood what he had done. A charitable friend, however, took -upon herself to spread the news; it was Tonnay-Charente, to whom -Madame had made a sign to approach.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Good heavens!" explained -Tonnay-Charente, "how happy that La Vallière is! the king -has just given her the bracelets."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> Madame bit her lips to such a -degree that the blood appeared upon the surface of the skin. The -young queen looked first at La Vallière and then at -Madame, and began to laugh. Anne of Austria rested her chin upon -her beautiful white hand, and remained for a long time absorbed -by a presentiment that disturbed her mind, and by a terrible pang -which stung her heart. De Guiche, observing Madame turn pale, -and guessing the cause of her change of color, abruptly quitted -the assembly and disappeared. Malicorne was then able to -approach Montalais very quietly, and under cover of the general -din of conversation, said to her:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Aure, your fortune and our -future are standing at your elbow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'> "Yes," was her reply, as she -tenderly embraced La Vallière, whom, inwardly, she was -tempted to strangle.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'>End of <u>Ten Years Later</u>. -The next text in the series is <u>Louise de la -Vallière</u>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -Footnotes</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style= -'text-align:center;punctuation-wrap:simple;text-autospace:none'> -<span style='font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>1.</span> <span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>In -the three-volume edition, Volume 1, entitled <u>The Vicomte de -Bragelonne</u>, ends here.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>2.</span> <span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>In -most other editions, the previous chapter and the next are -combined into one, entitled "D'Artagnan Calls De Wardes to -Account."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>3.</span> <span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>Dumas is mistaken. The events in the -following chapters occurred in 1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>4. In the five-volume edition, Volume 2 ends -here.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-family:"Times New Roman"'>5.</span><span style= -'font-family:"Times New Roman";'>The verses in this chapter have -been re-written to give the flavor of them rather than the -meaning. A more literal translation would look like -this:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText" style= -'margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";'>"Guiche is the -furnisher</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText" style= -'margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";'>Of the maids of -honor."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-family:"Times New Roman";'>and -</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText" style= -'margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";'>"He has stocked -the birdcage;</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText" style= -'margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";'>Montalais and -– "</span></p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>It would be more accurate, though, to say -"baited" rather than "stocked" in the second couplet.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>6. The Latin translates to, "The spirit is -willing, but the flesh is weak."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>7.</span> <span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"Ad -majorem Dei gloriam" was the motto of the Jesuits. It translates -to, "For the greater glory of God."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>8.</span> <span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"In -the presence of these men?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>9.</span> <span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"By -this sign, you shall conquer."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>10.</span> <span style='font-size:10.0pt;'>"It -rained all night; the games will be held tomorrow."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'>11.</span> <span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>"Lord, I am not worthy."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style= -'punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none'><span style= -'font-size:10.0pt;'>End of Project Gutenberg Etext Ten Years -Later, by Alexandre Dumas, Pere</span></p> -</div> -</body> -</html> - - |