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diff --git a/old/luise10h.htm b/old/luise10h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 20f6983..0000000 --- a/old/luise10h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,36034 +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"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Project -Gutenberg Etext Louise de la Vallière, by Alexandre Dumas, -Pere</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>#9 in our -series by Alexandre Dumas, Pere</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Copyright -laws are changing all over the world, be sure to check</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>the laws -for your country before redistributing these files!!!</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Please take -a look at the important information in this header.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>We -encourage you to keep this file on your own disk, keeping an</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>electronic -path open for the next readers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Please do -not remove this.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>This should -be the first thing seen when anyone opens the book.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Do not -change or edit it without written permission.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The words</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>are -carefully chosen to provide users with the information they</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>need about -what they can legally do with the texts.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>**Welcome -To The World of Free Plain Vanilla Electronic Texts**</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>**Etexts -Readable By Both Humans and By Computers, Since 1971**</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>*These -Etexts Prepared By Hundreds of Volunteers and Donations*</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Information -on contacting Project Gutenberg to get Etexts, and</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>further -information is included below.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We need your donations.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Presently, -contributions are only being solicited from people in:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Texas, -Nevada, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, South Dakota,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Iowa, -Indiana, and Vermont. As the requirements for other states</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>are met, -additions to this list will be made and fund raising will</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>begin in -the additional states. These donations should be made to:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>PMB 113</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>1739 -University Ave.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Oxford, MS -38655</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Title:<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise de la Valli<span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>ère</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'> -Author:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alexandre Dumas, -Pere</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Release -Date:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> July, 2001<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> [Etext #2710]</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>[Yes, we -are about one year ahead of schedule]</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'> -Edition:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 10</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Project -Gutenberg Etext Louise de la Valli<span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>ère</span>, -by Dumas, Pere</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>******This -file should be named luise10h.htm or luise10h.zip******</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Corrected -EDITIONS of our etexts get a new NUMBER, luise11h.htm</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>VERSIONS -based on separate sources get new LETTER, luise10ha.htm</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Project -Gutenberg Etexts are usually created from multiple editions,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>all of -which are in the Public Domain in the United States, unless a</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>copyright -notice is included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Therefore, we usually do NOT keep any</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>of these -books in compliance with any particular paper edition.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>We are now -trying to release all our books one year in advance</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>of the -official release dates, leaving time for better editing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Please be -encouraged to send us error messages even years after</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>the -official publication date.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Please -note:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> neither this list -nor its contents are final till</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>midnight of -the last day of the month of any such announcement.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>The -official release date of all Project Gutenberg Etexts is at</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Midnight, -Central Time, of the last day of the stated month.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>preliminary -version may often be posted for suggestion, comment</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>and editing -by those who wish to do so.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Most people -start at our sites at:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'> -http://gutenberg.net</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'> -http://promo.net/pg</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Those of -you who want to download any Etext before announcement</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>can surf to -them as follows, and just download by date; 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-<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>The Project -gratefully accepts contributions of money, time,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>public -domain etexts, and royalty free copyright licenses.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>If you are -interested in contributing scanning equipment or</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>software or -other items, please contact Michael Hart at:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'> -hart@pobox.com</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>*END THE -SMALL PRINT! FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN ETEXTS*Ver.04.07.00*END*</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>As you -may be aware, Project Gutenberg has been involved with</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>the -writings of both the Alexandre Dumases for some time -now,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>and since -we get a few questions about the order in which the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>books -should be read, and in which they were published, -these</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>following -comments should hopefully help most of our readers.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>***</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>The -Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u> <span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>is the -final volume of D'Artagnan Romances:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>it is -usually split into three or four parts, and the final -portion</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>is -entitled <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u> -we're</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>familiar -with today is the last volume of the four-volume -edition.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>[Not all -the editions split them in the same manner, hence some -of</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>the -confusion. . .but wait. . .there's yet more reason for -confusion.]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>We intend -to do ALL of <u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>, split into four -etexts</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>entitled -<u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>, <u>Ten Years Later</u>, -<u>Louise de la Vallière</u>,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>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"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>One thing -that may be causing confusion is that the etext we have -now,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>entitled -<u>Ten Years Later</u>, says it's the sequel to <u>The Three -Musketeers</u>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>While -this is technically true, there's another book, <u>Twenty Years -After</u>,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>that -comes between.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -confusion is generated by the two facts that we</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>published -<u>Ten Years Later</u> BEFORE we published <u>Twenty Years -After</u>, and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>that many -people see those titles as meaning Ten and Twenty Years -"After"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>the -original story. . .however, this is why the different words -"After" and</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>"Later". -. .the Ten Years "After" is ten years after the Twenty Years -later. . .as</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>per -history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Also, the third -book of the D'Artagnan Romances, while entitled</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>The -Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>, has the -subtitle <u>Ten Years Later</u>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These two</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>titles -are also given to different volumes: <u>The Vicomte de -Bragelonne</u> can</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>refer to -the whole book, or the first volume of the three or -four-volume</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>editions.<span - style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <u>Ten Years Later</u> can, -similarly, refer to the whole book, or the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>second -volume of the four-volume edition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To add to the confusion, -in</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>the case -of our etexts, it refers to the first 104 chapters of the whole -book,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>covering -material in the first and second etexts in the new series.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here is a</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>guide to -the series which may prove helpful:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>The Three -Musketeers</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold; mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: Etext -1257 - First book of the D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the years 1625-1628.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Twenty -Years After</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold; mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: Etext -1259 - Second book of the D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the years 1648-1649.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>[Third in -the order that we published, but second in time -sequence!!!]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Ten Years -Later</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold; mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: Etext -1258 - First 104 chapters of the third book of the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>D'Artagnan -Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the years 1660-1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>The -Vicomte de Bragelonne</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: Etext -2609 (first in the new series) - First 75 chapters</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>of the -third book of the D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the year 1660.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Ten Years -Later</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold; mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: Etext -2681 (second in the new series) - Chapters 76-140 of -that</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>third -book of the D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the years 1660-1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>[In this -particular editing of it]</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Louise de -la Vallière</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold; mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: Etext -2710 (our new text) - Chapters 141-208 of the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>third -book of the D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the year 1661.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>The Man -in the Iron Mask</span></u><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>: -forthcoming (our next text) - Chapters 209-269 of</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>the third -book of the D'Artagnan Romances.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Covers -the years 1661-1673.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>If we've -calculated correctly, that fourth text SHOULD correspond to -the</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>modern -editions of <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>, which is still -widely</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>circulated, -and comprises about the last 1/4 of <u>The Vicomte de -Bragelonne</u>.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Here is a -list of the other Dumas Etexts we have published so -far:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Sep 1999 -La Tulipe Noire, by Alexandre -Dumas[Pere#6/French][tlpnrxxx.xxx]1910</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>This is -an abridged edition in French, also see our full length English -Etext</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Jul 1997 -The Black Tulip, by Alexandre Dumas[Pere][Dumas#1][tbtlpxxx.xxx] -965</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>Jan 1998 -The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre -Dumas[Pere][crstoxxx.xxx]1184</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic'>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" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style= -'mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic'>Introduction:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Eventually these -serialized adventures were published in novel form, and became -the three D'Artagnan Romances known today.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here is a brief summary of the first -two novels:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u>The Three Musketeers</u> (serialized -March - July, 1844): The year is 1625.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young D'Artagnan arrives in -Paris at the tender age of 18, and almost immediately offends -three musketeers, Porthos, Aramis, and Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Twenty Years After</u> (serialized -January - August, 1845): The year is now 1648, twenty years since -the close of the last story.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan is now a lieutenant -of musketeers, and his three friends have retired to private -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos turned out to -be a nobleman, the Comte de la Fère, and has retired to -his home with his son, Raoul de Bragelonne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But trouble is stirring in both -France and England.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Cromwell menaces the institution of royalty itself while marching -against Charles I, and at home the Fronde is threatening to tear -France apart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -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.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The third novel, <u>The -Vicomte de Bragelonne</u> (serialized October, 1847 - January, -1850), has enjoyed a strange history in its English -translation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It has been -split into three, four, or five volumes at various points in its -history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The five-volume -edition generally does not give titles to the smaller portions, -but the others do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -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>.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first two etexts:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u> (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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With the new rank of intendant -bestowed on him by Louis, Colbert succeeds in having two of -Fouquet's loyal friends tried and executed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The blueprints for the island, -although in Porthos's handwriting, show evidence of another -script that has been erased, that of Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan later discovers that -Aramis has become the bishop of Vannes, which is, coincidentally, -a parish belonging to M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 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.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Ten Years Later</u> (Etext 2681): As 1661 -approaches, Princess Henrietta of England arrives for her -marriage, and throws the court of France into complete -disorder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The jealousy of -the Duke of Buckingham, who is in love with her, nearly occasions -a war on the streets of Le Havre, thankfully prevented by Raoul's -timely and tactful intervention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After the marriage, though, Monsieur -Philip becomes horribly jealous of Buckingham, and has him -exiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before leaving, -however, the duke fights a duel with M. de Wardes at Calais.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes is a malicious and -spiteful man, the sworn enemy of D'Artagnan, and, by the same -token, that of Athos, Aramis, Porthos, and Raoul as well.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Both men are seriously -wounded, and the duke is taken back to England to recover.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul's friend, the comte de -Guiche, is the next to succumb to Henrietta's charms, and -Monsieur obtains his exile as well, though De Guiche soon effects -a reconciliation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -then the king's eye falls on Madame Henrietta during the comte's -absence, and this time Monsieur's jealousy has no recourse.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne of Austria intervenes, -and the king and his sister-in-law decide to pick a young lady -with whom the king can pretend to be in love, the better to mask -their own affair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -unfortunately select Louise de la Vallière, Raoul's -fiancée.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While the -court is in residence at Fontainebleau, the king unwitting -overhears Louise confessing her love for him while chatting with -her friends beneath the royal oak, and the king promptly forgets -his affection for Madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -That same night, Henrietta overhears, at the same oak, De Guiche -confessing his love for her to Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two embark on their own -affair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few days later, -during a rainstorm, Louis and Louise are trapped alone together, -and the whole court begins to talk of the scandal while their -love affair blossoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Aware of Louise's attachment, the king arranges for Raoul to be -sent to England for an indefinite period.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Meanwhile, the struggle -for power continues between Fouquet and Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Although the Belle-Isle plot -backfired, Colbert prompts the king to ask Fouquet for more and -more money, and without his two friends to raise it for him, -Fouquet is sorely pressed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The situation gets so bad that his -new mistress, Madame de Bellière, must resort to selling -all her jewels and her gold and silver plate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, while this is going on, has -grown friendly with the governor of the Bastile, M. de -Baisemeaux, a fact that Baisemeaux unwittingly reveals to -D'Artagnan while inquiring of him as to Aramis's -whereabouts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This further -arouses the suspicions of the musketeer, who was made to look -ridiculous by Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -had ridden overnight at an insane pace, but arrived a few minutes -after Fouquet had already presented Belle-Isle to the king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis learns from the -governor the location of a mysterious prisoner, who bears a -remarkable resemblance to Louis XIV - in fact, the two are -identical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He uses the -existence of this secret to persuade a dying Franciscan monk, the -general of the society of the Jesuits, to name him, Aramis, the -new general of the order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -On Aramis's advice, hoping to use Louise's influence with the -king to counteract Colbert's influence, Fouquet also writes a -love letter to La Vallière, unfortunately undated.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It never reaches its -destination, however, as the servant ordered to deliver it turns -out to be an agent of Colbert's.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos, in the -meantime, has been recovering from his midnight ride from -Belle-Isle at Fouquet's residence at Saint-Mandé.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos has retired, once again -to La Fère.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan, little amused by the court's activities at -Fontainebleau, and finding himself with nothing to do, has -returned to Paris, and we find him again in Planchet's grocery -shop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">And so, the story continues in this, the -third etext of <u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Enjoy!</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'>John -Bursey</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -Mordaunt@aol.com</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'>July, -2000</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<b><i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'><u><span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt'>Louise de la -Vallière</span></u></i></b></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'><i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'><span style= -'font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>by Alexandre -Dumas</span></i></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Malaga.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>uring all these long and noisy debates between the -opposite ambitions of politics and love, one of our characters, -perhaps the one least deserving of neglect, was, however, very -much neglected, very much forgotten, and exceedingly -unhappy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, -D'Artagnan - D'Artagnan, we say, for we must call him by his -name, to remind our readers of his existence - D'Artagnan, we -repeat, had absolutely nothing whatever to do, amidst these -brilliant butterflies of fashion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After following the king during two -whole days at Fontainebleau, and critically observing the various -pastoral fancies and heroi-comic transformations of his -sovereign, the musketeer felt that he needed something more than -this to satisfy the cravings of his nature.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At every moment assailed by people -asking him, "How do you think this costume suits me, Monsieur -d'Artagnan?" he would reply to them in quiet, sarcastic tones, -"Why, I think you are quite as well-dressed as the best-dressed -monkey to be found in the fair at Saint-Laurent."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was just such a compliment -D'Artagnan would choose where he did not feel disposed to pay any -other: and, whether agreeable or not, the inquirer was obliged to -be satisfied with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Whenever any one asked him, "How do you intend to dress yourself -this evening?" he replied, "I shall undress myself;" at which the -ladies all laughed, and a few of them blushed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But after a couple of days passed in -this manner, the musketeer, perceiving that nothing serious was -likely to arise which would concern him, and that the king had -completely, or, at least, appeared to have completely forgotten -Paris, Saint-Mandé, and Belle-Isle - that M. Colbert's -mind was occupied with illuminations and fireworks - that for the -next month, at least, the ladies had plenty of glances to bestow, -and also to receive in exchange - D'Artagnan asked the king for -leave of absence for a matter of private business.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the moment D'Artagnan made his -request, his majesty was on the point of going to bed, quite -exhausted from dancing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You wish to leave me, -Monsieur d'Artagnan?" inquired the king, with an air of -astonishment; for Louis XIV. could never understand why any one -who had the distinguished honor of being near him could wish to -leave him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said D'Artagnan, -"I leave you simply because I am not of the slightest service to -you in anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! if I -could only hold the balancing-pole while you were dancing, it -would be a very different affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, my dear Monsieur -d'Artagnan," said the king, gravely, "people dance without -balancing-poles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! indeed," said the -musketeer, continuing his imperceptible tone of irony, "I had no -idea such a thing was possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have not seen me -dance, then?" inquired the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but I always -thought dancers went from easy to difficult acrobatic feats.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was mistaken; all the more -greater reason, therefore, that I should leave for a time.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sire, I repeat, you have no -present occasion for my services; besides, if your majesty should -have any need of me, you would know where to find me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well," said the -king, and he granted him leave of absence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> We shall not look for -D'Artagnan, therefore, at Fontainebleau, for to do so would be -useless; but, with the permission of our readers, follow him to -the Rue des Lombards, where he was located at the sign of the -Pilon d'Or, in the house of our old friend Planchet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was about eight o'clock in the -evening, and the weather was exceedingly warm; there was only one -window open, and that one belonging to a room on the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>entresol</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A perfume of spices, mingled with -another perfume less exotic, but more penetrating, namely, that -which arose from the street, ascended to salute the nostrils of -the musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan, reclining in an immense straight-backed chair, with -his legs not stretched out, but simply placed upon a stool, -formed an angle of the most obtuse form that could possibly be -seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Both his arms were -crossed over his head, his head reclining upon his left shoulder, -like Alexander the Great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His eyes, usually so quick and intelligent in their expression, -were now half-closed, and seemed fastened, as it were, upon a -small corner of blue sky that was visible behind the opening of -the chimneys; there was just enough blue, and no more, to fill -one of the sacks of lentils, or haricots, which formed the -principal furniture of the shop on the ground floor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus extended at his ease, and -sheltered in his place of observation behind the window, -D'Artagnan seemed as if he had ceased to be a soldier, as if he -were no longer an officer belonging to the palace, but was, on -the contrary, a quiet, easy-going citizen in a state of -stagnation between his dinner and supper, or between his supper -and his bed; one of those strong, ossified brains, which have no -more room for a single idea, so fiercely does animal matter keep -watch at the doors of intelligence, narrowly inspecting the -contraband trade which might result from the introduction into -the brain of a symptom of thought.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We have already said night was -closing in, the shops were being lighted, while the windows of -the upper apartments were being closed, and the rhythmic steps of -a patrol of soldiers forming the night watch could be heard -retreating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -continued, however, to think of nothing, except the blue corner -of the sky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few paces -from him, completely in the shade, lying on his stomach, upon a -sack of Indian corn, was Planchet, with both his arms under his -chin, and his eyes fixed on D'Artagnan, who was either thinking, -dreaming, or sleeping, with his eyes open.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet had been watching him for a -tolerably long time, and, by way of interruption, he began by -exclaiming, "Hum! hum!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But D'Artagnan did not stir.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet then saw that it was -necessary to have recourse to more effectual means still: after a -prolonged reflection on the subject, the most ingenious means -that suggested itself to him under the present circumstances, was -to let himself roll off the sack on to the floor, murmuring, at -the same time, against himself, the word "stupid."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, notwithstanding the noise -produced by Planchet's fall, D'Artagnan, who had in the course of -his existence heard many other, and very different falls, did not -appear to pay the least attention to the present one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, an enormous cart, laden -with stones, passing from the Rue Saint-Médéric, -absorbed, in the noise of its wheels, the noise of Planchet's -tumble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet Planchet -fancied that, in token of tacit approval, he saw him -imperceptibly smile at the word "stupid."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This emboldened him to say, "Are you -asleep, Monsieur d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Planchet, I am not -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>even</i> asleep," replied -the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am in despair," said -Planchet, "to hear such a word as <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>even</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and why not; is -it not a grammatical word, Monsieur Planchet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course, Monsieur -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, the word -distresses me beyond measure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me why you are -distressed, Planchet," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you say that you are -not <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>even</i> asleep, it is -as much as to say that you have not even the consolation of being -able to sleep; or, better still, it is precisely the same as -telling me that you are getting bored to death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Planchet, you know that -I am never bored."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Except to-day, and the -day before yesterday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, it -is a week since you returned here from Fontainebleau; in other -words, you have no longer your orders to issue, or your men to -review and maneuver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -need the sound of guns, drums, and all that din and confusion; I, -who have myself carried a musket, can easily believe that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Planchet," replied -D'Artagnan, "I assure you I am not bored in the least in the -world."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, what are -you doing, lying there, as if you were dead?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Planchet, there -was, once upon a time, at the siege of La Rochelle, when I was -there, when you were there, when we both were there, a certain -Arab, who was celebrated for the manner in which he adjusted -culverins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was a -clever fellow, although of a very odd complexion, which was the -same color as your olives.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, this Arab, whenever he had -done eating or working, used to sit down to rest himself, as I am -resting myself now, and smoked I cannot tell you what sort of -magical leaves, in a large amber-mouthed tube; and if any -officers, happening to pass, reproached him for being always -asleep, he used quietly to reply: 'Better to sit down than to -stand up, to lie down than to sit down, to be dead than to lie -down.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was an acutely -melancholy Arab, and I remember him perfectly well, form the -color of his skin, and the style of his conversation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He used to cut off the heads of -Protestants with the most singular gusto!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely; and then -used to embalm them, when they were worth the trouble; and when -he was thus engaged with his herbs and plants about him, he -looked like a basket-maker making baskets."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are quite right, -Planchet, he did."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can remember things very well, at -times!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have no doubt of it; -but what do you think of his mode of reasoning?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think it good in one -sense, but very stupid in another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Expound your meaning, -M. Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur, in -point of fact, then, 'better to sit down than to stand up,' is -plain enough, especially when one may be fatigued," and Planchet -smiled in a roguish way; "as for 'better to be lying down,' let -that pass, but as for the last proposition, that it is 'better to -be dead than alive,' it is, in my opinion, very absurd, my own -undoubted preference being for my bed; and if you are not of my -opinion, it is simply, as I have already had the honor of telling -you, because you are boring yourself to death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Planchet, do you know -M. La Fontaine?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The chemist at the -corner of the Rue Saint-Médéric?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, the writer of -fables."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Maître Corbeau!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly; well, then, I -am like his hare."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has got a hare also, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has all sorts of -animals."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what does his -hare do, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. La Fontaine's hare -thinks."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Planchet, I am like -that hare - I am thinking."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are thinking, you -say?" said Planchet, uneasily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; your house is dull -enough to drive people to think; you will admit that, I -hope."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet, monsieur, you -have a look-out upon the street."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and wonderfully -interesting that is, of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But it is no less true, -monsieur, that, if you were living at the back of the house, you -would bore yourself - I mean, you would think - more than -ever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word, Planchet, -I hardly know that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Still," said the -grocer, "if your reflections are at all like those which led you -to restore King Charles II. - " and Planchet finished by a little -laugh which was not without its meaning.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet, my friend," returned -D'Artagnan, "you are getting ambitious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is there no other king -to be restored, M. d'Artagnan - no second Monk to be packed up, -like a salted hog, in a deal box?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, my dear Planchet; -all the kings are seated on their respective thrones; less -comfortably so, perhaps, than I am upon this chair; but, at all -events, there they are."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And D'Artagnan sighed deeply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," -said Planchet, "you are making me very uneasy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are very good, -Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I begin to suspect -something."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, -you are getting thin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said D'Artagnan, -striking his chest which sounded like an empty cuirass, "it is -impossible, Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Planchet, -slightly overcome; "if you were to get thin in my house - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should do something -rash."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What would you do?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should look out for -the man who was the cause of all your anxieties."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! according to your -account, I am anxious now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you are anxious; -and you are getting thin, visibly getting thin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Malaga!</i> if you go on getting -thin, in this way, I will take my sword in my hand, and go -straight to M. d'Herblay, and have it out with him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!" said M. -d'Artagnan, starting in his chair; "what's that you say?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what has M. d'Herblay's -name to do with your groceries?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Just as you -please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Get angry if you -like, or call me names, if you prefer it; but, the deuce is in -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>know what I know</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan had, during -this second outburst of Planchet's, so placed himself as not to -lose a single look of his face; that is, he sat with both his -hands resting on both his knees, and his head stretched out -towards the grocer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Come, explain yourself," he said, "and tell me how you could -possibly utter such a blasphemy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Herblay, your old master, my -friend, an ecclesiastic, a musketeer turned bishop - do you mean -to say you would raise your sword against him, Planchet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I could raise my sword -against my own father, when I see you in such a state as you are -now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Herblay, a -gentleman!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It's all the same to me -whether he's a gentleman or not.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gives you the blue devils, that -is all I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the -blue devils make people get thin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Malaga!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no notion of M. d'Artagnan -leaving my house thinner than when he entered it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How does he give me the -blue devils, as you call it?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, explain, explain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have had the -nightmare during the last three nights."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you; and in your -nightmare you called out, several times, 'Aramis, deceitful -Aramis!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I said that, did I?" murmured -D'Artagnan, uneasily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, those very words, -upon my honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what else?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know the saying, Planchet, -'dreams go by contraries.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not so; for every time, -during the last three days, when you went out, you have not once -failed to ask me, on your return, 'Have you seen M. d'Herblay?' -or else 'Have you received any letters for me from M. -d'Herblay?'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, it is very -natural I should take an interest in my old friend," said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; but not to -such an extent as to get thin on that account."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Planchet, I'll get -fatter; I give you my word of honor I will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, monsieur, I -accept it; for I know that when you give your word of honor, it -is sacred."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not dream of -Aramis any more; and I will never ask you again if there are any -letters from M. d'Herblay; but on condition that you explain one -thing to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me what it is, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am a great observer; -and just now you made use of a very singular oath, which is -unusual for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You mean <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Malaga!</i> I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the oath I have -used ever since I have been a grocer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very proper, too; it is -the name of a dried grape, or raisin, I believe?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is my most ferocious -oath; when I have once said <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Malaga!</i> I am a man no -longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Still, I never knew you -use that oath before."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very likely not, -monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had a present -made me of it," said Planchet; and, as he pronounced these words, -he winked his eye with a cunning expression, which thoroughly -awakened D'Artagnan's attention.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come, M. -Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, I am not like you, -monsieur," said Planchet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I don't pass my life in thinking."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do wrong, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean in boring myself -to death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We have but a -very short time to live - why not make the best of it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are an Epicurean -philosopher, I begin to think, Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My hand is still as steady as ever; -I can write, and can weigh out my sugar and spices; my foot is -firm; I can dance and walk about; my stomach has its teeth still, -for I eat and digest very well; my heart is not quite -hardened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what, -Planchet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, you see - " said -the grocer, rubbing his hands together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan crossed one -leg over the other, and said, "Planchet, my friend, I am unnerved -with extreme surprise; for you are revealing yourself to me under -a perfectly new light."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet, flattered in -the highest degree by this remark, continued to rub his hands -very hard together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah, -ah," he said, "because I happen to be only slow, you think me, -perhaps, a positive fool."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, Planchet; -very well reasoned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Follow my idea, -monsieur, if you please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I said to myself," continued Planchet, "that, without enjoyment, -there is no happiness on this earth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite true, what you -say, Planchet," interrupted D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events, if we -cannot obtain pleasure - for pleasure is not so common a thing, -after all - let us, at least, get consolations of some kind or -another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so you console -yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me how you console -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I put on a buckler for -the purpose of confronting <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>ennui</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I place my time at the direction of -patience; and on the very eve of feeling I am going to get bored, -I amuse myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you don't find any -difficulty in that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "None."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you found it out -quite by yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is miraculous."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say, that your -philosophy is not to be matched in the Christian or pagan world, -in modern days or in antiquity!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think so? - follow -my example, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a very tempting -one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do as I do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I could not wish for -anything better; but all minds are not of the same stamp; and it -might possibly happen that if I were required to amuse myself in -the manner you do, I should bore myself horribly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! at least try -first."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, tell me what you -do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you observed that -I leave home occasionally?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In any particular -way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Periodically."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's the -very thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have -noticed it, then?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear -Planchet, you must understand that when people see each other -every day, and one of the two absents himself, the other misses -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you not feel the -want of my society when I am in the country?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Prodigiously; that is -to say, I feel like a body without a soul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That being understood -then, proceed."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are -the periods when I absent myself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the fifteenth and -thirtieth of every month."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I remain away?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sometimes -two, sometimes three, and sometimes four days at a time."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you -ever given it a thought, why I was absent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To look after your -debts, I suppose."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And when I -returned, how did you think I looked, as far as my face was -concerned?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exceedingly -self-satisfied."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You admit, -you say, that I always look satisfied.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what have you attributed my -satisfaction to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That your business was -going on very well; that your purchases of rice, prunes, raw -sugar, dried apples, pears, and treacle were advantageous.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You were always very -picturesque in your notions and ideas, Planchet; and I was not in -the slightest degree surprised to find you had selected grocery -as an occupation, which is of all trades the most varied, and the -very pleasantest, as far as the character is concerned; inasmuch -as one handles so many natural and perfumed productions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly true, -monsieur; but you are very greatly mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In thinking that I -heave here every fortnight, to collect my money or to make -purchases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ho, ho! how -could you possibly have thought such a thing?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ho, ho, ho!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Planchet began to laugh in a -manner that inspired D'Artagnan with very serious misgivings as -to his sanity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I confess," said the -musketeer, "that I do not precisely catch your meaning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very true, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean by -'very true'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It must be true, since -you say it; but pray, be assured that it in no way lessens my -opinion of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, that is lucky."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; you are a man of -genius; and whenever the question happens to be of war, tactics, -surprises, or good honest blows to be dealt with, why, kings are -marionettes, compared to you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But for the consolations of the -mind, the proper care of the body, the agreeable things of like, -if one may say so - ah! monsieur, don't talk to me about men of -genius; they are nothing short of executioners."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good," said D'Artagnan, -really fidgety with curiosity, "upon my word you interest me in -the highest degree."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You feel already less -bored than you did just now, do you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was not bored; yet -since you have been talking to me, I feel more animated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, then; that -is not a bad beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -will cure you, rely upon that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is nothing I -should like better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you let me try, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Immediately, if you -like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you any horses here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; ten, twenty, -thirty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, there is no -occasion for so many as that, two will be quite sufficient."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They are quite at your -disposal, Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; then I shall -carry you off with me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, you are asking too -much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will admit, -however, that it is important I should know where I am -going."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you like the -country?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only moderately, -Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case you like -town better?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is as -may be."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well; -I am going to take you to a place, half town and half -country."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To a place where I am -sure you will amuse yourself."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it -possible?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and -more wonderful still, to a place from which you have just -returned for the purpose only, it would seem, of getting bored -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is to Fontainebleau -you are going, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly; to -Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And, in Heaven's name, -what are you going to do at Fontainebleau?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet answered -D'Artagnan by a wink full of sly humor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have some property -there, you rascal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, a very paltry -affair; a little bit of a house - nothing more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But it is tolerable -enough, after all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am going to -Planchet's country-seat!" exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whenever you like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did we not fix -to-morrow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us say to-morrow, -if you like; and then, besides, to-morrow is the 14th, that is to -say, the day before the one when I am afraid of getting bored; so -we will look upon it as an understood thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Agreed, by all -means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will lend me one of -your horses?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The best I have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I prefer the -gentlest of all; I never was a very good rider, as you know, and -in my grocery business I have got more awkward than ever; besides -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Besides what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why," added Planchet, -"I do not wish to fatigue myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?" D'Artagnan -ventured to ask.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I should lose -half the pleasure I expect to enjoy," replied Planchet.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And thereupon he rose from his -sack of Indian corn, stretching himself, and making all his bones -crack, one after the other, with a sort of harmony.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Planchet!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet!" exclaimed D'Artagnan, "I -do declare that there is no sybarite upon the face of the globe -who can for a moment be compared to you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, Planchet, it is very clear that -we have never yet eaten a ton of salt together."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so, monsieur?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because, -even now I can scarcely say I know you," said D'Artagnan, "and -because, in point of fact, I return to the opinion which, for a -moment, I had formed of you that day at Boulogne, when you -strangled, or did so as nearly as possible, M. de Wardes's valet, -Lubin; in plain language, Planchet, that you are a man of great -resources."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet began to laugh -with a laugh full of self-conceit; bade the musketeer good-night, -and went down to his back shop, which he used as a bedroom.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan resumed his -original position upon his chair, and his brow, which had been -unruffled for a moment, became more pensive than ever.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had already forgotten the -whims and dreams of Planchet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes," said he, taking up again the -thread of his thoughts, which had been broken by the whimsical -conversation in which we have just permitted our readers to -participate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, yes, -those three points include everything: First, to ascertain what -Baisemeaux wanted with Aramis; secondly, to learn why Aramis does -not let me hear from him; and thirdly, to ascertain where Porthos -is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The whole mystery -lies in these three points.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Since, therefore," continued -D'Artagnan, "our friends tell us nothing, we must have recourse -to our own poor intelligence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I must do what I can, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux</i>, or rather <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Malaga</i>, as Planchet would -say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -II:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>A -Letter from M. Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>'Artagnan, faithful to his plan, went the very next -morning to pay a visit to M. de Baisemeaux.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was cleaning up or tidying day at -the Bastile; the cannons were furbished up, the staircases -scraped and cleaned; and the jailers seemed to be carefully -engaged in polishing the very keys.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the soldiers belonging to the -garrison, they were walking about in different courtyards, under -the pretense that they were clean enough.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The governor, Baisemeaux, received -D'Artagnan with more than ordinary politeness, but he behaved -towards him with so marked a reserve of manner, that all -D'Artagnan's tact and cleverness could not get a syllable out of -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The more he kept -himself within bounds, the more D'Artagnan's suspicion -increased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter -even fancied he remarked that the governor was acting under the -influence of a recent recommendation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux had not been at the -Palais Royal with D'Artagnan the same cold and impenetrable man -which the latter now found in the Baisemeaux of the Bastile.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When D'Artagnan wished to make -him talk about the urgent money matters which had brought -Baisemeaux in search of D'Artagnan, and had rendered him -expansive, notwithstanding what had passed on that evening, -Baisemeaux pretended that he had some orders to give in the -prison, and left D'Artagnan so long alone waiting for him, that -our musketeer, feeling sure that he should not get another -syllable out of him, left the Bastile without waiting until -Baisemeaux returned from his inspection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But D'Artagnan's suspicions were -aroused, and when once that was the case, D'Artagnan could not -sleep or remain quiet for a moment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was among men what the cat is -among quadrupeds, the emblem of anxiety and impatience, at the -same moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A restless -cat can no more remain the same place than a silk thread wafted -idly to and fro with every breath of air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A cat on the watch is as motionless -as death stationed at is place of observation, and neither hunger -nor thirst can draw it from its meditations.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, who was burning with -impatience, suddenly threw aside the feeling, like a cloak which -he felt too heavy on his shoulders, and said to himself that that -which they were concealing from him was the very thing it was -important he should know; and, consequently, he reasoned that -Baisemeaux would not fail to put Aramis on his guard, if Aramis -had given him any particular recommendation, and this was, in -fact, the very thing that happened.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux had hardly -had time to return from the donjon, than D'Artagnan placed -himself in ambuscade close to the Rue de Petit-Musc, so as to see -every one who might leave the gates of the Bastile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After he had spent an hour on the -look-out from the "Golden Portcullis," under the pent-house of -which he could keep himself a little in the shade, D'Artagnan -observed a soldier leave the Bastile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was, indeed, the surest -indication he could possibly have wished for, as every jailer or -warder has certain days, and even certain hours, for leaving the -Bastile, since all are alike prohibited from having either wives -or lodgings in the castle, and can accordingly leave without -exciting any curiosity; but a soldier once in barracks is kept -there for four and twenty hours when on duty, - and no one knew -this better than D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The guardsman in question, -therefore, was not likely to leave his regimentals, except on an -express and urgent order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The soldier, we were saying, left the Bastile at a slow and -lounging pace, like a happy mortal, in fact, who, instead of -mounting sentry before a wearisome guard-house, or upon a bastion -no less wearisome, has the good luck to get a little liberty, in -addition to a walk - both pleasures being luckily reckoned as -part of his time on duty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He bent his steps towards the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, enjoying -the fresh air and the warmth of the sun, and looking at all the -pretty faces he passed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan followed him at a distance; he had not yet arranged -his ideas as what was to be done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I must, first of all," he thought, -"see the fellow's face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -man seen is a man judged."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan increased his pace, and, -which was not very difficult, by the by, soon got in advance of -the soldier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not only did -he observe that his face showed a tolerable amount of -intelligence and resolution, but he noticed also that his nose -was a little red.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He has -a weakness for brandy, I see," said D'Artagnan to himself.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the same moment that he -remarked his red nose, he saw that the soldier had a white paper -in his belt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good, he has a letter," -added D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -only difficulty was to get hold of the letter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But a common soldier would, of -course, be only too delighted at having been selected by M. de -Baisemeaux as a special messenger, and would not be likely to -sell his message.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As -D'Artagnan was biting his nails, the soldier continued to advance -more and more into the Faubourg Saint-Antoine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He is certainly going to -Saint-Mandé," he said to himself, "and I shall not be able -to learn what the letter contains."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was enough to drive him -wild.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If I were in -uniform," said D'Artagnan to himself, "I would have this fellow -seized, and his letter with him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could easily get assistance at the -very first guard-house; but the devil take me if I mention my -name in an affair of this kind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I were to treat him to something -to drink, his suspicions would be roused; and besides, he might -drink me drunk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i> my wits seem to have -left me," said D'Artagnan; "it is all over with me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yet, supposing I were to attack this -poor devil, make him draw his sword and kill him for the sake of -his letter?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No harm in -that, if it were a question of a letter from a queen to a -nobleman, or a letter from a cardinal to a queen; but what -miserable intrigues are those of Messieurs Aramis and Fouquet -with M. Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A man's -life for that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no, -indeed; not even ten crowns."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he philosophized in this manner, -biting first his nails, and then his mustaches, he perceived a -group of archers and a commissary of the police engaged in -carrying away a man of very gentlemanly exterior, who was -struggling with all his might against them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The archers had torn his clothes, -and were dragging him roughly away.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He begged they would lead him along -more respectfully, asserting that he was a gentleman and a -soldier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And observing -our soldier walking in the street, he called out, "Help, -comrade."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The soldier walked on -with the same step towards the man who had called out to him, -followed by the crowd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An -idea suddenly occurred to D'Artagnan; it was his first one, and -we shall find it was not a bad one either.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> During the time the gentleman was -relating to the soldier that he had just been seized in a house -as a thief, when the truth was he was only there as a lover; and -while the soldier was pitying him, and offering him consolation -and advice with that gravity which a French soldier has always -ready whenever his vanity or his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>esprit de corps</i> is concerned, -D'Artagnan glided behind the soldier, who was closely hemmed in -by the crowd, and with a rapid sweep, like a sabre slash, -snatched the letter from his belt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As at this moment the gentleman with -the torn clothes was pulling about the soldier, to show how the -commissary of police had pulled him about, D'Artagnan effected -his pillage of the letter without the slightest -interference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -stationed himself about ten paces distant, behind the pillar of -an adjoining house, and read on the address, "To Monsieur du -Vallon, at Monsieur Fouquet's, Saint-Mandé."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good!" he said, and -then he unsealed, without tearing the letter, drew out the paper, -which was folded in four, from the inside; which contained only -these words:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:.5in'> -"DEAR MONSIEUR DU VALLON, - Will you be good enough to tell -Monsieur d'Herblay that <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>he</i> has been to the Bastile, and -has been making inquiries.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:.5in'> -<span style= -'mso-tab-count:4'> </span> -"Your devoted</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'margin-left:1.0in;text-align:right; text-indent:.5in'>"DE -BAISEMEAUX."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good! all right!" -exclaimed D'Artagnan; "it is clear enough now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos is engaged in it."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Being now satisfied of what he -wished to know: "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i>" thought the -musketeer, "what is to be done with that poor devil of a -soldier?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That hot-headed, -cunning fellow, De Baisemeaux, will make him pay dearly for my -trick, - if he returns without the letter, what will they do to -him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, I don't -want the letter; when the egg has been sucked, what is the good -of the shell?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -perceived that the commissary and the archers had succeeded in -convincing the soldier, and went on their way with the prisoner, -the latter being still surrounded by the crowd, and continuing -his complaints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan advanced into the very middle of the crowd, let the -letter fall, without any one having observed him, and then -retreated rapidly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -soldier resumed his route towards Saint-Mandé, his mind -occupied with the gentleman who had implored his protection.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly he thought of his -letter, and, looking at his belt, saw that it was no longer -there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan derived -no little satisfaction from his sudden, terrified cry.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The poor soldier in the -greatest anguish of mind looked round him on every side, and at -last, about twenty paces behind him, he perceived the lucky -envelope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He pounced on -it like a falcon on its prey.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The envelope was certainly a little -dirty, and rather crumpled, but at all events the letter itself -was found.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -observed that the broken seal attracted the soldier's attention a -good deal, but he finished apparently by consoling himself, and -returned the letter to his belt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Go on," said D'Artagnan, "I have -plenty of time before me, so you may precede me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It appears that Aramis is not in -Paris, since Baisemeaux writes to Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dear Porthos, how delighted I shall -be to see him again, and to have some conversation with him!" -said the Gascon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, -regulating his pace according to that of the soldier, he promised -himself to arrive a quarter of an hour after him at M. -Fouquet's.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -III:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>In -Which the Reader will be Delighted to Find that Porthos Has Lost -Nothing of His Muscularity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>'Artagnan had, according to his usual style, calculated -that every hour is worth sixty minutes, and every minute worth -sixty seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thanks to -this perfectly exact calculation of minutes and seconds, he -reached the superintendent's door at the very moment the soldier -was leaving it with his belt empty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan presented himself at the -door, which a porter with a profusely embroidered livery held -half opened for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan would very much have liked to enter without giving his -name, but this was impossible, and so he gave it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Notwithstanding this concession, -which ought to have removed every difficulty in the way, at least -D'Artagnan thought so, the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>concierge</i> hesitated; however, -at the second repetition of the title, captain of the king's -guards, the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>concierge</i>, -without quite leaving the passage clear for him, ceased to bar it -completely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -understood that orders of the most positive character had been -given.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He decided, -therefore, to tell a falsehood, - a circumstance, moreover, which -did not seriously affect his peace of mind, when he saw that -beyond the falsehood the safety of the state itself, or even -purely and simply his own individual personal interest, might be -at stake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He moreover -added to the declarations he had already made, that the soldier -sent to M. du Vallon was his own messenger, and that the only -object that letter had in view was to announce his intended -arrival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From that -moment, no one opposed D'Artagnan's entrance any further, and he -entered accordingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -valet wished to accompany him, but he answered that it was -useless to take that trouble on his account, inasmuch as he knew -perfectly well where M. du Vallon was.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was nothing, of course, to say -to a man so thoroughly and completely informed on all points, and -D'Artagnan was permitted, therefore, to do as he liked.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The terraces, the magnificent -apartments, the gardens, were all reviewed and narrowly inspected -by the musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -walked for a quarter of an hour in this more than royal -residence, which included as many wonders as articles of -furniture, and as many servants as there were columns and -doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Decidedly," he -said to himself, "this mansion has no other limits than the -pillars of the habitable world.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it probable Porthos has taken it -into his head to go back to Pierrefonds without even leaving M. -Fouquet's house?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -finally reached a remote part of the château inclosed by a -stone wall, which was covered with a profusion of thick plants, -luxuriant in blossoms as large and solid as fruit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At equal distances on the top of -this wall were placed various statues in timid or mysterious -attitudes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These were -vestals hidden beneath the long Greek peplum, with its thick, -sinuous folds; agile nymphs, covered with their marble veils, and -guarding the palace with their fugitive glances.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A statue of Hermes, with his finger -on his lips; one of Iris, with extended wings; another of Night, -sprinkled all over with poppies, dominated the gardens and -outbuildings, which could be seen through the trees.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these statues threw in white -relief their profiles upon the dark ground of the tall cypresses, -which darted their somber summits towards the sky.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Around these cypresses were entwined -climbing roses, whose flowering rings were fastened to every fork -of the branches, and spread over the lower boughs and the various -statues, showers of flowers of the rarest fragrance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These enchantments seemed to the -musketeer the result of the greatest efforts of the human -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt in a -dreamy, almost poetical, frame of mind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The idea that Porthos was living in -so perfect an Eden gave him a higher idea of Porthos, showing how -tremendously true it is, that even the very highest orders of -minds are not quite exempt from the influence of -surroundings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -found the door, and on, or rather in the door, a kind of spring -which he detected; having touched it, the door flew open.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan entered, closed the -door behind him, and advanced into a pavilion built in a circular -form, in which no other sound could be heard but cascades and the -songs of birds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the -door of the pavilion he met a lackey.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is here, I believe," -said D'Artagnan, without hesitation, "that M. le Baron du Vallon -is staying?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur," -answered the lackey.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have the goodness to -tell him that M. le Chevalier d'Artagnan, captain of the king's -musketeers, is waiting to see him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was -introduced into the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>salon</i>, and had not long to -remain in expectation: a well-remembered step shook the floor of -the adjoining room, a door opened, or rather flew open, and -Porthos appeared and threw himself into his friend's arms with a -sort of embarrassment which did not ill become him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You here?" he exclaimed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you?" replied -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah, you sly -fellow!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Porthos, -with a somewhat embarrassed smile; "yes, you see I am staying in -M. Fouquet's house, at which you are not a little surprised, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all; why should -you not be one of M. Fouquet's friends?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet has a very large number, -particularly among clever men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos had the modesty -not to take the compliment to himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Besides," he added, "you saw me at -Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A greater reason for my -believing you to be one of M. Fouquet's friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is, I am -acquainted with him," said Porthos, with a certain embarrassment -of manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, friend Porthos," -said D'Artagnan, "how treacherously you have behaved towards -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way?" exclaimed -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! you complete so -admirable a work as the fortifications of Belle-Isle, and you did -not tell me of it!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos colored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Nay, -more than that," continued D'Artagnan, "you saw me out yonder, -you know I am in the king's service, and yet you could not guess -that the king, jealously desirous of learning the name of the man -whose abilities had wrought a work of which he heard the most -wonderful accounts, - you could not guess, I say, that the king -sent me to learn who this man was?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! the king sent you -to learn - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; but don't -let us speak of that any more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not speak of it!" said -Porthos; "on the contrary, we will speak of it; and so the king -knew that we were fortifying Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; does not the -king know everything?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But he did not know who -was fortifying it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, he only suspected, -from what he had been told of the nature of the works, that it -was some celebrated soldier or another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The devil!" said -Porthos, "if I had only known that!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You would not have run -away from Vannes as you did, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; what did you say -when you couldn't find me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear fellow, I -reflected."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, indeed; you -reflect, do you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -and what did that reflection lead to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It led me to guess the -whole truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, then, tell me -what did you guess after all?" said Porthos, settling himself -into an armchair, and assuming the airs of a sphinx.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I guessed, in the first -place, that you were fortifying Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There was no great -difficulty in that, for you saw me at work."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait a -minute; I also guessed something else, - that you were fortifying -Belle-Isle by M. Fouquet's orders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But even that is not -all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever I feel -myself in trim for guessing, I do not stop on my road; and so I -guessed that M. Fouquet wished to preserve the most absolute -secrecy respecting these fortifications."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe that was his -intention, in fact," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, but do you know -why he wished to keep it secret?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In order it should not -become known, perhaps," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That was his principal -reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But his wish was -subservient to a bit of generosity - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In fact," said Porthos, -"I have head it said that M. Fouquet was a very generous -man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To a bit of generosity -he wished to exhibit towards the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You seem surprised at -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you didn't -guess?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I know it, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You are a -wizard."<br> -"Not at all, I assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"How do you know -it, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"By a very simple -means.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I heard M. Fouquet -himself say so to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Say what to the -king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That he fortified -Belle-Isle on his majesty's account, and that he had made him a -present of Belle Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you heard M. -Fouquet say that to the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In those very -words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He even added: -'Belle-Isle has been fortified by an engineer, one of my friends, -a man of a great deal of merit, whom I shall ask your majesty's -permission to present to you.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'What is his -name?' said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'The Baron du -Vallon,' M. Fouquet replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Very well,' -returned his majesty, 'you will present him to me.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king said -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon the word of a -D'Artagnan!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, oh!" said -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why have I not -been presented, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have they not -spoken to you about this presentation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, certainly; -but I am always kept waiting for it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Be easy, it will -be sure to come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Humph! humph!" -grumbled Porthos, which D'Artagnan pretended not to hear; and, -changing the conversation, he said, "You seem to be living in a -very solitary place here, my dear fellow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I always preferred -retirement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am of a -melancholy disposition," replied Porthos, with a sigh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Really, that is -odd," said D'Artagnan, "I never remarked that before."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is only since I -have taken to reading, "said Porthos, with a thoughtful air.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But the labors of -the mind have not affected the health of the body, I trust?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Not in the -slightest degree."<br> -"Your strength is as great as ever?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Too great, my -friend, too great."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had heard that, for a short time -after your arrival - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That I could -hardly move a limb, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"How was it?" said -D'Artagnan, smiling, "and why was it you could not move?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos, perceiving -that he had made a mistake, wished to correct it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, I came from Belle-Isle upon -very hard horses," he said, "and that fatigued me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am no longer -astonished, then, since I, who followed you, found seven or eight -lying dead on the road."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am very heavy, -you know," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So that you were -bruised all over."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My marrow melted, -and that made me very ill."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor Porthos!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But how did Aramis act towards -you under those circumstances?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, -indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had me -attended to by M. Fouquet's own doctor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But just imagine, at the end of a -week I could not breathe any longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you -mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The room was too -small; I had absorbed every atom of air."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I was told so, at -least; and so I was removed into another apartment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where you were -able to breathe, I hope and trust?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, more freely; -but no exercise - nothing to do.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The doctor pretended that I was not -to stir; I, on the contrary, felt that I was stronger than ever; -that was the cause of a very serious accident."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What -accident?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Fancy, my dear -fellow, that I revolted against the directions of that ass of a -doctor, and I resolved to go out, whether it suited him or not: -and, consequently, I told the valet who waited on me to bring me -my clothes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You were quite -naked, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no! on the -contrary, I had a magnificent dressing-gown to wear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lackey obeyed; I dressed myself -in my own clothes, which had become too large for me; but a -strange circumstance had happened, - my feet had become too -large."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I quite -understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And my boots too -small."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You mean your feet -were still swollen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly; you have -hit it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Pardieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And is that the accident you were -going to tell me about?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, yes; I did not -make the same reflection you have done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I said to myself: 'Since my feet -have entered my boots ten times, there is no reason why they -should not go in the eleventh.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Allow me to tell -you, my dear Porthos, that on this occasion you failed in your -logic."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In short, then, -they placed me opposite to a part of the room which was -partitioned; I tried to get my boot on; I pulled it with my -hands, I pushed with all the strength of the muscles of my leg, -making the most unheard-of efforts, when suddenly the two tags of -my boot remained in my hands, and my foot struck out like a -ballista."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How learned you -are in fortification, dear Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My foot darted out -like a ballista, and came against the partition, which it broke -in; I really thought that, like Samson, I had demolished the -temple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the number of -pictures, the quantity of china, vases of flowers, carpets, and -window-panes that fell down were really wonderful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without reckoning -that on the other side of the partition was a small table laden -with porcelain - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Which you knocked -over?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Which I dashed to -the other side of the room," said Porthos, laughing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon my word, it -is, as you say, astonishing," replied D'Artagnan, beginning to -laugh also; whereupon Porthos laughed louder than ever.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I broke," said -Porthos, in a voice half-choked from his increasing mirth, "more -than three thousand francs worth of china - ha, ha, ha!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good!" said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I smashed more -than four thousand francs worth of glass! - ho, ho, ho!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Excellent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without counting a -luster, which fell on my head and was broken into a thousand -pieces - ha, ha, ha!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon your head?" -said D'Artagnan, holding his sides.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On top."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But your head was -broken, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, since I tell -you, on the contrary, my dear fellow, that it was the luster -which was broken, like glass, which, in point of fact, it -was."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! the luster was -glass, you say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Venetian glass! a -perfect curiosity, quite matchless, indeed, and weighed two -hundred pounds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And it fell upon -your head!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon my head.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Just imagine, a globe of -crystal, gilded all over, the lower part beautifully encrusted, -perfumes burning at the top, with jets from which flame issued -when they were lighted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I quite -understand, but they were not lighted at the time, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Happily not, or I -should have been grilled prematurely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you were only -knocked down flat, instead?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How, 'not at -all?'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, the luster -fell on my skull.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -appears that we have upon the top of our heads an exceedingly -thick crust."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who told you that, -Porthos?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The doctor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A sort of dome which would -bear Notre-Dame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, it seems that -our skulls are made in that manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Speak for -yourself, my dear fellow, it is your own skull that is made in -that manner, and not the skulls of other people."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, that may be -so," said Porthos, conceitedly, "so much, however, was that the -case, in my instance, that no sooner did the luster fall upon the -dome which we have at the top of our head, than there was a -report like a cannon, the crystal was broken to pieces, and I -fell, covered from head to foot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With blood, poor -Porthos!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not at all; with -perfumes, which smelt like rich creams; it was delicious, but the -odor was too strong, and I felt quite giddy from it; perhaps you -have experienced it sometimes yourself, D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, in inhaling -the scent of the lily of the valley; so that, my poor friend, you -were knocked over by the shock and overpowered by the -perfumes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; but what is -very remarkable, for the doctor told me he had never seen -anything like it - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You had a bump on -your head I suppose?" interrupted D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I had five."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why five?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will tell you; -the luster had, at its lower extremity, five gilt ornaments; -excessively sharp."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, these five -ornaments penetrated my hair, which, as you see, I wear very -thick."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Fortunately -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And they made a -mark on my skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But just -notice the singularity of it, these things seem really only to -happen to me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Instead of -making indentations, they made bumps.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The doctor could never succeed in -explaining that to me satisfactorily."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, I will -explain it to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will do me a -great service if you will," said Porthos, winking his eyes, -which, with him, was sign of the profoundest attention.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since you have -been employing your brain in studies of an exalted character, in -important calculations, and so on, the head has gained a certain -advantage, so that your head is now too full of science."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you think -so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am sure of -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The result is, that, -instead of allowing any foreign matter to penetrate the interior -of the head, your bony box or skull, which is already too full, -avails itself of the openings which are made in allowing this -excess to escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said Porthos, -to whom this explanation appeared clearer than that of the -doctor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The five -protuberances, caused by the five ornaments of the luster, must -certainly have been scientific globules, brought to the surface -by the force of circumstances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In fact," said -Porthos, "the real truth is, that I felt far worse outside my -head than inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will -even confess, that when I put my hat upon my head, clapping it on -my head with that graceful energy which we gentlemen of the sword -possess, if my fist was not very gently applied, I experienced -the most painful sensations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I quite believe -you, Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Therefore, my -friend," said the giant, "M. Fouquet decided, seeing how slightly -built the house was, to give me another lodging, and so they -brought me here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is the private -park, I think, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where the -rendezvous are made; that park, indeed, which is so celebrated in -some of those mysterious stories about the superintendent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I don't know; I -have had no rendezvous or heard mysterious stories myself, but -they have authorized me to exercise my muscles, and I take -advantage of the permission by rooting up some of the trees."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To keep my hand -in, and also to take some birds' nests; I find it more convenient -than climbing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are as -pastoral as Tyrcis, my dear Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I like the -small eggs; I like them very much better than larger ones.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have no idea how delicate -an <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>omelette</i> is, if made -of four or five hundred eggs of linnets, chaffinches, starlings, -blackbirds, and thrushes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But five hundred -eggs is perfectly monstrous!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A salad-bowl will -hold them easily enough," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan looked -at Porthos admiringly for full five minutes, as if he had seen -him for the first time, while Porthos spread his chest out -joyously and proudly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -They remained in this state several minutes, Porthos smiling, and -D'Artagnan looking at him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan was evidently trying to -give the conversation a new turn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do you amuse yourself much here, -Porthos?" he asked at last, very likely after he had found out -what he was searching for.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not always."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I can imagine -that; but when you get thoroughly bored, by and by, what do you -intend to do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall not be here for any length -of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis is -waiting until the last bump on my head disappears, in order to -present me to the king, who I am told cannot endure the sight of -a bump."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Aramis is still in -Paris, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whereabouts is he, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At -Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alone?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But do you happen to know one -thing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, tell it me, -and then I shall know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, I -think Aramis is forgetting you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you really -think so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; for at -Fontainebleau yonder, you must know, they are laughing, dancing, -banqueting, and drawing the corks of M. de Mazarin's wine in fine -style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you aware that -they have a ballet every evening there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The deuce they -have!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I assure you that -your dear Aramis is forgetting you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, that is not -at all unlikely, and I have myself thought so sometimes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Unless he is -playing you a trick, the sly fellow!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You know that -Aramis is as sly as a fox."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, but to play -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me</i> a trick - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen: in the -first place, he puts you under a sort of sequestration."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He sequestrates -me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you mean to say I -am sequestrated?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I wish you would -have the goodness to prove that to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing -easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you ever go -out?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Never."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you ever ride -on horseback?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Never."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are your friends -allowed to come and see you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Never."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, then; -never to go out, never to ride on horseback, never to be allowed -to see your friends, that is called being sequestrated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But why should -Aramis sequestrate me?" inquired Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come," said -D'Artagnan, "be frank, Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As gold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It was Aramis who -drew the plan of the fortifications at Belle-Isle, was it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos colored as -he said, "Yes; but that was all he did."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly, and my -own opinion is that it was no very great affair after all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is mine, -too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good; I am -delighted we are of the same opinion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He never even came -to Belle-Isle," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There now, you -see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It was I who went -to Vannes, as you may have seen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Say rather, as I -did see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, that is -precisely the state of the case, my dear Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, who only drew the plans, -wishes to pass himself off as the engineer, whilst you, who, -stone by stone, built the wall, the citadel, and the bastions, he -wishes to reduce to the rank of a mere builder."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By builder, you -mean mason, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Mason; the very -word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Plasterer, in -fact?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Hodman?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, oh! my dear -Aramis, you seem to think you are only five and twenty years of -age still."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, and that is -not all, for believes you are fifty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I should have -amazingly liked to have seen him at work."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A fellow who has -got the gout?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who has lost three -of his teeth?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Four."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"While I, look at -mine."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Porthos, -opening his large mouth very wide, displayed two rows of teeth -not quite as white as snow, but even, hard, and sound as -ivory.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You can hardly -believe, Porthos," said D'Artagnan, "what a fancy the king has -for good teeth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yours -decide me; I will present you to the king myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you think I have less -credit at court than Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you think I -have the slightest pretensions upon the fortifications at -Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly -not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is your own -interest alone which would induce me to do it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I don't doubt it -in the least."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, I am the -intimate friend of the king; and a proof of that is, that -whenever there is anything disagreeable to tell him, it is I who -have to do it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But, dear -D'Artagnan, if you present me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis will -be angry."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, with <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>me</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bah! whether he or -I present you, since you are to be presented, what does it -matter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They were going to -get me some clothes made."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your own are -splendid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! those I had -ordered were far more beautiful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take care: the -king likes simplicity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case, I -will be simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what -will M. Fouquet say, when he learns that I have left?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are you a -prisoner, then, on parole?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, not quite -that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I promised him -I would not leave without letting him know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Wait a minute, we -shall return to that presently.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you anything to do here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I, nothing: -nothing of any importance, at least."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Unless, indeed, -you are Aramis's representative for something of importance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By no means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What I tell you - -pray, understand that - is out of interest for you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I suppose, for instance, that you -are commissioned to send messages and letters to him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! letters --yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I send certain -letters to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To -Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you any -letters, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, let me -speak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you any -letters, I say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have just -received one for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Interesting?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I suppose so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You do not read -them, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am not at all -curious," said Porthos, as he drew out of his pocket the -soldier's letter which Porthos had not read, but D'Artagnan -had.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know what -to do with it?" said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course; do as I -always do, send it to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Keep it, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did they not tell -you that this letter was important?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very -important."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, you must -take it yourself to Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes."<br> -"Very good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And since the king -is there - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You will profit by -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I shall profit by -the opportunity to present you to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, there is no one like you -for expedients."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Therefore, instead -of forwarding to our friend any messages, which may or may not be -faithfully delivered, we will ourselves be the bearers of the -letter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I had never even -thought of that, and yet it is simple enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And therefore, -because it is urgent, Porthos, we ought to set off at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In fact," said -Porthos, "the sooner we set off the less chance there is of -Aramis's letter being delayed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Porthos, your -reasoning is always accurate, and, in your case, logic seems to -serve as an auxiliary to the imagination."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you think so?" -said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is the result -of your hard reading," replied D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "So come along, let us be off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But," said -Porthos, "my promise to M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Which?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not to leave -Saint-Mandé without telling him of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos," said D'Artagnan, "how very -young you still are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are going to -Fontainebleau, are you not, where you will find M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Probably in the -king's palace?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," repeated -Porthos, with an air full of majesty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, you will -accost him with these words: 'M. Fouquet, I have the honor to -inform you that I have just left Saint-Mandé.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And," said -Porthos, with the same majestic mien, "seeing me at Fontainebleau -at the king's, M. Fouquet will not be able to tell me I am not -speaking the truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear Porthos, I -was just on the point of opening my lips to make the same remark, -but you anticipate me in everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, how fortunately you are -gifted!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Years have made -not the slightest impression on you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not over-much, -certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then there is -nothing more to say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"All your scruples -are removed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case I -shall carry you off with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly; and I -will go and get my horse saddled."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have horses -here, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have five."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You had them sent -from Pierrefonds, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, M. Fouquet -gave them to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear Porthos, -we shall not want five horses for two persons; besides, I have -already three in Paris, which would make eight, and that will be -too many."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It would not be -too many if I had some of my servants here; but, alas! I have not -got them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you regret -them, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I regret -Mousqueton; I miss Mousqueton."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What a -good-hearted fellow you are, Porthos," said D'Artagnan; "but the -best thing you can do is to leave your horses here, as you have -left Mousqueton out yonder."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because, by and -by, it might turn out a very good thing if M. Fouquet had never -given you anything at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I don't understand -you," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is not -necessary you should understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But yet - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will explain to -you later, Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I'll wager it is -some piece of policy or other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And of the most -subtle character," returned D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos nodded his -head at this word policy; then, after a moment's reflection, he -added, "I confess, D'Artagnan, that I am no politician."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know that -well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! no one knows -what you told me yourself, you, the bravest of the brave."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What did I tell -you, Porthos?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That every man has -his day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You told me so, -and I have experienced it myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There are certain days when one -feels less pleasure than others in exposing one's self to a -bullet or a sword-thrust."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly my own -idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And mine, too, -although I can hardly believe in blows or thrusts that kill -outright."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The deuce! and yet -you have killed a few in your time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; but I have -never been killed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your reason is a -very good one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Therefore, I do -not believe I shall ever die from a thrust of a sword or a -gun-shot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case, -then, you are afraid of nothing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! water, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I swim like an otter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of a quartan -fever, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have never had -one yet, and I don't believe I ever shall; but there is one thing -I will admit," and Porthos dropped his voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is that?" -asked D'Artagnan, adopting the same tone of voice as Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I must confess," -repeated Porthos, "that I am horribly afraid of politics."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, bah!" -exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon my word, it's -true," said Porthos, in a stentorian voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have seen his eminence Monsieur -le Cardinal de Richelieu, and his eminence Monsieur le Cardinal -de Mazarin; the one was a red politician, the other a black -politician; I never felt very much more satisfied with the one -than with the other; the first struck off the heads of M. de -Marillac, M. de Thou, M. de Cinq-Mars, M. Châlais, M. de -Bouteville, and M. de Montmorency; the second got a whole crowd -of Frondeurs cut in pieces, and we belonged to them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, -we did not belong to them," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! indeed, yes; -for if I unsheathed my sword for the cardinal, I struck it for -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My good -Porthos!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, I have -done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My dread of -politics is such, that if there is any question of politics in -the matter, I should greatly prefer to return to -Pierrefonds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You would be quite -right, if that were the case.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But with me, my dear Porthos, no -politics at all, that is quite clear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have labored hard in fortifying -Belle-Isle; the king wished to know the name of the clever -engineer under whose directions the works were carried out; you -are modest, as all men of true genius are; perhaps Aramis wishes -to put you under a bushel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I happen to seize hold of you; I -make it known who you are; I produce you; the king rewards you; -and that is the only policy I have to do with."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And the only one I -will have to do with either," said Porthos, holding out his hand -to D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>But D'Artagnan knew -Porthos's grasp; he knew that, once imprisoned within the baron's -five fingers, no hand ever left it without being -half-crushed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -therefore held out, not his hand, but his fist, and Porthos did -not even perceive the difference.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The servants talked a little with -each other in an undertone, and whispered a few words, which -D'Artagnan understood, but which he took very good care not to -let Porthos understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Our friend," he said to himself, "was really and truly Aramis's -prisoner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us now see -what the result will be of the liberation of the captive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -IV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Rat and the Cheese.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>'Artagnan and Porthos returned on foot, as D'Artagnan had -set out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When D'Artagnan, -as he entered the shop of the Pilon d'Or, announced to Planchet -that M. du Vallon would be one of the privileged travelers, and -as the plume in Porthos's hat made the wooden candles suspended -over the front jingle together, a melancholy presentiment seemed -to eclipse the delight Planchet had promised himself for the -morrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the grocer -had a heart of gold, ever mindful of the good old times - a trait -that carries youth into old age.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So Planchet, notwithstanding a sort -of internal shiver, checked as soon as experienced, received -Porthos with respect, mingled with the tenderest cordiality.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, who was a little cold -and stiff in his manners at first, on account of the social -difference existing at that period between a baron and a grocer, -soon began to soften when he perceived so much good-feeling and -so many kind attentions in Planchet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was particularly touched by the -liberty which was permitted him to plunge his great palms into -the boxes of dried fruits and preserves, into the sacks of nuts -and almonds, and into the drawers full of sweetmeats.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So that, notwithstanding Planchet's -pressing invitations to go upstairs to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>entresol</i>, he chose as his -favorite seat, during the evening which he had to spend at -Planchet's house, the shop itself, where his fingers could always -fish up whatever his nose detected.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The delicious figs from Provence, -filberts from the forest, Tours plums, were subjects of his -uninterrupted attention for five consecutive hours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His teeth, like millstones, cracked -heaps of nuts, the shells of which were scattered all over the -floor, where they were trampled by every one who went in and out -of the shop; Porthos pulled from the stalk with his lips, at one -mouthful, bunches of the rich Muscatel raisins with their -beautiful bloom, half a pound of which passed at one gulp from -his mouth to his stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In one of the corners of the shop, Planchet's assistants, huddled -together, looked at each other without venturing to open their -lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They did not know -who Porthos was, for they had never seen him before.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The race of those Titans who had -worn the cuirasses of Hugh Capet, Philip Augustus, and Francis I. -had already begun to disappear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They could hardly help thinking he -might be the ogre of the fairy tale, who was going to turn the -whole contents of Planchet's shop into his insatiable stomach, -and that, too, without in the slightest degree displacing the -barrels and chests that were in it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Cracking, munching, chewing, -nibbling, sucking, and swallowing, Porthos occasionally said to -the grocer:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do a very good -business here, friend Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will very soon have -none at all to do, if this sort of thing continues," grumbled the -foreman, who had Planchet's word that he should be his -successor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the midst -of his despair, he approached Porthos, who blocked up the whole -of the passage leading from the back shop to the shop -itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He hoped that -Porthos would rise and that this movement would distract his -devouring ideas.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you want, my -man?" asked Porthos, affably.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should like to pass -you, monsieur, if it is not troubling you too much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well," said -Porthos, "it does not trouble me in the least."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>At the same moment -he took hold of the young fellow by the waistband, lifted him off -the ground, and placed him very gently on the other side, smiling -all the while with the same affable expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as Porthos had placed him on -the ground, the lad's legs so shook under him that he fell back -upon some sacks of corks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But noticing the giant's gentleness of manner, he ventured again, -and said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, monsieur! pray -be careful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What about?" -inquired Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are positively -putting a fiery furnace into your body."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How is that, my -good fellow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"All those things -are very heating to the system!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Which?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Raisins, nuts, and -almonds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; but if -raisins, nuts, and almonds are heating - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is no doubt -at all of it, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Honey is very -cooling," said Porthos, stretching out his hand toward a small -barrel of honey which was open, and he plunged the scoop with -which the wants of the customers were supplied into it, and -swallowed a good half-pound at one gulp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I must trouble you -for some water now, my man," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In a pail, -monsieur?" asked the lad, simply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, in a -water-bottle; that will be quite enough;" and raising the bottle -to his mouth, as a trumpeter does his trumpet, he emptied the -bottle at a single draught.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Planchet was -agitated in every fibre of propriety and self-esteem.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However, a worthy representative of -the hospitality which prevailed in early days, he feigned to be -talking very earnestly with D'Artagnan, and incessantly repeated: -- "Ah! monsieur, what a happiness! what an honor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What time shall we -have supper, Planchet?" inquired Porthos, "I feel hungry."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The foreman clasped -his hands together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -two others got under the counters, fearing Porthos might have a -taste for human flesh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We shall only take -a sort of snack here," said D'Artagnan; "and when we get to -Planchet's country-seat, we will have supper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, ah! so we are -going to your country-house, Planchet," said Porthos; "so much -the better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You overwhelm me, -monsieur le baron."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The "monsieur le -baron" had a great effect upon the men, who detected a personage -of the highest quality in an appetite of that kind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This title, too, reassured -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They had never -heard that an ogre was ever called "monsieur le baron".</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will take a few -biscuits to eat on the road," said Porthos, carelessly; and he -emptied a whole jar of aniseed biscuits into the huge pocket of -his doublet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My shop is saved!" -exclaimed Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, as the cheese -was," whispered the foreman.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What cheese?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The Dutch cheese, -inside which a rat had made his way, and we found only the rind -left."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Planchet looked all -round his shop, and observing the different articles which had -escaped Porthos's teeth, he found the comparison somewhat -exaggerated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The foreman, -who remarked what was passing in his master's mind, said, "Take -care; he is not gone yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you any fruit -here?" said Porthos, as he went upstairs to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>entresol</i>, where it had just -been announced that some refreshment was prepared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas!" thought the -grocer, addressing a look at D'Artagnan full of entreaty, which -the latter half understood.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>As soon as they had -finished eating they set off.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was late when the three riders, -who had left Paris about six in the evening, arrived at -Fontainebleau.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -journey passed very agreeably.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos took a fancy to Planchet's -society, because the latter was very respectful in his manners, -and seemed delighted to talk to him about his meadows, his woods, -and his rabbit-warrens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos had all the taste and pride of a landed proprietor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When D'Artagnan saw his two -companions in earnest conversation, he took the opposite side of -the road, and letting his bridle drop upon his horse's neck, -separated himself from the whole world, as he had done from -Porthos and from Planchet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moon shone softly through the -foliage of the forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The breezes of the open country rose deliciously perfumed to the -horse's nostrils, and they snorted and pranced along -delightedly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos and -Planchet began to talk about hay-crops.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet admitted to Porthos that in -the advanced years of his life, he had certainly neglected -agricultural pursuits for commerce, but that his childhood had -been passed in Picardy in the beautiful meadows where the grass -grew as high as the knees, and where he had played under the -green apple-trees covered with red-cheeked fruit; he went on to -say, that he had solemnly promised himself that as soon as he -should have made his fortune, he would return to nature, and end -his days, as he had begun them, as near as he possibly could to -the earth itself, where all men must sleep at last.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh, eh!" said -Porthos; "in that case, my dear Monsieur Planchet, your -retirement is not far distant."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, you seem to -be in the way of making your fortune very soon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, we are -getting on pretty well, I must admit," replied Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come, tell me what -is the extent of your ambition, and what is the amount you intend -to retire upon?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is one -circumstance, monsieur," said Planchet, without answering the -question, "which occasions me a good deal of anxiety."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it?" -inquired Porthos, looking all round him as if in search of the -circumstance that annoyed Planchet, and desirous of freeing him -from it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, formerly," -said the grocer, "you used to call me Planchet quite short, and -you would have spoken to me then in a much more familiar manner -than you do now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly, -certainly, I should have said so formerly," replied the -good-natured Porthos, with an embarrassment full of delicacy; -"but formerly - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Formerly I was M. -d'Artagnan's lackey; is not that what you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well if I am not -quite his lackey, I am as much as ever I was his devoted servant; -and more than that, since that time - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, -Planchet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since that time, I -have had the honor of being in partnership with him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, oh!" said -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What, has -D'Artagnan gone into the grocery business?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no," said -D'Artagnan, whom these words had drawn out of his reverie, and -who entered into the conversation with that readiness and -rapidity which distinguished every operation of his mind and -body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It was not -D'Artagnan who entered into the grocery business, but Planchet -who entered into a political affair with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said -Planchet, with mingled pride and satisfaction, "we transacted a -little business which brought me in a hundred thousand francs and -M. d'Artagnan two hundred thousand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, oh!" said -Porthos, with admiration.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So that, monsieur -le baron," continued the grocer, "I again beg you to be kind -enough to call me Planchet, as you used to do; and to speak to me -as familiarly as in old times.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You cannot possibly imagine the -pleasure it would give me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If that be the -case, my dear Planchet, I will do so, certainly," replied -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as he was -quite close to Planchet, he raised his hand, as if to strike him -on the shoulder, in token of friendly cordiality; but a fortunate -movement of the horse made him miss his aim, so that his hand -fell on the crupper of Planchet's horse, instead; which made the -animal's legs almost give way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan burst -out laughing, as he said, "Take care, Planchet; for if Porthos -begins to like you so much, he will caress you, and if he -caresses you he will knock you as flat as a pancake.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos is still as strong as every, -you know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh," said -Planchet, "Mousqueton is not dead, and yet monsieur le baron is -very fond of him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly," said -Porthos, with a sigh which made all the three horses rear; "and I -was only saying, this very morning, to D'Artagnan, how much I -regretted him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But tell -me, Planchet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thank you, -monsieur le baron, thank you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good lad, good -lad!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How many acres of -park have you got?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of park?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; we will -reckon up the meadows presently, and the woods afterwards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whereabouts, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At your -château."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, monsieur le -baron, I have neither château, nor park, nor meadows, nor -woods."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What have you got, -then?" inquired Porthos, "and why do you call it a -country-seat?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I did not call it -a country-seat, monsieur le baron," replied Planchet, somewhat -humiliated, "but a country-box."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, ah!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are modest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, monsieur le -baron, I speak the plain truth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have rooms for a couple of -friends, that's all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But in that case, -whereabouts do your friends walk?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the first -place, they can walk about the king's forest, which is very -beautiful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I know the -forest is very fine," said Porthos; "nearly as beautiful as my -forest at Berry."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Planchet opened his -eyes very wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Have you -a forest of the same kind as the forest at Fontainebleau, -monsieur le baron?" he stammered out.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; I have two, -indeed, but the one at Berry is my favorite."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why so?" asked -Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because I don't -know where it ends; and, also, because it is full of -poachers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How can the -poachers make the forest so agreeable to you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because they hunt -my game, and I hunt them - which, in these peaceful times, is for -me a sufficiently pleasing picture of war on a small scale."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>They had reached -this turn of conversation, when Planchet, looking up, perceived -the houses at the commencement of Fontainebleau, the lofty -outlines of which stood out strongly against the misty visage of -the heavens; whilst, rising above the compact and irregularly -formed mass of buildings, the pointed roofs of the château -were clearly visible, the slates of which glistened beneath the -light of the moon, like the scales of an immense fish.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Gentlemen," said Planchet, "I -have the honor to inform you that we have arrived at -Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -V:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Planchet's Country-House.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he cavaliers looked up, and saw that what Planchet had -announced to them was true.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ten minutes afterwards they were in -the street called the Rue de Lyon, on the opposite side of the -hostelry of the Beau Paon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A high hedge of bushy elders, -hawthorn, and wild hops formed an impenetrable fence, behind -which rose a white house, with a high tiled roof.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two of the windows, which were quite -dark, looked upon the street.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Between the two, a small door, with -a porch supported by a couple of pillars, formed the entrance to -the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The door was -gained by a step raised a little from the ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet got off his horse, as if he -intended to knock at the door; but, on second thoughts, he took -hold of his horse by the bridle, and led it about thirty paces -further on, his two companions following him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then advanced about another -thirty paces, until he arrived at the door of a cart-house, -lighted by an iron grating; and, lifting up a wooden latch, -pushed open one of the folding-doors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He entered first, leading his horse -after him by the bridle, into a small courtyard, where an odor -met them which revealed their close vicinity to a stable.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That smells all right," said -Porthos, loudly, getting off his horse, "and I almost begin to -think I am near my own cows at Pierrefonds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have only one cow," -Planchet hastened to say modestly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I have -thirty," said Porthos; "or rather, I don't exactly know how many -I have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>When the two -cavaliers had entered, Planchet fastened the door behind -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime, -D'Artagnan, who had dismounted with his usual agility, inhaled -the fresh perfumed air with the delight a Parisian feels at the -sight of green fields and fresh foliage, plucked a piece of -honeysuckle with one hand, and of sweet-briar with the -other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos clawed -hold of some peas which were twined round poles stuck into the -ground, and ate, or rather browsed upon them, shells and all: and -Planchet was busily engaged trying to wake up an old and infirm -peasant, who was fast asleep in a shed, lying on a bed of moss, -and dressed in an old stable suit of clothes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The peasant, recognizing Planchet, -called him "the master," to the grocer's great satisfaction.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Stable the horses well, old -fellow, and you shall have something good for yourself," said -Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, yes; fine -animals they are too," said the peasant.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! they shall have as much as they -like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Gently, gently, my -man," said D'Artagnan, "we are getting on a little too fast.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few oats and a good bed - -nothing more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Some bran and -water for my horse," said Porthos, "for it is very warm, I -think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Don't be afraid, -gentlemen," replied Planchet; "Daddy Celestin is an old gendarme, -who fought at Ivry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -knows all about horses; so come into the house."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he led the way along a -well-sheltered walk, which crossed a kitchen-garden, then a small -paddock, and came out into a little garden behind the house, the -principal front of which, as we have already noticed, faced the -street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As they -approached, they could see, through two open windows on the -ground floor, which led into a sitting-room, the interior of -Planchet's residence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This room, softly lighted by a lamp placed on the table, seemed, -from the end of the garden, like a smiling image of repose, -comfort, and happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In every direction where the rays of light fell, whether upon a -piece of old china, or upon an article of furniture shining from -excessive neatness, or upon the weapons hanging against the wall, -the soft light was softly reflected; and its rays seemed to -linger everywhere upon something or another, agreeable to the -eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lamp which -lighted the room, whilst the foliage of jasmine and climbing -roses hung in masses from the window-frames, splendidly -illuminated a damask table-cloth as white as snow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The table was laid for two -persons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Amber-colored -wine sparkled in a long cut-glass bottle; and a large jug of blue -china, with a silver lid, was filled with foaming cider.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Near the table, in a -high-backed armchair, reclined, fast asleep, a woman of about -thirty years of age, her face the very picture of health and -freshness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon her knees -lay a large cat, with her paws folded under her, and her eyes -half-closed, purring in that significant manner which, according -to feline habits, indicates perfect contentment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two friends paused before the -window in complete amazement, while Planchet, perceiving their -astonishment, was in no little degree secretly delighted at -it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet, you rascal," said -D'Artagnan, "I now understand your absences."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, oh! there is -some white linen!" said Porthos, in his turn, in a voice of -thunder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the sound of -this gigantic voice, the cat took flight, the housekeeper woke up -with a start, and Planchet, assuming a gracious air, introduced -his two companions into the room, where the table was already -laid.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Permit me, my -dear," he said, "to present to you Monsieur le Chevalier -d'Artagnan, my patron."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan took the lady's hand in his in the most courteous -manner, and with precisely the same chivalrous air as he would -have taken Madame's.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur le Baron -du Vallon de Bracieux de Pierrefonds," added Planchet.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos bowed with a reverence -which Anne of Austria would have approved of.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>It was then -Planchet's turn, and he unhesitatingly embraced the lady in -question, not, however, until he had made a sign as if requesting -D'Artagnan's and Porthos's permission, a permission as a matter -of course frankly conceded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan complimented Planchet, -and said, "You are indeed a man who knows how to make life -agreeable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Life, monsieur," -said Planchet, laughing, "is capital which a man ought to invest -as sensibly as he possibly can."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you get very -good interest for yours," said Porthos, with a burst of laughter -like a peal of thunder.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Planchet turned to -his housekeeper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You -have before you," he said to her, "the two gentlemen who -influenced the greatest, gayest, grandest portion of my -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have spoken to -you about them both very frequently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And about two -others as well," said the lady, with a very decided Flemish -accent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Madame is Dutch?" -inquired D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos curled his mustache, a circumstance which was not lost -upon D'Artagnan, who noticed everything.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am from -Antwerp," said the lady.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And her name is -Madame Getcher," said Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You should not -call her madame," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not?" asked -Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because it would -make her seem older every time you call her so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, I call her -Trüchen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And a very pretty -name too," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Trüchen," -said Planchet, "came to me from Flanders with her virtue and two -thousand florins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She ran -away from a brute of a husband who was in the habit of beating -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Being myself a -Picard born, I was always very fond of the Artesian women, and it -is only a step from Artois to Flanders; she came crying bitterly -to her godfather, my predecessor in the Rue des Lombards; she -placed her two thousand florins in my establishment, which I have -turned to very good account, and which have brought her in ten -thousand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bravo, -Planchet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"She is free and -well off; she has a cow, a maid servant and old Celestin at her -orders; she mends my linen, knits my winter stockings; she only -sees me every fortnight, and seems to make herself in all things -tolerably happy.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And indeed, -gentlemen, I <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>am</i> very -happy and comfortable," said Trüchen, with perfect -ingenuousness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos began to -curl the other side of his mustache.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The deuce," thought D'Artagnan, -"can Porthos have any intentions in that quarter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>In the meantime -Trüchen had set her cook to work, had laid the table for two -more, and covered it with every possible delicacy that could -convert a light supper into a substantial meal, a meal into a -regular feast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fresh -butter, salt beef, anchovies, tunny, a shopful of Planchet's -commodities, fowls, vegetables, salad, fish from the pond and the -river, game from the forest - all the produce, in fact, of the -province.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Moreover, -Planchet returned from the cellar, laden with ten bottles of -wine, the glass of which could hardly be seen for the thick -coating of dust which covered them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos's heart began to expand as -he said, "I am hungry," and he sat himself beside Madame -Trüchen, whom he looked at in the most killing manner.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan seated himself on -the other side of her, while Planchet, discreetly and full of -delight, took his seat opposite.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not trouble -yourselves," he said, "if Trüchen should leave the table now -and then during supper; for she will have to look after your -bedrooms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>In fact, the -housekeeper made her escape quite frequently, and they could -hear, on the first floor above them, the creaking of the wooden -bedsteads and the rolling of the castors on the floor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While this was going on, the -three men, Porthos especially, ate and drank gloriously, - it was -wonderful to see them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The ten full bottles were ten empty one by the time Trüchen -returned with the cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan still preserved his dignity and self-possession, but -Porthos had lost a portion of his; and the mirth soon began to -grow somewhat uproarious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan recommended a new descent into the cellar, and, as -Planchet no longer walked with the steadiness of a well-trained -foot-soldier, the captain of the musketeers proposed to accompany -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They set off, -humming songs wild enough to frighten anybody who might be -listening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trüchen -remained behind at table with Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While the two wine-bibbers were -looking behind the firewood for what they wanted, a sharp report -was heard like the impact of a pair of lips on a lady's -cheek.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Porthos fancies -himself at La Rochelle," thought D'Artagnan, as they returned -freighted with bottles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Planchet was singing so loudly that he was incapable of noticing -anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -whom nothing ever escaped, remarked how much redder -Trüchen's left cheek was than her right.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos was sitting on -Trüchen's left, and was curling with both his hands both -sides of his mustache at once, and Trüchen was looking at -him with a most bewitching smile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sparkling wine of Anjou very -soon produced a remarkable effect upon the three companions.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan had hardly strength -enough left to take a candlestick to light Planchet up his own -staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet was -pulling Porthos along, who was following Trüchen, who was -herself jovial enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was D'Artagnan who found out the rooms and the beds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos threw himself into the one -destined for him, after his friend had undressed him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan got into his own bed, -saying to himself, "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had made up my mind never to touch -that light-colored wine, which brings my early camp days back -again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fie! fie! if my -musketeers were only to see their captain in such a state."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And drawing the curtains of -his bed, he added, "Fortunately enough, though, they will not see -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The country is -very amusing," said Porthos, stretching out his legs, which -passed through the wooden footboard, and made a tremendous crash, -of which, however, no one in the house was capable of taking the -slightest notice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By two -o'clock in the morning every one was fast asleep.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -VI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Showing What Could Be Seen from Planchet's House.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he next morning found the three heroes sleeping -soundly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trüchen had -closed the outside blinds to keep the first rays of the sun from -the leaden-lidded eyes of her guests, like a kind, good -housekeeper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was still -perfectly dark, then, beneath Porthos's curtains and under -Planchet's canopy, when D'Artagnan, awakened by an indiscreet ray -of light which made its way through a peek-hole in the shutters, -jumped hastily out of bed, as if he wished to be the first at a -forlorn hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He took by -assault Porthos's room, which was next to his own.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The worthy Porthos was sleeping with -a noise like distant thunder; in the dim obscurity of the room -his gigantic frame was prominently displayed, and his swollen -fist hung down outside the bed upon the carpet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan awoke Porthos, who rubbed -his eyes in a tolerably good humor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime Planchet was -dressing himself, and met at their bedroom doors his two guests, -who were still somewhat unsteady from their previous evening's -entertainment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Although -it was yet very early, the whole household was already up.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cook was mercilessly -slaughtering in the poultry-yard; Celestin was gathering white -cherries in the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos, brisk and lively as ever, held out his hand to -Planchet's, and D'Artagnan requested permission to embrace Madame -Trüchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter, -to show that she bore no ill-will, approached Porthos, upon whom -she conferred the same favor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos embraced Madame -Trüchen, heaving an enormous sigh.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet took both his friends by -the hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am going to show you -over the house," he said; "when we arrived last night it was as -dark as an oven, and we were unable to see anything; but in broad -daylight, everything looks different, and you will be satisfied, -I hope."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If we begin by the view -you have here," said D'Artagnan, "that charms me beyond -everything; I have always lived in royal mansions, you know, and -royal personages have tolerably sound ideas upon the selection of -points of view."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am a great stickler -for a good view myself," said Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "At my Château de Pierrefonds, -I have had four avenues laid out, and at the end of each is a -landscape of an altogether different character from the -others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You shall see <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> prospect," said Planchet; and -he led his two guests to a window.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said D'Artagnan, -"this is the Rue de Lyon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I have two windows -on this side, a paltry, insignificant view, for there is always -that bustling and noisy inn, which is a very disagreeable -neighbor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had four -windows here, but I bricked up two."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us go on," said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They entered a corridor -leading to the bedrooms, and Planchet pushed open the outside -blinds.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hollo! what is that out -yonder?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The forest," said -Planchet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is the -horizon, - a thick line of green, which is yellow in the spring, -green in the summer, red in the autumn, and white in the -winter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All very well, but it -is like a curtain, which prevents one seeing a greater -distance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Planchet; -"still, one can see, at all events, everything that -intervenes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, the open country," -said Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But what -is that I see out there, - crosses and stones?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, that is the -cemetery," exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely," said -Planchet; "I assure you it is very curious.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hardly a day passes that some one is -not buried there; for Fontainebleau is by no means an -inconsiderable place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Sometimes we see young girls clothed in white carrying banners; -at others, some of the town-council, or rich citizens, with -choristers and all the parish authorities; and then, too, we see -some of the officers of the king's household."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should not like -that," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is not much -amusement in it, at all events," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I assure you it -encourages religious thoughts," replied Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, I don't deny -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," continued -Planchet, "we must all die one day or another, and I once met -with a maxim somewhere which I have remembered, that the thought -of death is a thought that will do us all good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am far from saying -the contrary," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," objected -D'Artagnan, "the thought of green fields, flowers, rivers, blue -horizons, extensive and boundless plains, is no likely to do us -good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I had any, I should -be far from rejecting them," said Planchet; "but possessing only -this little cemetery, full of flowers, so moss-grown, shady, and -quiet, I am contented with it, and I think of those who live in -town, in the Rue des Lombards, for instance, and who have to -listen to the rumbling of a couple of thousand vehicles every -day, and to the soulless tramp, tramp, tramp of a hundred and -fifty thousand foot-passengers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But living," said -Porthos; "living, remember that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is exactly the -reason," said Planchet, timidly, "why I feel it does me good to -contemplate a few dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word," said -D'Artagnan, "that fellow Planchet is born a philosopher as well -as a grocer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said -Planchet, "I am one of those good-humored sort of men whom Heaven -created for the purpose of living a certain span of days, and of -considering all good they meet with during their transitory stay -on earth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan sat down -close to the window, and as there seemed to be something -substantial in Planchet's philosophy, he mused over it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah!" exclaimed -Planchet, "if I am not mistaken, we are going to have a -representation now, for I think I heard something like -chanting."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said D'Artagnan, -"I hear singing too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, it is only a burial -of a very poor description," said Planchet, disdainfully; "the -officiating priest, the beadle, and only one chorister boy, -nothing more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -observe, messieurs, that the defunct lady or gentleman could not -have been of very high rank."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; no one seems to be -following the coffin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Porthos; "I -see a man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right; a man -wrapped in a cloak," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It's not worth looking -at," said Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I find it interesting," -said D'Artagnan, leaning on the window-sill.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come, you are -beginning to take a fancy to the place already," said Planchet, -delightedly; "it is exactly my own case.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was so melancholy at first that I -could do nothing but make the sign of the cross all day, and the -chants were like so many nails being driven into my head; but -now, they lull me to sleep, and no bird I have ever seen or heard -can sing better than those which are to be met with in this -cemetery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Porthos, -"this is beginning to get a little dull for me, and I prefer -going downstairs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet with one bound -was beside his guest, whom he offered to lead into the -garden.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!" said Porthos to -D'Artagnan, as he turned round, "are you going to remain -here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I will join you -presently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, M. -D'Artagnan is right, after all," said Planchet: "are they -beginning to bury yet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! yes, the -grave-digger is waiting until the cords are fastened round the -bier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, see, a woman -has just entered the cemetery at the other end."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes, my dear -Planchet," said D'Artagnan, quickly, "leave me, leave me; I feel -I am beginning already to be much comforted by my meditations, so -do not interrupt me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet left, and -D'Artagnan remained, devouring with his eager gaze from behind -the half-closed blinds what was taking place just before -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two bearers of -the corpse had unfastened the straps by which they carried the -litter, and were letting their burden glide gently into the open -grave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At a few paces -distant, the man with the cloak wrapped round him, the only -spectator of this melancholy scene, was leaning with his back -against a large cypress-tree, and kept his face and person -entirely concealed from the grave-diggers and the priests; the -corpse was buried in five minutes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The grave having been filled up, the -priests turned away, and the grave-digger having addressed a few -words to them, followed them as they moved away.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man in the mantle bowed as they -passed him, and put a piece of gold into the grave-digger's -hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i>" murmured D'Artagnan; -"it is Aramis himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis, in fact, -remained alone, on that side at least; for hardly had he turned -his head when a woman's footsteps, and the rustling of her dress, -were heard in the path close to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He immediately turned round, and -took off his hat with the most ceremonious respect; he led the -lady under the shelter of some walnut and lime trees, which -overshadowed a magnificent tomb.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! who would have -thought it," said D'Artagnan; "the bishop of Vannes at a -rendezvous!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is still -the same Abbé Aramis as he was at Noisy-le-Sec.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes," he added, after a pause; -"but as it is in a cemetery, the rendezvous is sacred."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he almost laughed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The conversation lasted -for fully half an hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan could not see the lady's face, for she kept her back -turned towards him; but he saw perfectly well, by the erect -attitude of both the speakers, by their gestures, by the measured -and careful manner with which they glanced at each other, either -by way of attack or defense, that they must be conversing about -any other subject than of love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the end of the conversation the -lady rose, and bowed profoundly to Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, oh," said -D'Artagnan; "this rendezvous finishes like one of a very tender -nature though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -cavalier kneels at the beginning, the young lady by and by gets -tamed down, and then it is she who has to supplicate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who is this lady?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I would give anything to -ascertain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This seemed impossible, -however, for Aramis was the first to leave; the lady carefully -concealed her head and face, and then immediately departed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan could hold out no -longer; he ran to the window which looked out on the Rue de Lyon, -and saw Aramis entering the inn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lady was proceeding in quite an -opposite direction, and seemed, in fact, to be about to rejoin an -equipage, consisting of two led horses and a carriage, which he -could see standing close to the borders of the forest.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was walking slowly, her -head bent down, absorbed in the deepest meditation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I must and will learn who that woman -is," said the musketeer again; and then, without further -deliberation, he set off in pursuit of her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he was going along, he tried to -think how he could possibly contrive to make her raise her -veil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "She is not young," -he said, "and is a woman of high rank in society.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I ought to know that figure and -peculiar style of walk."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -As he ran, the sound of his spurs and of his boots upon the hard -ground of the street made a strange jingling noise; a fortunate -circumstance in itself, which he was far from reckoning -upon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The noise disturbed -the lady; she seemed to fancy she was being either followed or -pursued, which was indeed the case, and turned round.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan started as if he had -received a charge of small shot in his legs, and then turning -suddenly round as if he were going back the same way he had come, -he murmured, "Madame de Chevreuse!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan would not go home until -he had learnt everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He asked Celestin to inquire of the grave-digger whose body it -was they had buried that morning.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A poor Franciscan -mendicant friar," replied the latter, "who had not even a dog to -love him in this world, and to accompany him to his last -resting-place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If that were really the -case," thought D'Artagnan, "we should not have found Aramis -present at his funeral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The bishop of Vannes is not precisely a dog as far as devotion -goes: his scent, however, is quite as keen, I admit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -VII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>How -Porthos, Trüchen, and Planchet Parted with Each Other on -Friendly Terms, Thanks to D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>here was good living in Planchet's house.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos broke a ladder and two -cherry-trees, stripped the raspberry-bushes, and was only unable -to succeed in reaching the strawberry-beds on account, as he -said, of his belt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Trüchen, who had become quite sociable with the giant, said -that it was not the belt so much as his corporation; and Porthos, -in a state of the highest delight, embraced Trüchen, who -gathered him a pailful of the strawberries, and made him eat them -out of her hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan, who arrived in the midst of these little innocent -flirtations, scolded Porthos for his indolence, and silently -pitied Planchet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -breakfasted with a very good appetite, and when he had finished, -he said, looking at Trüchen, "I could make myself very happy -here."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trüchen -smiled at his remark, and so did Planchet, but not without -embarrassment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan then -addressed Porthos: "You must not let the delights of Capua make -you forget the real object of our journey to Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My presentation to the -king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am going to take a turn in the -town to get everything ready for that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not think of leaving the house, I -beg."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no!" exclaimed -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet looked at -D'Artagnan nervously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you be away long?" -he inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, my friend; and this -very evening I will release you from two troublesome guests."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Artagnan! can you say - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; you are a -noble-hearted fellow, but your house is very small.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such a house, with half a dozen -acres of land, would be fit for a king, and make him very happy, -too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you were not -born a great lord."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No more was M. -Porthos," murmured Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But he has become so, -my good fellow; his income has been a hundred thousand francs a -year for the last twenty years, and for the last fifty years -Porthos has been the owner of a couple of fists and a backbone, -which are not to be matched throughout the whole realm of -France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos is a man -of the very greatest consequence compared to you, and… -well, I need say no more, for I know you are an intelligent -fellow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, monsieur, -explain what you mean."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look at your orchard, -how stripped it is, how empty your larder, your bedstead broken, -your cellar almost exhausted, look too… at Madame -Trüchen - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! my goodness -gracious!" said Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame Trüchen is -an excellent person," continued D'Artagnan, "but keep her for -yourself, do you understand?" and he slapped him on the -shoulder.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet at this moment -perceived Porthos and Trüchen sitting close together in an -arbor; Trüchen, with a grace of manner peculiarly Flemish, -was making a pair of earrings for Porthos out of a double cherry, -while Porthos was laughing as amorously as Samson in the company -of Delilah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet -pressed D'Artagnan's hand, and ran towards the arbor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We must do Porthos the justice to -say that he did not move as they approached, and, very likely, he -did not think he was doing any harm.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nor indeed did Trüchen move -either, which rather put Planchet out; but he, too, had been so -accustomed to see fashionable folk in his shop, that he found no -difficulty in putting a good countenance on what seemed -disagreeable or rude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Planchet seized Porthos by the arm, and proposed to go and look -at the horses, but Porthos pretended he was tired.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet then suggested that the -Baron du Vallon should taste some noyeau of his own manufacture, -which was not to be equaled anywhere; an offer the baron -immediately accepted; and, in this way, Planchet managed to -engage his enemy's attention during the whole of the day, by dint -of sacrificing his cellar, in preference to his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>amour propre.</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two hours afterwards D'Artagnan -returned.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Everything is -arranged," he said; "I saw his majesty at the very moment he was -setting off for the chase; the king expects us this evening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king expects <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me!</i>" cried Porthos, -drawing himself up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -a sad thing to have to confess, but a man's heart is like an -ocean billow; for, from that very moment Porthos ceased to look -at Madame Trüchen in that touching manner which had so -softened her heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Planchet encouraged these ambitious leanings as best as he -could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He talked over, or -rather gave exaggerated accounts of all the splendors of the last -reign, its battles, sieges, and grand court ceremonies.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He spoke of the luxurious -display which the English made; the prizes the three brave -companions carried off; and how D'Artagnan, who at the beginning -had been the humblest of the four, finished by becoming the -leader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He fired Porthos -with a generous feeling of enthusiasm by reminding him of his -early youth now passed away; he boasted as much as he could of -the moral life this great lord had led, and how religiously he -respected the ties of friendship; he was eloquent, and skillful -in his choice of subjects.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He tickled Porthos, frightened -Trüchen, and made D'Artagnan think.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At six o'clock, the musketeer -ordered the horses to be brought round, and told Porthos to get -ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He thanked -Planchet for his kind hospitality, whispered a few words about a -post he might succeed in obtaining for him at court, which -immediately raised Planchet in Trüchen's estimation, where -the poor grocer - so good, so generous, so devoted - had become -much lowered ever since the appearance and comparison with him of -the two great gentlemen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Such, however, is a woman's nature; they are anxious to possess -what they have not got, and disdain it as soon as it is -acquired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After having -rendered this service to his friend Planchet, D'Artagnan said in -a low tone of voice to Porthos: "That is a very beautiful ring -you have on your finger."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is worth three -hundred pistoles," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame Trüchen -will remember you better if you leave her that ring," replied -D'Artagnan, a suggestion which Porthos seemed to hesitate to -adopt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think it is not -beautiful enough, perhaps," said the musketeer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I understand your feelings; a great -lord such as you would not think of accepting the hospitality of -an old servant without paying him most handsomely for it: but I -am sure that Planchet is too good-hearted a fellow to remember -that you have an income of a hundred thousand francs a year."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have more than half a -mind," said Porthos, flattered by the remark, "to make Madame -Trüchen a present of my little farm at Bracieux; it has -twelve acres."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is too much, my good -Porthos, too much just at present…<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Keep it for a future occasion."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then took the ring off -Porthos's finger, and approaching Trüchen, said to her: - -"Madame, monsieur le baron hardly knows how to entreat you, out -of your regard for him, to accept this little ring.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. du Vallon is one of the most -generous and discreet men of my acquaintance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He wished to offer you a farm that -he has at Bracieux, but I dissuaded him from it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Trüchen, -looking eagerly at the diamond.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le baron!" -exclaimed Planchet, quite overcome.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My good friend," -stammered out Porthos, delighted at having been so well -represented by D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These several exclamations, uttered -at the same moment, made quite a pathetic winding-up of a day -which might have finished in a very ridiculous manner.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But D'Artagnan was there, and, -on every occasion, wheresoever D'Artagnan exercised any control, -matters ended only just in the very way he wished and -willed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There were -general embracings; Trüchen, whom the baron's munificence -had restored to her proper position, very timidly, and blushing -all the while, presented her forehead to the great lord with whom -she had been on such very pretty terms the evening before.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet himself was overcome -by a feeling of genuine humility.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still, in the same generosity of -disposition, Porthos would have emptied his pockets into the -hands of the cook and of Celestin; but D'Artagnan stopped -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," he said, "it is -now my turn."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he gave -one pistole to the woman and two to the man; and the benedictions -which were showered down upon them would have rejoiced the heart -of Harpagon himself, and have rendered even him a prodigal.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan made Planchet -lead them to the château, and introduced Porthos into his -own apartment, where he arrived safely without having been -perceived by those he was afraid of meeting.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -VIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Presentation of Porthos at Court.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>t seven o'clock the same evening, the king gave an -audience to an ambassador from the United Provinces, in the grand -reception-room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -audience lasted a quarter of an hour.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty afterwards received -those who had been recently presented, together with a few -ladies, who paid their respects first.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In one corner of the salon, -concealed behind a column, Porthos and D'Artagnan were conversing -together, waiting until their turn arrived.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you heard the -news?" inquired the musketeer of his friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, look, then."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos raised himself on -tiptoe, and saw M. Fouquet in full court dress, leading Aramis -towards the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis!" said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Presented to the king -by M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" ejaculated -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For having fortified -Belle-Isle," continued D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You - oh, you! as I -have already had the honor of telling you, are the good-natured, -kind-hearted Porthos; and so they begged you to take care of -Saint-Mandé a little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" repeated -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, happily, I was -there," said D'Artagnan, "and presently it will be <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> turn."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment Fouquet -addressed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," he said, "I have -a favor to solicit of your majesty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Herblay is not ambitious, but -he knows when he can be of service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty needs a representative -at Rome, who would be able to exercise a powerful influence -there; may I request a cardinal's hat for M. d'Herblay?"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king started.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I do not often solicit anything of -your majesty," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a reason, -certainly," replied the king, who always expressed any hesitation -he might have in that manner, and to which remark there was -nothing to say in reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet and Aramis -looked at each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king resumed: "M. d'Herblay can serve us equally well in France; -an archbishopric, for instance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," objected -Fouquet, with a grace of manner peculiarly his own, "your majesty -overwhelms M. d'Herblay; the archbishopric may, in your majesty's -extreme kindness, be conferred in addition to the hat; the one -does not exclude the other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king admired the -readiness which he displayed, and smiled, saying: "D'Artagnan -himself could not have answered better."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had no sooner pronounced the name -than D'Artagnan appeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did your majesty call -me?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis and Fouquet drew -back a step, as if they were about to retire.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will your majesty allow -me," said D'Artagnan quickly, as he led forward Porthos, "to -present to your majesty M. le Baron du Vallon, one of the bravest -gentlemen of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> France?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As soon as Aramis saw -Porthos, he turned as pale as death, while Fouquet clenched his -hands under his ruffles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan smiled blandly at both of them, while Porthos bowed, -visibly overcome before the royal presence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos here?" murmured -Fouquet in Aramis's ear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush! deep treachery at -work," hissed the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said D'Artagnan, -"it is more than six years ago I ought to have presented M. du -Vallon to your majesty; but certain men resemble stars, they move -not one inch unless their satellites accompany them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Pleiades are never disunited, -and that is the reason I have selected, for the purpose of -presenting him to you, the very moment when you would see M. -d'Herblay by his side."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis almost lost -countenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked at -D'Artagnan with a proud, haughty air, as though willing to accept -the defiance the latter seemed to throw down.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! these gentlemen are -good friends, then?" said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Excellent friends, -sire; the one can answer for the other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ask M. de Vannes now in what manner -Belle-Isle was fortified?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet moved back a step.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Belle-Isle," said -Aramis, coldly, "was fortified by that gentleman," and he -indicated Porthos with his hand, who bowed a second time.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis could not withhold his -admiration, though at the same time his suspicions were -aroused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said D'Artagnan, -"but ask monsieur le baron whose assistance he had in carrying -the works out?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis's," said -Porthos, frankly; and he pointed to the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What the deuce does all -this mean?" thought the bishop, "and what sort of a termination -are we to expect to this comedy?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!" exclaimed the -king, "is the cardinal's, I mean this bishop's, name <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Aramis?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "His <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>nom de guerre</i>," said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My nickname," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A truce to modesty!" -exclaimed D'Artagnan; "beneath the priest's robe, sire, is -concealed the most brilliant officer, a gentleman of the most -unparalleled intrepidity, and the wisest theologian in your -kingdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis raised his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And an engineer, -also, it appears," he said, admiring Aramis's calm, imperturbable -self-possession.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An engineer for a -particular purpose, sire," said the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My companion in the -musketeers, sire," said D'Artagnan, with great warmth of manner, -"the man who has more than a hundred times aided your father's -ministers by his advice - M. d'Herblay, in a word, who, with M. -du Vallon, myself, and M. le Comte de la Fère, who is -known to your majesty, formed that quartette which was a good -deal talked about during the late king's reign, and during your -majesty's minority."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And who fortified -Belle-Isle?" the king repeated, in a significant tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis advanced and -bowed: "In order to serve the son as I served the father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan looked very -narrowly at Aramis while he uttered these words, which displayed -so much true respect, so much warm devotion, such entire -frankness and sincerity, that even he, D'Artagnan, the eternal -doubter, he, the almost infallible in judgment, was deceived by -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A man who lies -cannot speak in such a tone as that," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis was overcome by -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "In that case," he -said to Fouquet, who anxiously awaited the result of this proof, -"the cardinal's hat is promised.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Herblay, I pledge you my -honor that the first promotion shall be yours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thank M. Fouquet for it."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert overheard these words; -they stung him to the quick, and he left the salon abruptly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And you, Monsieur du Vallon," -said the king, "what have you to ask?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am truly pleased to have it in my -power to acknowledge the services of those who were faithful to -my father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire - " began Porthos, -but he was unable to proceed with what he was going to say.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," exclaimed -D'Artagnan, "this worthy gentleman is utterly overpowered by your -majesty's presence, he who so valiantly sustained the looks and -the fire of a thousand foes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, knowing what his thoughts are, -I - who am more accustomed to gaze upon the sun - can translate -them: he needs nothing, absolutely nothing; his sole desire is to -have the happiness of gazing upon your majesty for a quarter of -an hour."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You shall sup with me -this evening," said the king, saluting Porthos with a gracious -smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos became crimson -from delight and pride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king dismissed him, and D'Artagnan pushed him into the -adjoining apartment, after he had embraced him warmly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sit next to me at -table," said Porthos in his ear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis is annoyed with -me, I think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis has never liked -you so much as he does now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fancy, it was I who was the means of -his getting the cardinal's hat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course," said -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "By the by, does -the king like his guests to eat much at his table?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a compliment to -himself if you do," said D'Artagnan, "for he himself possesses a -royal appetite."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -IX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Explanations.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>ramis cleverly managed to effect a diversion for the -purpose of finding D'Artagnan and Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He came up to the latter, behind one -of the columns, and, as he pressed his hand, said, "So you have -escaped from my prison?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not scold him," said -D'Artagnan; "it was I, dear Aramis, who set him free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! my friend," replied -Aramis, looking at Porthos, "could you not have waited with a -little more patience?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan came to the -assistance of Porthos, who already began to breathe hard, in sore -perplexity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, you members of -the Church are great politicians; we mere soldiers come at once -to the point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The facts -are these: I went to pay Baisemeaux a visit - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis pricked up his -ears at this announcement.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay!" said Porthos; -"you make me remember that I have a letter from Baisemeaux for -you, Aramis."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Porthos -held out the bishop the letter we have already seen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis begged to be allowed to read -it, and read it without D'Artagnan feeling in the slightest -degree embarrassed by the circumstance that he was so well -acquainted with the contents of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, Aramis's face was so -impenetrable, that D'Artagnan could not but admire him more than -ever; after he had read it, he put the letter into his pocket -with the calmest possible air.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were saying, -captain?" he observed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was saying," -continued the musketeer, "that I had gone to pay Baisemeaux a -visit on his majesty's service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On his majesty's -service?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said D'Artagnan, -"and, naturally enough, we talked about you and our friends.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I must say that Baisemeaux -received me coldly; so I soon took my leave of him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As I was returning, a soldier -accosted me, and said (no doubt as he recognized me, -notwithstanding I was in private clothes), 'Captain, will you be -good enough to read me the name written on this envelope?' and I -read, 'To Monsieur du Vallon, at M. Fouquet's house, -Saint-Mandé.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -deuce, I said to myself, Porthos has not returned, then, as I -fancied, to Bell-Isle, or to Pierrefonds, but is at M. Fouquet's -house, at Saint-Mandé; and as M. Fouquet is not at -Saint-Mandé, Porthos must be quite alone, or, at all -events, with Aramis; I will go and see Porthos, and I accordingly -went to see Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good," said -Aramis, thoughtfully.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You never told me -that," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I had no time, my -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you brought back -Porthos with you to Fontainebleau?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, to Planchet's -house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does Planchet live at -Fontainebleau?" inquired Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, near the -cemetery," said Porthos, thoughtlessly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean by -'near the cemetery?'" said Aramis, suspiciously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come," thought the -musketeer, "since there is to be a squabble, let us take -advantage of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, the cemetery," -said Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Planchet -is a very excellent fellow, who makes very excellent preserves; -but his house has windows which look out upon the cemetery.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And a confoundedly melancholy -prospect it is!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So this -morning - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This morning?" said -Aramis, more and more excited.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan turned his -back to them, and walked to the window, where he began to play a -march upon one of the panes of glass.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, this morning we -saw a man buried there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very depressing, was it -not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should never be -able to live in a house where burials can always be seen from the -window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, on -the contrary, seems to like it very much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So D'Artagnan saw it as -well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not simply <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>saw</i> it; he literally never took -his eyes off the whole time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis started, and -turned to look at the musketeer, but the latter was engaged in -earnest conversation with Saint-Aignan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis continued to question -Porthos, and when he had squeezed all the juice out of this -enormous lemon, he threw the peel aside.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He turned towards his friend -D'Artagnan, and clapping him on the shoulder, when Saint-Aignan -had left him, the king's supper having been announced, said, -"D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my dear fellow," -he replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We do not sup with his -majesty, I believe?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well? - <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>we</i> do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Can you give me ten -minutes' conversation?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Twenty, if -you like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty -will take quite that time to get properly seated at table."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where shall we talk, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here, upon these seats -if you like; the king has left, we can sit down, and the -apartment is empty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us sit down, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They sat down, and -Aramis took one of D'Artagnan's hands in his.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me, candidly, my -dear friend, whether you have not counseled Porthos to distrust -me a little?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I admit, I have, but -not as you understand it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I saw that Porthos was bored to death, and I wished, by -presenting him to the king, to do for him, and for you, what you -would never do for yourselves."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak in your own -praise."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you have done it -most nobly; I thank you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I brought the -cardinal's hat a little nearer, just as it seemed to be -retreating from you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! I admit that," said -Aramis, with a singular smile, "you are, indeed, not to be -matched for making your friends' fortunes for them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, then, that I -only acted with the view of making Porthos's fortune for -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I meant to have done -that myself; but your arm reaches farther than ours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was now D'Artagnan's -turn to smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come," said Aramis, "we -ought to deal truthfully with each other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you still love me, -D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The same as I used to -do," replied D'Artagnan, without compromising himself too much by -this reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, thanks; -and now, for the most perfect frankness," said Aramis; "you -visited Belle-Isle on behalf of the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You wished to deprive -us of the pleasure of offering Bell-Isle completely fortified to -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But before I could -deprive you of that pleasure, I ought to have been made -acquainted with your intention of doing so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You came to Belle-Isle -without knowing anything?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of you! yes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How the devil could I imagine -that Aramis had become so clever an engineer as to be able to -fortify like Polybius, or Archimedes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet you smelt me out over -yonder?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And -Porthos, too?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I did not divine that -Aramis was an engineer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -was only able to guess that Porthos might have become one.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is a saying, one becomes -an orator, one is born a poet; but it has never been said, one is -born Porthos, and one becomes an engineer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your wit is always -amusing," said Aramis, coldly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I will go -on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When you found out our secret, you -made all the haste you could to communicate it to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I certainly made as -much haste as I could, since I saw that you were making still -more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When a man weighing -two hundred and fifty pounds, as Porthos does, rides post; when a -gouty prelate - I beg your pardon, but you yourself told me you -were so - when a prelate scours the highway - I naturally suppose -that my two friends, who did not wish to be communicative with -me, had certain matters of the highest importance to conceal from -me, and so I made as much haste as my leanness and the absence of -gout would allow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did it not occur to -you, my dear friend, that you might be rendering Porthos and -myself a very sad service?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I thought it not -unlikely; but you and Porthos made me play a very ridiculous part -at Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon," -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Excuse me," said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that," pursued -Aramis, "you now know everything?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, indeed."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know I -was obliged to inform M. Fouquet of what had happened, in order -that he would be able to anticipate what you might have to tell -the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is rather -obscure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all: M. Fouquet -has his enemies - you will admit that, I suppose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And one in -particular."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A dangerous one?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A mortal -enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, in order to -counteract that man's influence, it was necessary that M. Fouquet -should give the king a proof of his great devotion to him, and of -his readiness to make the greatest sacrifices.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He surprised his majesty by offering -him Belle-Isle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you -had been the first to reach Paris, the surprise would have been -destroyed, it would have looked as if we had yielded to -fear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the whole -mystery," said Aramis, satisfied that he had at last quite -convinced the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only," said the latter, -"it would have been more simple to have taken me aside, and said -to me, 'My dear D'Artagnan, we are fortifying Belle-Isle, and -intend to offer it to the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell us frankly, for whom you are -acting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you a friend -of M. Colbert, or of M. Fouquet?'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps I should not have answered -you, but you would have added, - 'Are you my friend?'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should have said 'Yes.'"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis hung down his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "In this way," -continued D'Artagnan, "you would have paralyzed my movements, and -I should have gone to the king, and said, 'Sire, M. Fouquet is -fortifying Belle-Isle, and exceedingly well, too; but here is a -note, which the governor of Belle-Isle gave me for your majesty;' -or, 'M. Fouquet is about to wait upon your majesty to explain his -intentions with regard to it.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should not have been placed in an -absurd position; you would have enjoyed the surprise so long -planned, and we should not have had any occasion to look askant -at each other when we met."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "While, on the -contrary," replied Aramis, "you have acted altogether as one -friendly to M. Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And you really are a friend of his, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly not, indeed!" -exclaimed the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"M. Colbert is a mean fellow, and I hate him as I used to hate -Mazarin, but without fearing him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then," said -Aramis, "I love M. Fouquet, and his interests are mine.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know my position.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no property or means -whatever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet gave -me several livings, a bishopric as well; M. Fouquet has served -and obliged me like the generous-hearted man he is, and I know -the world sufficiently well to appreciate a kindness when I meet -with one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet has -won my regard, and I have devoted myself to his service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You could not possibly -do better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will find -him a very liberal master."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis bit his lips; and -then said, "The best a man could possibly have."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then paused for a minute, -D'Artagnan taking good care not to interrupt him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I suppose you know how -Porthos got mixed up in all this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," said D'Artagnan; -"I am curious, of course, but I never question a friend when he -wishes to keep a secret from me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, I will tell -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is hardly worth the -trouble, if the confidence is to bind me in any way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! do not be afraid.; -there is no man whom I love better than Porthos, because he is so -simple-minded and good-natured.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos is so straightforward in -everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Since I have -become a bishop, I have looked for these primeval natures, which -make me love truth and hate intrigue."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan stroked his -mustache, but said nothing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I saw Porthos and again -cultivated his acquaintance; his own time hanging idly on his -hands, his presence recalled my earlier and better days without -engaging me in any present evil.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I sent for Porthos to come to -Vannes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet, whose -regard for me is very great, having learnt that Porthos and I -were attached to each other by old ties of friendship, promised -him increase of rank at the earliest promotion, and that is the -whole secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall not abuse your -confidence," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am sure of that, my -dear friend; no one has a finer sense of honor than -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I flatter myself that -you are right, Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now" - and here the -prelate looked searchingly and scrutinizingly at his friend - -"now let us talk of ourselves and for ourselves; will you become -one of M. Fouquet's friends?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not interrupt me until you know -what that means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I am -listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you become a -maréchal of France, peer, duke, and the possessor of a -duchy, with a million of francs?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, my friend," -replied D'Artagnan, "what must one do to get all that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Belong to M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I already belong to -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not exclusively, I -suppose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! a D'Artagnan cannot -be divided."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have, I presume, -ambitions, as noble hearts like yours have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, certainly I -have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to be a maréchal; the -king will make me maréchal, duke, peer; the king will make -me all that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis fixed a searching -look upon D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is not the king -master?" said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No one disputes it; but -Louis XIII. was master also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! my dear friend, -between Richelieu and Louis XIII. stood no D'Artagnan," said the -musketeer, very quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There are many -stumbling-blocks round the king," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not for the king's -feet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very likely not; still -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One moment, Aramis; I -observe that every one thinks of himself, and never of his poor -prince; I will maintain myself maintaining him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And if you meet with -ingratitude?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The weak alone are -afraid of that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are quite certain -of yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Still, the king may -some day have no further need for you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the contrary, I -think his need of me will soon be greater than ever; and hearken, -my dear fellow, if it became necessary to arrest a new -Condé, who would do it?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This - this alone in France!" and -D'Artagnan struck his sword, which clanked sullenly on the -tesselated floor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right," said -Aramis, turning very pale; and then he rose and pressed -D'Artagnan's hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the last -summons for supper," said the captain of the musketeers; "will -you excuse me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis threw his arm -round the musketeer's neck, and said, "A friend like you is the -brightest jewel in the royal crown."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And they immediately separated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was right," mused -D'Artagnan; "there is, indeed, something strangely serious -stirring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We must hasten the -explosion," breathed the coming cardinal, "for D'Artagnan has -discovered the existence of a plot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -X:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Madame and De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -I</span>t will not be forgotten how Comte de Guiche left the -queen-mother's apartments on the day when Louis XIV. presented La -Vallière with the beautiful bracelets he had won in the -lottery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte walked -to and fro for some time outside the palace, in the greatest -distress, from a thousand suspicions and anxieties with which his -mind was beset.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Presently -he stopped and waited on the terrace opposite the grove of trees, -watching for Madame's departure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> More than half an hour passed away; -and as he was at that moment quite alone, the comte could hardly -have had any very diverting ideas at his command.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He drew his tables from his pocket, -and, after hesitating over and over again, determined to write -these words: - "Madame, I implore you to grant me one moment's -conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not be -alarmed at this request, which contains nothing in any way -opposed to the profound respect with which I subscribe myself, -etc., etc."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had signed -and folded this singular love-letter, when he suddenly observed -several ladies leaving the château, and afterwards several -courtiers too; in fact, almost every one that formed the queen's -circle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw La -Vallière herself, then Montalais talking with Malicorne; -he watched the departure of the very last of the numerous guests -that had a short time before thronged the queen-mother's -cabinet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame herself had not -yet passed; she would be obliged, however, to cross the courtyard -in order to enter her own apartments; and, from the terrace where -he was standing, De Guiche could see all that was going on in the -courtyard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last he saw -Madame leave, attended by a couple of pages, who were carrying -torches before her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -was walking very quickly; as soon as she reached the door, she -said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let some one go and -look for De Guiche: he has to render an account of a mission he -had to discharge for me; if he should be disengaged, request him -to be good enough to come to my apartment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche remained -silent, hidden in the shade; but as soon as Madame had withdrawn, -he darted from the terrace down the steps and assumed a most -indifferent air, so that the pages who were hurrying towards his -rooms might meet him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! it is Madame, then, -who is seeking me!" he said to himself, quite overcome; and he -crushed in his hand the now worse than useless letter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. le comte," said one -of the pages, approaching him, "we are indeed most fortunate in -meeting you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so, messieurs?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A command from -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From Madame!" said De -Guiche, looking surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, M. le comte, her -royal highness has been asking for you; she expects to hear, she -told us, the result of a commission you had to execute for -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you at -liberty?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am quite at her royal -highness's orders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you have the -goodness to follow us, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> When De Guiche entered -the princess's apartments, he found her pale and agitated.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais was standing at the -door, evidently uneasy about what was passing in her mistress's -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche -appeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! is that you, -Monsieur de Guiche?" said Madame; "come in, I beg.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mademoiselle de Montalais, I do not -require your attendance any longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais, more puzzled -than ever, courtesied and withdrew.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche and the princess were left -alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The come had every -advantage in his favor; it was Madame who had summoned him to a -rendezvous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But how was -it possible for the comte to make use of this advantage?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame was so whimsical, and -her disposition so changeable.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She soon allowed this to be -perceived, for, suddenly, opening the conversation, she said: -"Well! have you nothing to say to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He imagined she must -have guessed his thoughts; he fancied (for those who are in love -are thus constituted, being as credulous and blind as poets or -prophets), he fancied she knew how ardent was his desire to see -her, and also the subject uppermost in his mind.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame," he said, -"and I think it very singular."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The affair of the -bracelets," she exclaimed, eagerly, "you mean that, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you think the king -is in love; do you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Guiche looked at her for -some time; her eyes sank under his gaze, which seemed to read her -very heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think," he said, -"that the king may possibly have had an idea of annoying some -one; were it not for that, the king would hardly show himself so -earnest in his attentions as he is; he would not run the risk of -compromising, from mere thoughtlessness of disposition, a young -girl against whom no one has been hitherto able to say a -word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed! the bold, -shameless girl," said the princess, haughtily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I can positively assure -your royal highness," said De Guiche, with a firmness marked by -great respect, "that Mademoiselle de la Vallière is -beloved by a man who merits every respect, for he is a brave and -honorable gentleman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bragelonne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend; yes, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and though he is -your friend, what does that matter to the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king knows that -Bragelonne is affianced to Mademoiselle de la Vallière; -and as Raoul has served the king most valiantly, the king will -not inflict an irreparable injury upon him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame began to laugh in -a manner that produced a sinister impression upon De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I repeat, Madame, I do -not believe the king is in love with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière; and the proof that I do not believe it is, that -I was about to ask you whose <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>amour propre</i> it is likely the -king is desirous of wounding?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, who are well acquainted with -the whole court, can perhaps assist me in ascertaining that; and -assuredly, with greater certainty, since it is everywhere said -that your royal highness is on very friendly terms with the -king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame bit her lips, -and, unable to assign any good and sufficient reasons, changed -the conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Prove -to me," she said, fixing on him one of those looks in which the -whole soul seems to pass into the eyes, "prove to me, I say, that -you intended to interrogate me at the very moment I sent for -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche gravely drew -from his pocket the now crumpled note that he had written, and -showed it to her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sympathy," she -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said the comte, -with an indescribable tenderness of tone, "sympathy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have explained to you how and why -I sought you; you, however, have yet to tell me, Madame, why you -sent for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," replied the -princess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She hesitated, -and then suddenly exclaimed, "Those bracelets will drive me -mad."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You expected the king -would offer them to you," replied De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But before you, Madame, -before you, his sister-in-law, was there not the queen herself to -whom the king should have offered them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Before La -Vallière," cried the princess, wounded to the quick, -"could he not have presented them to me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was there not the whole court, -indeed, to choose from?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I assure you, Madame," -said the comte, respectfully, "that if any one heard you speak in -this manner, if any one were to see how red your eyes are, and, -Heaven forgive me, to see, too, that tear trembling on your -eyelids, it would be said that your royal highness was -jealous."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Jealous!" said the -princess, haughtily, "jealous of La Vallière!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She expected to see De -Guiche yield beneath her scornful gesture and her proud tone; but -he simply and boldly replied, "Jealous of La Vallière; -yes, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Am I to suppose, -monsieur," she stammered out, "that your object is to insult -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not possible, -Madame," replied the comte, slightly agitated, but resolved to -master that fiery nature.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Leave the room!" said -the princess, thoroughly exasperated, De Guiche's coolness and -silent respect having made her completely lose her temper.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche fell back a -step, bowed slowly, but with great respect, drew himself up, -looking as white as his lace cuffs, and, in a voice slightly -trembling, said, "It was hardly worth while to have hurried here -to be subjected to this unmerited disgrace."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he turned away with hasty -steps.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He had scarcely gone -half a dozen paces when Madame darted like a tigress after him, -seized him by the cuff, and making him turn round again, said, -trembling with passion as she did so, "The respect you pretend to -have is more insulting than the insult itself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Insult me, if you please, but at -least speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame," said the -comte, gently, as he drew his sword, "thrust this blade into my -heart, rather than kill me by degrees."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At the look he fixed -upon her, - a look full of love, resolution, and despair, even, - -she knew how readily the comte, so outwardly calm in appearance, -would pass his sword through his own breast if she added another -word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She tore the blade -from his hands, and, pressing his arm with a<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> feverish impatience, which might -pass for tenderness, said, "Do not be too hard upon me, -comte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see how I am -suffering, and yet you have no pity for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Tears, the cries of this -strange attack, stifled her voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as De Guiche saw her weep, -he took her in his arms and carried her to an armchair; in -another moment she would have been suffocated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, why," he murmured, -as he knelt by her side, "why do you conceal your troubles from -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you love any one - -tell me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would kill -me, I know, but not until I should have comforted, consoled, and -served you even."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And do you love me to -that extent?" she replied, completely conquered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do indeed love you to -that extent, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She placed both her -hands in his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My heart -is indeed another's," she murmured in so low a tone that her -voice could hardly be heard; but he heard it, and said, "Is it -the king you love?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She gently shook her -head, and her smile was like a clear bright streak in the clouds, -through which after the tempest has passed one almost fancies -Paradise is opening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"But," she added, "there are other passions in a high-born -heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Love is poetry; -but the real life of the heart is pride.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Comte, I was born on a throne, I am -proud and jealous of my rank.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why does the king gather such -unworthy objects round him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Once more, I repeat," -said the comte, "you are acting unjustly towards that poor girl, -who will one day be my friend's wife."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you simple enough -to believe that, comte?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I did not believe -it," he said, turning very pale, "Bragelonne should be informed -of it to-morrow; indeed he should, if I thought that poor La -Vallière had forgotten the vows she had exchanged with -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But no, it would -be cowardly to betray a woman's secret; it would be criminal to -disturb a friend's peace of mind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think, then," said -the princess, with a wild burst of laughter, "that ignorance is -happiness?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe it," he -replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Prove it to me, then," -she said, hurriedly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is easily done, -Madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is reported -through the whole court that the king loves you, and that you -return his affection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?" she said, -breathing with difficulty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; admit for a -moment that Raoul, my friend, had come and said to me, 'Yes, the -king loves Madame, and has made an impression upon her heart,' I -possibly should have slain Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would have been -necessary," said the princess, with the obstinacy of a woman who -feels herself not easily overcome, "for M. de Bragelonne to have -had proofs before he ventured to speak to you in that -manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Such, however, is the -case," replied De Guiche, with a deep sigh, "that, not having -been warned, I have never examined into the matter seriously; and -I now find that my ignorance has saved my life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So, then, you drive -selfishness and coldness to that extent," said Madame, "that you -would let this unhappy young man continue to love La -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I would, until La -Vallière's guilt were revealed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the bracelets?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Madame, since you -yourself expected to receive them from the king, what can I -possibly say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The argument was a -telling one, and the princess was overwhelmed by it, and from -that moment her defeat was assured.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But as her heart and mind were -instinct with noble and generous feelings, she understood De -Guiche's extreme delicacy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She saw that in his heart he really -suspected that the king was in love with La Vallière, and -that he did not wish to resort to the common expedient of ruining -a rival in the mind of a woman, by giving the latter the -assurance and certainty that this rival's affections were -transferred to another woman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She guessed that his suspicions of -La Vallière were aroused, and that, in order to leave -himself time for his convictions to undergo a change, so as not -to ruin Louise utterly, he was determined to pursue a certain -straightforward line of conduct.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She could read so much real -greatness of character, and such true generosity of disposition -in her lover, that her heart really warmed with affection towards -him, whose passion for her was so pure and delicate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Despite his fear of incurring her -displeasure, De Guiche, by retaining his position as a man of -proud independence of feeling and deep devotion, became almost a -hero in her estimation, and reduced her to the state of a jealous -and little-minded woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -She loved him for this so tenderly, that she could not refuse to -give him a proof of her affection.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "See how many words we -have wasted," she said, taking his hand, "suspicions, anxieties, -mistrust, sufferings - I think we have enumerated all those -words."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Efface them from your -heart as I drive them from mine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whether La Vallière does or -does not love the king, and whether the king does or does not -love La Vallière - from this moment you and I will draw a -distinction in the two characters I have to perform.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You open your eyes so wide that I am -sure you hardly understand me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are so impetuous, -Madame, that I always tremble at the fear of displeasing -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And see how he trembles -now, poor fellow," she said, with the most charming playfulness -of manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, -monsieur, I have two characters to perform.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am the sister of the king, the -sister-in-law of the king's wife.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this character ought I not to -take an interest in these domestic intrigues?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, tell me what you think?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As little as possible, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Agreed, monsieur; but -it is a question of dignity; and then, you know, I am the wife of -the king's brother."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De -Guiche sighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A -circumstance," she added, with an expression of great tenderness, -"which will remind you that I am always to be treated with the -profoundest respect."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De -Guiche fell at her feet, which he kissed, with the religious -fervor of a worshipper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"And I begin to think that, really and truly, I have another -character to perform.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -was almost forgetting it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Name it, oh! name it," -said De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am a woman," she -said, in a voice lower than ever, "and I love."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He rose, she opened her arms, and -their lips met.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -footstep was heard behind the tapestry, and Mademoiselle de -Montalais appeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you want?" said -Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche is -wanted," replied Montalais, who was just in time to see the -agitation of the actors of these four characters; for De Guiche -had consistently carried out his part with heroism.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Montalais and Malicorne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>ontalais was right.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Guiche, thus summoned in every -direction, was very much exposed, from such a multiplication of -business, to the risk of not attending to any.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It so happened that, considering the -awkwardness of the interruption, Madame, notwithstanding her -wounded pride, and secret anger, could not, for the moment at -least, reproach Montalais for having violated, in so bold a -manner, the semi-royal order with which she had been dismissed on -De Guiche's entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De -Guiche, also, lost his presence of mind, or, it would be more -correct to say, had already lost it, before Montalais's arrival, -for, scarcely had he heard the young girl's voice, than, without -taking leave of Madame, as the most ordinary politeness required, -even between persons equal in rank and station, he fled from her -presence, his heart tumultuously throbbing, and his brain on -fire, leaving the princess with one hand raised, as though to bid -him adieu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais was -at no loss, therefore, to perceive the agitation of the two -lovers - the one who fled was agitated, and the one who remained -was equally so.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," murmured the -young girl, as she glanced inquisitively round her, "this time, -at least, I think I know as much as the most curious woman could -possibly wish to know."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Madame felt so embarrassed by this inquisitorial look, that, as -if she heard Montalais's muttered side remark, she did not speak -a word to her maid of honor, but, casting down her eyes, retired -at once to her bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Montalais, observing this, stood listening for a moment, and then -heard Madame lock and bolt her door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By this she knew that the rest of -the evening was at her own disposal; and making, behind the door -which had just been closed, a gesture which indicated but little -real respect for the princess, she went down the staircase in -search of Malicorne, who was very busily engaged at that moment -in watching a courier, who, covered with dust, had just left the -Comte de Guiche's apartments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais knew that Malicorne was -engaged in a matter of some importance; she therefore allowed him -to look and stretch out his neck as much as he pleased; and it -was only when Malicorne had resumed his natural position, that -she touched him on the shoulder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well," said Montalais, "what is the -latest intelligence you have?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche is in love -with Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fine news, truly!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know something more recent -than that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what do you -know?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That Madame is in love -with M. de Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The one is the -consequence of the other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not always, my good -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is that remark intended -for me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Present company always -excepted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you," said -Malicorne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, and in -the other direction, what is stirring?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king wished, this -evening, after the lottery, to see Mademoiselle de la -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and he has seen -her?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, indeed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean by -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The door was shut and -locked."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that the king was -obliged to go back again, looking very sheepish, like a thief who -has forgotten his crowbar."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And in the third -place?" inquired Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The courier who has -just arrived for De Guiche came from M. de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Excellent," said -Montalais, clapping her hands together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because we have work to -do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If we get weary now, -something unlucky will be sure to happen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We must divide the -work, then," said Malicorne, "in order to avoid confusion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing easier," -replied Montalais.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Three -intrigues, carefully nursed, and carefully encouraged, will -produce, one with another, and taking a low average, three love -letters a day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" exclaimed -Malicorne, shrugging his shoulders, "you cannot mean what you -say, darling; three letters a day, that may do for sentimental -common people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -musketeer on duty, a young girl in a convent, may exchange -letters with their lovers once a day, perhaps, from the top of a -ladder, or through a hole in the wall.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A letter contains all the poetry -their poor little hearts have to boast of.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the cases we have in hand -require to be dealt with very differently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, finish," said -Montalais, out of patience with him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Some one may come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Finish!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, I am only at the -beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have still -three points as yet untouched."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word, he will -be the death of me, with his Flemish indifference," exclaimed -Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you will drive me -mad with your Italian vivacity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was going to say that our lovers -here will be writing volumes to each other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what are you driving at?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At this.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not one of our lady correspondents -will be able to keep the letters they may receive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very likely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche will not -be able to keep his either."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is probable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, then; I will -take care of all that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the very thing -that is impossible," said Malicorne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because you are not -your own mistress; your room is as much La Vallière's as -yours; and there are certain persons who will think nothing of -visiting and searching a maid of honor's room; so that I am -terribly afraid of the queen, who is as jealous as a Spaniard; of -the queen-mother, who is as jealous as a couple of Spaniards; -and, last of all, of Madame herself, who has jealousy enough for -ten Spaniards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You forgot some one -else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was only speaking of -the women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us add -them up, then: we will call Monsieur, No. 1."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "De Guiche?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No. 2."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The Vicomte de -Bragelonne?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No. 3."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the king, the -king?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No. 4.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of course the king, who not -only will be more jealous, but more powerful than all the rest -put together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah, my -dear!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Into what a wasp's nest -you have thrust yourself!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And as yet not quite -far enough, if you will follow me into it."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most -certainly I will follow you where you like.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yet - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, yet - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "While we have time, I -think it will be prudent to turn back."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I, on the contrary, -think the wisest course to take is to put ourselves at once at -the head of all these intrigues."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will never be able -to do it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With you, I could -superintend ten of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I am in my element, you must know.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was born to live at the court, as -the salamander is made to live in the fire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your comparison does -not reassure me in the slightest degree in the world, my dear -Montalais.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have heard -it said, and by learned men too, that, in the first place, there -are no salamanders at all, and that, if there had been any, they -would have been infallibly baked or roasted on leaving the -fire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your learned men may be -very wise as far as salamanders are concerned, but they would -never tell you what I can tell you; namely, that Aure de -Montalais is destined, before a month is over, to become the -first diplomatist in the court of France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be it so, but on -condition that I shall be the second."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Agreed; an offensive -and defensive alliance, of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only be very careful of -any letters."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will hand them to you -as I receive them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What shall we tell -the king about Madame?"<br> -"That Madame is still in love with his majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What shall we tell -Madame about the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That she would be -exceedingly wrong not to humor him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What shall we tell -La Vallière about Madame?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Whatever we -choose, for La Vallière is in our power."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"How so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Every way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What do you -mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"In the first -place, through the Vicomte de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Explain -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You do not forget, -I hope, that Monsieur de Bragelonne has written many letters to -Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I forget -nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, it was -I who received, and I who intercepted those letters."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And, consequently, -it is you who have them still?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where, - -here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no; I have -them safe at Blois, in the little room you know well enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That dear little -room, - that darling little room, the ante-chamber of the palace -I intend you to live in one of these days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, I beg your pardon, you said -that all those letters are in that little room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did you not put -them in a box?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course; in the -same box where I put all the letters I received from you, and -where I put mine also when your business or your amusements -prevented you from coming to our rendezvous."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, very good," -said Malicorne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why are you -satisfied?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because I see -there is a possibility of not having to run to Blois after the -letters, for I have them here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have brought -the box away?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It was very dear -to me, because it belonged to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Be sure and take -care of it, for it contains original documents that will be of -priceless value by and by."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am perfectly -well aware of that indeed, and that is the very reason why I -laugh as I do, and with all my heart, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And now, one last -word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>last?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do we need any one -to assist us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Valets or -maid-servants?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bad policy.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will give the letters, - -you will receive them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Oh! we must have no pride in this affair, otherwise M. Malicorne -and Mademoiselle Aure, not transacting their own affairs -themselves, will have to make up their minds to see them done by -others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are quite -right; but what is going on yonder in M. de Guiche's room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing; he is -only opening his window."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us be -gone."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And they both -immediately disappeared, all the terms of the contract being -agreed on.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The window just -opened was, in fact, that of the Comte de Guiche.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was not alone with the hope of -catching a glimpse of Madame through her curtains that he seated -himself by the open window for his preoccupation of mind had at -that time a different origin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had just received, as we have -already stated, the courier who had been dispatched to him by -Bragelonne, the latter having written to De Guiche a letter which -had made the deepest impression upon him, and which he had read -over and over again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Strange, strange!" he murmured.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How irresponsible are the means by -which destiny hurries men onward to their fate!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Leaving the window in order to -approach nearer to the light, he once more read the letter he had -just received: -</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style= -'text-align:right;text-indent:.5in'>"CALAIS.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"MY DEAR COUNT, - I -found M. de Wardes at Calais; he has been seriously wounded in an -affair with the Duke of Buckingham.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes is, as you know, -unquestionably brave, but full of malevolent and wicked -feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He conversed -with me about yourself, for whom, he says, he has a warm regard, -also about Madame, whom he considers a beautiful and amiable -woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He has guessed -your affection for a certain person.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He also talked to me about the lady -for whom I have so ardent a regard, and showed the greatest -interest on my behalf in expressing a deep pity for me, -accompanied, however, by dark hints which alarmed me at first, -but which I at last looked upon as the result of his usual love -of mystery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These are the -facts: he had received news of the court; you will understand, -however, that it was only through M. de Lorraine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The report goes, so says the news, -that a change has taken place in the king's affections.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know whom that -concerns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Afterwards, the -news continues, people are talking about one of the maids of -honor, respecting whom various slanderous reports are being -circulated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These vague -phrases have not allowed me to sleep.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have been deploring, ever since -yesterday, that my diffidence and vacillation of purpose, -notwithstanding a certain obstinacy of character I may possess, -have left me unable to reply to these insinuations.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a word, M. de Wardes was setting -off for Paris, and I did not delay his departure with -explanations; for it seemed rather hard, I confess, to -cross-examine a man whose wounds are hardly yet closed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In short, he travelled by -short stages, as he was anxious to leave, he said, in order to be -present at a curious spectacle the court cannot fail to offer -within a short time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -added a few congratulatory words accompanied by vague -sympathizing expressions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I could not understand the one any more than the other.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was bewildered by my own -thoughts, and tormented by a mistrust of this man, - a mistrust -which, you know better than any one else, I have never been able -to overcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as -he left, my perceptions seemed to become clearer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is hardly possible that a man of -De Wardes's character should not have communicated something of -his own malicious nature to the statements he made to me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not unlikely, therefore, -that in the strange hints De Wardes threw out in my presence, -there may be a mysterious signification, which I might have some -difficulty in applying either to myself or to some one with whom -you are acquainted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Being -compelled to leave as soon as possible, in obedience to the -king's commands, the idea did not occur to me of running after De -Wardes in order to ask him to explain his reserve; but I have -dispatched a courier to you with this letter, which will explain -in detail my various doubts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I regard you as myself; you have -reflected and observed; it will be for you to act.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Wardes will arrive very -shortly; endeavor to learn what he meant, if you do not already -know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Wardes, -moreover, pretended that the Duke of Buckingham left Paris on the -very best of terms with Madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was an affair which would have -unhesitatingly made me draw my sword, had I not felt that I was -under the necessity of dispatching the king's mission before -undertaking any quarrel whatsoever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Burn this letter, which Olivain will -hand you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whatever -Olivain says, you may confidently rely on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you have the goodness, my dear -comte, to recall me to the remembrance of Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, whose hands I kiss with the greatest -respect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:11'> </span> -"Your devoted</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:5.5in;text-indent:.5in'> -"DE BRAGELONNE.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"P. S. - If -anything serious should happen - we should be prepared for -everything, dispatch a courier to me with this one single word, -'come,' and I will be in Paris within six and thirty hours after -the receipt of your letter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>De Guiche sighed, -folded up the letter a third time, and, instead of burning it, as -Raoul had recommended him to do, placed it in his pocket.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt it needed reading over -and over again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How much distress -of mind, yet what sublime confidence, he shows!" murmured the -comte; "he has poured out his whole soul in this letter.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He says nothing of the Comte -de la Fère, and speaks of his respect for Louise.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He cautions me on my own -account, and entreats me on his.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!" continued De Guiche, with a -threatening gesture, "you interfere in my affairs, Monsieur de -Wardes, do you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very -well, then; I will shortly occupy myself with yours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for you, poor Raoul, - you who -intrust your heart to my keeping, be assured I will watch over -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>With this promise, -De Guiche begged Malicorne to come immediately to his apartments, -if possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne -acknowledged the invitation with an activity which was the first -result of his conversation with Montalais.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And while De Guiche, who thought -that his motive was undiscovered, cross-examined Malicorne, the -latter, who appeared to be working in the dark, soon guessed his -questioner's motives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -consequence was, that, after a quarter of an hour's conversation, -during which De Guiche thought he had ascertained the whole truth -with regard to La Vallière and the king, he had learned -absolutely nothing more than his own eyes had already acquainted -him with, while Malicorne learned, or guessed, that Raoul, who -was absent, was fast becoming suspicious, and that De Guiche -intended to watch over the treasure of the Hesperides.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne accepted the office -of dragon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche -fancied he had done everything for his friend, and soon began to -think of nothing but his personal affairs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The next evening, De Wardes's return -and first appearance at the king's reception were announced.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When that visit had been paid, -the convalescent waited on Monsieur; De Guiche taking care, -however, to be at Monsieur's apartments before the visit took -place.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>How -De Wardes Was Received at Court.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>onsieur had received De Wardes with that marked favor -light and frivolous minds bestow on every novelty that comes in -their way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes, who -had been absent for a month, was like fresh fruit to him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To treat him with marked -kindness was an infidelity to old friends, and there is always -something fascinating in that; moreover, it was a sort of -reparation to De Wardes himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing, consequently, could exceed -the favorable notice Monsieur took of him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Chevalier de Lorraine, who -feared this rival but a little, but who respected a character and -disposition only too parallel to his own in every particular, -with the addition of a bull-dog courage he did not himself -possess, received De Wardes with a greater display of regard and -affection than even Monsieur had done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche, as we have said, was -there also, but kept in the background, waiting very patiently -until all these interchanges were over.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes, while talking to the -others, and even to Monsieur himself, had not for a moment lost -sight of De Guiche, who, he instinctively felt, was there on his -account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he -had finished with the others, he went up to De Guiche.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They exchanged the most -courteous compliments, after which De Wardes returned to Monsieur -and the other gentlemen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In the midst of these -congratulations Madame was announced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She had been informed of De Wardes's -arrival, and knowing all the details of his voyage and duel, she -was not sorry to be present at the remarks she knew would be -made, without delay, by one who, she felt assured, was her -personal enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two or -three of her ladies accompanied her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes saluted Madame in the most -graceful and respectful manner, and, as a commencement of -hostilities, announced, in the first place, that he could furnish -the Duke of Buckingham's friends with the latest news about -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was a direct -answer to the coldness with which Madame had received him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The attack was a vigorous one, -and Madame felt the blow, but without appearing to have even -noticed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He rapidly -cast a glance at Monsieur and at De Guiche, - the former colored, -and the latter turned very pale.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame alone preserved an unmoved -countenance; but, as she knew how many unpleasant thoughts and -feelings her enemy could awaken in the two persons who were -listening to him, she smilingly bent forward towards the -traveler, as if to listen to the news he had brought - but he was -speaking of other matters.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame was brave, even to -imprudence; if she were to retreat, it would be inviting an -attack; so, after the first disagreeable impression had passed -away, she returned to the charge.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you suffered much -from your wounds, Monsieur de Wardes?" she inquired, "for we have -been told that you had the misfortune to get wounded."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was now De Wardes's -turn to wince; he bit his lips, and replied, "No, Madame, hardly -at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed! and yet in this -terribly hot weather - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The sea-breezes were -very fresh and cool, Madame, and then I had one consolation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What was it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The knowledge that my -adversary's sufferings were still greater than my own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you mean he was -more seriously wounded than you were; I was not aware of that," -said the princess, with utter indifference.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Madame, you are -mistaken, or rather you pretend to misunderstand my remark.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I did not say that he was a -greater sufferer in body than myself; but his heart was very -seriously affected."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche comprehended -instinctively from what direction the struggle was approaching; -he ventured to make a sign to Madame, as if entreating her to -retire from the contest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But she, without acknowledging De Guiche's gesture, without -pretending to have noticed it even, and still smiling, -continued:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it possible," she -said, "that the Duke of Buckingham's heart was touched?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had no idea, until now, that -a heart-wound could be cured."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame," replied De Wardes, -politely, "every woman believes that; and it is this belief that -gives them that superiority to man which confidence begets."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You misunderstand -altogether, dearest," said the prince, impatiently; "M. de Wardes -means that the Duke of Buckingham's heart had been touched, not -by the sword, but by something sharper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! very good, very -good!" exclaimed Madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"It is a jest of M. de Wardes's.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very good; but I should like to know -if the Duke of Buckingham would appreciate the jest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is, indeed, a very great pity he -is not here, M. de Wardes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man's eyes -seemed to flash fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Oh!" he said, as he clenched his teeth, "there is nothing I -should like better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche did not -move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame seemed to -expect that he would come to her assistance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur hesitated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Chevalier de Lorraine advanced -and continued the conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame," he said, "De -Wardes knows perfectly well that for a Buckingham's heart to be -touched is nothing new, and what he has said has already taken -place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Instead of an ally, I -have two enemies," murmured Madame; "two determined enemies, and -in league with each other."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And she changed the -conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To change -the conversation is, as every one knows, a right possessed by -princes which etiquette requires all to respect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The remainder of the conversation -was moderate enough in tone; the principal actors had rehearsed -their parts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame -withdrew easily, and Monsieur, who wished to question her on -several matters, offered her his hand on leaving.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The chevalier was seriously afraid -that an understanding might be established between the husband -and wife if he were to leave them quietly together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore made his way to -Monsieur's apartments, in order to surprise him on his return, -and to destroy with a few words all the good impressions Madame -might have been able to sow in his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche advanced towards De -Wardes, who was surrounded by a large number of persons, and -thereby indicated his wish to converse with him; De Wardes, at -the same time, showing by his looks and by a movement of his head -that he perfectly understood him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was nothing in these signs to -enable strangers to suppose they were otherwise than upon the -most friendly footing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De -Guiche could therefore turn away from him, and wait until he was -at liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had not -long to wait; for De Wardes, freed from his questioners, -approached De Guiche, and after a fresh salutation, they walked -side by side together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have made a good -impression since your return, my dear De Wardes," said the -comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Excellent, as you -see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And your spirits are -just as lively as ever?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And a very great -happiness, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything is so ridiculous in this -world, everything so absurd around us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are of my opinion, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should think so!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what news do you bring us -from yonder?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> None at all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have come to look for news -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, tell me, you -surely must have seen some people at Boulogne, one of our -friends, for instance; it is no great time ago."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Some people - one of -our friends - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your memory is -short."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! true; Bragelonne, -you mean."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who was on his way to -fulfil a mission, with which he was intrusted to King Charles -II."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, did he not tell you, or -did not you tell him - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not precisely know -what I told him, I must confess: but I do know what I did <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>not</i> tell him."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes was <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>finesse</i> itself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He perfectly well knew from De -Guiche's tone and manner, which was cold and dignified, that the -conversation was about to assume a disagreeable turn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He resolved to let it take what -course it pleased, and to keep strictly on his guard.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "May I ask you what you -did not tell him?" inquired De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All about La -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "La -Vallière…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What is it? and what was that strange circumstance you seem to -have known over yonder, which Bragelonne, who was here on the -spot, was not acquainted with?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you really ask me -that in a serious manner?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing more so."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! you, -a member of the court, living in Madame's household, a friend of -Monsieur's, a guest at their table, the favorite of our lovely -princess?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Guiche colored violently -from anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What -princess are you alluding to?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am only acquainted -with one, my dear fellow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I am speaking of Madame herself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you devoted to another princess, -then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche was on the -point of launching out, but he saw the drift of the remark.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A quarrel was imminent between -the two young men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De -Wardes wished the quarrel to be only in Madame's name, while De -Guiche would not accept it except on La Vallière's -account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From this -moment, it became a series of feigned attacks, which would have -continued until one of the two had been touched home.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche therefore resumed all the -self-possession he could command.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is not the -slightest question in the world of Madame in this matter, my dear -De Wardes." said Guiche, "but simply of what you were talking -about just now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was I saying?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That you had concealed -certain things from Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certain things which -you know as well as I do," replied De Wardes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, upon my honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nonsense."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you tell me what -they are, I shall know, but not otherwise, I swear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I who have just arrived from a -distance of sixty leagues, and you who have not stirred from this -place, who have witnessed with your own eyes that which rumor -informed me of at Calais!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Do you now tell me seriously that you do not know what it is -about?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! comte, this is -hardly charitable of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As you like, De Wardes; -but I again repeat, I know nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are truly discreet -- well! - perhaps it is very prudent of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so you will not -tell me anything, will not tell me any more than you told -Bragelonne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are pretending to -be deaf, I see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -convinced that Madame could not possibly have more command over -herself than <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> -have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Double hypocrite," -murmured Guiche to himself, "you are again returning to the old -subject."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, then," -continued De Wardes, "since we find it so difficult to understand -each other about La Vallière and Bragelonne let us speak -about your own affairs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay," said De Guiche, -"I have no affairs of my own to talk about.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have not said anything about me, -I suppose, to Bragelonne, which you cannot repeat to my -face?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but understand me, -Guiche, that however much I may be ignorant of certain matters, I -am quite as conversant with others.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If, for instance, we were conversing -about the intimacies of the Duke of Buckingham at Paris, as I did -during my journey with the duke, I could tell you a great many -interesting circumstances.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Would you like me to mention -them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche passed his -hand across his forehead, which was covered in perspiration.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No, no," he said, "a hundred -times no!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no -curiosity for matters which do not concern me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Duke of Buckingham is for me -nothing more than a simple acquaintance, whilst Raoul is an -intimate friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -not the slightest curiosity to learn what happened to the duke, -while I have, on the contrary, the greatest interest in all that -happened to Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In Paris?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, in -Paris, or Boulogne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -understand I am on the spot; if anything should happen, I am here -to meet it; whilst Raoul is absent, and has only myself to -represent him; so, Raoul's affairs before my own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But he will -return?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not, however, until his -mission is completed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -the meantime, you understand, evil reports cannot be permitted to -circulate about him without my looking into them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And for a better reason -still, that he will remain some time in London," said De Wardes, -chuckling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think so," said De -Guiche, simply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Think so, indeed! do -you suppose he was sent to London for no other purpose than to go -there and return again immediately?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no; he was sent to London to -remain there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes," said De Guiche, grasping -De Wardes's hand, "that is a very serious suspicion concerning -Bragelonne, which completely confirms what he wrote to me from -Boulogne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Wardes resumed his -former coldness of manner: his love of raillery had led him too -far, and by his own imprudence, he had laid himself open to -attack.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, tell me, what did -he write to you about?" he inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He told me that you had -artfully insinuated some injurious remarks against La -Vallière, and that you had seemed to laugh at his great -confidence in that young girl."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, it is perfectly -true I did so," said De Wardes, "and I was quite ready, at the -time, to hear from the Vicomte de Bragelonne that which every man -expects from another whenever anything may have been said to -displease him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the -same way, for instance, if I were seeking a quarrel with you, I -should tell you that Madame after having shown the greatest -preference for the Duke of Buckingham, is at this moment supposed -to have sent the handsome duke away for your benefit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! that would not -wound me in the slightest degree, my dear De Wardes," said De -Guiche, smiling, notwithstanding the shiver that ran through his -whole frame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why, such a -favor would be too great a happiness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I admit that, but if I -absolutely wished to quarrel with you, I should try and invent a -falsehood, perhaps, and speak to you about a certain arbor, where -you and that illustrious princess were together - I should speak -also of certain gratifications, of certain kissings of the hand; -and you who are so secret on all occasions, so hasty, so -punctilious - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said De Guiche, -interrupting him, with a smile upon his lips, although he almost -felt as if he were going to die; "I swear I should not care for -that, nor should I in any way contradict you; for you must know, -my dear marquis, that for all matters which concern myself I am a -block of ice; but it is a very different thing when an absent -friend is concerned, a friend, who, on leaving, confided his -interests to my safe-keeping; for such a friend, De Wardes, -believe me, I am like fire itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand you, -Monsieur de Guiche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -spite of what you say, there cannot be any question between us, -just now, either of Bragelonne or of this insignificant girl, -whose name is La Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment some of -the younger courtiers were crossing the apartment, and having -already heard the few words which had just been pronounced, were -able also to hear those which were about to follow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes observed this, and -continued aloud: - "Oh! if La Vallière were a coquette -like Madame, whose innocent flirtations, I am sure, were, first -of all, the cause of the Duke of Buckingham being sent back to -England, and afterwards were the reason of<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> your being sent into exile; for you -will not deny, I suppose, that Madame's pretty ways really had a -certain influence over you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The courtiers drew -nearer to the speakers, Saint-Aignan at their head, and then -Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, my dear fellow, -whose fault was that?" said De Guiche, laughing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I am a vain, conceited fellow, I -know, and everybody else knows it too.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I took seriously that which was only -intended as a jest, and got myself exiled for my pains.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I saw my error.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I overcame my vanity, and I -obtained my recall, by making the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>amende honorable</i>, and by -promising myself to overcome this defect; and the consequence is, -that I am so thoroughly cured, that I now laugh at the very thing -which, three or four days ago, would have almost broken my -heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Raoul is in -love, and is loved in return; he cannot laugh at the reports -which disturb his happiness - reports which you seem to have -undertaken to interpret, when you know, marquis, as I do, as -these gentlemen do, as every one does in fact, that all such -reports are pure calumny."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Calumny!" exclaimed De -Wardes, furious at seeing himself caught in the snare by De -Guiche's coolness of temper.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly - -calumny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look at this -letter from him, in which he tell me you have spoken ill of -Mademoiselle de la Vallière; and where he asks me, if what -you reported about this young girl is true or not.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you wish me to appeal to these -gentlemen, De Wardes, to decide?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And with admirable coolness, De -Guiche read aloud the paragraph of the letter which referred to -La Vallière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And -now," continued De Guiche, "there is no doubt in the world, as -far as I am concerned, that you wished to disturb Bragelonne's -peace of mind, and that your remarks were maliciously -intended."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Wardes looked round -him, to see if he could find support from any one; but, at the -idea that De Wardes had insulted, either directly or indirectly, -the idol of the day, every one shook his head; and De Wardes saw -that he was in the wrong.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Messieurs," said De -Guiche, intuitively divining the general feeling, "my discussion -with Monsieur de Wardes refers to a subject so delicate in its -nature, that it is most important no one should hear more than -you have already heard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Close the doors, then, I beg you, and let us finish our -conversation in the manner which becomes two gentlemen, one of -whom has given the other the lie."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Messieurs, messieurs!" -exclaimed those who were present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it your opinion, -then, that I was wrong in defending Mademoiselle de la -Vallière?" said De Guiche.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "In that case, I pass judgment upon -myself, and am ready to withdraw the offensive words I may have -used to Monsieur de Wardes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The deuce! certainly -not!" said Saint-Aignan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Mademoiselle de la Vallière is an angel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Virtue and purity -itself," said Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, Monsieur de -Wardes," said De Guiche, "I am not the only one who undertakes -the defense of that poor girl.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I entreat you, therefore, messieurs, -a second time, to leave us.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see, it is impossible we could -be more calm and composed than we are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was the very thing -the courtiers wished; some went out at one door, and the rest at -the other, and the two young men were left alone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well played," said De -Wardes, to the comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was it not?" replied -the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can it be wondered -at, my dear fellow; I have got quite rusty in the country, while -the command you have acquired over yourself, comte, confounds me; -a man always gains something in women's society; so, pray accept -my congratulations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do accept them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I will make Madame -a present of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now, my dear -Monsieur de Wardes, let us speak as loud as you please."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not defy -me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do defy -you, for you are known to be an evil-minded man; if you do that, -you will be looked upon as a coward, too; and Monsieur would have -you hanged, this evening, at his window-casement.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Speak, my dear De Wardes, -speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have fought -already."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But not -quite enough, yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see, you would not be -sorry to fight with me while my wounds are still open."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; better -still."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The deuce! -you are unfortunate in the moment you have chosen; a duel, after -the one I have just fought, would hardly suit me; I have lost too -much blood at Boulogne; at the slightest effort my wounds would -open again, and you would really have too good a bargain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," said De Guiche; -"and yet, on your arrival here, your looks and your arms showed -there was nothing the matter with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my arms are all -right, but my legs are weak; and then, I have not had a foil in -my hand since that devil of a duel; and you, I am sure, have been -fencing every day, in order to carry your little conspiracy -against me to a successful issue."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my honor, -monsieur," replied De Guiche, "it is six months since I last -practiced."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, comte, after due -reflection, I will not fight, at least, with you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will await Bragelonne's return, -since you say it is Bragelonne who finds fault with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh no, indeed!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You shall not wait until -Bragelonne's return," exclaimed the comte, losing all command -over himself, "for you have said that Bragelonne might, possibly, -be some time before he returns; and, in the meanwhile, your -wicked insinuations would have had their effect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yet, I shall have my -excuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So take -care."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will give you a week -to finish your recovery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is better.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will wait a week."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes, I understand; -a week will give time to my adversary to make his escape.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no; I will not give you -one day, even."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mad, monsieur," -said De Wardes, retreating a step.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are a coward, -if you do not fight willingly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, what is more, I will denounce -you to the king, as having refused to fight, after having -insulted La Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said De Wardes, -"you are dangerously treacherous, though you pass for a man of -honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is nothing more -dangerous than the treachery, as you term it, of the man whose -conduct is always loyal and upright."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Restore me the use of -my legs, then, or get yourself bled, till you are as white as I -am, so as to equalize our chances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; I have -something better than that to propose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will fight on -horseback, and will exchange three pistol-shots each.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are a first rate marksman.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have seen you bring down -swallows with single balls, and at full gallop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not deny it, for I have seen you -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe you are -right," said De Wardes; "and as that is the case, it is not -unlikely I might kill you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You would be rendering -me a very great service, if you did."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will do my best."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it agreed?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me your hand upon -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There it is: but on one -condition, however."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Name it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That not a word shall -be said about it to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not a word, I -swear."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will go -and get my horse, then."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I, -mine."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where shall -we meet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the plain; I know an -admirable place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Shall we go -together?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And both of them, on -their way to the stables, passed beneath Madame's windows, which -were faintly lighted; a shadow could be seen behind the lace -curtains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is a -woman," said De Wardes, smiling, "who does not suspect that we -are going to fight - to die, perhaps, on her account."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Combat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>e Wardes and De Guiche selected their horses, and saddled -them with their own hands, with holster saddles.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche, having two pairs of -pistols, went to his apartments to get them; and after having -loaded them, gave the choice to De Wardes, who selected the pair -he had made use of twenty times before - the same, indeed, with -which De Guiche had seen him kill swallows flying.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You will not be surprised," he -said, "if I take every precaution.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know the weapons well, and, -consequently, I am only making the chances equal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your remark was quite -useless," replied De Guiche, "and you have done no more than you -are entitled to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now," said De Wardes, -"I beg you to have the goodness to help me to mount; for I still -experience a little difficulty in doing so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, we had -better settle the matter on foot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; once in the saddle, -I shall be all right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, then; we -will not speak of it again," said De Guiche, as he assisted De -Wardes to mount his horse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now," continued the -young man, "in our eagerness to murder one another, we have -neglected one circumstance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That it is quite dark, -and we shall almost be obliged to grope about, in order to -kill."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said De Guiche, -"you are as anxious as I am that everything should be done in -proper order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but I do not wish -people to say that you have assassinated me, any more than, -supposing I were to kill you, I should myself like to be accused -of such a crime."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did any one make a -similar remark about your duel with the Duke of Buckingham?" said -De Guiche; "it took place precisely under the same conditions as -ours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very true; but there -was still light enough to see by; and we were up to our middles -almost, in the water; besides, there were a good number of -spectators on shore, looking at us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche reflected for -a moment; and the thought which had already presented itself to -him became more confirmed - that De Wardes wished to have -witnesses present, in order to bring back the conversation about -Madame, and to give a new turn to the combat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He avoided saying a word in reply, -therefore; and, as De Wardes once more looked at him -interrogatively, he replied, by a movement of the head, that it -would be best to let things remain as they were.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two adversaries consequently set -off, and left the château by the same gate, close to which -we may remember to have seen Montalais and Malicorne -together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The night, as -if to counteract the extreme heat of the day, had gathered the -clouds together in masses which were moving slowly along from the -west to the east.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -vault above, without a clear spot anywhere visible, or without -the faintest indication of thunder, seemed to hang heavily over -the earth, and soon began, by the force of the wind, to split -into streamers, like a huge sheet torn to shreds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Large and warm drops of rain began -to fall heavily, and gathered the dust into globules, which -rolled along the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -At the same time, the hedges, which seemed conscious of the -approaching storm, the thirsty plants, the drooping branches of -the trees, exhaled a thousand aromatic odors, which revived in -the mind tender recollections, thoughts of youth, endless life, -happiness, and love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How -fresh the earth smells," said De Wardes; "it is a piece of -coquetry to draw us to her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By the by," replied De -Guiche, "several ideas have just occurred to me; and I wish to -have your opinion upon them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Relative to - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Relative to our -engagement."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It is quite some -time, in fact, that we should begin to arrange matters."<br> -"Is it to be an ordinary combat, and conducted according to -established custom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let me first know -what your established custom is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That we dismount -in any particular open space that may suit us, fasten our horses -to the nearest object, meet, each without our pistols in our -hands, and afterwards retire for a hundred and fifty paces, in -order to advance on each other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good; that is -precisely the way in which I killed poor Follivent, three weeks -ago, at Saint-Denis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I beg your pardon, -but you forgot one circumstance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is that?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That in -your duel with Follivent you advanced towards each other on foot, -your swords between your teeth, and your pistols in your -hands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"True."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"While now, on the -contrary, as you cannot walk, you yourself admit that we shall -have to mount our horses again, and charge; and the first who -wishes to fire will do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is the best -course, no doubt; but it is quite dark; we must make allowances -for more missed shots than would be the case in the daytime."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well; each -will fire three times; the pair of pistols already loaded, and -one reload."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Excellent!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where shall our engagement -take place?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you any -preference?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You see that small -wood which lies before us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The wood which is -called Rochin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You know it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Perfectly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You know that -there is an open glade in the center?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, this glade -is admirably adapted for such a purpose, with a variety of roads, -by-places, paths, ditches, windings, and avenues.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We could not find a better -spot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am perfectly -satisfied, if you are so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -We are at our destination, if I am not mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look at the beautiful open space in -the center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The faint -light which the stars afford seems concentrated in this spot; the -woods which surround it seem, with their barriers, to form its -natural limits."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do as you say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us first -settle the conditions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"These are mine; if -you have any objection to make you will state it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am -listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If the horse be -killed, its rider will be obliged to fight on foot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is a matter -of course, since we have no change of horses here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But that does not -oblige his adversary to dismount."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"His adversary -will, in fact, be free to act as he likes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The adversaries, -having once met in close contact, cannot quit each other under -any circumstances, and may, consequently, fire muzzle to -muzzle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Agreed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Three shots and no -more will do, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite sufficient, -I think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here are powder -and balls for your pistols; measure out three charges, take three -balls, I will do the same; then we will throw the rest of the -powder and balls away."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And we will -solemnly swear," said De Wardes, "that we have neither balls nor -powder about us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Agreed; and I -swear it," said De Guiche, holding his hand towards heaven, a -gesture which De Wardes imitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And now, my dear -comte," said De Wardes, "allow me to tell you that I am in no way -your dupe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You already -are, or soon will be, the accepted lover of Madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have detected your secret, and you -are afraid I shall tell others of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You wish to kill me, to insure my -silence; that is very clear; and in your place, I should do the -same."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche hung -down his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Only," -continued De Wardes, triumphantly, "was it really worth while, -tell me, to throw this affair of Bragelonne's on my -shoulders?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, take -care, my dear fellow; in bringing the wild boar to bay, you -enrage him to madness; in running down the fox, you endow him -with the ferocity of the jaguar.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The consequence is, that brought to -bay by you, I shall defend myself to the very last."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will be quite -right to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; but take -care; I shall work more harm than you think.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first place, as a beginning, -you will readily suppose that I have not been absurd enough to -lock up my secret, or your secret rather, in my own breast.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is a friend of mine, who -resembles me in every way, a man whom you know very well, who -shares my secret with me; so, pray understand, that if you kill -me, my death will not have been of much service to you; whilst, -on the contrary, if I kill you - and everything is possible, you -know - you understand?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -De Guiche shuddered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If -I kill you," continued De Wardes, "you will have secured two -mortal enemies to Madame, who will do their very utmost to ruin -her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! monsieur," -exclaimed De Guiche, furiously, "do not reckon upon my death so -easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of the two -enemies you speak of, I trust most heartily to dispose of one -immediately, and the other at the earliest opportunity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The only reply De -Wardes made was a burst of laughter, so diabolical in its sound, -that a superstitious man would have been terrified.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But De Guiche was not so -impressionable as that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I think," he said, "that everything is now settled, Monsieur de -Wardes; so have the goodness to take your place first, unless you -would prefer me to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By no means," said -De Wardes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I shall be -delighted to save you the slightest trouble."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And spurring his horse to a gallop, -he crossed the wide open space, and took his stand at that point -of the circumference of the cross-road immediately opposite to -where De Guiche was stationed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche remained motionless.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this distance of a hundred -paces, the two adversaries were absolutely invisible to each -other, being completely concealed by the thick shade of elms and -chestnuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A minute -elapsed amidst the profoundest silence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the end of the minute, each of -them, in the deep shade in which he was concealed, heard the -double click of the trigger, as they put the pistols on full -cock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche, adopting -the usual tactics, put his horse to a gallop, persuaded that he -should render his safety doubly sure by the movement, as well as -by the speed of the animal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He directed his course in a straight -line towards the point where, in his opinion, De Wardes would be -stationed; and he expected to meet De Wardes about half-way; but -in this he was mistaken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He continued his course, presuming that his adversary was -impatiently awaiting his approach.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When, however, he had gone about -two-thirds of the distance, he beheld the trees suddenly -illuminated and a ball flew by, cutting the plume of his hat in -two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nearly at the same -moment, and as if the flash of the first shot had served to -indicate the direction of the other, a second report was heard, -and a second ball passed through the head of De Guiche's horse, a -little below the ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -animal fell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These two -reports, proceeding from the very opposite direction in which he -expected to find De Wardes, surprised him a great deal; but as he -was a man of amazing self-possession, he prepared himself for his -horse falling, but not so completely, however, that the toe of -his boot escaped being caught under the animal as it fell.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very fortunately the horse in -its dying agonies moved so as to enable him to release the leg -which was less entangled than the other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche rose, felt himself all -over, and found that he was not wounded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the very moment he had felt the -horse tottering under him, he placed his pistols in the holsters, -afraid that the force of the fall might explode one at least, if -not both of them, by which he would have been disarmed, and left -utterly without defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Once on his feet, he took the pistols out of the holsters, and -advanced towards the spot where, by the light of the flash, he -had seen De Wardes appear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes had, at the first shot, -accounted for the maneuver, than which nothing could have been -simpler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Instead of -advancing to meet De Guiche, or remaining in his place to await -his approach, De Wardes had, for about fifteen paces, followed -the circle of the shadow which hid him from his adversary's -observation, and at the very moment when the latter presented his -flank in his career, he had fired from the place where he stood, -carefully taking aim, and assisted instead of being -inconvenienced by the horse's gallop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It has been seen that, -notwithstanding the darkness, the first ball passed hardly more -than an inch above De Guiche's head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes had so confidently relied -upon his aim, that he thought he had seen De Guiche fall; his -astonishment was extreme when he saw he still remained erect in -his saddle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He hastened -to fire his second shot, but his hand trembled, and he killed the -horse instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would -be a most fortunate chance for him if De Guiche were to remain -held fast under the animal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before he could have freed himself, -De Wardes would have loaded his pistol and had De Guiche at his -mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But De Guiche, on -the contrary, was up, and had three shots to fire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche immediately understood the -position of affairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -would be necessary to exceed De Wardes in rapidity of -execution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He advanced, -therefore, so as to reach him before he should have had time to -reload his pistol.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De -Wardes saw him approaching like a tempest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ball was rather tight, and -offered some resistance to the ramrod.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To load carelessly would be simply -to lose his last chance; to take the proper care in loading meant -fatal loss of time, or rather, throwing away his life.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He made his horse bound on one -side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche turned -round also, and, at the moment the horse was quiet again, fired, -and the ball carried off De Wardes's hat from his head.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes now knew that he had -a moment's time at his own disposal; he availed himself of it in -order to finish loading his pistol.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche, noticing that his -adversary did not fall, threw the pistol he had just discharged -aside, and walked straight towards De Wardes, elevating the -second pistol as he did so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had hardly proceeded more than -two or three paces, when De Wardes took aim at him as he was -walking, and fired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An -exclamation of anger was De Guiche's answer; the comte's arm -contracted and dropped motionless by his side, and the pistol -fell from his grasp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -anxiety was excessive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -am lost," murmured De Wardes, "he is not mortally wounded."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the very moment, however, -De Guiche was about to raise his pistol against De Wardes, the -head, shoulders, and limbs of the comte seemed to collapse.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He heaved a deep-drawn sigh, -tottered, and fell at the feet of De Wardes's horse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is all -right," said De Wardes, and gathering up the reins, he struck his -spurs into the horse's sides.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horse cleared the comte's -motionless body, and bore De Wardes rapidly back to the -château.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he -arrived there, he remained a quarter of an hour deliberating -within himself as to the proper course to be adopted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In his impatience to leave the field -of battle, he had omitted to ascertain whether De Guiche were -dead or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A double -hypothesis presented itself to De Wardes's agitated mind; either -De Guiche was killed, or De Guiche was wounded only.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he were killed, why should he -leave his body in that manner to the tender mercies of the -wolves; it was a perfectly useless piece of cruelty, for if De -Guiche were dead, he certainly could not breathe a syllable of -what had passed; if he were not killed, why should he, De Wardes, -in leaving him there uncared for, allow himself to be regarded as -a savage, incapable of one generous feeling?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This last consideration determined -his line of conduct.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>De Wardes -immediately instituted inquires after Manicamp.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was told that Manicamp had been -looking after De Guiche, and, not knowing where to find him, had -retired to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes -went and awoke the sleeper, without any delay, and related the -whole affair to him, which Manicamp listened to in perfect -silence, but with an expression of momentarily increasing energy, -of which his face could hardly have been supposed capable.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was only when De Wardes had -finished, that Manicamp uttered the words, "Let us go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>As they proceeded, -Manicamp became more and more excited, and in proportion as De -Wardes related the details of the affair to him, his countenance -assumed every moment a darker expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And so," he said, when De Wardes -had finished, "you think he is dead?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Alas, I do."<br> -"And you fought in that manner, without witnesses?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"He insisted upon -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It is very -singular."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What do you mean -by saying it is singular?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That it is very -unlike Monsieur de Guiche's disposition."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You do not doubt -my word, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Hum! hum!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You do doubt it, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"A little.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I shall doubt it more than -ever, I warn you, if I find the poor fellow is really dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Monsieur -Manicamp!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Monsieur de -Wardes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It seems you -intend to insult me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Just as you -please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fact is, I -never did like people who come and say, 'I have killed such and -such a gentleman in a corner; it is a great pity, but I killed -him in a perfectly honorable manner.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It has an ugly appearance, M. de -Wardes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Silence! we have -arrived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>In fact, the glade -could now be seen, and in the open space lay the motionless body -of the dead horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To the -right of the horse, upon the dark grass, with his face against -the ground, the poor comte lay, bathed in his blood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had remained in the same spot, -and did not even seem to have made the slightest movement.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp threw himself on his -knees, lifted the comte in his arms, and found him quite cold, -and steeped in blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -let him gently fall again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, stretching out his hand and -feeling all over the ground close to where the comte lay, he -sought until he found De Guiche's pistol.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By Heaven!" he -said, rising to his feet, pale as death and with the pistol in -his hand, "you are not mistaken, he is quite dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Dead!" repeated De -Wardes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; and his -pistol is still loaded," added Manicamp, looking into the -pan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But I told you -that I took aim as he was walking towards me, and fired at him at -the very moment he was going to fire at me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are you quite sure -that you fought with him, Monsieur de Wardes?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I confess that I am very much afraid -it has been a foul assassination.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, nay, no exclamations!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have had your three shots, -and his pistol is still loaded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have killed his horse, and he, -De Guiche, one of the best marksmen in France, has not touched -even either your horse or yourself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, Monsieur de Wardes, you have -been very unlucky in bringing me here; all the blood in my body -seems to have mounted to my head; and I verily believe that since -so good an opportunity presents itself, I shall blow your brains -out on the spot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, -Monsieur de Wardes, recommend yourself to Heaven."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur Manicamp, -you cannot think of such a thing!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, I -am thinking of it very strongly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Would you -assassinate me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without the -slightest remorse, at least for the present."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are you a -gentleman?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have given a -great many proofs of that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let me defend my -life, then, at least."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very likely; in -order, I suppose, that you may do to me what you have done to -poor De Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And Manicamp slowly -raised his pistol to the height of De Wardes's breast, and with -arm stretched out, and a fixed, determined look on his face, took -a careful aim.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>De Wardes did not -attempt a flight; he was completely terrified.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the midst, however, of this -horrible silence, which lasted about a second, but which seemed -an age to De Wardes, a faint sigh was heard.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh," exclaimed De -Wardes, "he still lives!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Help, De Guiche, I am about to be assassinated!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Manicamp fell back -a step or two, and the two young men saw the comte raise himself -slowly and painfully upon one hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp threw the pistol away a -dozen paces, and ran to his friend, uttering a cry of -delight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Wardes wiped -his forehead, which was covered with a cold perspiration.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It was just in -time," he murmured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where are you -hurt?" inquired Manicamp of De Guiche, "and whereabouts are you -wounded?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>De Guiche showed -him his mutilated hand and his chest covered with blood.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Comte," exclaimed -De Wardes, "I am accused of having assassinated you; speak, I -implore you, and say that I fought loyally."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Perfectly so," -said the wounded man; "Monsieur de Wardes fought quite loyally, -and whoever says the contrary will make an enemy of me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then, sir," said -Manicamp, "assist me, in the first place, to carry this gentleman -home, and I will afterwards give you every satisfaction you -please; or, if you are in a hurry, we can do better still; let us -stanch the blood from the comte's wounds here, with your -pocket-handkerchief and mine, and then, as there are two shots -left, we can have them between us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thank you," said -De Wardes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Twice -already, in one hour, I have seen death too close at hand to be -agreeable; I don't like his look at all, and I prefer your -apologies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Manicamp burst out -laughing, and Guiche, too, in spite of his sufferings.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two young men wished to -carry him, but he declared he felt quite strong enough to walk -alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ball had -broken his ring-finger and his little finger, and then had -glanced along his side, but without penetrating deeply into his -chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the pain -rather than the seriousness of the wound, therefore, which had -overcome De Guiche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Manicamp passed his arm under one of the count's shoulders, and -De Wardes did the same with the other, and in this way they -brought him back to Fontainebleau, to the house of the same -doctor who had been present at the death of the Franciscan, -Aramis's predecessor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XIV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -King's Supper.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he king, while these matters were being arranged, was -sitting at the supper-table, and the not very large number of -guests for that day had taken their seats too, after the usual -gesture intimating the royal permission.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this period of Louis XIV.'s -reign, although etiquette was not governed by the strict -regulations subsequently adopted, the French court had entirely -thrown aside the traditions of good-fellowship and patriarchal -affability existing in the time of Henry IV., which the -suspicious mind of Louis XIII. had gradually replaced with -pompous state and ceremony, which he despaired of being able -fully to realize.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, therefore, was -seated alone at a small separate table, which, like the desk of a -president, overlooked the adjoining tables.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Although we say a small table, we -must not omit to add that this small table was the largest one -there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Moreover, it was -the one on which were placed the greatest number and quantity of -dishes, consisting of fish, game, meat, fruit, vegetables, and -preserves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king was -young and full of vigor and energy, very fond of hunting, -addicted to all violent exercises of the body, possessing, -besides, like all the members of the Bourbon family, a rapid -digestion and an appetite speedily renewed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis XIV. was a formidable -table-companion; he delighted in criticising his cooks; but when -he honored them by praise and commendation, the honor was -overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -began by eating several kinds of soup, either mixed together or -taken separately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -intermixed, or rather separated, each of the soups by a glass of -old wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He ate quickly -and somewhat greedily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos, who from the beginning had, out of respect, been waiting -for a jog of D'Artagnan's arm, seeing the king make such rapid -progress, turned to the musketeer and said in a low voice:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It seems as if one -might go on now; his majesty is very encouraging, from the -example he sets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Look."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king eats," said -D'Artagnan, "but he talks at the same time; try and manage -matters in such a manner that, if he should happen to address a -remark to you, he will not find you with your mouth full - which -would be very disrespectful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The best way, in that -case," said Porthos, "is to eat no supper at all; and yet I am -very hungry, I admit, and everything looks and smells most -invitingly, as if appealing to all my senses at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Don't think of not -eating for a moment," said D'Artagnan; "that would put his -majesty out terribly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king has a saying, 'that he who works well, eats well,' and he -does not like people to eat indifferently at his table."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can I avoid having -my mouth full if I eat?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All you have to do," -replied the captain of the musketeers, "is simply to swallow what -you have in it, whenever the king does you the honor to address a -remark to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good," said -Porthos; and from that moment he began to eat with a certain -well-bred enthusiasm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king occasionally -looked at the different persons who were at table with him, and, -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>en connoisseur</i>, could -appreciate the different dispositions of his guests.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur du Vallon!" he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos was enjoying a -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>salmi de lièvre</i>, -and swallowed half of the back.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His name, pronounced in such a -manner, made him start, and by a vigorous effort of his gullet he -absorbed the whole mouthful.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," replied Porthos, -in a stifled voice, but sufficiently intelligible, -nevertheless.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let those <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>filets d'agneau</i> be handed to -Monsieur du Vallon," said the king; "do you like brown meats, M. -du Vallon?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I like -everything," replied Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan whispered: -"Everything your majesty sends me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos repeated: -"Everything your majesty sends me," an observation which the king -apparently received with great satisfaction.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "People eat well who -work well," replied the king, delighted to have <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>en -tête-à-tête</i> a guest who could eat as -Porthos did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -received the dish of lamb, and put a portion of it on his -plate.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?" said the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exquisite," said -Porthos, calmly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you as good mutton -in your part of the country, Monsieur du Vallon?" continued the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I believe that -from my own province, as everywhere else, the best of everything -is sent to Paris for your majesty's use; but, on the other hand, -I do not eat lamb in the same way your majesty does."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah! and how do you -eat it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Generally, I have a -lamb dressed whole."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Whole?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what manner, -Monsieur du Vallon?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In this, sire: my cook, -who is a German, first stuffs the lamb in question with small -sausages he procures from Strasburg, force-meat balls from -Troyes, and larks from Pithiviers; by some means or other, which -I am not acquainted with, he bones the lamb as he would do a -fowl, leaving the skin on, however, which forms a brown crust all -over the animal; when it is cut in beautiful slices, in the same -way as an enormous sausage, a rose-colored gravy pours forth, -which is as agreeable to the eye as it is exquisite to the -palate."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Porthos -finished by smacking his lips.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king opened his eyes -with delight, and, while cutting some of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>faisan en daube</i>, which was being -handed to him, he said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a dish I should -very much like to taste, Monsieur du Vallon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it possible! a whole lamb!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Absolutely an entire -lamb, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pass those pheasants to -M. du Vallon; I perceive he is an amateur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The order was -immediately obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -continuing the conversation, he said: "And you do not find the -lamb too fat?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire, the fat falls -down at the same time as the gravy does, and swims on the -surface; then the servant who carves removes the fat with a -spoon, which I have had expressly made for that purpose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where do you reside?" -inquired the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At Pierrefonds, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At Pierrefonds; where -is that, M. du Vallon - near Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, sire!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pierrefonds is in the -Soissonnais."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thought you alluded -to the lamb on account of the salt marshes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire, I have -marshes which are not salt, it is true, but which are not the -less valuable on that account."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king had now arrived -at the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>entrements</i>, but -without losing sight of Porthos, who continued to play his part -in the best manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have an excellent -appetite, M. du Vallon," said the king, "and you make an -admirable guest at table."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! sire, if your -majesty were ever to pay a visit to Pierrefonds, we would both of -us eat our lamb together; for your appetite is not an indifferent -one by any means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan gave Porthos -a kick under the table, which made Porthos color up.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At your majesty's -present happy age," said Porthos, in order to repair the mistake -he had made, "I was in the musketeers, and nothing could ever -satisfy me then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -majesty has an excellent appetite, as I have already had the -honor of mentioning, but you select what you eat with quite too -much refinement to be called for one moment a great eater."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king seemed charmed -at his guest's politeness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you try some of -these creams?" he said to Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, you majesty -treats me with far too much kindness to prevent me speaking the -whole truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pray do so, M. du -Vallon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will, sire, with regard -to sweet dishes I only recognize pastry, and even that should be -rather solid; all these frothy substances swell the stomach, and -occupy a space which seems to me to be too precious to be so -badly tenanted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! gentlemen," said -the king, indicating Porthos by a gesture, "here is indeed a -model of gastronomy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was in such a manner that our fathers, who so well knew what good -living was, used to <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>eat</i>, while we," added his -majesty, "do nothing but tantalize with our stomachs."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as he spoke, he took the -breast of a chicken with ham, while Porthos attacked a dish of -partridges and quails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The cup-bearer filled his majesty's glass.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Give M. du Vallon some of my wine," -said the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was -one of the greatest honors of the royal table.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan pressed his friend's -knee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> you could only manage to swallow the -half of that boar's head I see yonder," said he to Porthos, "I -shall believe you will be a duke and peer within the next -twelvemonth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Presently," said -Porthos, phlegmatically; "I shall come to that by and by."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In fact it was not long -before it came to the boar's turn, for the king seemed to take -pleasure in urging on his guest; he did not pass any of the -dishes to Porthos until he had tasted them himself, and he -accordingly took some of the boar's head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos showed that he could keep -pace with his sovereign; and, instead of eating the half, as -D'Artagnan had told him, he ate three-fourths of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is impossible," said the king in -an undertone, "that a gentleman who eats so good a supper every -day, and who has such beautiful teeth, can be otherwise than the -most straightforward, upright man in my kingdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you hear?" said -D'Artagnan in his friend's ear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; I think I am -rather in favor," said Porthos, balancing himself on his -chair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you are in luck's -way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king and Porthos -continued to eat in the same manner, to the great satisfaction of -the other guests, some of whom, from emulation, had attempted to -follow them, but were obliged to give up half-way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king soon began to get flushed -and the reaction of the blood to his face announced that the -moment of repletion had arrived.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was then that Louis XIV., instead -of becoming gay and cheerful, as most good livers generally do, -became dull, melancholy, and taciturn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, on the contrary, was lively -and communicative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan's foot had more than once to remind him of this -peculiarity of the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The dessert now made its appearance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king had ceased to think -anything further of Porthos; he turned his eyes anxiously towards -the entrance-door, and he was heard occasionally to inquire how -it happened that Monsieur de Saint-Aignan was so long in -arriving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last, at the -moment when his majesty was finishing a pot of preserved plums -with a deep sigh, Saint-Aignan appeared.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king's eyes, which had become -somewhat dull, immediately began to sparkle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte advanced towards the -king's table, and Louis rose at his approach.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everybody got up at the same time, -including Porthos, who was just finishing an almond-cake capable -of making the jaws of a crocodile stick together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The supper was over.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -After Supper.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he king took Saint-Aignan by the arm, and passed into the -adjoining apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"What has detained you, comte?" said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was bringing the -answer, sire," replied the comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"She has taken a -long time to reply to what I wrote her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, your majesty -deigned to write in verse, and Mademoiselle de la Vallière -wished to repay your majesty in the same coin; that is to say, in -gold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Verses!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan," exclaimed the -king in ecstasy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Give -them to me at once."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -Louis broke the seal of a little letter, inclosing the verses -which history has preserved entire for us, and which are more -meritorious in invention than in execution.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such as they were, however, the king -was enchanted with them, and exhibited his satisfaction by -unequivocal transports of delight; but the universal silence -which reigned in the rooms warned Louis, so sensitively -particular with regard to good breeding, that his delight must -give rise to various interpretations.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He turned aside and put the note in -his pocket, and then advancing a few steps, which brought him -again to the threshold of the door close to his guests, he said, -"M. du Vallon, I have seen you to-day with the greatest pleasure, -and my pleasure will be equally great to see you again."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos bowed as the Colossus -of Rhodes would have done, and retired from the room with his -face towards the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"M. d'Artagnan," continued the king, "you will await my orders in -the gallery; I am obliged to you for having made me acquainted -with M. du Vallon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Gentlemen," addressing himself to the other guests, "I return to -Paris to-morrow on account of the departure of the Spanish and -Dutch ambassadors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Until -to-morrow then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The apartment was -immediately cleared of the guests.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king took Saint-Aignan by the -arm, made him read La Vallière's verses over again, and -said, "What do you think of them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Charming, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They charm me, in -fact, and if they were known - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! the -professional poets would be jealous of them; but it is not likely -they will know anything about them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did you give her -mine?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! sire, she -positively devoured them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They were very -weak, I am afraid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is not what -Mademoiselle de la Vallière said of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you think she -was pleased with them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am sure of it, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I must answer, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! sire, -immediately after supper?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Your majesty will fatigue yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are quite -right; study after eating is notoriously injurious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The labor of a -poet especially so; and besides, there is great excitement -prevailing at Mademoiselle de la Vallière's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you -mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With her as with -all the ladies of the court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On account of poor -De Guiche's accident."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Has anything -serious happened to De Guiche, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire, he has -one hand nearly destroyed, a hole in his breast; in fact, he is -dying."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good heavens! who -told you that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Manicamp brought -him back just now to the house of a doctor here in Fontainebleau, -and the rumor soon reached us all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Brought back!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor De Guiche; and how did it -happen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! that is the -very question, - how did it happen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You say that in a -very singular manner, Saint-Aignan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me the details.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What does he say himself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He says nothing, -sire; but others do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What others?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Those who brought -him back, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who are they?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not know, -sire; but M. de Manicamp knows.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Manicamp is one of his -friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As everybody is, -indeed," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! no!" returned -Saint-Aignan, "you are mistaken sire; every one is not precisely -a friend of M. de Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How do you know -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Does your majesty -require me to explain myself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly I -do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, sire, I -believe I have heard something said about a quarrel between two -gentlemen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"When?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This very evening, -before your majesty's supper was served."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That can hardly -be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have issued such -stringent and severe ordinances with respect to duelling, that no -one, I presume, would dare to disobey them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case, -Heaven preserve me from excusing any one!" exclaimed -Saint-Aignan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Your -majesty commanded me to speak, and I spoke accordingly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Tell me, then, in -what way the Comte de Guiche has been wounded?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, it is said -to have been at a boar-hunt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This evening?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"One of his hands -shattered, and a hole in his breast.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who was at the hunt with M. de -Guiche?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not know, -sire; but M. de Manicamp knows, or ought to know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are concealing -something from me, Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing, sire, I -assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then, explain to -me how the accident happened; was it a musket that burst?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very likely, -sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But yet, on -reflection, it could hardly have been that, for De Guiche's -pistol was found close by him still loaded."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"His pistol?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But a man does not go to a -boar-hunt with a pistol, I should think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, it is also -said that De Guiche's horse was killed and that the horse is -still to be found in the wide open glade in the forest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"His horse? - -Guiche go on horseback to a boar-hunt? - Saint-Aignan, I do not -understand a syllable of what you have been telling me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where did this affair -happen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the Rond-point, -in that part of the forest called the Bois-Rochin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That will do.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Call M. d'Artagnan."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan obeyed, and the -musketeer entered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan," said the king, "you will leave this place by the -little door of the private staircase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will mount -your horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you will -proceed to the Rond-point du Bois-Rochin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know the spot?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have fought there -twice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What!" exclaimed -the king, amazed at the reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Under the edicts, -sire, of Cardinal Richelieu," returned D'Artagnan, with his usual -impassability.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is very -different, monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -will, therefore, go there, and will examine the locality very -carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A man has been -wounded there, and you will find a horse lying dead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will tell me what your opinion -is upon the whole affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As a matter of -course, it is your own opinion I require, and not that of any one -else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You shall have it -in an hour's time, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I prohibit your -speaking with any one, whoever it may be."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Except with the -person who must give me a lantern," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! that is a -matter of course," said the king, laughing at the liberty, which -he tolerated in no one but his captain of the musketeers.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan left by the little -staircase.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Now, let my -physician be sent for," said Louis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ten minutes afterwards the king's -physician arrived, quite out of breath.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will go, -monsieur," said the king to him, "and accompany M. de -Saint-Aignan wherever he may take you; you will render me an -account of the state of the person you may see in the house you -will be taken to."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -physician obeyed without a remark, as at that time people began -to obey Louis XIV., and left the room preceding Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you, -Saint-Aignan, send Manicamp to me, before the physician can -possibly have spoken to him."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Saint-Aignan left in his -turn.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XVI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Showing in What Way D'Artagnan Discharged the Mission with Which -the King Had Intrusted Him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -W</span>hile the king was engaged in making these last-mentioned -arrangements in order to ascertain the truth, D'Artagnan, without -losing a second, ran to the stable, took down the lantern, -saddled his horse himself, and proceeded towards the place his -majesty had indicated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -According to the promise he had made, he had not accosted any -one; and, as we have observed, he had carried his scruples so far -as to do without the assistance of the stable-helpers -altogether.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -was one of those who in moments of difficulty pride themselves on -increasing their own value.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By dint of hard galloping, he in -less than five minutes reached the wood, fastened his horse to -the first tree he came to, and penetrated to the broad open space -on foot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then began to -inspect most carefully, on foot and with his lantern in his hand, -the whole surface of the Rond-point, went forward, turned back -again, measured, examined, and after half an hour's minute -inspection, he returned silently to where he had left his horse, -and pursued his way in deep reflection and at a foot-pace to -Fontainebleau.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis was -waiting in his cabinet; he was alone, and with a pencil was -scribbling on paper certain lines which D'Artagnan at the first -glance recognized as unequal and very much touched up.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The conclusion he arrived at -was, that they must be verses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king raised his head and -perceived D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Well, monsieur," he said, "do you bring me any news?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What have you -seen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As far as probability -goes, sire - " D'Artagnan began to reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was certainty I -requested of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will approach it as -near as I possibly can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The weather was very well adapted for investigations of the -character I have just made; it has been raining this evening, and -the roads were wet and muddy - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, the result, M. -d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, your majesty told -me that there was a horse lying dead in the cross-road of the -Bois-Rochin, and I began, therefore, by studying the roads.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I say the roads, because the -center of the cross-road is reached by four separate roads.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The one that I myself took was -the only one that presented any fresh traces.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two horses had followed it side by -side; their eight feet were marked very distinctly in the -clay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of the riders -was more impatient than the other, for the footprints of the one -were invariably in advance of the other about half a horse's -length."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you quite sure they -were traveling together?" said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horses are two rather large -animals of equal pace, - horses well used to maneuvers of all -kinds, for they wheeled round the barrier of the Rond-point -together."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well - and after?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The two cavaliers -paused there for a minute, no doubt to arrange the conditions of -the engagement; the horses grew restless and impatient.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of the riders spoke, while -the other listened and seemed to have contented himself by simply -answering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His horse -pawed the ground, which proves that his attention was so taken up -by listening that he let the bridle fall from his hand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A hostile meeting did -take place then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Undoubtedly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Continue; you are a -very accurate observer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One of the two -cavaliers remained where he was standing, the one, in fact, who -had been listening; the other crossed the open space, and at -first placed himself directly opposite to his adversary.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The one who had remained -stationary traversed the Rond-point at a gallop, about two-thirds -of its length, thinking that by this means he would gain upon his -opponent; but the latter had followed the circumference of the -wood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are ignorant of -their names, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Completely so, -sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only he who -followed the circumference of the wood was mounted on a black -horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How do you know -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I found a few hairs of -his tail among the brambles which bordered the sides of the -ditch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As for the other horse, -there can be no trouble in describing him, since he was left dead -on the field of battle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was the cause of -his death?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A ball which had passed -through his brain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was the ball that of a -pistol or a gun?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was a pistol-bullet, -sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, the manner -in which the horse was wounded explained to me the tactics of the -man who had killed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -had followed the circumference of the wood in order to take his -adversary in flank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Moreover, I followed his foot-tracks on the grass."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The tracks of the black -horse, do you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go on, Monsieur -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As your majesty now -perceives the position of the two adversaries, I will, for a -moment, leave the cavalier who had remained stationary for the -one who started off at a gallop."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The horse of the -cavalier who rode at full speed was killed on the spot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How do you know -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The cavalier had not -time even to throw himself off his horse, and so fell with -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I observed the -impression of his leg, which, with a great effort, he was enabled -to extricate from under the horse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The spur, pressed down by the weight -of the animal, had plowed up the ground."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; and what did -he do as soon as he rose up again?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He walked straight up -to his adversary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who still remained upon -the verge of the forest?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, having reached a favorable -distance, he stopped firmly, for the impression of both his heels -are left in the ground quite close to each other, fired, and -missed his adversary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How do you know he did -not hit him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I found a hat with a -ball through it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, a proof, then!" -exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Insufficient, sire," -replied D'Artagnan, coldly; "it is a hat without any letters -indicating its ownership, without arms; a red feather, as all -hats have; the lace, even, had nothing particular in it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did the man with the -hat through which the bullet had passed fire a second time?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire, he had -already fired twice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How did you ascertain -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I found the waddings of -the pistol."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what became of the -bullet which did not kill the horse?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It cut in two the -feather of the hat belonging to him against whom it was directed, -and broke a small birch at the other end of the open glade."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, then, the -man on the black horse was disarmed, whilst his adversary had -still one more shot to fire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, while the -dismounted rider was extricating himself from his horse, the -other was reloading his pistol.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only, he was much agitated while he -was loading it, and his hand trembled greatly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How do you know -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Half the charge fell to -the ground, and he threw the ramrod aside, not having time to -replace it in the pistol."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, -this is marvellous you tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is only close -observation, sire, and the commonest highwayman could tell as -much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The whole scene is -before me from the manner in which you relate it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have, in fact, -reconstructed it in my own mind, with merely a few -alterations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now," said the -king, "let us return to the dismounted cavalier.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You were saying that he walked -towards his adversary while the latter was loading his -pistol."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but at the very -moment he himself was taking aim, the other fired."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said the king; -"and the shot?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The shot told terribly, -sire; the dismounted cavalier fell upon his face, after having -staggered forward three or four paces."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where was he hit?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In two places; in the -first place, in his right hand, and then, by the same bullet, in -his chest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But how could you -ascertain that?" inquired the king, full of admiration.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By a very simple means; -the butt end of the pistol was covered with blood, and the trace -of the bullet could be observed, with fragments of a broken -ring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The wounded man, in -all probability, had the ring-finger and the little finger -carried off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As far as the hand -goes, I have nothing to say; but the chest?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, there were two -small pools of blood, at a distance of about two feet and a half -from each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At one -of these pools of blood the grass was torn up by the clenched -hand; at the other, the grass was simply pressed down by the -weight of the body."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor De Guiche!" -exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! it was M. de -Guiche, then?" said the musketeer, quietly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I suspected it, but did not venture -to mention it to your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what made you -suspect it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I recognized the De -Gramont arms upon the holsters of the dead horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you think he is -seriously wounded?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very -seriously, since he fell immediately, and remained a long time in -the same place; however, he was able to walk, as he left the -spot, supported by two friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You met him returning, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but I observed the -footprints of three men; the one on the right and the one on the -left walked freely and easily, but the one in the middle dragged -his feet as he walked; besides, he left traces of blood at every -step he took."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now, monsieur, since -you saw the combat so distinctly that not a single detail seems -to have escaped you, tell me something about De Guiche's -adversary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire, I do not know -him."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet you -see everything very clearly."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, -I see everything; but I do not tell all I see; and, since the -poor devil has escaped, your majesty will permit me to say that I -do not intend to denounce him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet he is guilty, -since he has fought a duel, monsieur."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not guilty -in my eyes, sire," said D'Artagnan, coldly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur!" exclaimed -the king, "are you aware of what you are saying?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly, sire; but, -according to my notions, a man who fights a duel is a brave man; -such, at least, is my own opinion; but your majesty may have -another, it is but natural, for you are master here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, I -ordered you, however - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan interrupted -the king by a respectful gesture.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You ordered me, sire, to gather -what particulars I could, respecting a hostile meeting that had -taken place; those particulars you have.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you order me to arrest M. de -Guiche's adversary, I will do so; but do not order me to denounce -him to you, for in that case I will not obey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Arrest him, then."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give me his -name, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king -stamped his foot angrily; but after a moment's reflection, he -said, "You are right - ten times, twenty times, a hundred times -right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is my opinion, -sire: I am happy that, this time, it accords with your -majesty's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One word more.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who assisted Guiche?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not -know, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you -speak of two men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -was a person present, then, as second."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There was no second, -sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, more than -that, when M. de Guiche fell, his adversary fled without giving -him any assistance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The miserable coward!" -exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The consequence of your -ordinances, sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If a -man has fought well, and fairly, and has already escaped one -chance of death, he naturally wishes to escape a second.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Bouteville cannot be -forgotten very easily."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so, men turn -cowards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, they become -prudent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And he has fled, then, -you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and as fast as his -horse could possibly carry him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what direction?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the -direction of the château."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and after -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Afterwards, as I have -had the honor of telling your majesty, two men on foot arrived, -who carried M. de Guiche back with them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What proof have you -that these men arrived after the combat?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A very -evident proof, sire; at the moment the encounter took place, the -rain had just ceased, the ground had not had time to imbibe the -moisture, and was, consequently, soaked; the footsteps sank in -the ground; but while M. de Guiche was lying there in a fainting -condition, the ground became firm again, and the footsteps made a -less sensible impression."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis clapped his hands -together in sign of admiration.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," he said, "you -are positively the cleverest man in my kingdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The identical thing M. -de Richelieu thought, and M. de Mazarin said, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now, it remains for -us to see if your sagacity is at fault."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, a man may be -mistaken; <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>humanum est -errare</i>," said the musketeer, philosophically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "To err is human." - -JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, you are -not human, Monsieur d'Artagnan, for I believe you are never -mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty said that -we were going to see whether such was the case, or not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way, may I -venture to ask?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have sent for M. de -Manicamp, and M. de Manicamp is coming."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And M. de Manicamp -knows the secret?"<br> -"De Guiche has no secrets from M. de Manicamp."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan shook -his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No one was -present at the combat, I repeat; and unless M. de Manicamp was -one of the two men who brought him back - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Hush!" said the -king, "he is coming; remain, and listen attentively."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And, at the very -same moment, Manicamp and Saint-Aignan appeared at the threshold -of the door.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XVII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Encounter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he king signified with an imperious gesture, first to the -musketeer, then to Saint-Aignan, "On your lives, not a -word."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -withdrew, like a sentinel, to a corner of the room; Saint-Aignan, -in his character of a favorite, leaned over the back of the -king's chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp, -with his right foot properly advanced, a smile upon his lips, and -his white and well-formed hands gracefully disposed, advanced to -make his reverence to the king, who returned the salutation by a -bow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Good evening, M. de -Manicamp," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty did me the -honor to send for me," said Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, in order to learn -from you all the details of the unfortunate accident which has -befallen the Comte de Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, it is -grievous indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not precisely, -sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you -arrived on the scene of the accident, a few minutes after it took -place?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, about half an -hour afterwards."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And where -did the accident happen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe, sire, the -place is called the Rond-point du Bois-Rochin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! the rendezvous of -the hunt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The very spot, -sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good; give -me all the details you are acquainted with, respecting this -unhappy affair, Monsieur de Manicamp."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perhaps your majesty -has already been informed of them, and I fear to fatigue you with -useless repetition."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, do not be afraid of -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp looked round -him; he saw only D'Artagnan leaning with his back against the -wainscot - D'Artagnan, calm, kind, and good-natured as usual - -and Saint-Aignan whom he had accompanied, and who still leaned -over the king's armchair with an expression of countenance -equally full of good feeling.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He determined, therefore, to speak -out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Your majesty is -perfectly aware," he said, "that accidents are very frequent in -hunting."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In hunting, do you -say?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean, -sire, when an animal is brought to bay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah!" said the king, -"it was when the animal was brought to bay, then, that the -accident happened?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! sire, unhappily -it was."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king paused for a -moment before he said: "What animal was being hunted?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A wild -boar, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what -could possibly have possessed De Guiche to go to a wild boar-hunt -by himself; that is but a clownish idea of sport, only fit for -that class of people who, unlike the Maréchal de Gramont, -have no dogs and huntsmen, to hunt as gentlemen should do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp shrugged his -shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Youth is very -rash," he said, sententiously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, go on," said the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events," -continued Manicamp, not venturing to be too precipitate and -hasty, and letting his words fall very slowly one by one, "at all -events, sire, poor De Guiche went hunting - all alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite alone? indeed? - -What a sportsman!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And is -not M. de Guiche aware that the wild boar always stands at -bay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the very thing -that really happened, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He had some idea, then, -of the beast being there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, some -peasants had seen it among their potatoes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Potatoes were not grown -in France at this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -<i>Le Siècle</i> insists that the error is theirs, and -that Dumas meant tomatoes. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what kind of animal -was it?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A short, -thick beast."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You may as -well tell me, monsieur, that De Guiche had some idea of -committing suicide; for I have seen him hunt, and he is an active -and vigorous hunter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Whenever he fires at an animal brought to bay and held in check -by the dogs, he takes every possible precaution, and yet he fires -with a carbine, and on this occasion he seems to have faced the -boar with pistols only."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp started.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A costly pair of -pistols, excellent weapons to fight a duel with a man and not a -wild boar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What an -absurdity!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There are some things, -sire, which are difficult of explanation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are quite right, -and the event which we are now discussing is certainly one of -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> During the recital, -Saint-Aignan, who probably would have made a sign to Manicamp to -be careful what he was about, found that the king's glance was -constantly fixed upon himself, so that it was utterly impossible -to communicate with Manicamp in any way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for D'Artagnan, the statue of -Silence at Athens was far more noisy and far more expressive than -he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp, therefore, -was obliged to continue in the same way he had begun, and so -contrived to get more and more entangled in his explanation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sire," he said, "this is -probably how the affair happened.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Guiche was waiting to receive the -boar as it rushed towards him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On foot or on -horseback?" inquired the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On horseback.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He fired upon the brute and -missed his aim, and then it dashed upon him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the horse was -killed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! your majesty knows -that, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have been told that a -horse has been found lying dead in the cross-roads of the -Bois-Rochin, and I presume it was De Guiche's horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly true, sire, -it was his."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, so -much for the horse, and now for De Guiche?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "De Guiche, -once down, was attacked and worried by the wild boar, and wounded -in the hand and in the chest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a horrible -accident, but it must be admitted it was De Guiche's own -fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How could he -possibly have gone to hunt such an animal merely armed with -pistols; he must have forgotten the fable of Adonis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp rubbed his ear -in seeming perplexity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Very true," he said, "it was very imprudent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Can you explain it, -Monsieur Manicamp?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, what -is written is written!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you are -a fatalist."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp looked very -uncomfortable and ill at ease.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am angry with you, -Monsieur Manicamp," continued the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With me, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How was it that you, who are De -Guiche's intimate friend, and who know that he is subject to such -acts of folly, did not stop him in time?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp no -longer knew what to do; the tone in which the king spoke was -anything but that of a credulous man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the other hand, it did not -indicate any particular severity, nor did he seem to care very -much about the cross-examination.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was more of raillery in it -than menace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And you -say, then," continued the king, "that it was positively De -Guiche's horse that was found dead?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite positive, -sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did that -astonish you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire; for your -majesty will remember that, at the last hunt, M. de Saint-Maure -had a horse killed under him, and in the same way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, but that one was -ripped open."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Had Guiche's horse been -ripped open like M. de Saint-Maure's horse, I should not have -been astonished."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp opened his eyes -very wide.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Am I mistaken," resumed -the king, "was it not in the frontal bone that De Guiche's horse -was struck?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You must -admit, Monsieur de Manicamp, that that is a very singular place -for a wild boar to attack."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are aware, sire, -that the horse is a very intelligent animal, and he doubtless -endeavoured to defend himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But a horse defends -himself with his heels and not with his head."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, the -terrified horse may have slipped or fallen down," said Manicamp, -"and the boar, you understand sire, the boar - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understand that perfectly, as far -as the horse is concerned; but how about his rider?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! that, too, is -simple enough; the boar left the horse and attacked the rider; -and, as I have already had the honor of informing your majesty, -shattered De Guiche's hand at the very moment he was about to -discharge his second pistol at him, and then, with a gouge of his -tusk, made that terrible hole in his chest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing is more likely; -really, Monsieur de Manicamp, you are wrong in placing so little -confidence in your own eloquence, and you can tell a story most -admirably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty is -exceedingly kind," said Manicamp, saluting him in the most -embarrassed manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From this day -henceforth, I will prohibit any gentleman attached to my court -going out to a similar encounter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Really, one might just as well -permit duelling."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp started, and -moved as if he were about to withdraw.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is your majesty satisfied?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Delighted; but do not -withdraw yet, Monsieur de Manicamp," said Louis, "I have -something to say to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well!" thought -D'Artagnan, "there is another who is not up to the mark;" and he -uttered a sigh which might signify, "Oh! the men of <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>our</i> stamp, where are they <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>now?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment an usher -lifted up the curtain before the door, and announced the king's -physician.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" exclaimed Louis, -"here comes Monsieur Valot, who has just been to see M. de -Guiche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall now hear -news of the man maltreated by the boar."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp felt more -uncomfortable than ever.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In this way, at least," -added the king, "our conscience will be quite clear."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he looked at D'Artagnan, who did -not seem in the slightest degree discomposed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XVIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Physician.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>. Valot entered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The position of the different persons present was precisely the -same: the king was seated, Saint-Aignan leaning over the back of -his armchair, D'Artagnan with his back against the wall, and -Manicamp still standing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, M. Valot," said -the king, "did you obey my directions?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With the greatest -alacrity, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You went to the -doctor's house in Fontainebleau?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you found M. de -Guiche there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I did, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What state was he in? - -speak unreservedly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In a very sad state -indeed, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The wild boar did not -quite devour him, however?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Devour whom?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "De -Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What wild boar?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The boar that wounded -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche wounded by -a boar?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So it is -said, at least."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By a -poacher, rather, or by a jealous husband, or an ill-used lover, -who, in order to be revenged, fired upon him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it that you -say, Monsieur Valot?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Were -not M. de Guiche's wounds produced by defending himself against a -wild boar?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche's wounds -are the result of a pistol-bullet that broke his ring-finger and -the little finger of the right hand, and afterwards buried itself -in the intercostal muscles of the chest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A bullet!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you sure Monsieur de Guiche was -wounded by a <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bullet?</i>" -exclaimed the king, pretending to look much surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed, I am, sire; so -sure, in fact, that here it is."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he presented to the king a -half-flattened bullet, which the king looked at, but did not -touch.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did he have that in his -chest, poor fellow?" he asked.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not precisely.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ball did not penetrate, -but was flattened, as you see, either upon the trigger of the -pistol or upon the right side of the breast-bone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens!" said the -king, seriously, "you said nothing to me about this, Monsieur de -Manicamp."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What does all this -mean, then, this invention about hunting a wild boar at -nightfall?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, speak, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It seems, then, that -you are right," said the king, turning round towards his captain -of musketeers, "and that a duel actually took place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king possessed, to a -greater extent than any one else, the faculty enjoyed by the -great in power or position, of compromising and dividing those -beneath him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp -darted a look full of reproaches at the musketeer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan understood the look at -once, and not wishing to remain beneath the weight of such an -accusation, advanced a step forward, and said: "Sire, your -majesty commanded me to go and explore the place where the -cross-roads meet in the Bois-Rochin, and to report to you, -according to my own ideas, what had taken place there.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I submitted my observations to -you, but without denouncing any one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was your majesty yourself who was -the first to name the Comte de Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur, well," -said the king, haughtily; "you have done your duty, and I am -satisfied with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -you, Monsieur de Manicamp, have failed in yours, for you have -told me a falsehood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A falsehood, sire.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The expression is a hard -one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Find a more accurate, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I will not -attempt to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -already been unfortunate enough to displease your majesty, and it -will, in every respect, be far better for me to accept most -humbly any reproaches you may think proper to address to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right, -monsieur, whoever conceals the truth from me, risks my -displeasure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sometimes, sire, one is -ignorant of the truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No further falsehood, -monsieur, or I double the punishment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp bowed and -turned pale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -again made another step forward, determined to interfere, if the -still increasing anger of the king attained certain limits.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, monsieur," -continued the king, "that it is useless to deny the thing any -longer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Guiche has -fought a duel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not deny it, sire, -and it would have been truly generous on your majesty's part not -to have forced me to tell a falsehood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Forced?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who forced you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, M. de Guiche is -my friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty -has forbidden duels under pain of death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A falsehood might save my friend's -life, and I told it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good!" murmured -D'Artagnan, "an excellent fellow, upon my word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Instead of telling a -falsehood, monsieur, you should have prevented him from -fighting," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, your majesty, -who is the most accomplished gentleman in France, knows quite as -well as any of us other gentlemen that we have never considered -M. de Bouteville dishonored for having suffered death on the -Place de Grève.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -That which does in truth dishonor a man is to avoid meeting his -enemy - not to avoid meeting his executioner!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur, that -may be so," said Louis XIV.; "I am desirous of suggesting a means -of your repairing all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it be a means of -which a gentleman may avail himself, I shall most eagerly seize -the opportunity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The name of M. de -Guiche's adversary?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, oh!" murmured -D'Artagnan, "are we going to take Louis XIII. as a model?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire!" said Manicamp, -with an accent of reproach.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will not name him, -then?" said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I do not know -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bravo!" murmured -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur de Manicamp, -hand your sword to the captain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp bowed very -gracefully, unbuckled his sword, smiling as he did so, and handed -it for the musketeer to take.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Saint-Aignan advanced hurriedly -between him and D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sire," he said, "will your majesty -permit me to say a word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do so," said the king, -delighted, perhaps, at the bottom of his heart, for some one to -step between him and the wrath he felt he had carried him too -far.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Manicamp, you are a -brave man, and the king will appreciate your conduct; but to wish -to serve your friends too well, is to destroy them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp, you know the name the king -asks you for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is perfectly true - -I do know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will give it up -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I felt I ought to -have mentioned it, I should have already done so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then I will tell it, -for I am not so extremely sensitive on such points of honor as -you are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are at liberty to -do so, but it seems to me, however - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! a truce to -magnanimity; I will not permit you to go to the Bastile in that -way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you speak; or I -will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp was keen-witted -enough, and perfectly understood that he had done quite -sufficient to produce a good opinion of his conduct; it was now -only a question of persevering in such a manner as to regain the -good graces of the king. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Speak, monsieur," he said to Saint-Aignan; "I have on my own -behalf done all that my conscience told me to do; and it must -have been very importunate," he added, turning towards the king, -"since its mandates led me to disobey your majesty's commands; -but your majesty will forgive me, I hope, when you learn that I -was anxious to preserve the honor of a lady."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of a lady?" said the -king, with some uneasiness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A lady was the cause of -this duel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If the position of the -lady in question warrants it," he said, "I shall not complain of -your having acted with so much circumspection; on the contrary, -indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, everything which -concerns your majesty's household, or the household of your -majesty's brother, is of importance in my eyes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In my brother's -household," repeated Louis XIV., with a slight hesitation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The cause of the duel was a -lady belonging to my brother's household, do you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Or to Madame's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! to Madame's?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well - and this -lady?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is one of the maids of -honor of her royal highness Madame la Duchesse -d'Orléans."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For whom M. de Guiche -fought - do you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, and, this -time, I tell no falsehood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis seemed restless -and anxious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Gentlemen," -he said, turning towards the spectators of this scene, "will you -have the goodness to retire for a moment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to be alone with M. de -Manicamp; I know he has some important communication to make for -his own justification, and which he will not venture before -witnesses….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Put up -your sword, M. de Manicamp."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp returned his -sword to his belt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fellow decidedly -has his wits about him," murmured the musketeer, taking -Saint-Aignan by the arm, and withdrawing with him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will get out of it," -said the latter in D'Artagnan's ear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And with honor, too, -comte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp cast a glance -of recognition at Saint-Aignan and the captain, which luckily -passed unnoticed by the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come," said -D'Artagnan, as he left the room, "I had an indifferent opinion of -the new generation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -I was mistaken after all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There is some good in them, I perceive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Valot preceded the -favorite and the captain, leaving the king and Manicamp alone in -the cabinet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XIX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Wherein D'Artagnan Perceives that It Was He Who Was Mistaken, and -Manicamp Who Was Right.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he king, determined to be satisfied that no one was -listening, went himself to the door, and then returned -precipitately and placed himself opposite Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now we are alone, -Monsieur de Manicamp, explain yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With the greatest -frankness, sire," replied the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And in the first place, -pray understand," added the king, "that there is nothing to which -I personally attach a greater importance than the honor of <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>any</i> lady."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the very -reason, sire, why I endeavored to study your delicacy of -sentiment and feeling."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I understand it -all now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You say that it -was one of the maids of honor of my sister-in-law who was the -subject of dispute, and that the person in question, De Guiche's -adversary, the man, in point of fact, whom you will not name - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But whom M. de -Saint-Aignan will name, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you say, however, -that this man insulted some one belonging to the household of -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mademoiselle de la -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the king, as -if he had expected the name, and yet as if its announcement had -caused him a sudden pang; "ah! it was Mademoiselle de la -Vallière who was insulted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not say precisely -that she was insulted, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But at all events - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I merely say that she -was spoken of in terms far enough from respectful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man dares to speak in -disrespectful terms of Mademoiselle de la Vallière, and -yet you refuse to tell me the name of the insulter?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I -thought it was quite understood that your majesty had abandoned -the idea of making me denounce him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly true, -monsieur," returned the king, controlling his anger; "besides, I -shall know in good time the name of this man whom I shall feel it -my duty to punish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp perceived that -they had returned to the question again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the king, he saw he had -allowed himself to be hurried away a little too far, and -therefore continued: - "And I will punish him - not because there -is any question of Mademoiselle de la Vallière, although I -esteem her very highly - but because a lady was the object of the -quarrel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And I intend -that ladies shall be respected at my court, and that quarrels -shall be put a stop to altogether."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now, Monsieur de -Manicamp," continued the king, "what was said about Mademoiselle -de la Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Cannot your majesty -guess?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your -majesty can imagine the character of the jest in which young men -permit themselves to indulge."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They very probably said -that she was in love with some one?" the king ventured to -remark.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Probably so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But Mademoiselle de la -Vallière has a perfect right to love any one she pleases," -said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the very point -De Guiche maintained."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And on account of which -he fought, do you mean?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, -the sole and only cause."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king colored.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And you do not know anything -more, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what respect, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the very interesting -respect which you are now referring to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What does your majesty -wish to know?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, the name of the -man with whom La Vallière is in love, and whom De Guiche's -adversary disputed her right to love."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I know nothing - -I have heard nothing - and have learnt nothing, even -accidentally; but De Guiche is a noble-hearted fellow, and if, -momentarily, he substituted himself in the place or stead of La -Vallière's protector, it was because that protector was -himself of too exalted a position to undertake her defense."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> These words were more -than transparent; they made the king blush, but this time with -pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He struck -Manicamp gently on the shoulder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, well, Monsieur de Manicamp, -you are not only a ready, witty fellow, but a brave gentleman -besides, and your friend De Guiche is a paladin quite after my -own heart; you will express that to him from me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty forgives -me, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Completely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I am free?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king smiled and held -out his hand to Manicamp, which he took and kissed -respectfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And then," -added the king, "you relate stories so charmingly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I, sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You told me in the -most admirable manner the particulars of the accident which -happened to Guiche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can -see the wild boar rushing out of the wood - I can see the horse -fall down fighting with his head, and the boar rush from the -horse to the rider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -do not simply relate a story well: you positively paint its -incidents."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, I think your -majesty condescends to laugh at my expense," said Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary," -said Louis, seriously, "I have so little intention of laughing, -Monsieur de Manicamp, that I wish you to relate this adventure to -every one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The adventure of -the hunt?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; in the same -manner you told it to me, without changing a single word - <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>you understand?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Perfectly, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you will -relate it, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without losing a -minute."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well! and now -summon M. d'Artagnan; I hope you are no longer afraid of -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, sire, from the -very moment I am sure of your majesty's kind disposition, I no -longer fear anything!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Call him, then," -said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Manicamp opened the -door, and said, "Gentlemen, the king wishes you to return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan, -Saint-Aignan, and Valot entered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Gentlemen," said -the king, "I summoned you for the purposes of saying that -Monsieur de Manicamp's explanation has entirely satisfied -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan glanced -at Valot and Saint-Aignan, as much as to say, "Well! did I not -tell you so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king led -Manicamp to the door, and then in a low tone of voice said: "See -that M. de Guiche takes good care of himself, and particularly -that he recovers as soon as possible; I am very desirous of -thanking him in the name of every lady, but let him take special -care that he does not begin again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Were he to die a -hundred times, sire, he would begin again if your majesty's honor -were in any way called in question."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>This remark was -direct enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But we -have already said that the incense of flattery was very pleasing -to the king, and, provided he received it, he was not very -particular as to its quality.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, very -well," he said, as he dismissed Manicamp, "I will see De Guiche -myself, and make him listen to reason."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as Manicamp left the apartment, -the king turned round towards the three spectators of this scene, -and said, "Tell me, Monsieur d'Artagnan, how does it happen that -your sight is so imperfect? - you, whose eyes are generally so -very good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My sight bad, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It must be the -case since your majesty says so; but in what respect, may I -ask?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, with regard -to what occurred in the Bois-Rochin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You pretended to have seen the -tracks of two horses, to have detected the footprints of two men; -and have described the particulars of an engagement, which you -assert took place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Nothing of the sort occurred; pure illusion on your part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! ah!" said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly the same -thing with the galloping to and fro of the horses, and the other -indications of a struggle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the struggle of De Guiche -against the wild boar, and absolutely nothing else; only the -struggle was a long and a terrible one, it seems."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! ah!" continued -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And when I think -that I almost believed it for a moment - but, then, you told it -with such confidence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I admit, sire, -that I must have been very short-sighted," said D'Artagnan, with -a readiness of humor which delighted the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You do admit it, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Admit it, sire, -most assuredly I do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So now that you -see the thing - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In quite a -different light from that in which I saw it half an hour -ago."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And to what, then, -do you attribute this difference in your opinion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! a very simple -thing, sire; half an hour ago I returned from Bois-Rochin, where -I had nothing to light me but a stupid stable lantern - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"While now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"While now I have -all the wax-lights of your cabinet, and more than that, your -majesty's own eyes, which illuminate everything, like the blazing -sun at noonday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king began to -laugh; and Saint-Aignan broke out into convulsions of -merriment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is precisely -like M. Valot," said D'Artagnan, resuming the conversation where -the king had left off; "he has been imagining all along, that not -only was M. de Guiche wounded by a bullet, but still more, that -he extracted it, even, from his chest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon my word," -said Valot, "I assure you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Now, did you not -believe that?" continued D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said Valot; -"not only did I believe it, but, at this very moment, I would -swear it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, my dear -doctor, you have dreamt it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have dreamt -it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. de Guiche's -wound - a mere dream; the bullet, a dream.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, take my advice, and prate no -more about it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well said," -returned the king, "M. d'Artagnan's advice is sound.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not speak of your dream to any -one, Monsieur Valot, and, upon the word of a gentleman, you will -have no occasion to repent it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good evening, gentlemen; a very sad -affair, indeed, is a wild boar-hunt!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A very serious -thing, indeed," repeated D'Artagnan, in a loud voice, "is a wild -boar-hunt!" and he repeated it in every room through which he -passed; and left the château, taking Valot with him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And now we are -alone," said the king to Saint-Aignan, "what is the name of De -Guiche's adversary?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan looked -at the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! do not -hesitate," said the king; "you know that I am bound beforehand to -forgive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"De Wardes," said -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good," said -Louis XIV.; and then, retiring to his own room, added to himself, -"To forgive is not to forget."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Showing the Advantage of Having Two Strings to One's Bow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>anicamp quitted the king's apartment, delighted at having -succeeded so well, when, just as he reached the bottom of the -staircase and was passing a doorway, he felt that some one -suddenly pulled him by the sleeve.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He turned round and recognized -Montalais, who was waiting for him in the passage, and who, in a -very mysterious manner, with her body bent forward, and in a low -tone of voice, said to him, "Follow me, monsieur, and without any -delay, if you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where to, -mademoiselle?" inquired Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place, a -true knight would not have asked such a question, but would have -followed me without requiring any explanation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, mademoiselle, I -am quite ready to conduct myself as a true knight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; it is too late, and -you cannot take the credit of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are going to Madame's apartment, -so come at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah!" said -Manicamp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Lead on, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And he followed -Montalais, who ran before him as light as Galatea.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This time," said -Manicamp, as he followed his guide, "I do not think that stories -about hunting expeditions would be acceptable.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will try, however, and if need be -- well, if there should be any occasion for it, we must try -something else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais still ran -on.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How fatiguing it is," -thought Manicamp, "to have need of one's head and legs at the -same time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At last, however, they -arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame had just -finished undressing, and was in a most elegant <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>déshabille</i>, but it must -be understood that she had changed her dress before she had any -idea of being subjected to the emotions now agitating her.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was waiting with the most -restless impatience; and Montalais and Manicamp found her -standing near the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -At the sound of their approaching footsteps, Madame came forward -to meet them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" she said, "at -last!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here is M. Manicamp," -replied Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp bowed with the -greatest respect; Madame signed to Montalais to withdraw, and she -immediately obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Madame followed her with her eyes, in silence, until the door -closed behind her, and then, turning towards Manicamp, said, -"What is the matter? - and is it true, as I am told, Monsieur de -Manicamp, that some one is lying wounded in the -château?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame, -unfortunately so - Monsieur de Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Monsieur de -Guiche," repeated the princess.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I had, in fact, heard it rumored, -but not confirmed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -so, in truth, it is Monsieur de Guiche who has been thus -unfortunate?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche himself, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you aware, M. de -Manicamp," said the princes, hastily, "that the king has the -strongest antipathy to duels?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly so, Madame; -but a duel with a wild beast is not answerable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, you will not insult -me by supposing that I credit the absurd fable, with what object -I cannot tell, respecting M. de Guiche having been wounded by a -wild boar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no, -monsieur; the real truth is known, and, in addition to the -inconvenience of his wound, M. de Guiche runs the risk of losing -his liberty if not his life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, I am well aware of that, but -what is to be done?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have seen the -king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did you say to -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I told him how M. de -Guiche went to the chase, and how a wild boar rushed forth out of -the Bois-Rochin; how M. de Guiche fired at it, and how, in fact, -the furious brute dashed at De Guiche, killed his horse, and -grievously wounded himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the king believed -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Implicitly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, you surprise me, -Monsieur de Manicamp; you surprise me very much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Madame walked up and -down the room, casting a searching look from time to time at -Manicamp, who remained motionless and impassible in the same -place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last she -stopped.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet," she said, -"every one here seems unanimous in giving another cause for this -wound."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What cause, Madame?" -said Manicamp; "may I be permitted, without indiscretion, to ask -your highness?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You ask such a -question!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, M. de -Guiche's intimate friend, his confidant, indeed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Madame! his -intimate friend - yes; confidant - no.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche is a man who can keep his -own secrets, who has some of his own certainly, but who never -breathes a syllable about them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche is discretion itself, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, then; those -secrets which M. de Guiche keeps so scrupulously, I shall have -the pleasure of informing you of," said the princess, almost -spitefully; "for the king may possibly question you a second -time, and if, on the second occasion, you were to repeat the same -story to him, he possibly might not be very well satisfied with -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, Madame, I think -your highness is mistaken with regard to the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty was perfectly satisfied -with me, I assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, permit me -to assure you, Monsieur de Manicamp, it only proves one thing, -which is, that his majesty is very easily satisfied."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think your highness -is mistaken in arriving at such an opinion; his majesty is well -known not to be contented except with very good reason."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And do you suppose that -he will thank you for your officious falsehood, when he will -learn to-morrow that M. de Guiche had, on behalf of his friend M. -de Bragelonne, a quarrel which ended in a hostile meeting?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A quarrel on M. de -Bragelonne's account," said Manicamp, with the most innocent -expression in the world; "what does your royal highness do me the -honor to tell me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is there -astonishing in that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -de Guiche is susceptible, irritable, and easily loses his -temper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the contrary, -Madame, I know M. de Guiche to be very patient, and never -susceptible or irritable except upon very good grounds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But is not friendship a -just ground?" said the princess.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, certainly, Madame; -and particularly for a heart like his."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; you will not -deny, I suppose, that M. de Bragelonne is M. de Guiche's good -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A great friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, M. de -Guiche has taken M. de Bragelonne's part; and as M. de Bragelonne -was absent and could not fight, he fought for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp began to smile, -and moved his head and shoulders very slightly, as much as to -say, "Oh, if you will positively have it so - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But speak, at all -events," said the princess, out of patience; "speak!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; it is quite -clear you are not of my opinion, and that you have something to -say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have only one thing -to say, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Name it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That I do not -understand a single word of what you have just been telling -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! - you do not -understand a single word about M. de Guiche's quarrel with M. de -Wardes," exclaimed the princess, almost out of temper.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp remained -silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A quarrel," she -continued, "which arose out of a conversation scandalous in its -tone and purport, and more or less well founded, respecting the -virtue of a certain lady."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! of a certain lady, -- this is quite another thing," said Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You begin to -understand, do you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your highness will -excuse me, but I dare not - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You dare not," said -Madame, exasperated; "very well, then, wait one moment, I will -dare."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, Madame!" -exclaimed Manicamp, as if in great dismay, "be careful of what -you are going to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would seem, -monsieur, that, if I happened to be a man, you would challenge -me, notwithstanding his majesty's edicts, as Monsieur de Guiche -challenged M. de Wardes; and that, too, on account of the virtue -of Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of Mademoiselle de la -Vallière!" exclaimed Manicamp, starting backwards, as if -that was the very last name he expected to hear pronounced.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What makes you start in -that manner, Monsieur de Manicamp?" said Madame, ironically; "do -you mean to say you would be impertinent enough to suspect that -young lady's honor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, in the whole -course of this affair there has not been the slightest question -of Mademoiselle de la Vallière's honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! when two men have -almost blown each other's brains out on a woman's behalf, do you -mean to say she has had nothing to do with the affair, and that -her name has not been called in question at all?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I did not think you so good a -courtier, Monsieur de Manicamp."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pray forgive me, -Madame," said the young man, "but we are very far from -understanding one another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do me the honor to speak one -language while I am speaking altogether another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon, but -I do not understand your meaning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Forgive me, then; but I -fancied I understood your highness to remark that De Guiche and -De Wardes had fought on Mademoiselle de la Vallière's -account?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On account -of Mademoiselle de la Vallière, I think you said?" -repeated Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not say that M. de -Guiche personally took an interest in Mademoiselle de la -Vallière, but I say that he did so as representing or -acting on behalf of another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On behalf of -another?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, do not always -assume such a bewildered look.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does not every one here know that M. -de Bragelonne is affianced to Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -and that before he went on the mission with which the king -intrusted him, he charged his friend M. de Guiche to watch over -that interesting young lady?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is nothing more -for me to say, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -highness is well-informed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of everything.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg you to understand that -clearly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp began to laugh, -which almost exasperated the princess, who was not, as we know, -of a very patient disposition.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame," resumed the -discreet Manicamp, saluting the princess, "let us bury this -affair altogether in forgetfulness, for it will probably never be -quite cleared up."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, as far as that goes -there is nothing more to do, and the information is -complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king will -learn that M. de Guiche has taken up the cause of this little -adventuress, who gives herself all the airs of a grand lady; he -will learn that Monsieur de Bragelonne, having nominated his -friend M. de Guiche his guardian-in-ordinary, the latter -immediately fastened, as he was required to do, upon the Marquis -de Wardes, who ventured to trench upon his privileges.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Moreover, you cannot pretend -to deny, Monsieur Manicamp - you who know everything so well - -that the king on his side casts a longing eye upon this famous -treasure, and that he will bear no slight grudge against M. de -Guiche for constituting himself its defender.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you sufficiently well informed -now, or do you require anything further?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If so, speak, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Madame, there is -nothing more I wish to know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Learn, however - for -you ought to know it, Monsieur de Manicamp - learn that his -majesty's indignation will be followed by terrible -consequences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In princes -of a similar temperament to that of his majesty, the passion -which jealousy causes sweeps down like a whirlwind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which you will temper, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I!" exclaimed the -princess, with a gesture of indescribable irony; "I! and by what -title, may I ask?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because you detest -injustice, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And according to your -account, then, it would be an injustice to prevent the king -arranging his love affairs as he pleases."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will intercede, -however, in M. de Guiche's favor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mad, monsieur," -said the princess, in a haughty tone of voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the contrary, I am -in the most perfect possession of my senses; and I repeat, you -will defend M. de Guiche before the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why should I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because the cause of M. -de Guiche is your own, Madame," said Manicamp, with ardor -kindling in his eyes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean by -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean, Madame, that, -with respect to the defense which Monsieur de Guiche undertook in -M. de Bragelonne's absence, I am surprised that your highness has -not detected a pretext in La Vallière's name having been -brought forward."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A pretext?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But a pretext for what?" repeated -the princess, hesitatingly, for Manicamp's steady look had just -revealed something of the truth to her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I trust, Madame," said -the young man, "I have said sufficient to induce your highness -not to overwhelm before his majesty my poor friend, De Guiche, -against whom all the malevolence of a party bitterly opposed to -your own will now be directed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You mean, on the -contrary, I suppose, that all those who have no great affection -for Mademoiselle de la Vallière, and even, perhaps, a few -of those who have some regard for her, will be angry with the -comte?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Madame! why will -you push your obstinacy to such an extent, and refuse to open -your ears and listen to the counsel of one whose devotion to you -is unbounded?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Must I -expose myself to the risk of your displeasure, - am I really to -be called upon to name, contrary to my own wish, the person who -was the real cause of this quarrel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The person?" said -Madame, blushing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Must I," continued -Manicamp, "tell you how poor De Guiche became irritated, furious, -exasperated beyond all control, at the different rumors now being -circulated about this person?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Must I, if you persist in this -willful blindness, and if respect should continue to prevent me -naming her, - must I, I repeat, recall to your recollection the -various scenes which Monsieur had with the Duke of Buckingham, -and the insinuations which were reported respecting the duke's -exile?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Must I remind you -of the anxious care the comte always took in his efforts to -please, to watch, to protect that person for whom alone he lives, -- for whom alone he breathes?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will do so; and when I shall have -made you recall all the particulars I refer to, you will perhaps -understand how it happened that the comte, having lost all -control over himself, and having been for some time past almost -harassed to death by De Wardes, became, at the first -disrespectful expression which the latter pronounced respecting -the person in question, inflamed with passion, and panted only -for an opportunity of avenging the affront."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The princess concealed -her face with her hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur, monsieur!" she exclaimed; "do you know what you are -saying, and to whom you are speaking?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so, Madame," -pursued Manicamp, as if he had not heard the exclamations of the -princess, "nothing will astonish you any longer, - neither the -comte's ardor in seeking the quarrel, nor his wonderful address -in transferring it to an quarter foreign to your own personal -interests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That latter -circumstance was, indeed, a marvelous instance of tact and -perfect coolness, and if the person in whose behalf the comte so -fought and shed his blood does, in reality, owe some gratitude to -the poor wounded sufferer, it is not on account of the blood he -has shed, or the agony he has suffered, but for the steps he has -taken to preserve from comment or reflection an honor which is -more precious to him than his own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" cried Madame, as -if she had been alone, "is it possible the quarrel was on my -account!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp felt he could -now breathe for a moment - and gallantly had he won the right to -do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, on her -side, remained for some time plunged in a painful reverie.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her agitation could be seen by -her quick respiration, by her drooping eyelids, by the frequency -with which she pressed her hand upon her heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, in her, coquetry was not so -much a passive quality, as, on the contrary, a fire which sought -for fuel to maintain itself, finding anywhere and everywhere what -it required.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it be as you -assert," she said, "the comte will have obliged two persons at -the same time; for Monsieur de Bragelonne also owes a deep debt -of gratitude to M. de Guiche - and with far greater reason, -indeed, because everywhere, and on every occasion, Mademoiselle -de la Vallière will be regarded as having been defended by -this generous champion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp perceived that -there still remained some lingering doubt in the princess's -heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A truly admirable -service, indeed," he said, "is the one he has rendered to -Mademoiselle de la Vallière!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A truly admirable service to M. de -Bragelonne!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duel has -created a sensation which, in some respects, casts a dishonorable -suspicion upon that young girl; a sensation, indeed, which will -embroil her with the vicomte.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The consequence is that De Wardes's -pistol-bullet has had three results instead of one; it destroys -at the same time the honor of a woman, the happiness of a man, -and, perhaps, it has wounded to death one of the best gentlemen -in France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, Madame! -your logic is cold - even calculating; it always condemns - it -never absolves."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp's concluding -words scattered to the winds the last doubt which lingered, not -in Madame's heart, but in her mind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was no longer a princess full of -scruples, nor a woman with her ever-returning suspicions, but one -whose heart has just felt the mortal chill of a wound.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Wounded to death!" she -murmured, in a faltering voice, "oh, Monsieur de Manicamp! did -you not say, wounded to death?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp returned no -other answer than a deep sigh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so you said that -the comte is dangerously wounded?" continued the princess.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame; one of his -hands is shattered, and he has a bullet lodged in his -breast."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Gracious heavens!" -resumed the princess, with a feverish excitement, "this is -horrible!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur de -Manicamp! a hand shattered, do you say, and a bullet in his -breast?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And that coward! -that wretch! that assassin, De Wardes, did it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp seemed overcome -by a violent emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -had, in fact, displayed no little energy in the latter part of -his speech.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for -Madame, she entirely threw aside all regard for the formal -observances of propriety society imposes; for when, with her, -passion spoke in accents either of anger or sympathy, nothing -could restrain her impulses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame approached Manicamp, who had -subsided in a chair, as if his grief were a sufficiently powerful -excuse for his infraction of the laws of etiquette.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," she said, seizing him by -the hand, "be frank with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp looked up.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is M. de Guiche in -danger of death?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Doubly so, Madame," he -replied; "in the first place on account of the hemorrhage which -has taken place, an artery having been injured in the hand; and -next, in consequence of the wound in his breast, which may, the -doctor is afraid, at least, have injured some vital part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He may die, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Die, yes, Madame; and -without even having had the consolation of knowing that you have -been told of his devotion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will tell him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; are you not his -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I? oh, no, Madame; I -will only tell M. de Guiche - if, indeed, he is still in a -condition to hear me - I will only tell him what I have seen; -that is, your cruelty to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, monsieur, you will -not be guilty of such barbarity!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed, Madame, I shall -speak the truth, for nature is very energetic in a man of his -age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The physicians are -clever men, and if, by chance, the poor comte should survive his -wound, I should not wish him to die of a wound of the heart, -after surviving one of the body."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp rose, and with an -expression of profoundest respect, seemed to be desirous of -taking leave.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At least, monsieur," -said Madame, stopping him with almost a suppliant air, "you will -be kind enough to tell me in what state your wounded friend is, -and who is the physician who attends him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As regards the state he -is in, Madame, he is seriously ill; his physician is M. Valot, -his majesty's private medical attendant.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Valot is moreover assisted by a -professional friend, to whose house M. de Guiche has been -carried."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! he is not in the -château?" said Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas, Madame! the poor -fellow was so ill, that he could not even be conveyed -thither."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give me the address, -monsieur," said the princess, hurriedly; "I will send to inquire -after him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Rue du Feurre; a -brick-built house, with white outside blinds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The doctor's name is on the -door."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are returning to -your wounded friend, Monsieur de Manicamp?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will be able, then, -to do me a service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am at your highness's -orders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do what you intended to -do; return to M. de Guiche, send away all those whom you may find -there, and have the kindness yourself to go away too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us waste no time in -useless explanations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Accept the fact as I present it to you; see nothing in it beyond -what is really there, and ask nothing further than what I tell -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am going to send -one of my ladies, perhaps two, because it is now getting late; I -do not wish them to see you, or rather I do not wish you to see -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These are scruples -you can understand - you particularly, Monsieur de Manicamp, who -seem capable of divining so much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Madame, perfectly; -I can even do better still, - I will precede, or rather walk, in -advance of your attendants; it will, at the same time, be the -means of showing them the way more accurately, and of protecting -them, if occasion arises, though there is no probability of their -needing protection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And, by this means, -then, they would be sure of entering without difficulty, would -they not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly, Madame; for -as I should be the first to pass, I thus remove any difficulties -that might chance to be in the way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, go, Monsieur de Manicamp, and -wait at the bottom of the staircase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I go at once, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp paused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When you hear the -footsteps of two women descending the stairs, go out, and, -without once turning round, take the road which leads to where -the poor count is lying."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But if, by any -mischance, two other persons were to descend, and I were to be -mistaken?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will -hear one of the two clap her hands together softly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Manicamp turned round, -bowed once more, and left the room, his heart overflowing with -joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, he knew -very well that the presence of Madame herself would be the best -balm to apply to his friend's wounds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A quarter of an hour had hardly -elapsed when he heard the sound of a door opened softly, and -closed with like precaution.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He listened to the light footfalls -gliding down the staircase, and then hard the signal agreed -upon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He immediately went -out, and, faithful to his promise, bent his way, without once -turning his head, through the streets of Fontainebleau, towards -the doctor's dwelling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>M. -Malicorne the Keeper of the Records of France.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>wo women, their figures completely concealed by their -mantles, and whose masks effectually hid the upper portion of -their faces, timidly followed Manicamp's steps.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the first floor, behind curtains -of red damask, the soft light of a lamp placed upon a low table -faintly illumined the room, at the other extremity of which, on a -large bedstead supported by spiral columns, around which curtains -of the same color as those which deadened the rays of the lamp -had been closely drawn, lay De Guiche, his head supported by -pillows, his eyes looking as if the mists of death were -gathering; his long black hair, scattered over the pillow, set -off the young man's hollow temples.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was easy to see that fever was -the chief tenant of the chamber.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche was dreaming.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His wandering mind was pursuing, -through gloom and mystery, one of those wild creations delirium -engenders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two or three -drops of blood, still liquid, stained the floor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp hurriedly ran up the -stairs, but paused at the threshold of the door, looked into the -room, and seeing that everything was perfectly quiet, he advanced -towards the foot of the large leathern armchair, a specimen of -furniture of the reign of Henry IV., and seeing that the nurse, -as a matter of course, had dropped off to sleep, he awoke her, -and begged her to pass into the adjoining room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then, standing by the -side of the bed, he remained for a moment deliberating whether it -would be better to awaken Guiche, in order to acquaint him with -the good news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as he -began to hear behind the door the rustling of silk dresses and -the hurried breathing of his two companions, and as he already -saw that the curtain screening the doorway seemed on the point of -being impatiently drawn aside, he passed round the bed and -followed the nurse into the next room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he had disappeared the -curtain was raised, and his two female companions entered the -room he had just left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The one who entered first made a gesture to her companion, which -riveted her to the spot where she stood, close to the door, and -then resolutely advanced towards the bed, drew back the curtains -along the iron rod, and threw them in thick folds behind the head -of the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She gazed -upon the comte's pallid face; remarked his right hand enveloped -in linen whose dazzling whiteness was emphasized by the -counterpane patterned with dark leaves thrown across the -couch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She shuddered as -she saw a stain of blood growing larger and larger upon the -bandages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young man's -breast was uncovered, as though for the cool night air to assist -his respiration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A narrow -bandage fastened the dressings of the wound, around which a -purplish circle of extravasated blood was gradually increasing in -size.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A deep sigh broke -from her lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She leaned -against one of the columns of the bed, and gazed, through the -apertures in her mask, upon the harrowing spectacle before -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A hoarse harsh groan -passed like a death-rattle through the comte's clenched -teeth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The masked lady -seized his left hand, which scorched like burning coals.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But at the very moment she -placed her icy hand upon it, the action of the cold was such that -De Guiche opened his eyes, and by a look in which revived -intelligence was dawning, seemed as though struggling back again -into existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The first -thing upon which he fixed his gaze was this phantom standing -erect by his bedside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At -that sight, his eyes became dilated, but without any appearance -of consciousness in them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The lady thereupon made a sign to her companion, who had remained -at the door; and in all probability the latter had already -received her lesson, for in a clear tone of voice, and without -any hesitation whatever, she pronounced these words: - "Monsieur -le comte, her royal highness Madame is desirous of knowing how -you are able to bear your wound, and to express to you, by my -lips, her great regret at seeing you suffer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As she pronounced the -word Madame, Guiche started; he had not as yet remarked the -person to whom the voice belonged, and he naturally turned -towards the direction whence it preceded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as he felt the cold hand still -resting on his own, he again turned towards the motionless figure -beside him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Was it you -who spoke, madame?" he asked, in a weak voice, "or is there -another person in beside you in the room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied the -figure, in an almost unintelligible voice, as she bent down her -head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said the wounded -man, with a great effort, "I thank you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell Madame that I no longer regret -to die, since she has remembered me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At the words "to die," -pronounced by one whose life seemed to hang on a thread, the -masked lady could not restrain her tears, which flowed under the -mask, and appeared upon her cheeks just where the mask left her -face bare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If De Guiche -had been in fuller possession of his senses, he would have seen -her tears roll like glistening pearls, and fall upon his -bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lady, forgetting -that she wore her mask, raised her hand as though to wipe her -eyes, and meeting the rough velvet, she tore away her mask in -anger, and threw it on the floor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the unexpected apparition before -him, which seemed to issue from a cloud, De Guiche uttered a cry -and stretched his arms towards her; but every word perished on -his lips, and his strength seemed utterly abandoning him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His right hand, which had -followed his first impulse, without calculating the amount of -strength he had left, fell back again upon the bed, and -immediately afterwards the white linen was stained with a larger -spot than before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the -meantime, the young man's eyes became dim, and closed, as if he -were already struggling with the messenger of death; and then, -after a few involuntary movements, his head fell back motionless -on his pillow; his face grew livid.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lady was frightened; but on this -occasion, contrary to what is usually the case, fear -attracted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She leaned -over the young man, gazed earnestly, fixedly at his pale, cold -face, which she almost touched, then imprinted a rapid kiss upon -De Guiche's left hand, who, trembling as if an electric shock had -passed through him, awoke a second time, opened his large eyes, -incapable of recognition, and again fell into a state of complete -insensibility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come," -she said to her companion, "we must not remain here any longer; I -shall be committing some folly or other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, Madame, your -highness is forgetting your mask!" said her vigilant -companion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pick it up," replied -her mistress, as she tottered almost senseless towards the -staircase, and as the outer door had been left only half-closed, -the two women, light as birds, passed through it, and with -hurried steps returned to the palace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of the ascended towards Madame's -apartments, where she disappeared; the other entered the rooms -belonging to the maids of honor, namely, on the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>entresol</i>, and having reached -her own room, she sat down before a table, and without giving -herself time even to breathe, wrote the following letter:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This evening Madame has -been to see M. de Guiche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Everything is going well on this side.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> See that your news is equally -exemplary, and do not forget to burn this paper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She folded the letter, -and leaving her room with every possible precaution, crossed a -corridor which led to the apartments appropriated to the -gentlemen attached to Monsieur's service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She stopped before a door, under -which, having previously knocked twice in a short, quick manner, -she thrust the paper, and fled.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, returning to her own room, she -removed every trace of her having gone out, and also of having -written the letter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Amid -the investigations she was so diligently pursuing she perceived -on the table the mask which belonged to Madame, and which, -according to her mistress's directions, she had brought back but -had forgotten to restore to her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, oh!" she said, "I must not -forget to do to-morrow what I have forgotten to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And she took hold of the -velvet mask by that part which covered the cheeks, and feeling -that her thumb was wet, looked at it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was not only wet, but -reddened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The mask had -fallen upon one of the spots of blood which, we have already -said, stained the floor, and from that black velvet outside which -had accidentally come into contact with it, the blood had passed -through to the inside, and stained the white cambric lining.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, oh!" said Montalais, for -doubtless our readers have already recognized her by these -various maneuvers, "I shall not give back this mask; it is far -too precious now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And rising from her -seat, she ran towards a box made of maple wood, which inclosed -different articles of toilette and perfumery.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No, not here," she said, "such a -treasure must not be abandoned to the slightest chance of -detection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then, after a moment's -silence, and with a smile that was peculiarly her own, she added: -- "Beautiful mask, stained with the blood of that brave knight, -you shall go and join that collection of wonders, La -Vallière's and Raoul's letters, that loving collection, -indeed, which will some day or other form part of the history of -France, of European royalty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You shall be placed under M. -Malicorne's care," said the laughing girl, as she began to -undress herself, "under the protection of that worthy M. -Malicorne," she said, blowing out the taper, "who thinks he was -born only to become the chief usher of Monsieur's apartments, and -whom I will make keeper of the records and historiographer of the -house of Bourbon, and of the first houses in the kingdom.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let him grumble now, that -discontented Malicorne," she added, as she drew the curtains and -fell asleep.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Journey.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he next day being agreed upon for the departure, the -king, at eleven o'clock precisely, descended the grand staircase -with the two queens and Madame, in order to enter his carriage -drawn by six horses, that were pawing the ground in impatience at -the foot of the staircase.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The whole court awaited the royal -appearance in the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Fer-à-cheval</i> crescent, -in their travelling costumes; the large number of saddled horses -and carriages of ladies and gentlemen of the court, surrounded by -their attendants, servants, and pages, formed a spectacle whose -brilliancy could scarcely be equalled.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king entered his carriage with -the two queens; Madame was in the same one with Monsieur.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The maids of honor followed -their example, and took their seats, two by two, in the carriages -destined for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -weather was exceedingly warm; a light breeze, which, early in the -morning, all had thought would have proved sufficient to cool the -air, soon became fiercely heated by the rays of the sun, although -it was hidden behind the clouds, and filtered through the heated -vapor which rose from the ground like a scorching wind, bearing -particles of fine dust against the faces of the travelers.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame was the first to -complain of the heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Monsieur's only reply was to throw himself back in the carriage -as though about to faint, and to inundate himself with scents and -perfumes, uttering the deepest sighs all the while; whereupon -Madame said to him, with her most amiable expression: - "Really, -Monsieur, I fancied that you would have been polite enough, on -account of the terrible heart, to have left me my carriage to -myself, and to have performed the journey yourself on -horseback."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ride on horseback!" -cried the prince, with an accent of dismay which showed how -little idea he had of adopting this unnatural advice; "you cannot -suppose such a thing, Madame!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My skin would peel off if I were to -expose myself to such a burning breeze as this."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame began to -laugh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You can take my -parasol," she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the trouble of -holding it!" replied Monsieur, with the greatest coolness; -"besides, I have no horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, no horse?" -replied the princess, who, if she did not secure the solitude she -required, at least obtained the amusement of teasing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No horse!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are mistaken, Monsieur; for I -see your favorite bay out yonder."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My bay horse!" -exclaimed the prince, attempting to lean forward to look out of -the door; but the movement he was obliged to make cost him so -much trouble that he soon hastened to resume his immobility.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Madame; -"your horse, led by M. de Malicorne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor beast," replied -the prince; "how warm it must be!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And with these words he -closed his eyes, like a man on the point of death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, on her side, reclined -indolently in the other corner of the carriage, and closed her -eyes also, not, however, to sleep, but to think more at her -ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime the -king, seated in the front seat of his carriage, the back of which -he had yielded up to the two queens, was a prey to that feverish -contrariety experienced by anxious lovers, who, without being -able to quench their ardent thirst, are ceaselessly desirous of -seeing the loved object, and then go away partially satisfied, -without perceiving they have acquired a more insatiable thirst -than ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, -whose carriage headed the procession, could not from the place he -occupied perceive the carriages of the ladies and maids of honor, -which followed in a line behind it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, he was obliged to answer -the eternal questions of the young queen, who, happy to have with -her "<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>her dear husband</i>," -as she called him in utter forgetfulness of royal etiquette, -invested him with all her affection, stifled him with her -attentions, afraid that some one might come to take him from her, -or that he himself might suddenly take a fancy to quit her -society.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne of Austria, -whom nothing at that moment occupied except the occasional cruel -throbbings in her bosom, looked pleased and delighted, and -although she perfectly realized the king's impatience, -tantalizingly prolonged his sufferings by unexpectedly resuming -the conversation at the very moment the king, absorbed in his own -reflections, began to muse over his secret attachment.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything seemed to combine - -not alone the little teasing attentions of the queen, but also -the queen-mother's interruptions - to make the king's position -almost insupportable; for he knew not how to control the restless -longings of his heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At -first, he complained of the heat - a complaint merely preliminary -to others, but with sufficient tact to prevent Maria Theresa -guessing his real object.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Understanding the king's remark literally, she began to fan him -with her ostrich plumes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But the heat passed away, and the king then complained of cramps -and stiffness in his legs, and as the carriages at that moment -stopped to change horses, the queen said: - "Shall I get out with -you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I too feel tired of -sitting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We can walk on a -little distance; the carriage will overtake us, and we can resume -our places presently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king frowned; it is -a hard trial a jealous woman makes her husband submit to whose -fidelity she suspects, when, although herself a prey to jealousy, -she watches herself so narrowly that she avoids giving any -pretext for an angry feeling.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, therefore, in the present -case, could not refuse; he accepted the offer, alighted from the -carriage, gave his arm to the queen, and walked up and down with -her while the horses were being changed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he walked along, he cast an -envious glance upon the courtiers, who were fortunate enough to -be on horseback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -queen soon found out that the promenade she had suggested -afforded the king as little pleasure as he had experienced from -driving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She accordingly -expressed a wish to return to her carriage, and the king -conducted her to the door, but did not get in with her.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He stepped back a few paces, -and looked along the file of carriages for the purpose of -recognizing the one in which he took so strong an interest.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the door of the sixth -carriage he saw La Vallière's fair countenance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As the king thus stood -motionless, wrapt in thought, without perceiving that everything -was ready, and that he alone was causing the delay, he heard a -voice close beside him, addressing him in the most respectful -manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was M. -Malicorne, in a complete costume of an equerry, holding over his -left arm the bridles of a couple of horses.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty asked for -a horse, I believe," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A horse?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you one of my horses here?" -inquired the king, trying to remember the person who addressed -him, and whose face was not as yet familiar to him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," replied -Malicorne, "at all events I have a horse here which is at your -majesty's service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Malicorne pointed at -Monsieur's bay horse, which Madame had observed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was a beautiful creature royally -caparisoned.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is not one of my -horses, monsieur," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, it is a horse out -of his royal highness's stables; but he does not ride when the -weather is as hot as it is now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis did not reply, but -approached the horse, which stood pawing the ground with its -foot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne hastened -to hold the stirrup for him, but the king was already in the -saddle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Restored to -good-humor by this lucky accident, the king hastened towards the -queen's carriage, where he was anxiously expected; and -notwithstanding Maria Theresa's thoughtful and preoccupied air, -he said: "I have been fortunate enough to find this horse, and I -intend to avail myself of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I felt stifled in the carriage.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu, ladies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then bending gracefully -over the arched neck of his beautiful steed, he disappeared in a -second.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne of Austria -leaned forward, in order to look after him as he rode away; he -did not get very far, for when he reached the sixth carriage, he -reined in his horse suddenly and took off his hat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saluted La Vallière, who -uttered a cry of surprise as she saw him, blushing at the same -time with pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Montalais, who occupied the other seat in the carriage, made the -king a most respectful bow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, with all the tact of a -woman, she pretended to be exceedingly interested in the -landscape, and withdrew herself into the left-hand corner.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The conversation between the -king and La Vallière began, as all lovers' conversations -generally do, namely, by eloquent looks and by a few words -utterly devoid of common sense.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king explained how warm he had -felt in his carriage, so much so indeed that he could almost -regard the horse he then rode as a blessing thrown in his -way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And," he added, "my -benefactor is an exceedingly intelligent man, for he seemed to -guess my thoughts intuitively.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have now only one wish, that of -learning the name of the gentleman who so cleverly assisted his -king out of his dilemma, and extricated him from his cruel -position."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais, during this -colloquy, the first words of which had awakened her attention, -had slightly altered her position, and contrived so as to meet -the king's look as he finished his remark.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It followed very naturally that the -king looked inquiringly as much at her as at La Vallière; -she had every reason to suppose that it was herself who was -appealed to, and consequently might be permitted to answer.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She therefore said: "Sire, the -horse which your majesty is riding belongs to Monsieur, and was -being led by one of his royal highness's gentlemen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what is that -gentleman's name, may I ask, mademoiselle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Malicorne, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The name produced its -usual effect, for the king repeated it smilingly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire," replied -Aure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Stay, it is the -gentleman who is galloping on my left hand;" and she pointed out -Malicorne, who, with a very sanctified expression, was galloping -by the side of the carriage, knowing perfectly well that they -were talking of him at that very moment, but sitting in his -saddle as if he were deaf and dumb.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said the king, -"that is the gentleman; I remember his face, and will not forget -his name;" and the king looked tenderly at La -Vallière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aure had now nothing -further to do; she had let Malicorne's name fall; the soil was -good; all that was now left to be done was to let the name take -root, and the event would bear fruit in due season.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She consequently threw herself back -in her corner, feeling perfectly justified in making as many -agreeable signs of recognition as she liked to Malicorne, since -the latter had had the happiness of pleasing the king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As will readily be believed, -Montalais was not mistaken; and Malicorne, with his quick ear and -his sly look, seemed to interpret her remark as "All goes on -well," the whole being accompanied by a pantomimic action, which -he fancied conveyed something resembling a kiss.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! mademoiselle," -said the king, after a moment's pause, "the liberty and freedom -of the country is soon about to cease; your attendance on Madame -will be more strictly enforced, and we shall see each other no -more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty is too -much attached to Madame," replied Louise, "not to come and see -her very frequently; and whenever your majesty may chance to pass -across the apartments - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the king, in -a tender voice, which was gradually lowered in its tone, "to -perceive is not to see, and yet it seems that it would be quite -sufficient for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louise did not answer a -syllable; a sigh filled her heart almost to bursting, but she -stifled it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You exercise a great -control over yourself," said the king to Louise, who smiled upon -him with a melancholy expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Exert the strength you have in -loving fondly," he continued, "and I will bless Heaven for having -bestowed it on you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière still -remained silent, but raised her eyes, brimful of affection, -toward the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis, -as if overcome by this burning glance, passed his hand across his -forehead, and pressing the sides of his horse with his knees, -made him bound several paces forward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière, leaning back in -her carriage, with her eyes half closed, gazed fixedly upon the -king, whose plumes were floating in the air; she could not but -admire his graceful carriage, his delicate and nervous limbs -which pressed his horse's sides, and the regular outline of his -features, which his beautiful curling hair set off to great -advantage, revealing occasionally his small and well-formed -ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact the poor -girl was in love, and she reveled in her innocent affection.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a few moments the king was -again by her side.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you not perceive," -he said, "how terribly your silence affects me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! mademoiselle, how pitilessly -inexorable you would become if you were ever to resolve to break -off all acquaintance with any one; and then, too, I think you -changeable; in fact - in fact, I dread this deep affection which -fills my whole being."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, you are -mistaken," said La Vallière; "if ever I love, it will be -for all my life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you love, you say," -exclaimed the king; "you do <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>not</i> love now, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She hid her face in her -hands.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see," said the -king, "that I am right in accusing you; you must admit you are -changeable, capricious, a coquette, perhaps."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no! sire, be -perfectly satisfied as to that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, I say again; no, no!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Promise me, then, that -to me you will always be the same."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! always, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That you will never -show any of that severity which would break my heart, none of -that fickleness of manner which would be worse than death to -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no, no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, then! but -listen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I like promises, -I like to place under the guarantee of an oath, under the -protection of Heaven, in fact, everything which interests my -heart and my affections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Promise me, or rather swear to me, that if in the life we are -about to commence, a life which will be full of sacrifice, -mystery, anxiety, disappointment, and misunderstanding; swear to -me that if we should in any way deceive, or misunderstand each -other, or should judge each other unjustly, for that indeed would -be criminal in love such as ours; swear to me, Louise - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She trembled with -agitation to the very depths of her heart; it was the first time -she had heard her name pronounced in that manner by her royal -lover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the king, -taking off his glove, and placing his hand within the carriage, -he continued: - "Swear, that never in all our quarrels will we -allow one night even to pass by, if any misunderstanding should -arise between us, without a visit, or at least a message, from -either, in order to convey consolation and repose to the -other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière took -her lover's burning hand between her own cool palms, and pressed -it softly, until a movement of the horse, frightened by the -proximity of the wheels, obliged her to abandon her -happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She had vowed -as he desired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Return, sire," she -said, "return to the queen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I foresee a storm yonder, which -threatens my peace of mind and yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis obeyed, saluted -Mademoiselle de Montalais, and set off at a gallop to rejoin the -queen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he passed -Monsieur's carriage, he observed that he was fast asleep, -although Madame, on her part, was wide awake.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As the king passed her she said, -"What a beautiful horse, sire!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it not Monsieur's bay horse?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young queen kindly -asked, "Are you better now, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: In the five-volume -edition, Volume 3 ends here. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Triumfeminate.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -O</span>n the king's arrival in Paris, he sat at the council -which had been summoned, and worked for a certain portion of the -day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The queen remained -with the queen-mother, and burst into tears as soon as she had -taken leave of the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Ah, madame!" she said, "the king no longer loves me!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What will become of me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A husband always loves -his wife when she is like you," replied Anne of Austria.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A time may come when he -will love another woman instead of me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you call -loving?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Always thinking of a -person - always seeking her society."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you happen to have -remarked," said Anne of Austria, "that the king has ever done -anything of the sort?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, madame," said the -young queen, hesitatingly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is there to -complain of, then, Marie?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will admit that the -king leaves me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king, my daughter, -belongs to his people."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that is the very -reason why he no longer belongs to me; and that is the reason, -too, why I shall find myself, as so many queens before me, -forsaken and forgotten, whilst glory and honors will be reserved -for others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, my -mother! the king is so handsome! how often will others tell him -that they love him, and how much, indeed, they must do so!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is very seldom, -indeed, that women love the man in loving the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But if such a thing happened, which -I doubt, you would do better to wish, Marie, that such women -should really love your husband.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first place, the devoted love -of a mistress is a rapid element of the dissolution of a lover's -affection; and then, by dint of loving, the mistress loses all -influence over her lover, whose power of wealth she does not -covet, caring only for his affection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Wish, therefore, that the king -should love but lightly, and that his mistress should love with -all her heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, my mother, what -power may not a deep affection exercise over him!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet you say you are -resigned?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite true, quite true; -I speak absurdly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -is a feeling of anguish, however, which I can never control."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that is?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king may make a -happy choice - may find a home, with all the tender influences of -home, not far from that we can offer him, - a home with children -round him, the children of another woman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, madame!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should die if I were but to see -the king's children."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Marie, Marie," replied -the queen-mother with a smile, and she took the young queen's -hand in her own, "remember what I am going to say, and let it -always be a consolation to you: the king cannot have a Dauphin -without <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> With this remark the -queen-mother quitted her daughter-in-law, in order to meet -Madame, whose arrival in the grand cabinet had just been -announced by one of the pages.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame had scarcely taken time to -change her dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her -face revealed her agitation, which betrayed a plan, the execution -of which occupied, while the result disturbed, her mind.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I came to ascertain," -she said, "if your majesties are suffering any fatigue from our -journey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "None at all," said the -queen-mother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A little," replied -Maria Theresa.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have suffered from -annoyance more than anything else," said Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How was that?" inquired -Anne of Austria.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fatigue the king -undergoes in riding about on horseback."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That does the king -good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And it was I who -advised him," said Maria Theresa, turning pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame said not a word -in reply; but one of those smiles which were peculiarly her own -flitted for a moment across her lips, without passing over the -rest of her face; then, immediately changing the conversation, -she continued, "We shall find Paris precisely the Paris we -quitted; the same intrigues, plots, and flirtations going -on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Intrigues!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What intrigues do you allude to?" -inquired the queen-mother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "People are talking a -good deal about M. Fouquet and Madame -Plessis-Bellière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who makes up the number -to about ten thousand," replied the queen-mother.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But what are the plots you speak -of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We have, it seems, -certain misunderstandings with Holland to settle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What about?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur has been -telling me the story of the medals."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" exclaimed the -young queen, "you mean those medals struck in Holland, on which a -cloud is seen passing across the sun, which is the king's -device.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are wrong in -calling that a plot - it is an insult."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But so contemptible -that the king can well despise it," replied the -queen-mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, what -are the flirtations which are alluded to?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you mean that of Madame -d'Olonne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; nearer -ourselves than that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Casa de usted</i>," murmured the -queen-mother, and without moving her lips, in her -daughter-in-law's ear, without being overheard by Madame, who -thus continued: - "You know the terrible news?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "In your house." - -JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, yes; M. de Guiche's -wound."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you attribute it, I -suppose, as every one else does, to an accident which happened to -him while hunting?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, of course," said -both the queens together, their interest awakened.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame drew closer to -them, as she said, in a low tone of voice, "It was a duel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Anne of -Austria, in a severe tone; for, in her ears, the word "duel," -which had been forbidden in France all the time she reigned over -it, had a strange sound.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A most deplorable duel, -which has nearly cost Monsieur two of his best friends, and the -king two of his best servants."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was the cause of -the duel?" inquired the young queen, animated by a secret -instinct.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Flirtation," repeated -Madame, triumphantly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"The gentlemen in question were conversing about the virtue of a -particular lady belonging to the court.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of them thought that Pallas was -a very second-rate person compared to her; the other pretended -that the lady in question was an imitation of Venus alluring -Mars; and thereupon the two gentlemen fought as fiercely as -Hector and Achilles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Venus alluring Mars?" -said the young queen in a low tone of voice without venturing to -examine into the allegory very deeply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who is the lady?" -inquired Anne of Austria abruptly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You said, I believe, she was one of -the ladies of honor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did I say so?" replied -Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; at least I thought -I heard you mention it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you not aware that -such a woman is of ill-omen to a royal house?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it not Mademoiselle -de la Vallière?" said the queen-mother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, indeed, that -plain-looking creature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thought she was -affianced to a gentleman who certainly is not, at least so I have -heard, either M. de Guiche or M. de Wardes?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very -possibly, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young queen took up -a piece of tapestry, and began to broider with an affectation of -tranquillity her trembling fingers contradicted.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What were you saying -about Venus and Mars?" pursued the queen-mother.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is there a Mars also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She boasts of that -being the case."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did you say she boasts -of it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That was the cause of -the duel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And M. de Guiche upheld -the cause of Mars?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, certainly; like -the devoted servant he is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The devoted servant of -whom?" exclaimed the young queen, forgetting her reserve in -allowing her jealous feeling to escape.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mars, not to be -defended except at the expense of Venus," replied Madame.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. de Guiche maintained the -perfect innocence of Mars, and no doubt affirmed that it was all -a mere boast."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And M. de Wardes," said -Anne of Austria, quietly, "spread the report that Venus was -within her rights, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, De Wardes," thought -Madame, "you shall pay dearly for the wound you have given that -noblest - best of men!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And she began to attack De Wardes with the greatest bitterness; -thus discharging her own and De Guiche's debt, with the assurance -that she was working the future ruin of her enemy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She said so much, in fact, that had -Manicamp been there, he would have regretted he had shown such -firm regard for his friend, inasmuch as it resulted in the ruin -of his unfortunate foe.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see nothing in the -whole affair but <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>one</i> -cause of mischief, and that is La Vallière herself," said -the queen-mother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young queen resumed -her work with perfect indifference of manner, while Madame -listened eagerly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not yet quite -understand what you said just now about the danger of coquetry," -resumed Anne of Austria.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is quite true," -Madame hastened to say, "that if the girl had not been a -coquette, Mars would not have thought at all about her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The repetition of this -word Mars brought a passing color to the queen's face; but she -still continued her work.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not permit that, -in my court, gentlemen should be set against each other in this -manner," said Anne of Austria, calmly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Such manners were useful enough, -perhaps, in days when the divided nobility had no other -rallying-point than mere gallantry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At that time women, whose sway was -absolute and undivided, were privileged to encourage men's valor -by frequent trials of their courage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But now, thank Heaven, there is but -one master in France, and to him every instinct of the mind, -every pulse of the body are due.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will not allow my son to be -deprived of any single one of his servants."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And she turned towards the young -queen, saying, "What is to be done with this La -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "La Vallière?" -said the queen, apparently surprised, "I do not even know the -name;" and she accompanied this remark by one of those cold, -fixed smiles only to be observed on royal lips.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame was herself a -princess great in every respect, great in intelligence, great by -birth, by pride; the queen's reply, however, completely -astonished her, and she was obliged to pause for a moment in -order to recover herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"She is one of my maids of honor," she replied, with a bow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case," retorted -Maria Theresa, in the same tone, "it is your affair, my sister, -and not ours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon," -resumed Anne of Austria, "it is my affair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And I perfectly well understand," -she pursued, addressing a look full of intelligence at Madame, -"Madame's motive for saying what she has just said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Everything which -emanates from you, madame," said the English princess, "proceeds -from the lips of Wisdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If we send this girl -back to her own family," said Maria Theresa, gently, "we must -bestow a pension upon her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which I will provide -for out of my income," exclaimed Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no," interrupted -Anne of Austria, "no disturbance, I beg.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king dislikes that the slightest -disrespectful remark should be made of any lady.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let everything be done quietly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you have the kindness, -Madame, to send for this girl here; and you, my daughter, will -have the goodness to retire to your own room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The dowager queen's -entreaties were commands, and as Maria Theresa rose to return to -her apartments, Madame rose in order to send a page to summon La -Vallière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXIV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -First Quarrel.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -L</span>a Vallière entered the queen-mother's apartments -without in the least suspecting that a serious plot was being -concerted against her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -She thought it was for something connected with her duties, and -never had the queen-mother been unkind to her when such was the -case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, not being -immediately under the control or direction of Anne of Austria, -she could only have an official connection with her, to which her -own gentleness of disposition, and the rank of the august -princess, made her yield on every occasion with the best possible -grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She therefore -advanced towards the queen-mother with that soft and gentle smile -which constituted her principal charm, and as she did not -approach sufficiently close, Anne of Austria signed to her to -come nearer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame then -entered the room, and with a perfectly calm air took her seat -beside her mother-in-law, and continued the work which Maria -Theresa had begun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -La Vallière, instead of the direction which she expected -to receive immediately on entering the room, perceived these -preparations, she looked with curiosity, if not with uneasiness, -at the two princesses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Anne seemed full of thought, while Madame maintained an -affectation of indifference that would have alarmed a less timid -person even than Louise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle," said the -queen-mother suddenly, without attempting to moderate or disguise -her Spanish accent, which she never failed to do except when she -was angry, "come closer; we were talking of you, as every one -else seems to be doing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of me!" exclaimed La -Vallière, turning pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you pretend to be -ignorant of it; are you not aware of the duel between M. de -Guiche and M. de Wardes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, madame!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I heard of it yesterday," said La -Vallière, clasping her hands together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And did you not foresee -this quarrel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why should I, -madame?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because two men never -fight without a motive, and because you must be aware of the -motive which awakened the animosity of the two in question."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am perfectly ignorant -of it, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A persevering denial is -a very commonplace mode of defense, and you, who have great -pretensions to be witty and clever, ought to avoid -commonplaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What else -have you to say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! madame, your -majesty terrifies me with your cold severity of manner; but I do -not understand how I can have incurred your displeasure, or in -what respect people concern themselves about me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then I will tell -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Guiche has -been obliged to undertake your defense."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My defense?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is a gallant knight, and -beautiful adventuresses like to see brave knights couch lances in -their honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, for my -part, I hate fields of battle, and above all I hate adventures, -and - take my remark as you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière sank -at the queen's feet, who turned her back upon her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She stretched out her hands towards -Madame, who laughed in her face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A feeling of pride made her rise to -her feet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have begged your -majesty to tell me what is the crime I am accused of - I can -claim this at your hands; and I see I am condemned before I am -even permitted to justify myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! indeed," cried Anne -of Austria, "listen to her beautiful phrases, Madame, and to her -fine sentiments; she is an inexhaustible well of tenderness and -heroic expressions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One -can easily see, young lady, that you have cultivated your mind in -the society of crowned heads."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière felt -struck to the heart; she became, not whiter, but as white as a -lily, and all her strength forsook her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wished to inform -you," interrupted the queen, disdainfully, "that if you continue -to nourish such feelings, you will humiliate us to such a degree -that we shall be ashamed of appearing before you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be simple in your manners.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By the by, I am informed that -you are affianced; is it the case?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -pressed her hand over her heart, which was wrung with a fresh -pang.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Answer when you are -spoken to!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, madame."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To a -gentleman?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, -madame."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "His -name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The Vicomte de -Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you aware that it -is an exceedingly fortunate circumstance for you, mademoiselle, -that such is the case, and without fortune or position, as you -are, or without any very great personal advantages, you ought to -bless Heaven for having procured you such a future as seems to be -in store for you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière did -not reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where is the -Vicomte de Bragelonne?" pursued the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In England," said -Madame, "where the report of this young lady's success will not -fail to reach him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Heaven!" murmured -La Vallière in despair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, -mademoiselle!" said Anne of Austria, "we will get this young -gentleman to return, and send you away somewhere with him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you are of a different -opinion - for girls have strange views and fancies at times - -trust to me, I will put you in a proper path again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have done as much for girls who -are not as good as you are, probably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -ceased to hear the queen, who pitilessly added: "I will send you -somewhere, by yourself, where you will be able to indulge in a -little serious reflection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Reflection calms the ardor of the -blood, and swallows up the illusions of youth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I suppose you understand what I have -been saying?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not a word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am innocent of -everything your majesty supposes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, madame! you are a witness of my -despair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I love, I -respect your majesty so much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be far better -not to respect me at all," said the queen, with a chilling irony -of manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It would be -far better if you were not innocent.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you presume to suppose that I -should be satisfied simply to leave you unpunished if you had -committed the fault?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, madame! you are -killing me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No acting, if you -please, or I will precipitate the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>dénouement</i> of this <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>play</i>; leave the room; -return to your own apartment, and I trust my lesson may be of -service to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame!" said La -Vallière to the Duchess d'Orléans, whose hands she -seized in her own, "do you, who are so good, intercede for -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I!" replied the latter, -with an insulting joy, "I - good! - Ah, mademoiselle, you think -nothing of the kind;" and with a rude, hasty gesture she repulsed -the young girl's grasp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière, -instead of giving way, as from her extreme pallor and her tears -the two princesses possibly expected, suddenly resumed her calm -and dignified air; she bowed profoundly, and left the room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" said Anne of -Austria to Madame, "do you think she will begin again?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I always suspect those -gentle, patient characters," replied Madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Nothing is more full of courage -than a patient heart, nothing more self-reliant than a gentle -spirit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I feel I may almost -venture to assure you she will think twice before she looks at -the god Mars again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So long as she does not -obtain the protection of his buckler I do not care," retorted -Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A proud, defiant look of -the queen-mother was the reply to this objection, which was by no -means deficient in <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>finesse</i>; and both of them, -almost sure of their victory, went to look for Maria Theresa, who -had been waiting for them with impatience.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was about half-past -six in the evening, and the king had just partaken of -refreshment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He lost no -time; but the repast finished, and business matters settled, he -took Saint-Aignan by the arm, and desired him to lead the way to -La Vallière's apartments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The courtier uttered an -exclamation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what is that -for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a habit you -will have to adopt, and in order to adopt a habit, one must make -a beginning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire!" said -Saint-Aignan, "it is hardly possible: for every one can be seen -entering or leaving those apartments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If, however, some pretext or other -were made use of - if your majesty, for instance, would wait -until Madame were in her own apartments - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No pretext; no -delays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have had enough -of these impediments and mysteries; I cannot perceive in what -respect the king of France dishonors himself by conversing with -an amiable and clever girl.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Evil be to him who evil thinks."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will your majesty -forgive an excess of zeal on my part?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak freely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How about the -queen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, true; I always -wish the most entire respect to be shown to her majesty.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, this evening only -will I pay Mademoiselle de la Vallière a visit, and after -to-day I will make use of any pretext you like.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To-morrow we will devise all sorts -of means; to-night I have no time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan made no -reply; he descended the steps, preceding the king, and crossed -the different courtyards with a feeling of shame, which the -distinguished honor of accompanying the king did not remove.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The reason was that -Saint-Aignan wished to stand well with Madame, as well as with -the queens, and also, that he did not, on the other hand, want to -displease Mademoiselle de la Vallière: and in order to -carry out so many promising affairs, it was difficult to avoid -jostling against some obstacle or other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, the windows of the young -queen's rooms, those of the queen-mother's, and of Madame -herself, looked out upon the courtyard of the maids of -honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To be seen, -therefore, accompanying the king, would be effectually to quarrel -with three great and influential princesses - whose authority was -unbounded - for the purpose of supporting the ephemeral credit of -a mistress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The unhappy -Saint-Aignan, who had not displayed a very great amount of -courage in taking La Vallière's part in the park of -Fontainebleau, did not feel any braver in the broad day-light, -and found a thousand defects in the poor girl which he was most -eager to communicate to the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But his trial soon finished, - the -courtyards were crossed; not a curtain was drawn aside, nor a -window opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -walked hastily, because of his impatience, and the long legs of -Saint-Aignan, who preceded him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the door, however, Saint-Aignan -wished to retire, but the king desired him to remain; a delicate -consideration, on the king's part, which the courtier could very -well have dispensed with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He had to follow Louis into La Vallière's apartment.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as the king arrived -the young girl dried her tears, but so precipitately that the -king perceived it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -questioned her most anxiously and tenderly, and pressed her to -tell him the cause of her emotion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing is the matter, -sire," she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet you were -weeping?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, -indeed, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look, Saint-Aignan, and -tell me if I am mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan ought to -have answered, but he was too much embarrassed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events your eyes -are red, mademoiselle," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The dust of the road -merely, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; you no longer -possess the air of supreme contentment which renders you so -beautiful and so attractive.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do not look at me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why avoid my gaze?" he said, as she -turned aside her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"In Heaven's name, what is the matter?" he inquired, beginning to -lose command over himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing at all, sire; -and I am perfectly ready to assure your majesty that my mind is -as free form anxiety as you could possibly wish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your mind at ease, when -I see you are embarrassed at the slightest thing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Has any one annoyed you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I insist upon knowing -if such really be the case," said the prince, his eyes -sparkling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No one, sire, no one -has in any way offended me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, pray -resume your gentle air of gayety, or that sweet melancholy look -which I so loved in you this morning; for pity's sake, do -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king -tapped the floor impatiently with his foot, saying, "Such a -change is positively inexplicable."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he looked at Saint-Aignan, who -had also remarked La Vallière's peculiar lethargy, as well -as the king's impatience.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was futile for the -king to entreat, and as useless for him to try to overcome her -depression: the poor girl was completely overwhelmed, - the -appearance of an angel would hardly have awakened her from her -torpor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king saw in her -repeated negative replies a mystery full of unkindness; he began -to look round the apartment with a suspicious air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There happened to be in La -Vallière's room a miniature of Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king remarked that this portrait -bore a strong resemblance to Bragelonne, for it had been taken -when the count was quite a young man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked at it with a threatening -air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière, -in her misery far indeed from thinking of this portrait, could -not conjecture the cause of the king's preoccupation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet the king's mind was occupied -with a terrible remembrance, which had more than once taken -possession of his mind, but which he had always driven away.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He recalled the intimacy -existing between the two young people from their birth, their -engagement, and that Athos himself had come to solicit La -Vallière's hand for Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore could not but suppose -that on her return to Paris, La Vallière had found news -from London awaiting her, and that this news had counterbalanced -the influence he had been enabled to exert over her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He immediately felt himself stung, -as it were, by feelings of the wildest jealousy; and again -questioned her, with increased bitterness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière could not reply, -unless she were to acknowledge everything, which would be to -accuse the queen, and Madame also; and the consequence would be, -that she would have to enter into an open warfare with these two -great and powerful princesses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She thought within herself that as -she made no attempt to conceal from the king what was passing in -her own mind, the king ought to be able to read in her heart, in -spite of her silence; and that, had he really loved her, he would -have understood and guessed everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What was sympathy, then, if not that -divine flame which possesses the property of enlightening the -heart, and of saving lovers the necessity of an expression of -their thoughts and feelings?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She maintained her silence, -therefore, sighing, and concealing her face in her hands.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These sighs and tears, which -had at first distressed, then terrified Louis XIV., now irritated -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He could not bear -opposition, - the opposition which tears and sighs exhibited, any -more than opposition of any other kind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His remarks, therefore, became -bitter, urgent, and openly aggressive in their nature.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was a fresh cause of -distress for the poor girl.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From that very circumstance, -therefore, which she regarded as an injustice on her lover's -part, she drew sufficient courage to bear, not only her other -troubles, but this one also.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king next began to -accuse her in direct terms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière did not even -attempt to defend herself; she endured all his accusations -without according any other reply than that of shaking her head; -without any other remark than that which escapes the heart in -deep distress - a prayerful appeal to Heaven for help.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But this ejaculation, instead -of calming the king's displeasure, rather increased it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He, moreover, saw himself -seconded by Saint-Aignan, for Saint-Aignan, as we have observed, -having seen the storm increasing, and not knowing the extent of -the regard of which Louis XIV. was capable, felt, by -anticipation, all the collected wrath of the three princesses, -and the near approach of poor La Vallière's downfall, and -he was not true knight enough to resist the fear that he himself -might be dragged down in the impending ruin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan did not reply to the -king's questions except by short, dry remarks, pronounced -half-aloud; and by abrupt gestures, whose object was to make -things worse, and bring about a misunderstanding, the result of -which would be to free him from the annoyance of having to cross -the courtyards in open day, in order to follow his illustrious -companion to La Vallière's apartments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime the king's anger -momentarily increased; he made two or three steps towards the -door as if to leave the room, but returned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young girl did not, however, -raise her head, although the sound of his footsteps might have -warned her that her lover was leaving her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He drew himself up, for a moment, -before her, with his arms crossed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For the last time, -mademoiselle," he said, "will you speak?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you assign a reason for this -change, this fickleness, for this caprice?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What can I say?" -murmured La Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do you not see, sire, that I am -completely overwhelmed at this moment; that I have no power of -will, or thought, or speech?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it so difficult, -then, to speak the truth?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You could have told me the whole truth in fewer words than those -in which you have expressed yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the truth about -what, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière was -just on the point of revealing the truth to the king, her arms -made a sudden movement as if they were about to open, but her -lips remained silent, and her hands again fell listlessly by her -side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The poor girl had -not yet endured sufficient unhappiness to risk the necessary -revelation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I know -nothing," she stammered out.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" exclaimed the -king, "this is no longer mere coquetry, or caprice, it is -treason."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And this time nothing -could restrain him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -impulse of his heart was not sufficient to induce him to turn -back, and he darted out of the room with a gesture full of -despair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan -followed him, wishing for nothing better than to quit the -place.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis XIV. did not pause -until he reached the staircase, and grasping the balustrade, -said: "You see how shamefully I have been duped."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How, sire?" inquired -the favorite.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "De Guiche fought on the -Vicomte de Bragelonne's account, and this Bragelonne… -oh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan, she -still loves him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I vow to -you, Saint-Aignan, that if, in three days from now, there were to -remain but an atom of affection for her in my heart, I should die -from very shame."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the -king resumed his way to his own apartments.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I told your majesty how -it would be," murmured Saint-Aignan, continuing to follow the -king, and timidly glancing up at the different windows.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Unfortunately their -return was not, like their arrival, unobserved.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A curtain was suddenly drawn aside; -Madame was behind it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -had seen the king leave the apartments of the maids of honor, and -as soon as she observed that his majesty had passed, she left her -own apartments with hurried steps, and ran up the staircase that -led to the room the king had just left.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Despair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>s soon as the king was gone La Vallière raised -herself from the ground, and stretched out her arms, as if to -follow and detain him, but when, having violently closed the -door, the sound of his retreating footsteps could be heard in the -distance, she had hardly sufficient strength left to totter -towards and fall at the foot of her crucifix.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There she remained, broken-hearted, -absorbed, and overwhelmed by her grief, forgetful and indifferent -to everything but her profound sorrow; - a grief she only vaguely -realized - as though by instinct.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the midst of this wild tumult of -thoughts, La Vallière heard her door open again; she -started, and turned round, thinking it was the king who had -returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was -deceived, however, for it was Madame who appeared at the -door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What did she now -care for Madame!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Again -she sank down, her head supported by her <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>prie-Dieu</i> chair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was Madame, agitated, angry, and -threatening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what was -that to her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Mademoiselle," said the princess, standing before La -Vallière, "this is very fine, I admit, to kneel and pray, -and make a pretense of being religious; but however submissive -you may be in your address to Heaven, it is desirable that you -should pay some little attention to the wishes of those who reign -and rule here below."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -raised her head painfully in token of respect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not long since," -continued Madame, "a certain recommendation was addressed to you, -I believe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière's -fixed and wild gaze showed how complete her forgetfulness or -ignorance was.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The queen recommended -you," continued Madame, "to conduct yourself in such a manner -that no one could be justified in spreading any reports about -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -darted an inquiring look towards her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not," continued -Madame, "allow my household, which is that of the first princess -of the blood, to set an evil example to the court; you would be -the cause of such an example.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg you to understand, therefore, -in the absence of any witness of your shame - for I do not wish -to humiliate you - that you are from this moment at perfect -liberty to leave, and that you can return to<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> your mother at Blois."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière could -not sink lower, nor could she suffer more than she had already -suffered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her countenance -did not even change, but she remained kneeling with her hands -clasped, like the figure of the Magdalen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did you hear me?" said -Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A shiver, which passed -through her whole frame, was La Vallière's only -reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as the victim -gave no other signs of life, Madame left the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, her very respiration -suspended, and her blood almost congealed, as it were, in her -veins, La Vallière by degrees felt that the pulsation of -her wrists, her neck, and temples, began to throb more and more -painfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These -pulsations, as they gradually increased, soon changed into a -species of brain fever, and in her temporary delirium she saw the -figures of her friends contending with her enemies, floating -before her vision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -heard, too, mingled together in her deafened ears, words of -menace and words of fond affection; she seemed raised out of her -existence as though it were upon the wings of a mighty tempest, -and in the dim horizon of the path along which her delirium -hurried her, she saw the stone which covered her tomb upraised, -and the grim, appalling texture of eternal night revealed to her -distracted gaze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the -horror of the dream which possessed her senses faded away, and -she was again restored to the habitual resignation of her -character.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A ray of hope -penetrated her heart, as a ray of sunlight streams into the -dungeon of some unhappy captive.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her mind reverted to the journey -from Fontainebleau, she saw the king riding beside her carriage, -telling her that he loved her, asking for her love in return, -requiring her to swear, and himself to swear too, that never -should an evening pass by, if ever a misunderstanding were to -arise between them, without a visit, a letter, a sign of some -kind, being sent, to replace the troubled anxiety of the evening -with the calm repose of the night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the king who had suggested -that, who had imposed a promise on her, and who had sworn to it -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -impossible, therefore, she reasoned, that the king should fail in -keeping the promise which he had himself exacted from her, -unless, indeed, Louis was a despot who enforced love as he -enforced obedience; unless, too, the king were so indifferent -that the first obstacle in his way was sufficient to arrest his -further progress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king, that kind protector, who by a word, a single word, could -relieve her distress of mind, the king even joined her -persecutors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! his -anger could not possibly last.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now that he was alone, he would be -suffering all that she herself was a prey to.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he was not tied hand and foot as -she was; he could act, could move about, could come to her, while -she could do nothing but wait.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the poor girl waited and waited, -with breathless anxiety - for she could not believe it possible -that the king would not come.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was now about -half-past ten.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He would -either come to her, or write to her, or send some kind word by M. -de Saint-Aignan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he -were to come, oh! how she would fly to meet him; how she would -thrust aside that excess of delicacy which she now discovered was -misunderstood; how eagerly she would explain: "It is not I who do -not love you - it is the fault of others who will not allow me to -love you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then it -must be confessed that she reflected upon it, and also the more -she reflected, Louis appeared to her to be less guilty.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, he was ignorant of -everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What must he -have thought of the obstinacy with which she remained -silent?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Impatient and -irritable as the king was known to be, it was extraordinary that -he had been able to preserve his temper so long.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet, had it been her own case, -she undoubtedly would not have acted in such a manner; she would -have understood - have guessed everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, but she was nothing but a poor -simple-minded girl, and not a great and powerful monarch.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! if he would but come, if -he would but come! - how eagerly she would forgive him for all he -had just made her suffer! how much more tenderly she would love -him because she had so cruelly suffered!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so she sat, with her head bent -forward in eager expectation towards the door, her lips slightly -parted, as if - and Heaven forgive her for the mental -exclamation! - they were awaiting the kiss which the king's lips -had in the morning so sweetly indicated, when he pronounced the -word <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>love!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If the king did not come, at least -he would write; it was a second chance; a chance less delightful -certainly than the other, but which would show an affection just -as strong, only more timid in its nature.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! how she would devour his letter, -how eager she would be to answer it! and when the messenger who -had brought it had left her, how she would kiss it, read it over -and over again, press to her heart the lucky paper which would -have brought her ease of mind, tranquillity, and perfect -happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At all events, -if the king did not come, if the king did not write, he could not -do otherwise than send Saint-Aignan, or Saint-Aignan could not do -otherwise than come of his own accord.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Even if it were a third person, how -openly she would speak to him; the royal presence would not be -there to freeze her words upon her tongue, and then no suspicious -feeling would remain a moment longer in the king's heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Everything with La -Vallière, heart and look, body and mind, was concentrated -in eager expectation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -said to herself that there was an hour left in which to indulge -hope; that until midnight struck, the king might come, or write -or send; that at midnight only would every expectation vanish, -every hope be lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Whenever she heard any stir in the palace, the poor girl fancied -she was the cause of it; whenever she heard any one pass in the -courtyard below she imagined they were messengers of the king -coming to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Eleven -o'clock struck, then a quarter-past eleven; then half-past.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The minutes dragged slowly on -in this anxiety, and yet they seemed to pass too quickly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, it struck a quarter -to twelve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Midnight - -midnight was near, the last, the final hope that remained.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With the last stroke of the -clock, the last ray of light seemed to fade away; and with the -last ray faded her final hope.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so, the king himself had -deceived her; it was he who had been the first to fail in keeping -the oath which he had sworn that very day; twelve hours only -between his oath and his perjured vow; it as not long, alas! to -have preserved the illusion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so, not only did the king not -love her, but he despised her whom every one ill-treated, he -despised her to the extent even of abandoning her to the shame of -an expulsion which was equivalent to having an ignominious -sentence passed on her; and yet, it was he, the king himself, who -was the first cause of this ignominy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A bitter smile, the only symptom of -anger which during this long conflict had passed across the -angelic face, appeared upon her lips.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What, in fact, now remained on earth -for her, after the king was lost to her?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Heaven still remained, and her -thoughts flew thither.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -She prayed that the proper course for her to follow might be -suggested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is from -Heaven," she thought, "that I expect everything; it is from -Heaven I ought to expect everything."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And she looked at her crucifix with -a devotion full of tender love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There," she said, "hangs before me -a Master who never forgets and never abandons those who neither -forget nor abandon Him; it is to Him alone that we must sacrifice -ourselves."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, -thereupon, could any one have gazed into the recesses of that -chamber, they would have seen the poor despairing girl adopt a -final resolution, and determine upon one last plan in her -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, as her knees -were no longer able to support her, she gradually sank down upon -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>prie-Dieu</i>, and with -her head pressed against the wooden cross, her eyes fixed, and -her respiration short and quick, she watched for the earliest -rays of approaching daylight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At two o'clock in the morning she -was still in the same bewilderment of mind, or rather the same -ecstasy of feeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her -thoughts had almost ceased to hold communion with things of the -world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And when she saw -the pale violet tints of early dawn visible over the roofs of the -palace, and vaguely revealing the outlines of the ivory crucifix -which she held embraced, she rose from the ground with a new-born -strength, kissed the feet of the divine martyr, descended the -staircase leading from the room, and wrapped herself from head to -foot in a mantle as she went along.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She reached the wicket at the very -moment the guard of the musketeers opened the gate to admit the -first relief-guard belonging to one of the Swiss regiments.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, gliding behind the -soldiers, she reached the street before the officer in command of -the patrol had even thought of asking who the young girl was who -was making her escape from the palace at so early an hour.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXVI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Flight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -L</span>a Vallière followed the patrol as it left the -courtyard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The patrol -bent its steps towards the right, by the Rue St. Honoré, -and mechanically La Vallière turned to the left.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her resolution was taken - her -determination fixed; she wished to betake herself to the convent -of the Carmelites at Chaillot, the superior of which enjoyed a -reputation for severity which made the worldly-minded people of -the court tremble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La -Vallière had never seen Paris, she had never gone out on -foot, and so would have been unable to find her way even had she -been in a calmer frame of mind than was then the case; and this -may explain why she ascended, instead of descending, the Rue St. -Honoré.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her only -thought was to get away from the Palais Royal, and this she was -doing; she had heard it said that Chaillot looked out upon the -Seine, and she accordingly directed her steps towards the -Seine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She took the Rue -de Coq, and not being able to cross the Louvre, bore towards the -church of Saint Germain l'Auxerrois, proceeding along the site of -the colonnade which was subsequently built there by -Perrault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a very short -time she reached the quays.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her steps were rapid and agitated; -she scarcely felt the weakness which reminded her of having -sprained her foot when very young, and which obliged her to limp -slightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At any other -hour in the day her countenance would have awakened the -suspicions of the least clear-sighted, attracted the attention of -the most indifferent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -at half-past two in the morning, the streets of Paris are almost, -if not quite, deserted, and scarcely is any one to be seen but -the hard-working artisan on his way to earn his daily bread or -the roistering idlers of the streets, who are returning to their -homes after a night of riot and debauchery; for the former the -day was beginning, and for the latter it was just closing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière was afraid -of both faces, in which her ignorance of Parisian types did not -permit her to distinguish the type of probity from that of -dishonesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -appearance of misery alarmed her, and all she met seemed either -vile or miserable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her -dress, which was the same she had worn during the previous -evening, was elegant even in its careless disorder; for it was -the one in which she had presented herself to the queen-mother; -and, moreover, when she drew aside the mantle which covered her -face, in order to enable her to see the way she was going, her -pallor and her beautiful eyes spoke an unknown language to the -men she met, and, unconsciously, the poor fugitive seemed to -invite the brutal remarks of the one class, or to appeal to the -compassion of the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -La Vallière still walked on in the same way, breathless -and hurried, until she reached the top of the Place de -Grève.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She stopped -from time to time, placed her hand upon her heart, leaned against -a wall until she could breathe freely again, and then continued -on her course more rapidly than before.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On reaching the Place de -Grève La Vallière suddenly came upon a group of -three drunken men, reeling and staggering along, who were just -leaving a boat which they had made fast to the quay; the boat was -freighted with wines, and it was apparent that they had done -ample justice to the merchandise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were celebrating their -convivial exploits in three different keys, when suddenly, as -they reached the end of the railing leading down to the quay, -they found an obstacle in their path, in the shape of this young -girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière -stopped; while they, on their part, at the appearance of the -young girl dressed in court costume, also halted, and seizing -each other by the hand, they surrounded La Vallière, -singing, -</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>"Oh! all ye weary -wights, who mope alone,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Come drink, and sing and -laugh, round Venus' throne."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> La -Vallière at once understood that the men were insulting -her, and wished to prevent her passing; she tried to do so -several times, but her efforts were useless.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her limbs failed her; she felt she -was on the point of falling, and uttered a cry of terror.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the same moment the circle -which surrounded her was suddenly broken through in a most -violent manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of -her insulters was knocked to the left, another fell rolling over -and over to the right, close to the water's edge, while the third -could hardly keep his feet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An officer of the musketeers stood -face to face with the young girl, with threatening brow and hand -raised to carry out his threat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The drunken fellows, at sight of the -uniform, made their escape with what speed their staggering limbs -could lend them, all the more eagerly for the proof of strength -which the wearer of the uniform had just afforded them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it possible," -exclaimed the musketeer, "that it can be Mademoiselle de la -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière, -bewildered by what had just happened, and confounded by hearing -her name pronounced, looked up and recognized D'Artagnan.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, M. d'Artagnan! it is -indeed I;" and at the same moment she seized his arm.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You will protect me, will you not?" -she added, in a tone of entreaty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most certainly I will -protect you; but, in Heaven's name, where are you going at this -hour?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am going to -Chaillot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are going to -Chaillot by way of La Rapée! why, mademoiselle, you are -turning your back upon it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, monsieur, -be kind enough to put me in the right way, and to go with me a -short distance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most willingly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But how does it happen -that I have found you here?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By what merciful intervention were -you sent to my assistance?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I almost seem to be dreaming, or to -be losing my senses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I happened to be here, -mademoiselle, because I have a house in the Place de -Grève, at the sign of the Notre-Dame, the rent of which I -went to receive yesterday, and where I, in fact, passed the -night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And I also wished -to be at the palace early, for the purposes of inspecting my -posts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you," said La -Vallière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is what <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> was doing," said D'Artagnan to -himself; "but what is <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>she</i> doing, and why is she going -to Chaillot at such an hour?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he offered her his arm, which -she took, and began to walk with increased precipitation, which -ill-concealed, however, her weakness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan perceived it, and -proposed to La Vallière that she should take a little -rest, which she refused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are ignorant, -perhaps, where Chaillot is?" inquired D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a great -distance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That matters very -little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is at least a -league."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I can walk it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan did not -reply; he could tell, merely by the tone of a voice, when a -resolution was real or not.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He rather bore along rather than -accompanied La Vallière, until they perceived the elevated -ground of Chaillot.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What house are you -going to, mademoiselle?" inquired D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the Carmelites, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the Carmelites?" -repeated D'Artagnan, in amazement.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and since Heaven -has directed you towards me to give me your support on my road, -accept both my thanks and my adieux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the Carmelites!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your adieux!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you going to become a nun?" -exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, you!!!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was in this "you," which -we have marked by three notes of exclamation in order to render -it as expressive as possible, - there was, we repeat, in this -"you" a complete poem; it recalled to La Vallière her old -recollections of Blois, and her new recollections of -Fontainebleau; it said to her, "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>You</i>, who might be happy with -Raoul; <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i>, who might -be powerful with Louis; <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> about to become a nun!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur," she -said, "I am going to devote myself to the service of Heaven; and -to renounce the world entirely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But are you not -mistaken with regard to your vocation, - are you not mistaken in -supposing it to be the will of Heaven?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, since Heaven has -been pleased to throw you in my way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Had it not been for you, I should -certainly have sunk from fatigue on the road, and since Heaven, I -repeat, has thrown you in my way, it is because it has willed -that I should carry out my intention."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said D'Artagnan, -doubtingly, "that is a rather subtle distinction, I think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whatever it may be," -returned the young girl, "I have acquainted you with the steps I -have taken, and with my fixed resolution.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, now, I have one last favor to -ask of you, even while I return you my thanks.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is entirely ignorant of my -flight from the Palais Royal, and is ignorant also of what I am -about to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king ignorant, you -say!" exclaimed D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Take care, mademoiselle; you are -not aware of what you are doing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one ought to do anything with -which the king is unacquainted, especially those who belong to -the court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I no longer belong to -the court, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan looked at the -young girl with increasing astonishment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not be uneasy, -monsieur," she continued: "I have well calculated everything; and -were it not so, it would now be too late to reconsider my -resolution, - all is decided."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, mademoiselle, -what do you wish me to do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the name of that -sympathy which misfortune inspires, by your generous feeling, and -by your honor as a gentleman, I entreat you to promise me one -thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Name it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Swear to me, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, that you will not tell the king that you have seen -me, and that I am at the Carmelites."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not swear that," -said D'Artagnan, shaking his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I know the -king, I know you, I know myself even, nay, the whole human race, -too well; no, no, I will not swear that!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case," cried La -Vallière, with an energy of which one would hardly have -thought her capable, "instead of the blessing which I should have -implored for you until my dying day, I will invoke a curse, for -you are rendering me the most miserable creature that ever -lived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> We have already observed -that D'Artagnan could easily recognize the accents of truth and -sincerity, and he could not resist this last appeal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw by her face how bitterly she -suffered from a feeling of degradation, he remarked her trembling -limbs, how her whole slight and delicate frame was violently -agitated by some internal struggle, and clearly perceived that -resistance might be fatal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will do as you wish, then," he -said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Be satisfied, -mademoiselle, I will say nothing to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! thanks, thanks," -exclaimed La Vallière, "you are the most generous man -breathing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And in her extreme -delight she seized hold of D'Artagnan's hands and pressed them -between her own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan, who felt himself quite overcome, said: "This is -touching, upon my word; she begins where others leave off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And La Vallière, -who, in the bitterness of her distress, had sunk upon the ground, -rose and walked towards the convent of the Carmelites, which -could now, in the dawning light, be perceived just before -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan followed -her at a distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -entrance-door was half-open; she glided in like a shadow, and -thanking D'Artagnan by a parting gesture, disappeared from his -sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When D'Artagnan -found himself quite alone, he reflected very profoundly upon what -had just taken place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Upon my word," he said, "this looks very much like what is -called a false position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -To keep such a secret as that, is to keep a burning coal in one's -breeches-pocket, and trust that it may not burn the stuff.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet, not to keep it when I -have sworn to do so is dishonorable.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It generally happens that some -bright idea or other occurs to me as I am going along; but I am -very much mistaken if I shall not, now, have to go a long way in -order to find the solution of this affair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, but which way to go?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! towards Paris, of course; -that is the best way, after all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only one must make haste, and in -order to make haste four legs are better than two, and I, -unhappily, only have two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -'A horse, a horse,' as I heard them say at the theatre in London, -'my kingdom for a horse!'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And now I think of it, it need not cost me so much as that, for -at the Barrière de la Conférence there is a guard -of musketeers, and instead of the one horse I need, I shall find -ten there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> So, in pursuance of this -resolution, which he adopted with his usual rapidity, D'Artagnan -immediately turned his back upon the heights of Chaillot, reached -the guard-house, took the fastest horse he could find there, and -was at the palace in less than ten minutes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was striking five as he reached -the Palais Royal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king, he was told, had gone to bed at his usual hour, having been -long engaged with M. Colbert, and, in all probability, was still -sound asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come," -said D'Artagnan, "she spoke the truth; the king is ignorant of -everything; if he only knew one-half of what has happened, the -Palais Royal by this time would be turned upside down."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: This alternate -translation of the verse in this chapter:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>"Oh! you who sadly -are wandering alone,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Come, come, and laugh -with us."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">- is closer to the original meaning. - -JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXVII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Showing How Louis, on His Part, Had Passed the Time from Ten to -Half-Past Twelve at Night.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -W</span>hen the king left the apartments of the maids of honor, -he found Colbert awaiting him to take directions for the next -day's ceremony, as the king was then to receive the Dutch and -Spanish ambassadors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Louis XIV. had serious causes of dissatisfaction with the Dutch; -the States had already been guilty of many mean shifts and -evasions with France, and without perceiving or without caring -about the chances of a rupture, they again abandoned the alliance -with his Most Christian Majesty, for the purpose of entering into -all kinds of plots with Spain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis XIV. at his accession, that is -to say, at the death of Cardinal Mazarin, had found this -political question roughly sketched out; the solution was -difficult for a young man, but as, at that time, the king -represented the whole nation, anything that the head resolved -upon, the body would be found ready to carry out.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Any sudden impulse of anger, the -reaction of young hot blood upon the brain, would be quite -sufficient to change an old form of policy and create another -system altogether.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -part that diplomatists had to play in those days was that of -arranging among themselves the different <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coups-d'état</i> which their -sovereign masters might wish to effect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis was not in that calm frame of -mind which was necessary to enable him to determine on a wise -course of policy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still -much agitated from the quarrel he had just had with La -Vallière, he walked hastily into his cabinet, dimly -desirous of finding an opportunity of producing an explosion -after he had controlled himself for so long a time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert, as he saw the king enter, -knew the position of affairs at a glance, understood the king's -intentions, and resolved therefore to maneuver a little.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Louis requested to be -informed what it would be necessary to say on the morrow, Colbert -began by expressing his surprise that his majesty had not been -properly informed by M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. Fouquet," he said, "is perfectly -acquainted with the whole of this Dutch affair - he received the -dispatches himself direct."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, who was -accustomed to hear M. Colbert speak in not over-scrupulous terms -of M. Fouquet, allowed this remark to pass unanswered, and merely -listened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert noticed -the effect it had produced, and hastened to back out, saying that -M. Fouquet was not on all occasions as blamable as at the first -glance might seem to be the case, inasmuch as at that moment he -was greatly occupied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king looked up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do -you allude to?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, men are but men, -and M. Fouquet has his defects as well as his great -qualities."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! defects, who is -without them, M. Colbert?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty, hardly," -said Colbert, boldly; for he knew how to convey a good deal of -flattery in a light amount of blame, like the arrow which cleaves -the air notwithstanding its weight, thanks to the light feathers -which bear it up.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king smiled.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What defect has M. Fouquet, -then?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Still the same, sire; -it is said he is in love."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In love! with -whom?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not -quite sure, sire; I have very little to do with matters of -gallantry."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events you know, -since you speak of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have heard a name -mentioned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot now remember -whose, but I think it is one of Madame's maids of honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king started.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You know more than you like -to say, M. Colbert," he murmured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I assure you, no, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events, Madame's -maids of honor are all known, and in mentioning their names to -you, you will perhaps recollect the one you allude to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At least, try."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be useless, -sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever the name -of any lady who runs the risk of being compromised is concerned, -my memory is like a coffer of bronze, the key of which I have -lost."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A dark cloud seemed to -pass over the mind as well as across the face of the king; then, -wishing to appear as if he were perfect master of himself and his -feelings, he said, "And now for the affair concerning -Holland."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place, -sire, at what hour will your majesty receive the -ambassadors?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Early in the -morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eleven o'clock?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is too late - say -nine o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That will be too early, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For friends, that would -be a matter of no importance; one does what one likes with one's -friends; but for one's enemies, in that case nothing could be -better than if they <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>were</i> to feel hurt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should not be sorry, I confess, to -have to finish altogether with these marsh-birds, who annoy me -with their cries."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It shall be precisely -as your majesty desires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -At nine o'clock, therefore - I will give the necessary -orders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it to be a -formal audience?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to have an explanation with -them, and not to embitter matters, as is always the case when -many persons are present, but, at the same time, I wish to -clear<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> up everything with -them, in order not to have to begin over again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty will -inform me of the persons whom you wish to be present at the -reception."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will draw out a -list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us speak of the -ambassadors; what do they want?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Allies with Spain, they -gain nothing; allies with France, they lose much."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How is that?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Allied with -Spain, they see themselves bounded and protected by the -possessions of their allies; they cannot touch them, however -anxious they may be to do so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From Antwerp to Rotterdam is but a -step, and that by the way of the Scheldt and the Meuse.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If they wish to make a bite at -the Spanish cake, you, sire, the son-in-law of the king of Spain, -could with your cavalry sweep the earth from your dominions to -Brussels in a couple of days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Their design is, therefore, only to -quarrel so far with you, and only to make you suspect Spain so -far, as will be sufficient to induce you not to interfere with -their own affairs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be far more -simple, I should imagine," replied the king, "to form a solid -alliance with me, by means of which I should gain something, -while they would gain everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not so; for if, by -chance, they were to have you, or France rather, as a boundary, -your majesty is not an agreeable neighbor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Young, ardent, warlike, the king of -France might inflict some serious mischief on Holland, especially -if he were to get near her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I perfectly understand, -M. Colbert, and you have explained it very clearly; but be good -enough to tell me the conclusion you have arrived at."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty's own -decisions are never deficient in wisdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What will these -ambassadors say to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They will tell your -majesty that they are ardently desirous of forming an alliance -with you, which will be a falsehood: they will tell Spain that -the three powers ought to unite so as to check the prosperity of -England, and that will equally be a falsehood; for at present, -the natural ally of your majesty is England, who has ships while -we have none; England, who can counteract Dutch influence in -India; England, in fact, a monarchical country, to which your -majesty is attached by ties of relationship."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good; but how would you -answer?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should answer, sire, -with the greatest possible moderation of tone, that the -disposition of Holland does not seem friendly towards the Court -of France; that the symptoms of public feeling among the Dutch -are alarming as regards your majesty; that certain medals have -been struck with insulting devices."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Towards me?" exclaimed -the young king, excitedly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no! sire, no; -insulting is not the word; I was mistaken, I ought to have said -immeasurably flattering to the Dutch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! if that be so, the -pride of the Dutch is a matter of indifference to me," said the -king, sighing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty is right, -a thousand times right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -However, it is never a mistake in politics, your majesty knows -better than myself, to exaggerate a little in order to obtain a -concession in your own favor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If your majesty were to complain as -if your susceptibility were offended, you would stand in a far -higher position with them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are these medals -you speak of?" inquired Louis; "for if I allude to them, I ought -to know what to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word, sire, I -cannot very well tell you - some overweeningly conceited device - -that is the sense of it; the words have little to do with the -thing itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will mention the word 'medal,' and -they can understand it if they like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! they will -understand without any difficulty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty can also slip in a few -words about certain pamphlets which are being circulated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pamphlets befoul those who write -them much more than those against whom they are written.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Colbert, I thank you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can leave now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not forget the hour I have fixed, -and be there yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I await your -majesty's list."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," returned the -king; and he began to meditate; he had not thought of the list in -the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The clock -struck half-past eleven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king's face revealed a violent conflict between pride and -love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The political -conversation had dispelled a good deal of the irritation which -Louis had felt, and La Vallière's pale, worn features, in -his imagination, spoke a very different language from that of the -Dutch medals, or the Batavian pamphlets.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He sat for ten minutes debating -within himself whether he should or should not return to La -Vallière; but Colbert having with some urgency -respectfully requested that the list might be furnished him, the -king was ashamed to be thinking of mere matters of affection -where important state affairs required his attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore dictated: the -queen-mother, the queen, Madame, Madame de Motteville, Madame de -Châtillon, Madame de Navailles; and, for the men, M. le -Prince, M. de Gramont, M. de Manicamp, M. de Saint-Aignan, and -the officers on duty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The ministers?" asked -Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As a matter of course, -and the secretaries also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I will leave at -once in order to get everything prepared; the orders will be at -the different residences to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Say rather to-day," -replied Louis mournfully, as the clock struck twelve.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the very hour when poor La -Vallière was almost dying from anguish and bitter -suffering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king's -attendants entered, it being the hour of his retirement to his -chamber; the queen, indeed, had been waiting for more than an -hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis accordingly -retreated to his bedroom with a sigh; but, as he sighed, he -congratulated himself on his courage, and applauded himself for -having been as firm in love as in affairs of state.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXVIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Ambassadors.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>'Artagnan had, with very few exceptions, learned almost -all of the particulars of what we have just been relating; for -among his friends he reckoned all the useful, serviceable people -in the royal household, - officious attendants who were proud of -being recognized by the captain of the musketeers, for the -captain's influence was very great; and then, in addition to any -ambitious vies they may have imagined he could promote, they were -proud of being regarded as worth being spoken to by a man as -brave as D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -this manner D'Artagnan learned every morning what he had not been -able either to see or to ascertain the night before, from the -simple fact of his not being ubiquitous; so that, with the -information he had been able by his own means to pick up during -the day, and with what he had gathered from others, he succeeded -in making up a bundle of weapons, which he was in the prudent -habit of using only when occasion required.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this way, D'Artagnan's two eyes -rendered him the same service as the hundred eyes of Argus.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Political secrets, bedside -revelations, hints or scraps of conversation dropped by the -courtiers on the threshold of the royal ante-chamber, in this way -D'Artagnan managed to ascertain, and to store away everything in -the vast and impenetrable mausoleum of his memory, by the side of -those royal secrets so dearly bought and faithfully -preserved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore -knew of the king's interview with Colbert, and of the appointment -made for the ambassadors in the morning, and, consequently, that -the question of the medals would be brought up for debate; and, -while he was arranging and constructing the conversation upon a -few chance words which had reached his ears, he returned to his -post in the royal apartments, so as to be there at the very -moment the king awoke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -happened that the king rose very early, - proving thereby that -he, too, on his side, had slept but indifferently.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards seven o'clock, he -half-opened his door very gently.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan was at his post.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty was pale, and -seemed wearied; he had not, moreover, quite finished -dressing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Send for M. de -Saint-Aignan," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan was -probably awaiting a summons, for the messenger, when he reached -his apartment, found him already dressed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan hastened to the king in -obedience to the summons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -A moment afterwards the king and Saint-Aignan passed by together -- the king walking first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan went to the window which looked out upon the -courtyard; he had no need to put himself to the trouble of -watching in what direction the king went, for he had no -difficulty in guessing beforehand where his majesty was -going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, in fact, -bent his steps towards the apartments of the maids of honor, - a -circumstance which in no way astonished D'Artagnan, for he more -than suspected, although La Vallière had not breathed a -syllable on the subject, that the king had some kind of -reparation to make.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Saint-Aignan followed him as he had done the previous evening, -rather less uneasy in his mind, though still slightly agitated, -for he fervently trusted that at seven o'clock in the morning -there might be only himself and the king awake amongst the august -guests at the palace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan stood at the window, careless and perfectly calm in -his manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One could -almost have sworn that he noticed nothing, and was utterly -ignorant who were these two hunters after adventures, passing -like shadows across the courtyard, wrapped up in their -cloaks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet, all the -while that D'Artagnan appeared not to be looking at them at all, -he did not for one moment lose sight of them, and while he -whistled that old march of the musketeers, which he rarely -recalled except under great emergencies, he conjectured and -prophesied how terrible would be the storm which would be raised -on the king's return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -fact, when the king entered La Vallière's apartment and -found the room empty and the bed untouched, he began to be -alarmed, and called out to Montalais, who immediately answered -the summons; but her astonishment was equal to the king's.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All that she could tell his -majesty was, that she had fancied she had heard La -Vallière's weeping during a portion of the night, but, -knowing that his majesty had paid her a visit, she had not dared -to inquire what was the matter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," inquired the -king, "where do you suppose she is gone?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," replied -Montalais, "Louise is of a very sentimental disposition, and as I -have often seen her rise at daybreak in order to go out into the -garden, she may, perhaps, be there now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This appeared probable, -and the king immediately ran down the staircase in search of the -fugitive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan saw -him grow very pale, and talking in an excited manner with his -companion, as he went towards the gardens; Saint-Aignan following -him, out of breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan did not stir from the window, but went on whistling, -looking as if he saw nothing, yet seeing everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, come," he murmured, when the -king disappeared, "his majesty's passion is stronger than I -thought; he is now doing, I think, what he never did for -Mademoiselle de Mancini."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Marie de Mancini was a -former love of the king's.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had to abandon her for the -political advantages which the marriage to the Spanish Infanta, -Maria Theresa, afforded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -See <u>The Vicomte de Bragelonne</u>, Chapter XIII. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In a quarter of an hour -the king again appeared: he had looked everywhere, was completely -out of breath, and, as a matter of course, had not discovered -anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan, -who still followed him, was fanning himself with his hat, and in -a gasping voice, asking for information about La Vallière -from such of the servants as were about, in fact from every one -he met.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Among others he -came across Manicamp, who had arrived from Fontainebleau by easy -stages; for whilst others had performed the journey in six hours, -he had taken four and twenty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you seen -Mademoiselle de la Vallière?" Saint-Aignan asked him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Whereupon Manicamp, -dreamy and absent as usual, answered, thinking that some one was -asking him about De Guiche, "Thank you, the comte is a little -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And he continued on his -way until he reached the ante-chamber where D'Artagnan was, whom -he asked to explain how it was that the king looked, as he -thought, so bewildered; to which D'Artagnan replied that he was -quite mistaken, that the king, on the contrary, was as lively and -merry as he could possibly be.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In the midst of all -this, eight o'clock struck.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was usual for the king to take -his breakfast at this hour, for the code of etiquette prescribed -that the king should always be hungry at eight o'clock.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His breakfast was laid upon a -small table in his bedroom, and he ate very fast.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan, of whom he would not -lose sight, waited on the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then disposed of several military -audiences, during which he dispatched Saint-Aignan to see what he -could find out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -still occupied, full of anxiety, still watching Saint-Aignan's -return, who had sent out the servants in every direction, to make -inquires, and who had also gone himself, the hour of nine struck, -and the king forthwith passed into his large cabinet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As the clock was -striking nine the ambassadors entered, and as it finished, the -two queens and Madame made their appearance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There were three ambassadors from -Holland, and two from Spain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king glanced at them, and then -bowed; and, at the same moment, Saint-Aignan entered, - an -entrance which the king regarded as far more important, in a -different sense, however, than that of ambassadors, however -numerous they might be, and from whatever country they came; and -so, setting everything aside, the king made a sign of -interrogation to Saint-Aignan, which the latter answered by a -most decisive negative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king almost entirely lost his courage; but as the queens, the -members of the nobility who were present, and the ambassadors, -had their eyes fixed upon him, he overcame his emotion by a -violent effort, and invited the latter to speak.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whereupon one of the Spanish -deputies made a long oration, in which he boasted the advantages -which the Spanish alliance would offer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king interrupted -him, saying, "Monsieur, I trust that whatever is best for France -must be exceedingly advantageous for Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This remark, and -particularly the peremptory tone in which it was pronounced, made -the ambassadors pale, and brought the color into the cheeks of -the two queens, who, being Spanish, felt wounded in their pride -of relationship and nationality by this reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The Dutch ambassador -then began to address himself to the king, and complained of the -injurious suspicions which the king exhibited against the -government of his country.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king interrupted -him, saying, "It is very singular, monsieur, that you should come -with any complaint, when it is I rather who have reason to be -dissatisfied; and yet, you see, I do not complain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Complain, sire, and in -what respect?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king smiled -bitterly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you blame -me, monsieur," he said, "if I should happen to entertain -suspicions against a government which authorizes and protects -international impertinence?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I tell you," resumed -the king, exciting himself by a recollection of his own personal -annoyance, rather than from political grounds, "that Holland is a -land of refuge for all who hate me, and especially for all who -malign me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You wish for proofs, -perhaps?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very good; they -can be had easily enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Whence proceed all those vile and insolent pamphlets which -represent me as a monarch without glory and without authority? -your printing-presses groan under their number.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If my secretaries were here, I would -mention the titles of the works as well as the names of the -printers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," replied the -ambassador, "a pamphlet can hardly be regarded as the work of a -whole nation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it just, -is it reasonable, that a great and powerful monarch like your -majesty should render a whole nation responsible for the crime of -a few madmen, who are, perhaps, only scribbling in a garret for a -few sous to buy bread for their family?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That may be the case, I -admit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But when the mint -itself, at Amsterdam, strikes off medals which reflect disgrace -upon me, is that also the crime of a few madmen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Medals!" stammered out -the ambassador.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Medals," repeated the -king, looking at Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty," the -ambassador ventured, "should be quite sure - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king still looked at -Colbert; but Colbert appeared not to understand him, and -maintained an unbroken silence, notwithstanding the king's -repeated hints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan then approached the king, and taking a piece of money -out of his pocket, he placed it in the king's hands, saying, "<i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>This</i> is the medal your -majesty alludes to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king looked at it, -and with a look which, ever since he had become his own master, -was ever piercing as the eagle's, observed an insulting device -representing Holland arresting the progress of the sun, with this -inscription: "<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>In conspectu -meo stetit sol</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In my presence the sun -stands still," exclaimed the king, furiously.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! you will hardly deny it now, I -suppose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the sun," said -D'Artagnan, "is this," as he pointed to the panels of the -cabinet, where the sun was brilliantly represented in every -direction, with this motto, "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Nec pluribus impar</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "[A sun] not eclipsed by -many suns."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis's -device. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis's anger, increased -by the bitterness of his own personal sufferings, hardly required -this additional circumstance to foment it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one saw, from the kindling -passion in the king's eyes, that an explosion was imminent.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A look from Colbert kept -postponed the bursting of the storm.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ambassador ventured to frame -excuses by saying that the vanity of nations was a matter of -little consequence; that Holland was proud that, with such -limited resources, she had maintained her rank as a great nation, -even against powerful monarchs, and that if a little smoke had -intoxicated his countrymen, the king would be kindly disposed, -and would even excuse this intoxication.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king seemed as if he would be -glad of some suggestion; he looked at Colbert, who remained -impassible; then at D'Artagnan, who simply shrugged his -shoulders, a movement which was like the opening of the -flood-gates, whereby the king's anger, which he had restrained -for so long a period, now burst forth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As no one knew what direction his -anger might take, all preserved a dead silence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The second ambassador took advantage -of it to begin his excuses also.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While he was speaking, and while the -king, who had again gradually returned to his own personal -reflections, was automatically listening to the voice, full of -nervous anxiety, with the air of an absent man listening to the -murmuring of a cascade, D'Artagnan, on whose left hand -Saint-Aignan was standing, approached the latter, and, in a voice -which was loud enough to reach the king's ears, said: "Have you -heard the news?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What news?" said -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About La -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king started, and -advanced his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What has happened to La -Vallière?" inquired Saint-Aignan, in a tone which can -easily be imagined.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! poor girl! she is -going to take the veil."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The veil!" exclaimed -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The veil!" cried the -king, in the midst of the ambassador's discourse; but then, -mindful of the rules of etiquette, he mastered himself, still -listening, however, with rapt attention.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What order?" inquired -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The Carmelites of -Chaillot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who the deuce told you -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She did herself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have seen her, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, I even went with -her to the Carmelites."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king did not lose a -syllable of this conversation; and again he could hardly control -his feelings.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what was the cause -of her flight?" inquired Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because the poor girl -was driven away from the court yesterday," replied -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He had no sooner said -this, than the king, with an authoritative gesture, said to the -ambassador, "Enough, monsieur, enough."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, advancing towards the captain, -he exclaimed:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who says Mademoiselle -de la Vallière is going to take the religious vows?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Artagnan," -answered the favorite.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it true what you -say?" said the king, turning towards the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As true as truth -itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king clenched his -hands, and turned pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have something -further to add, M. d'Artagnan?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know nothing more, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You added that -Mademoiselle de la Vallière had been driven away from the -court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is that true, -also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ascertain for yourself, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And from whom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" sighed D'Artagnan, -like a man who is declining to say anything further.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king almost bounded -from his seat, regardless of ambassadors, ministers, courtiers, -queens, and politics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -queen-mother rose; she had heard everything, or, if she had not -heard everything, she had guessed it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, almost fainting from anger -and fear, endeavored to rise as the queen-mother had done; but -she sank down again upon her chair, which by an instinctive -movement she made roll back a few paces.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Gentlemen," said the -king, "the audience is over; I will communicate my answer, or -rather my will, to Spain and to Holland;" and with a proud, -imperious gesture, he dismissed the ambassadors.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care, my son," -said the queen-mother, indignantly, "you are hardly master of -yourself, I think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! madame," returned -the young lion, with a terrible gesture, "if I am not mater of -myself, I will be, I promise you, of those who do me a deadly -injury; come with me, M. d'Artagnan, come."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he quitted the room in the midst -of general stupefaction and dismay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king hastily descended the -staircase, and was about to cross the courtyard.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said D'Artagnan, -"your majesty mistakes the way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I am going to the -stables."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is useless, sire, -for I have horses ready for your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king's only answer -was a look, but this look promised more than the ambition of -three D'Artagnans could have dared to hope.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXIX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Chaillot.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>lthough they had not been summoned, Manicamp and -Malicorne had followed the king and D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were both exceedingly -intelligent men; except that Malicorne was too precipitate, owing -to ambition, while Manicamp was frequently too tardy, owing to -indolence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On this -occasion, however, they arrived at precisely the proper -moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Five horses were -in readiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two were -seized upon by the king and D'Artagnan, two others by Manicamp -and Malicorne, while a groom belonging to the stables mounted the -fifth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cavalcade set -off at a gallop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan had been very careful in his selection of the horses; -they were the very animals for distressed lovers - horses which -did not simply run, but flew.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Within ten minutes after their -departure, the cavalcade, amidst a cloud of dust, arrived at -Chaillot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -literally threw himself off his horse; but notwithstanding the -rapidity with which he accomplished this maneuver, he found -D'Artagnan already holding his stirrup.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With a sign of acknowledgement to -the musketeer, he threw the bridle to the groom, and darted into -the vestibule, violently pushed open the door, and entered the -reception-room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp, -Malicorne, and the groom remained outside, D'Artagnan alone -following him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he -entered the reception-room, the first object which met his gaze -was Louise herself, not simply on her knees, but lying at the -foot of a large stone crucifix.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young girl was stretched upon -the damp flag-stones, scarcely visible in the gloom of the -apartment, which was lighted only by means of a narrow window, -protected by bars and completely shaded by creeping plants.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the king saw her in this -state, he thought she was dead, and uttered a loud cry, which -made D'Artagnan hurry into the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king had already passed one of -his arms round her body, and D'Artagnan assisted him in raising -the poor girl, whom the torpor of death seemed already to have -taken possession of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan seized hold of the alarm-bell and rang with all his -might.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Carmelite -sisters immediately hastened at the summons, and uttered loud -exclamations of alarm and indignation at the sight of the two men -holding a woman in their arms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The superior also hurried to the -scene of action, but far more a creature of the world than any of -the female members of the court, notwithstanding her austerity of -manners, she recognized the king at the first glance, by the -respect which those present exhibited for him, as well as by the -imperious and authoritative way in which he had thrown the whole -establishment into confusion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as she saw the king, she -retired to her own apartments, in order to avoid compromising her -dignity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But by one of -the nuns she sent various cordials, Hungary water, etc., etc., -and ordered that all the doors should immediately be closed, a -command which was just in time, for the king's distress was fast -becoming of a most clamorous and despairing character.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had almost decided to send -for his own physician, when La Vallière exhibited signs of -returning animation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -first object which met her gaze, as she opened her eyes, was the -king at her feet; in all probability she did not recognize him, -for she uttered a deep sigh full of anguish and distress.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis fixed his eyes -devouringly upon her face; and when, in the course of a few -moments, she recognized Louis, she endeavored to tear herself -from his embrace.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, heavens!" she -murmured, "is not the sacrifice yet made?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no!" exclaimed the -king, "and it shall <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>not</i> be made, I swear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Notwithstanding her -weakness and utter despair, she rose from the ground, saying, "It -must be made, however; it must be; so do not stay me in my -purpose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I leave you to -sacrifice yourself!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I! -never, never!" exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," murmured -D'Artagnan, "I may as well go now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as they begin to speak, we -may as well prevent there being any listeners."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he quitted the room, leaving the -lovers alone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," continued La -Vallière, "not another word, I implore you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not destroy the only future I can -hope for - my salvation; do not destroy the glory and brightness -of your own future for a mere caprice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A caprice?" cried the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire! it is now, -only, that I can see clearly into your heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You, Louise, what mean -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An inexplicable -impulse, foolish and unreasonable in its nature, may ephemerally -appear to offer a sufficient excuse for your conduct; but there -are duties imposed upon you which are incompatible with your -regard for a poor girl such as I am.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, forget me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I forget you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have already done -so, once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Rather would I -die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You cannot love one -whose peace of mind you hold so lightly, and whom you so cruelly -abandoned, last night, to the bitterness of death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What can you mean?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Explain yourself, Louise."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did you ask me -yesterday morning?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To -love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What did you -promise me in return?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Never to let midnight pass without offering me an opportunity of -reconciliation, if, by any chance, your anger should be roused -against me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! forgive me, Louise, -forgive me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was mad -from jealousy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Jealousy is a sentiment -unworthy of a king - a man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You may become jealous again, and -will end by killing me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Be merciful, then, and leave me now to die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Another word, -mademoiselle, in that strain, and you will see me expire at your -feet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, sire, I am -better acquainted with my own demerits; and believe me, that to -sacrifice yourself for one whom all despise, would be -needless."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give me the names of -those you have cause to complain of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have no complaints, -sire, to prefer against any one; no one but myself to -accuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Farewell, sire; -you are compromising yourself in speaking to me in such a -manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! be careful, Louise, -in what you say; for you are reducing me to the darkness of -despair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, sire, leave -me at least the protection of Heaven, I implore you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; Heaven itself -shall not tear you from me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Save me, then," cried -the poor girl, "from those determined and pitiless enemies who -are thirsting to annihilate my life and honor too.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you have courage enough to love -me, show at least that you have power enough to defend me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But no; she whom you say you -love, others insult and mock, and drive shamelessly away."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the gentle-hearted girl, -forced, by her own bitter distress to accuse others, wrung her -hands in an uncontrollable agony of tears.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have been driven -away!" exclaimed the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "This is the second time I have -heard that said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have been driven away -with shame and ignominy, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see, then, that I have no other -protector but Heaven, no consolation but prayer, and this -cloister is my only refuge."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My palace, my whole -court, shall be your park of peace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! fear nothing further now, -Louise; those - be they men or women - who yesterday drove you -away, shall to-morrow tremble before you - to-morrow, do I say? -nay, this very day I have already shown my displeasure - have -already threatened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -in my power, even now, to hurl the thunderbolt I have hitherto -withheld.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise, Louise, -you shall be bitterly revenged; tears of blood shall repay you -for the tears you have shed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me only the names of your -enemies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never, never."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can I show any -anger, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, those upon whom -your anger would be prepared to fall, would force you to draw -back your hand upraised to punish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you do not know -me," cried the king, exasperated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Rather than draw back, I would -sacrifice my kingdom, and would abjure my family.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, I would strike until this arm -had utterly destroyed all those who had ventured to make -themselves the enemies of the gentlest and best of -creatures."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, as he -said these words, Louis struck his fist violently against the -oaken wainscoting with a force which alarmed La Vallière; -for his anger, owing to his unbounded power, had something -imposing and threatening in it, like the lightning, which may at -any time prove deadly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -She, who thought that her own sufferings could not be surpassed, -was overwhelmed by a suffering which revealed itself by menace -and by violence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," she said, "for -the last time I implore you to leave me; already do I feel -strengthened by the calm seclusion of this asylum; and the -protection of Heaven has reassured me; for all the pretty human -meanness of this world are forgotten beneath the Divine -protection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once more, -then, sire, and for the last time, I again implore you to leave -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Confess, rather," cried -Louis, "that you have never loved me; admit that my humility and -my repentance are flattering to your pride, but that my distress -affects you not; that the king of this wide realm is no longer -regarded as a lover whose tenderness of devotion is capable of -working out your happiness, but as a despot whose caprice has -crushed your very heart beneath his iron heel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not say you are seeking Heaven, -say rather you are fleeing from the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louise's heart was wrung -within her, as she listened to his passionate utterance, which -made the fever of hope course once more through her every -vein.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But did you not hear me -say that I have been driven away, scorned, despised?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will make you the -most respected, and most adored, and the most envied of my whole -court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Prove to me that you -have not ceased to love me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By leaving me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will prove it to you -by never leaving you again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But do you imagine, -sire, that I shall allow that; do you imagine that I will let you -come to an open rupture with every member of your family; do you -imagine that, for my sake, you could abandon mother, wife and -sister?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you have named -them, then, at last; it is they, then, who have wrought this -grievous injury?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By the -heaven above us, then, upon them shall my anger fall."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the reason why -the future terrifies me, why I refuse everything, why I do not -wish you to revenge me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Tears enough have already been shed, sufficient sorrow and -affliction have already been occasioned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, at least, will never be the cause -of sorrow, or affliction, or distress to whomsoever it may be, -for I have mourned and suffered, and wept too much myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And do you count <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> sufferings, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> tears, as nothing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In Heaven's name, sire, -do not speak to me in that manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I need all my courage to enable me -to accomplish the sacrifice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Louise, Louise, I -implore you! whatever you desire, whatever you command, whether -vengeance or forgiveness, your slightest wish shall be obeyed, -but do not abandon me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! sire, we must -part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not love me, -then!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Heaven knows I do!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is false, Louise; it -is false."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, if I did not -love you, I should let you do what you please; I should let you -revenge me, in return for the insult which has been inflicted on -me; I should accept the brilliant triumph to my pride which you -propose; and yet, you cannot deny that I reject even the sweet -compensation which your affection affords, that affection which -for me is life itself, for I wished to die when I thought that -you loved me no longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes; I now know, I -now perceive it; you are the sweetest, best, and purest of -women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is no one so -worthy as yourself, not alone of my respect and devotion, but -also of the respect and devotion of all who surround me; and -therefore no one shall be loved like yourself; no one shall ever -possess the influence over me that you wield.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You wish me to be calm, to forgive? -- be it so, you shall find me perfectly unmoved.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You wish to reign by gentleness and -clemency? - I will be clement and gentle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dictate for me the conduct you wish -me to adopt, and I will obey blindly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In Heaven's name, no, -sire; what am I, a poor girl, to dictate to so great a monarch as -yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are my life, the -very spirit and principle of my being.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it not the spirit that rules the -body?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You love me, then, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On my knees, yes; with -my hands upraised to you, yes; with all the strength and power of -my being, yes; I love you so deeply, that I would lay down my -life for you, gladly, at your merest wish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, now I know -you love me, I have nothing to wish for in the world.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me your hand, sire; and then, -farewell!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have enjoyed -in this life all the happiness I was ever meant for."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no, no! your -happiness is not a happiness of yesterday, it is of to-day, of -to-morrow, ever enduring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The future is yours, everything which is mine is yours, too.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Away with these ideas of -separation, away with these gloomy, despairing thoughts.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will live for me, as I -will live for you, Louise."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he threw himself at her feet, -embracing her knees with the wildest transports of joy and -gratitude.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, sire! all -that is but a wild dream."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, a wild dream?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I cannot return -to the court.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Exiled, how -can I see you again?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Would it not be far better to bury myself in a cloister for the -rest of my life, with the rich consolation that your affection -gives me, with the pulses of your heart beating for me, and your -latest confession of attachment still ringing in my ears?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exiled, you!" exclaimed -Louis XIV., "and who dares to exile, let me ask, when I -recall?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, something -which is greater than and superior to the kings even - the world -and public opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Reflect for a moment; you cannot love a woman who has been -ignominiously driven away - love one whom your mother has stained -with suspicions; one whom your sister has threatened with -disgrace; such a woman, indeed, would be unworthy of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Unworthy! one who -belongs to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, precisely on -that account; from the very moment she belongs to you, the -character of your mistress renders her unworthy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right, Louise; -every shade of delicacy of feeling is yours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very well, you shall not be -exiled."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! from the tone in -which you speak, you have not heard Madame, that is very -clear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will appeal from her -to my mother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Again, sire, you have -not seen your mother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She, too! - my poor -Louise! every one's hand, then, is against you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes, poor Louise, -who was already bending beneath the fury of the storm, when you -arrived and crushed her beneath the weight of your -displeasure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! forgive me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will not, I know, -be able to make either of them yield; believe me, the evil cannot -be repaired, for I will not allow you to use violence, or to -exercise your authority."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, Louise, to -prove to you how fondly I love you, I will do one thing, I will -see Madame; I will make her revoke her sentence, I will compel -her to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Compel?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! no, no!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True; you are -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will bend -her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louise shook her -head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will entreat her, if -it be necessary," said Louis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you believe in my affection -after that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louise drew herself -up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, never, never -shall you humiliate yourself on my account; sooner, a thousand -times, would I die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis reflected; his -features assumed a dark expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will love you as much as you have -loved; I will suffer as keenly as you have suffered; this shall -be my expiation in your eyes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, mademoiselle, put aside these -paltry considerations; let us show ourselves as great as our -sufferings, as strong as our affection for each other."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, as he said this, he took -her in his arms, and encircled her waist with both his hands, -saying, "My own love! my own dearest and best beloved, follow -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She made a final effort, -in which she concentrated, no longer all of her firmness of will, -for that had long since been overcome, but all her physical -strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No!" she -replied, weakly, "no! no!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I should die from shame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No! you shall return -like a queen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one -knows of your having left - except, indeed, D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has betrayed me, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He promised faithfully -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I promised not to say -anything to the king," said D'Artagnan, putting his head through -the half-opened door, "and I kept my word; I was speaking to M. -de Saint-Aignan, and it was not my fault if the king overheard -me; was it, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is quite true," said -the king; "forgive him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -smiled, and held out her small white hand to the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," -said the king, "be good enough to see if you can find a carriage -for Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said the -captain, "the carriage is waiting at the gate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are a magic mould -of forethought," exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have taken a long -time to find it out," muttered D'Artagnan, notwithstanding he was -flattered by the praise bestowed upon him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière was -overcome: after a little further hesitation, she allowed herself -to be led away, half fainting, by her royal lover.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as she was on the point of -leaving the room, she tore herself from the king's grasp, and -returned to the stone crucifix, which she kissed, saying, "Oh, -Heaven! it was thou who drewest me hither! thou, who has rejected -me; but thy grace is infinite.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever I shall again return, -forget that I have ever separated myself from thee, for, when I -return it will be - never to leave thee again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king could not -restrain his emotion, and D'Artagnan, even, was overcome.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis led the young girl away, -lifted her into the carriage, and directed D'Artagnan to seat -himself beside her, while he, mounting his horse, spurred -violently towards the Palais Royal, where, immediately on his -arrival, he sent to request an audience of Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -F</span>rom the manner in which the king had dismissed the -ambassadors, even the least clear-sighted persons belonging to -the court imagined war would ensue.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ambassadors themselves, but -slightly acquainted with the king's domestic disturbances, had -interpreted as directed against themselves the celebrated -sentence: “If I be not master of myself, I, at least, will -be so of those who insult me.”<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Happily for the destinies of France -and Holland, Colbert had followed them out of the king's presence -for the purpose of explaining matters to them; but the two queens -and Madame, who were perfectly aware of every particular that had -taken place in their several households, having heard the king's -remark, so full of dark meaning, retired to their own apartments -in no little fear and chagrin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, especially, felt that the -royal anger might fall upon her, and, as she was brave and -exceedingly proud, instead of seeking support and encouragement -from the queen-mother, she had returned to her own apartments, if -not without some uneasiness, at least without any intention of -avoiding an encounter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Anne of Austria, from time to time at frequent intervals, sent -messages to learn if the king had returned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The silence which the whole palace -preserved upon the matter, and upon Louise's disappearance, was -indicative of a long train of misfortunes to all those who knew -the haughty and irritable humor of the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Madame, unmoved in spite of all -the flying rumors, shut herself up in her apartments, sent for -Montalais, and, with a voice as calm as she could possibly -command, desired her to relate all she knew about the event -itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the moment -that the eloquent Montalais was concluding, with all kinds of -oratorical precautions, and was recommending, if not in actual -language, at least in spirit, that she should show forbearance -towards La Vallière, M. Malicorne made his appearance to -beg an audience of Madame, on behalf of the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais's worthy friend bore upon -his countenance all the signs of the very liveliest emotion.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was impossible to be -mistaken; the interview which the king requested would be one of -the most interesting chapters in the history of the hearts of -kings and of men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame -was disturbed by her brother-in-law's arrival; she did not expect -it so soon, nor had she, indeed, expected any direct step on -Louis's part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, -all women who wage war successfully by indirect means, are -invariably neither very skillful nor very strong when it becomes -a question of accepting a pitched battle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, however, was not one who -ever drew back; she had the very opposite defect or -qualification, in whichever light it may be considered; she took -an exaggerated view of what constituted real courage; and -therefore the king's message, of which Malicorne had been the -bearer, was regarded by her as the bugle-note proclaiming the -commencement of hostilities.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She, therefore, boldly accepted the -gage of battle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Five -minutes afterwards the king ascended the staircase.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His color was heightened from having -ridden hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His dusty -and disordered clothes formed a singular contrast with the fresh -and perfectly arranged toilette of Madame, who, notwithstanding -the rouge on her cheeks, turned pale as Louis entered the -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis lost no time -in approaching the object of his visit; he sat down, and -Montalais disappeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear sister," said -the king, "you are aware that Mademoiselle de la Vallière -fled from her own room this morning, and that she has retired to -a cloister, overwhelmed by grief and despair."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he pronounced these words, the -king's voice was singularly moved.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty is the -first to inform me of it," replied Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should have thought -that you might have learned it this morning, during the reception -of the ambassadors," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From your emotion, -sire, I imagined that something extraordinary had happened, but -without knowing what."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, with his usual -frankness, went straight to the point.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why did you send Mademoiselle de la -Vallière away?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I had reason to -be dissatisfied with her conduct," she replied, dryly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king became crimson, -and his eyes kindled with a fire which it required all Madame's -courage to support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -mastered his anger, however, and continued: "A stronger reason -than that is surely requisite, for one so good and kind as you -are, to turn away and dishonor, not only the young girl herself, -but every member of her family as well.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know that the whole city has its -eyes fixed upon the conduct of the female portion of the -court.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To dismiss a maid -of honor is to attribute a crime to her - at the very least a -fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What crime, what -fault has Mademoiselle de la Vallière been guilty of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Since you constitute -yourself the protector of Mademoiselle de la Vallière," -replied Madame, coldly, "I will give you those explanations which -I should have a perfect right to withhold from every one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Even from the king!" -exclaimed Louis, as, with a sudden gesture, he covered his head -with his hat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have called me your -sister," said Madame, "and I am in my own apartments."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It matters not," said -the youthful monarch, ashamed at having been hurried away by his -anger; "neither you, nor any one else in this kingdom, can assert -a right to withhold an explanation in my presence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Since that is the way -you regard it," said Madame, in a hoarse, angry tone of voice, -"all that remains for me to do is bow submission to your majesty, -and to be silent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let there be no equivocation between -us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The protection with -which you surround Mademoiselle de la Vallière does not -impose any respect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No equivocation, I -repeat; you are perfectly aware that, as the head of the nobility -in France, I am accountable to all for the honor of every -family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You dismiss -Mademoiselle de la Vallière, or whoever else it may be - -"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame shrugged her -shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Or whoever -else it may be, I repeat," continued the king; "and as, acting in -that manner, you cast a dishonorable reflection upon that person, -I ask you for an explanation, in order that I may confirm or -annul the sentence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Annul my sentence!" -exclaimed Madame, haughtily.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What! when I have discharged one of -my attendants, do you order me to take her back again?"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king remained silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This would be a sheer -abuse of power, sire; it would be indecorous and unseemly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As a woman, I should -revolt against an abuse so insulting to me; I should no longer be -able to regard myself as a princess of your blood, a daughter of -a monarch; I should be the meanest of creatures, more humbled and -disgraced than the servant I had sent away."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king rose from his -seat with anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It -cannot be a heart," he cried, "you have beating in your bosom; if -you act in such a way with me, I may have reason to act with -corresponding severity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It sometimes happens -that in a battle a chance ball may reach its mark.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The observation which the king had -made without any particular intention, struck Madame home, and -staggered her for a moment; some day or other she might indeed -have reason to dread reprisals.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "At all events, sire," she said, -"explain what you require."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I ask, madame, what has -Mademoiselle de la Vallière done to warrant your conduct -toward her?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She is the most cunning -fomenter of intrigues I know; she was the occasion of two -personal friends engaging in mortal combat; and has made people -talk of her in such shameless terms that the whole court is -indignant at the mere sound of her name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She! she!" cried the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Under her soft and -hypocritical manner," continued Madame, "she hides a disposition -full of foul and dark conceit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You may possibly be -deceived, sire, but I know her right well; she is capable of -creating dispute and misunderstanding between the most -affectionate relatives and the most intimate friends.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see that she has already sown -discord betwixt us two."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do assure you - " -said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, look well into -the case as it stands; we were living on the most friendly -understanding, and by the artfulness of her tales and complaints, -she has set your majesty against me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I swear to you," said -the king, "that on no occasion has a bitter word ever passed her -lips; I swear that, even in my wildest bursts of passion, she -would not allow me to menace any one; and I swear, too, that you -do not possess a more devoted and respectful friend than she -is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Friend!" said Madame, -with an expression of supreme disdain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care, Madame!" -said the king; "you forget that you now understand me, and that -from this moment everything is equalized.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mademoiselle de la Vallière -will be whatever I may choose her to become; and to-morrow, if I -were determined to do so, I could seat her on a throne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She was not born to a -throne, at least, and whatever you may do can affect the future -alone, but cannot affect the past."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, towards you I -have shown every kind consideration, and every eager desire to -please you; do not remind me that I am master."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the second time, -sire, that you have made that remark, and I have already informed -you I am ready to submit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, then, you -will confer upon me the favor of receiving Mademoiselle de la -Vallière back again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For what purpose, sire, -since you have a throne to bestow upon her?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am too insignificant to protect so -exalted a personage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, a truce to this -bitter and disdainful spirit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grant me her forgiveness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Never!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You drive me, then, to -open warfare in my own family."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, too, have a family -with whom I can find refuge."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you mean that as a -threat, and could you forget yourself so far?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you believe that, if you push the -affront to that extent, your family would encourage you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hope, sire, that you -will not force me to take any step which would be unworthy of my -rank."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hoped that you would -remember our recent friendship, and that you would treat me as a -brother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame paused for a -moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I do not disown -you for a brother," she said, "in refusing you majesty an -injustice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An injustice!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire! if I informed -others of La Vallière's conduct; if the queen knew - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come, Henrietta, -let your heart speak; remember that, for however brief a time, -you once loved me; remember, too, that human hearts should be as -merciful as the heart of a sovereign Master.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not be inflexible with others; -forgive La Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot; she has -offended me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But for my sake."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, it is for your -sake I would do anything in the world, except that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will drive me to -despair - you compel me to turn to the last resource of weak -people, and seek counsel of my angry and wrathful -disposition."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I advise you to be -reasonable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Reasonable! - I can be -so no longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, sire!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I pray you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For pity's sake, -Henrietta; it is the first time I entreated any one, and I have -no hope in any one but in you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire! you are -weeping."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From rage, from -humiliation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That I, the -king, should have been obliged to descend to entreaty.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall hate this moment -during my whole life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -have made me suffer in one moment more distress and more -degradation than I could have anticipated in the greatest -extremity in life."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -the king rose and gave free vent to his tears, which, in fact, -were tears of anger and shame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame was not touched -exactly - for the best women, when their pride is hurt, are -without pity; but she was afraid that the tears the king was -shedding might possibly carry away every soft and tender feeling -in his heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give what commands you -please, sire," she said; "and since you prefer my humiliation to -your own - although mine is public and yours has been witnessed -but by myself alone - speak, I will obey your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, Henrietta!" -exclaimed Louis, transported with gratitude, "you will have -yielded to a brother's wishes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I no longer have any -brother, since I obey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All that I have would -be too little in return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How passionately you -love, sire, when you do love!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis did not -answer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had seized -upon Madame's hand and covered it with kisses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And so you will receive this poor -girl back again, and will forgive her; you will find how gentle -and pure-hearted she is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will maintain her in -my household."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, you will give her -your friendship, my sister."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I never liked her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, for my sake, you -will treat her kindly, will you not, Henrietta?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will treat her as -your - <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mistress</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king rose suddenly -to his feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By this -word, which had so infelicitously escaped her, Madame had -destroyed the whole merit of her sacrifice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king felt freed from all -obligations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Exasperated -beyond measure, and bitterly offended, he replied:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thank you, Madame; I -shall never forget the service you have rendered me."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, saluting her with an -affectation of ceremony, he took his leave of her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he passed before a glass, he saw -that his eyes were red, and angrily stamped his foot on the -ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it was too -late, for Malicorne and D'Artagnan, who were standing at the -door, had seen his eyes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king has been -crying," thought Malicorne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan approached the king with -a respectful air, and said in a low tone of voice:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, it would be -better to return to your own apartments by the small -staircase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because the dust of the -road has left its traces on your face," said D'Artagnan.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "By heavens!" he thought, -"when the king has given way like a child, let those look to it -who may make the lady weep for whom the king sheds tears."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Mademoiselle de la Vallière's Pocket-Handkerchief.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>adame was not bad-hearted - she was only hasty and -impetuous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king was -not imprudent - he was simply in love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hardly had they entered into this -compact, which terminated in La Vallière's recall, when -they both sought to make as much as they could by their -bargain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king wished -to see La Vallière every moment of the day, while Madame, -who was sensible of the king's annoyance ever since he had so -entreated her, would not relinquish her revenge on La -Vallière without a contest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She planted every conceivable -difficulty in the king's path; he was, in fact, obliged, in order -to get a glimpse of La Vallière, to be exceedingly devoted -in his attentions to his sister-in-law, and this, indeed, was -Madame's plan of policy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -As she had chosen some one to second her efforts, and as this -person was our old friend Montalais, the king found himself -completely hemmed in every time he paid Madame a visit; he was -surrounded, and was never left a moment alone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame displayed in her conversation -a charm of manner and brilliancy of wit which dazzled -everybody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais -followed her, and soon rendered herself perfectly insupportable -to the king, which was, in fact, the very thing she expected -would happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She then -set Malicorne at the king, who found means of informing his -majesty that there was a young person belonging to the court who -was exceedingly miserable; and on the king inquiring who this -person was, Malicorne replied that it was Mademoiselle de -Montalais.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To this the -king answered that it was perfectly just that a person should be -unhappy when she rendered others so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whereupon Malicorne explained how -matters stood; for he had received his directions from -Montalais.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king began -to open his eyes; he remarked that, as soon as he made his -appearance, Madame made hers too; that she remained in the -corridors until after he had left; that she accompanied him back -to his own apartments, fearing that he might speak in the -ante-chambers to one of her maids of honor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One evening she went further -still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king was -seated, surrounded by the ladies who were present, and holding in -his hand, concealed by his lace ruffle, a small note which he -wished to slip into La Vallière's hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame guessed both his intention -and the letter too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was difficult to prevent the king going wherever he pleased, and -yet it was necessary to prevent his going near La -Vallière, or speaking to her, as by so doing he could let -the note fall into her lap behind her fan, or into her -pocket-handkerchief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king, who was also on the watch, suspected that a snare was being -laid for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He rose and -pushed his chair, without affectation, near Mademoiselle de -Châtillon, with whom he began to talk in a light tone.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were amusing themselves -making rhymes; from Mademoiselle de Châtillon he went to -Montalais, and then to Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And thus, by this skillful -maneuver, he found himself seated opposite to La Vallière, -whom he completely concealed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame pretended to be greatly -occupied, altering a group of flowers that she was working in -tapestry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king showed -the corner of his letter to La Vallière, and the latter -held out her handkerchief with a look that signified, "Put the -letter inside."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, as -the king had placed his own handkerchief upon his chair, he was -adroit enough to let it fall on the ground, so that La -Vallière slipped her handkerchief on the chair.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king took it up quietly, -without any one observing what he did, placed the letter within -it, and returned the handkerchief to the place he had taken it -from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was only just -time for La Vallière to stretch out her hand to take hold -of the handkerchief with its valuable contents.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But Madame, who had -observed everything that had passed, said to Mademoiselle de -Châtillon, "Châtillon, be good enough to pick up the -king's handkerchief, if you please; it has fallen on the -carpet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young girl obeyed -with the utmost precipitation, the king having moved from his -seat, and La Vallière being in no little degree nervous -and confused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg your majesty's pardon," said -Mademoiselle de Châtillon; "you have two handkerchiefs, I -perceive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the king was -accordingly obliged to put into his pocket La Vallière's -handkerchief as well as his own.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He certainly gained that souvenir of -Louise, who lost, however, a copy of verses which had cost the -king ten hours' hard labor, and which, as far as he was -concerned, was perhaps as good as a long poem.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would be impossible to describe -the king's anger and La Vallière's despair; but shortly -afterwards a circumstance occurred which was more than -remarkable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the king -left, in order to retire to his own apartments, Malicorne, -informed of what had passed, one can hardly tell how, was waiting -in the ante-chamber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -ante-chambers of the Palais Royal are naturally very dark, and, -in the evening, they were but indifferently lighted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing pleased the king more than -this dim light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As a -general rule, love, whose mind and heart are constantly in a -blaze, contemns all light, except the sunshine of the soul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so the ante-chamber was -dark; a page carried a torch before the king, who walked on -slowly, greatly annoyed at what had recently occurred.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne passed close to the -king, almost stumbled against him in fact, and begged his -forgiveness with the profoundest humility; but the king, who was -in an exceedingly ill-temper, was very sharp in his reproof to -Malicorne, who disappeared as soon and as quietly as he possibly -could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis retired to -rest, having had a misunderstanding with the queen; and the next -day, as soon as he entered the cabinet, he wished to have La -Vallière's handkerchief in order to press his lips to -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He called his -valet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fetch me," he said, -"the coat I wore yesterday evening, but be very sure you do not -touch anything it may contain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The order being obeyed, -the king himself searched the pocket of the coat; he found only -one handkerchief, and that his own; La Vallière's had -disappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst -busied with all kinds of conjectures and suspicions, a letter was -brought to him from La Vallière; it ran thus:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How good and kind of -you to have sent me those beautiful verses; how full of ingenuity -and perseverance your affection is; how is it possible to help -loving you so dearly!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What does this mean?" -thought the king; "there must be some mistake.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look well about," said he to the -valet, "for a pocket-handkerchief must be in one of my pockets; -and if you do not find it, or if you have touched it - "<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He reflected for a -moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To make a state -matter of the loss of the handkerchief would be to act absurdly, -and he therefore added, "There was a letter of some importance -inside the handkerchief, which had somehow got among the folds of -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said the valet, -"your majesty had only one handkerchief, and that is it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, true," replied -the king, setting his teeth hard together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, poverty, how I envy you!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Happy is the man who can empty -his own pockets of letters and handkerchiefs!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He read La -Vallière's letter over again, endeavoring to imagine in -what conceivable way his verses could have reached their -destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was a -postscript to the letter:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I send you back by your -messenger this reply, so unworthy of what you sent me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So far so good; I shall -find out something now," he said delightedly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Who is waiting, and who brought me -this letter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Malicorne," replied -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>valet de chambre</i>, -timidly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Desire him to come -in."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne entered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You come from -Mademoiselle de la Vallière?" said the king, with a -sigh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you took -Mademoiselle de la Vallière something from me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle de la -Vallière says so, distinctly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire, Mademoiselle -de la Vallière is mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king frowned.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What jest is this?" he said; -"explain yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why -does Mademoiselle de la Vallière call you my -messenger?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What did you -take to that lady?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Speak, -monsieur, and quickly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I merely took -Mademoiselle de la Vallière a pocket-handkerchief, that -was all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A handkerchief, - what -handkerchief?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, at the very -moment when I had the misfortune to stumble against your majesty -yesterday - a misfortune which I shall deplore to the last day of -my life, especially after the dissatisfaction which you exhibited -- I remained, sire, motionless with despair, your majesty being -at too great a distance to hear my excuses, when I saw something -white lying on the ground."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I stooped down, - it -was a pocket-handkerchief.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For a moment I had an idea that when -I stumbled against your majesty I must have been the cause of the -handkerchief falling from your pocket; but as I felt it all over -very respectfully, I perceived a cipher at one of the corners, -and, on looking at it closely, I found that it was Mademoiselle -de la Vallière's cipher.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I presumed that on her way to -Madame's apartment in the earlier part of the evening she had let -her handkerchief fall, and I accordingly hastened to restore it -to her as she was leaving; and that is all I gave to Mademoiselle -de la Vallière, I entreat your majesty to believe."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne's manner was so -simple, so full of contrition, and marked with such extreme -humility, that the king was greatly amused in listening to -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was as pleased -with him for what he had done as if he had rendered him the -greatest service.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is the second -fortunate meeting I have had with you, monsieur," he said; "you -may count upon my good intentions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The plain and sober -truth was, that Malicorne had picked the king's pocket of the -handkerchief as dexterously as any of the pickpockets of the good -city of Paris could have done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame never knew of this little -incident, but Montalais gave La Vallière some idea of the -manner in which it had really happened, and La Vallière -afterwards told the king, who laughed exceedingly at it and -pronounced Malicorne to be a first rate politician.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis XIV. was right, and it is well -known that he was tolerably well acquainted with human -nature.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Which Treats of Gardeners, of Ladders, and Maids of Honor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'><span style= -'font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>iracles, unfortunately, could not be always happening, -whilst Madame's ill-humor still continued.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a week's time, matters had -reached such a point, that the king could no longer look at La -Vallière without a look full of suspicion crossing his -own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever a promenade -was proposed, Madame, in order to avoid the recurrence of similar -scenes to that of the thunder-storm, or the royal oak, had a -variety of indispositions ready prepared; and, thanks to them, -she was unable to go out, and her maids of honor were obliged to -remain indoors also.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There was not the slightest chance of means of paying a nocturnal -visit; for in this respect the king had, on the very first -occasion, experienced a severe check, which happened in the -following manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As at -Fontainebleau, he had taken Saint-Aignan with him one evening -when he wished to pay La Vallière a visit; but he had -found no one but Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, who had begun -to call out "Fire!" and "Thieves!" in such a manner that a -perfect legion of chamber-maids, attendants, and pages, ran to -her assistance; so that Saint-Aignan, who had remained behind in -order to save the honor of his royal master, who had fled -precipitately, was obliged to submit to a severe scolding from -the queen-mother, as well as from Madame herself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In addition, he had, the next -morning, received two challenges from the De Mortemart family, -and the king had been obliged to interfere.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This mistake had been owing to the -circumstance of Madame having suddenly ordered a change in the -apartments of her maids of honor, and directed La Vallière -and Montalais to sleep in her own cabinet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No gateway, therefore, was any -longer open - not even communication by letter; to write under -the eyes of so ferocious an Argus as Madame, whose temper and -disposition were so uncertain, was to run the risk of exposure to -the greatest danger; and it can well be conceived into what a -state of continuous irritation, and ever increasing anger, all -these petty annoyances threw the young lion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king almost tormented himself to -death endeavoring to discover a means of communication; and, as -he did not think proper to call in the aid of Malicorne or -D'Artagnan, the means were not discovered at all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne had, indeed, occasional -brilliant flashes of imagination, with which he tried to inspire -the king with confidence; but, whether from shame or suspicion, -the king, who had at first begun to nibble at the bait, soon -abandoned the hook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -this way, for instance, one evening, while the king was crossing -the garden, and looking up at Madame's windows, Malicorne -stumbled over a ladder lying beside a border of box, and said to -Manicamp, then walking with him behind the king, "Did you not see -that I just now stumbled against a ladder, and was nearly thrown -down?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," said Manicamp, as -usual very absent-minded, "but it appears you did not fall."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That doesn't matter; -but it is not on that account the less dangerous to leave ladders -lying about in that manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, one might hurt -one's self, especially when troubled with fits of absence of -mind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't mean that; what -I did mean, was that it is dangerous to allow ladders to lie -about so near the windows of the maids of honor."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis started imperceptibly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?" inquired -Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak louder," -whispered Malicorne, as he touched him with his arm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?" said Manicamp, -louder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -listened.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because, for instance," -said Malicorne, "a ladder nineteen feet high is just the height -of the cornice of those windows."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Manicamp, instead of answering, was -dreaming of something else.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask me, can't you, what -windows I mean," whispered Malicorne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what windows are -you referring to?" said Manicamp, aloud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The windows of Madame's -apartments."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't say that any one would ever -venture to go up a ladder into Madame's room; but in Madame's -cabinet, merely separated by a partition, sleep two exceedingly -pretty girls, Mesdemoiselles de la Vallière and de -Montalais."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By a partition?" said -Manicamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look; you see how -brilliantly lighted Madame's apartments are - well, do you see -those two windows?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that window close -to the others, but more dimly lighted?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, that is the room -of the maids of honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Look, there is Mademoiselle de la Vallière opening the -window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! how many soft -things could an enterprising lover say to her, if he only -suspected that there was lying here a ladder nineteen feet long, -which would just reach the cornice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But she is not alone; -you said Mademoiselle de Montalais is with her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle de -Montalais counts for nothing; she is her oldest friend, and -exceedingly devoted to her - a positive well, into which can be -thrown all sorts of secrets one might wish to get rid of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king did not lose a -single syllable of this conversation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne even remarked that his -majesty slackened his pace, in order to give him time to -finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, when they -arrived at the door, Louis dismissed every one, with the -exception of Malicorne - a circumstance which excited no -surprise, for it was known that the king was in love; and they -suspected he was going to compose some verses by moonlight; and, -although there was no moon that evening, the king might, -nevertheless, have some verses to compose.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one, therefore, took his -leave; and, immediately afterwards, the king turned towards -Malicorne, who respectfully waited until his majesty should -address him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What were -you saying, just now, about a ladder, Monsieur Malicorne?" he -asked.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did I say anything -about ladders, sire?" said Malicorne, looking up, as if in search -of words which had flown away.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, of a ladder -nineteen feet long."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, yes, sire, I -remember; but I spoke to M. Manicamp, and I should not have said -a word had I known your majesty was near enough to hear us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why would you not -have said a word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I should not -have liked to get the gardener into a scrape who left it there - -poor fellow!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Don't make yourself -uneasy on that account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What is this ladder like?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If your majesty wishes -to see it, nothing is easier, for there it is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that box hedge?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> -"Exactly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Show it to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne turned back, -and led the king up to the ladder, saying, "This is it, -sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pull it -this way a little."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> When -Malicorne had brought the ladder on to the gravel walk, the king -began to step its whole length.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Hum!" he said; "you say it is -nineteen feet long?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nineteen feet - that is -rather long; I hardly believe it can be so long as that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You cannot judge very -correctly with the ladder in that position, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If it were upright, against a tree -or a wall, for instance, you would be better able to judge, -because the comparison would assist you a good deal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! it does not matter, -M. Malicorne; but I can hardly believe that the ladder is -nineteen feet high."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know how accurate -your majesty's glance is, and yet I would wager."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king shook his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is one -unanswerable means of verifying it," said Malicorne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every one knows, sire, -that the ground-floor of the palace is eighteen feet high."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, that is very well -known."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, sire, if I place -the ladder against the wall, we shall be able to ascertain."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne took up the -ladder, like a feather, and placed it upright against the -wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, in order to -try the experiment, he chose, or chance, perhaps, directed him to -choose, the very window of the cabinet where La Vallière -was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ladder just -reached the edge of the cornice, that is to say, the sill of the -window; so that, by standing upon the last round but one of the -ladder, a man of about the middle height, as the king was, for -instance, could easily talk with those who might be in the -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hardly had the -ladder been properly placed, when the king, dropping the assumed -part he had been playing in the comedy, began to ascend the -rounds of the ladder, which Malicorne held at the bottom.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But hardly had he completed -half the distance when a patrol of Swiss guards appeared in the -garden, and advanced straight towards them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king descended with the utmost -precipitation, and concealed himself among the trees.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne at once perceived that he -must offer himself as a sacrifice; for if he, too, were to -conceal himself, the guard would search everywhere until they had -found either himself or the king, perhaps both.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would be far better, therefore, -that he alone should be discovered.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, consequently, Malicorne hid -himself so clumsily that he was the only one arrested.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he was arrested, -Malicorne was taken to the guard-house, and there he declared who -he was, and was immediately recognized.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime, by concealing -himself first behind one clump of trees and then behind another, -the king reached the side door of his apartment, very much -humiliated, and still more disappointed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> More than that, the noise made in -arresting Malicorne had drawn La Vallière and Montalais to -their window; and even Madame herself had appeared at her own, -with a pair of wax candles, one in each hand, clamorously asking -what was the matter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In the meantime, -Malicorne sent for D'Artagnan, who did not lose a moment in -hurrying to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it -was in vain he attempted to make him understand his reasons, and -in vain also that D'Artagnan did understand them; and, further, -it was equally in vain that both their sharp and intuitive minds -endeavored to give another turn to the adventure; there was no -other resource left for Malicorne but to let it be supposed that -he had wished to enter Mademoiselle de Montalais's apartment, as -Saint-Aignan had passed for having wished to force Mademoiselle -de Tonnay-Charente's door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame was inflexible; in the first -place, because, if Malicorne had, in fact, wished to enter her -apartment at night through the window, and by means of the -ladder, in order to see Montalais, it was a punishable offense on -Malicorne's part, and he must be punished accordingly; and, in -the second place, if Malicorne, instead of acting in his own -name, had acted as an intermediary between La Vallière and -a person whose name it was superfluous to mention, his crime was -in that case even greater, since love, which is an excuse for -everything, did not exist in the case as an excuse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame therefore made the greatest -possible disturbance about the matter, and obtained his dismissal -from Monsieur's household, without reflecting, poor blind -creature, that both Malicorne and Montalais held her fast in -their clutches in consequence of her visit to De Guiche, and in a -variety of other ways equally delicate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais, who was perfectly -furious, wished to revenge herself immediately, but Malicorne -pointed out to her that the king's countenance would repay them -for all the disgraces in the world, and that it was a great thing -to have to suffer on his majesty's account.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne was perfectly -right, and, therefore, although Montalais had the spirit of ten -women in her, he succeeded in bringing her round to his own -opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And we must not -omit to state that the king helped them to console themselves, -for, in the first place, he presented Malicorne with fifty -thousand francs as a compensation for the post he had lost, and, -in the next place, he gave him an appointment in his own -household, delighted to have an opportunity of revenging himself -in such a manner upon Madame for all she had made him and La -Vallière suffer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But as Malicorne could no longer carry significant handkerchiefs -for him or plant convenient ladders, the royal lover was in a -terrible state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -seemed to be no hope, therefore, of ever getting near La -Vallière again, so long as she should remain at the Palais -Royal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the dignities -and all the money in the world could not remedy that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fortunately, however, Malicorne was -on the lookout, and this so successfully that he met Montalais, -who, to do her justice, it must be admitted, was doing her best -to meet Malicorne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What -do you do during the night in Madame's apartment?" he asked the -young girl.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, I go to sleep, of -course," she replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But it is very wrong to -sleep; it can hardly be possible that, with the pain you are -suffering, you can manage to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what am I suffering -from, may I ask?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you not in despair -at my absence?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course not, since -you have received fifty thousand francs and an appointment in the -king's household."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a matter of no -moment; you are exceedingly afflicted at not seeing me as you -used to see me formerly, and more than all, you are in despair at -my having lost Madame's confidence; come now, is not that -true?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; your -distress of mind prevents you sleeping at night, and so you sob, -and sigh, and blow your nose ten times every minute as loud as -possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, my dear Malicorne, -Madame cannot endure the slightest noise near her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know that perfectly -well; of course she can't endure anything; and so, I tell you, -when she hears your deep distress, she will turn you out of her -rooms without a moment's delay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very fortunate you <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>do</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and what will -happen next?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The next thing that -will happen will be, that La Vallière, finding herself -alone without you, will groan and utter such loud lamentations, -that she will exhibit despair enough for two."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case she will -be put into <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>another</i> -room, don't you see?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, but which?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, that will puzzle -you to say, Mr. Inventor-General."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all; whenever -and whatever the room may be, it will always be preferable to -Madame's own room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, so begin -your lamentations to-night."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I certainly will not -fail to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And give La -Vallière a hint also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! don't fear her, she -cries quite enough already to herself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well! all she has -to do is cry out loudly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And they separated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Which Treats of Carpentry Operations, and Furnishes Details upon -the Mode of Constructing Staircases.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he advice which had been given to Montalais was -communicated by her to La Vallière, who could not but -acknowledge that it was by no means deficient in judgment, and -who, after a certain amount of resistance, rising rather from -timidity than indifference to the project, resolved to put it -into execution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -story of the two girls weeping, and filling Madame's bedroom with -the noisiest lamentations, was Malicorne's <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>chef-d'œuvre</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As nothing is so probable as -improbability, so natural as romance, this kind of Arabian Nights -story succeeded perfectly with Madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The first thing she did was to send -Montalais away, and then, three days, or rather three nights -afterwards, she had La Vallière removed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She gave the latter one of the small -rooms on the top story, situated immediately over the apartments -allotted to the gentlemen of Monsieur's suite.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One story only, that is to say, a -mere flooring separated the maids of honor from the officers and -gentlemen of her husband's household.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A private staircase, which was -placed under Madame de Navailles's surveillance, was the only -means of communication.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -For greater safety, Madame de Navailles, who had heard of his -majesty's previous attempts, had the windows of the rooms and the -openings of the chimneys carefully barred.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was, therefore, every possible -security provided for Mademoiselle de la Vallière, whose -room now bore more resemblance to a cage than to anything -else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Mademoiselle -de la Vallière was in her own room, and she was there very -frequently, for Madame scarcely ever had any occasion for her -services, since she once knew she was safe under Madame de -Navailles's inspection, Mademoiselle de la Vallière had no -better means of amusing herself than looking through the bars of -her windows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It happened, -therefore, that one morning, as she was looking out as usual, she -perceived Malicorne at one of the windows exactly opposite to her -own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He held a -carpenter's rule in his hand, was surveying the buildings, and -seemed to be adding up some figures on paper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière recognized -Malicorne and nodded to him; Malicorne, in his turn, replied by a -formal bow, and disappeared from the window.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was surprised at this marked -coolness, so different from his usual unfailing good-humor, but -she remembered that he had lost his appointment on her account, -and that he could hardly be very amiably disposed towards her, -since, in all probability, she would never be in a position to -make him any recompense for what he had lost.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She knew how to forgive offenses, -and with still more readiness could she sympathize with -misfortune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La -Vallière would have asked Montalais her opinion, if she -had been within hearing, but she was absent, it being the hour -she commonly devoted to her own correspondence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly La Vallière observed -something thrown from the window where Malicorne had been -standing, pass across the open space which separated the iron -bars, and roll upon the floor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She advanced with no little -curiosity towards this object, and picked it up; it was a wooden -reel for silk, only, in this instance, instead of silk, a piece -of paper was rolled round it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière unrolled it and -read as follows:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MADEMOISELLE, - I am -exceedingly anxious to learn two things: the first is, to know if -the flooring of your apartment is wood or brick; the second, to -ascertain at what distance your bed is placed from the -window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forgive my -importunity, and will you be good enough to send me an answer by -the same way you receive this letter - that is to say, by means -of the silk winder; only, instead of throwing into my room, as I -have thrown it into yours, which will be too difficult for you to -attempt, have the goodness merely to let it fall.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Believe me, mademoiselle, your most -humble, most respectful servant,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -"MALICORNE.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Write the reply, if you -please, upon the letter itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! poor fellow," -exclaimed La Vallière, "he must have gone out of his -mind;" and she directed towards her correspondent - of whom she -caught but a faint glimpse, in consequence of the darkness of the -room - a look full of compassionate consideration.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne understood her, and shook -his head, as if he meant to say, "No, no, I am not out of my -mind; be quite satisfied."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She smiled, as if still -in doubt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no," he signified -by a gesture, "my head is right," and pointed to his head, then, -after moving his hand like a man who writes very rapidly, he put -his hands together as if entreating her to write.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière, even -if he were mad, saw no impropriety in doing what Malicorne -requested her; she took a pencil and wrote "Wood," and then -walked slowly from her window to her bed, and wrote, "Six paces," -and having done this, she looked out again at Malicorne, who -bowed to her, signifying that he was about to descend.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière understood -that it was to pick up the silk winder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She approached the window, and, in -accordance with Malicorne's instructions, let it fall.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The winder was still rolling -along the flag-stones as Malicorne started after it, overtook and -picked it up, and beginning to peel it as a monkey would do with -a nut, he ran straight towards M. de Saint-Aignan's -apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan -had chosen, or rather solicited, that his rooms might be as near -the king as possible, as certain plants seek the sun's rays in -order to develop themselves more luxuriantly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His apartment consisted of two -rooms, in that portion of the palace occupied by Louis XIV. -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Saint-Aignan was very proud of this proximity, which afforded -easy access to his majesty, and, more than that, the favor of -occasional unexpected meetings.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the moment we are now referring -to, he was engaged in having both his rooms magnificently -carpeted, with expectation of receiving the honor of frequent -visits from the king; for his majesty, since his passion for La -Vallière, had chosen Saint-Aignan as his confidant, and -could not, in fact, do without him, either night or day.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne introduced himself -to the comte, and met with no difficulties, because he had been -favorably noticed by the king; and also, because the credit which -one man may happen to enjoy is always a bait for others.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan asked his visitor -if he brought any news with him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; great news," -replied the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah!" said -Saint-Aignan, "what is it?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> -"Mademoiselle de la Vallière has changed her -quarters."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean?" said -Saint-Aignan, opening his eyes very wide.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "She was living in the same -apartments as Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely so; but -Madame got tired of her proximity, and has installed her in a -room which is situated exactly above your future apartment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! up there," -exclaimed Saint-Aignan, with surprise, and pointing at the floor -above him with his finger.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," said Malicorne, -"yonder," indicating the building opposite.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean, then, -by saying that her room is above my apartment?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I am sure that -your apartment <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ought</i>, -providentially, to be under Mademoiselle de la Vallière's -room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan, at this -remark, gave poor Malicorne a look, similar to one of those La -Vallière had already given a quarter of an hour before, -that is to say, he thought he had lost his senses.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said -Malicorne to him, "I wish to answer what you are thinking -about."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean by -'what I am thinking about'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My reason is, that you -have not clearly understood what I want to convey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I admit it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, you are -aware that underneath the apartments set for Madame's maids of -honor, the gentlemen in attendance on the king and on Monsieur -are lodged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I know that, since -Manicamp, De Wardes, and others are living there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, monsieur, admire the -singularity of the circumstance; the two rooms destined for M. de -Guiche are exactly the very two rooms situated underneath those -which Mademoiselle de Montalais and Mademoiselle de la -Vallière occupy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; what then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'What then,' do you -say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, these two rooms -are empty, since M. de Guiche is now lying wounded at -Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I assure you, my dear -fellow, I cannot grasp your meaning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! if I had the -happiness to call myself Saint-Aignan, I should guess -immediately."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what would you do -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should at once change -the rooms I am occupying here, for those which M. de Guiche is -not using yonder."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Can you suppose such a -thing?" said Saint-Aignan, disdainfully.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What! abandon the chief post of -honor, the proximity to the king, a privilege conceded only to -princes of the blood, to dukes, and peers!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Permit me to tell you, my dear -Monsieur de Malicorne, that you must be out of your senses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," replied the -young man, seriously, "you commit two mistakes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My name is Malicorne, simply; and I -am in perfect possession of all my senses."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, drawing a paper from his -pocket, he said, "Listen to what I am going to say; and -afterwards, I will show you this paper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am listening," said -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know that Madame -looks after La Vallière as carefully as Argus did after -the nymph Io."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know that the king -has sought for an opportunity, but uselessly, of speaking to the -prisoner, and that neither you nor myself have yet succeeded in -procuring him this piece of good fortune."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You certainly ought to -know something about the subject, my poor Malicorne," said -Saint-Aignan, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; what do you -suppose would happen to the man whose imagination devised some -means of bringing the lovers together?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! the -king would set no bounds to his gratitude."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let me ask you, then, -M. de Saint-Aignan, whether you would not be curious to taste a -little of this royal gratitude?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly," replied -Saint-Aignan, "any favor of my master, as a recognition of the -proper discharge of my duty, would assuredly be most -precious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, look at -this paper, monsieur le comte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it - a -plan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; a plan of M. de -Guiche's two rooms, which, in all probability, will soon be your -two rooms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no, whatever may -happen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because my rooms are -the envy of too many gentlemen, to whom I certainly shall not -give them up; M. de Roquelaure, for instance, M. de la -Ferté, and M. de Dangeau, would all be anxious to get -them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case I shall -leave you, monsieur le comte, and I shall go and offer to one of -those gentlemen the plan I have just shown you, together with the -advantages annexed to it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But why do you not keep -them for yourself?" inquired Saint-Aignan, suspiciously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "Because the king -would never do me the honor of paying me a visit openly, whilst -he would readily go and see any one of those gentlemen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! the king would go -and see any one of those gentlemen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go! most certainly he -would ten times instead of once.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it possible you can ask me if the -king would go to an apartment which would bring him nearer to -Mademoiselle de la Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, indeed, -delightfully near her, with a floor between them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne unfolded the -piece of paper which had been wrapped round the bobbin.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur le comte," he said, -"have the goodness to observe that the flooring of Mademoiselle -de la Vallière's room is merely a wooden flooring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! all you would -have to do would be to get hold of a journeyman carpenter, lock -him up in your apartments, without letting him know where you -have taken him to, and let him make a hole in your ceiling, and -consequently in the flooring of Mademoiselle de la -Vallière's room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens!" -exclaimed Saint-Aignan, as if dazzled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter?" -said Malicorne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing, except that -you have hit upon a singular, bold idea, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It will seem a very -trifling one to the king, I assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Lovers never think of -the risk they run."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What danger do you -apprehend, monsieur le comte?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, effecting such an -opening as that will make a terrible noise: it could be heard all -over the palace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! monsieur le comte, -I am quite sure that the carpenter I shall select will not make -the slightest noise in the world.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will saw an opening three feet -square, with a saw covered with tow, and no one, not even those -adjoining, will know that he is at work."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Monsieur -Malicorne, you astound, you positively bewilder me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To continue," replied -Malicorne, quietly, "in the room, the ceiling of which you will -have cut through, you will put up a staircase, which will either -allow Mademoiselle de la Vallière to descend into your -room, or the king to ascend into Mademoiselle de la -Vallière's room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the staircase will -be seen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; for in your room it -will be hidden by a partition, over which you will throw a -tapestry similar to that which covers the rest of the apartment; -and in Mademoiselle de la Vallière's room it will not be -seen, for the trapdoor, which will be a part of the flooring -itself, will be made to open under the bed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course," said -Saint-Aignan, whose eyes began to sparkle with delight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now, monsieur le -comte, there is no occasion to make you admit that the king will -frequently come to the room where such a staircase is -constructed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I think that -M. Dangeau, particularly, will be struck by my idea, and I shall -now go and explain to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, my dear Monsieur -Malicorne, you forget that you spoke to me about it the first, -and that I have consequently the right of priority."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you wish for the -preference?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do I wish it?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of course I do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is, Monsieur -de Saint-Aignan, I am presenting you with a Jacob's ladder, which -is better than the promise of an additional step in the peerage - -perhaps, even with a good estate to accompany your dukedom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At least," replied -Saint-Aignan, "it will give me an opportunity of showing the king -that he is not mistaken in occasionally calling me his friend; an -opportunity, dear M. Malicorne, for which I am indebted to -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And which you will not -forget to remember?" inquired Malicorne, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing will delight me -more, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I am not the king's -friend; I am simply his attendant."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and if you imagine -that that staircase is as good as a dukedom for myself, I think -there will certainly be letters of nobility at the top of it for -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All I have to do now," -said Saint-Aignan, "is to move as soon as possible."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not -think the king will object to it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ask his permission, however."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will go and see him -this very moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I will run and get -the carpenter I was speaking of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When will he be -here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This very evening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not forget your -precautions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He shall be brought -with his eyes bandaged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I will send you one -of my carriages."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Without arms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And one of my servants -without livery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But stay, -what will La Vallière say if she sees what is going -on?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can assure you she will be very -much interested in the operation, and I am equally sure that if -the king has not courage enough to ascend to her room, she will -have sufficient curiosity to come down to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will live in hope," -said Saint-Aignan; "and now I am off to his majesty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At what time will the carpenter be -here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At eight o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How long do you suppose -he will take to make this opening?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About a couple of -hours; only afterwards he must have sufficient time to construct -what may be called the hyphen between the two rooms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One night and a portion of the -following day will do; we must not reckon upon less than two -days, including putting up the staircase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Two days, that is a -very long time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay; when one -undertakes to open up communications with paradise itself, we -must at least take care that the approaches are respectable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite right; so -farewell for a short time, dear M. Malicorne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall begin to remove the day -after to-morrow, in the evening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXIV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Promenade by Torchlight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -S</span>aint-Aignan, delighted with what he had just heard, and -rejoiced at what the future foreshadowed for him, bent his steps -towards De Guiche's two rooms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He who, a quarter of an hour -previously, would hardly yield up his own rooms for a million -francs, was now ready to expend a million, if it were necessary, -upon the acquisition of the two happy rooms he coveted so -eagerly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he did not -meet with so many obstacles.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Guiche did not yet know where -he was to lodge, and, besides, was still too far ill to trouble -himself about his lodgings; and so Saint-Aignan obtained De -Guiche's two rooms without difficulty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for M. Dangeau, he was so -immeasurably delighted, that he did not even give himself the -trouble to think whether Saint-Aignan had any particular reason -for removing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Within an -hour after Saint-Aignan's new resolution, he was in possession of -the two rooms; and ten minutes later Malicorne entered, followed -by the upholsterers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -During this time, the king asked for Saint-Aignan; the valet ran -to his late apartments and found M. Dangeau there; Dangeau sent -him on to De Guiche's, and Saint-Aignan was found there; but a -little delay had of course taken place, and the king had already -exhibited once or twice evident signs of impatience, when -Saint-Aignan entered his royal master's presence, quite out of -breath.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You, too, abandon me, -then," said Louis XIV., in a similar tone of lamentation to that -with which Cæsar, eighteen hundred years previously, had -pronounced the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Et tu -quoque.</i></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I am far from -abandoning you, for, on the contrary, I am busily occupied in -changing my lodgings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I thought you had finished -moving three days ago."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I don't find myself comfortable -where I am, so I am going to change to the opposite side of the -building."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was I not right when I -said you were abandoning me?" exclaimed the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! this exceeds all -endurance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But so it is: -there was only one woman for whom my heart cared at all, and all -my family is leagued together to tear her from me; and my friend, -to whom I confided my distress, and who helped me to bear up -under it, has become wearied of my complaints and is going to -leave me without even asking my permission."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan began to -laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king at once -guessed there must be some mystery in this want of respect.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is it?" cried the king, -full of hope.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This, sire, that the -friend whom the king calumniates is going to try if he cannot -restore to his sovereign the happiness he has lost."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you going to let me -see La Vallière?" said Louis XIV.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot say so, -positively, but I hope so."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How - how? -- tell me that, Saint-Aignan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to know what your project is, -and to help you with all my power."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," replied -Saint-Aignan, "I cannot, even myself, tell very well how I must -set about attaining success; but I have every reason to believe -that from to-morrow - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow, do you -say!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What happiness!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But why are you changing your -rooms?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In order to serve your -majesty to better advantage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can your moving -serve me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you -happen to know where the two rooms destined for De Guiche are -situated?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, your majesty now -knows where I am going."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very likely; but that -does not help me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! is it possible -that you do not understand, sire, that above De Guiche's lodgings -are two rooms, one of which is Mademoiselle Montalais's, and the -other - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "La Vallière's, -is it not so, Saint-Aignan?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! yes, yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a brilliant idea, -Saint-Aignan, a true friend's idea, a poet's idea.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By bringing me nearer her from whom -the world seems to unite to separate me - you are far more than -Pylades was for Orestes, or Patroclus for Achilles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said Aignan, -with a smile, "I question whether, if your majesty were to know -my projects in their full extent, you would continue to pronounce -such a pompous eulogium upon me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! sire, I know how very different -are the epithets which certain Puritans of the court will not -fail to apply to me when they learn of what I intend to do for -your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Saint-Aignan, I am -dying with impatience; I am in a perfect fever; I shall never be -able to wait until to-morrow - to-morrow! why, to-morrow is an -eternity!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet, sire, I shall -require you, if you please, to go out presently and divert your -impatience by a good walk."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With you - agreed; we -will talk about your projects, we will talk of her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, sire; I remain -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whom shall I go out -with, then?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With the -queen and all the ladies of the court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing shall induce me -to do that, Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet, sire, you -must."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Must?</i> - no, no - a thousand -times no!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will never -again expose myself to the horrible torture of being close to -her, of seeing her, of touching her dress as I pass by her, and -yet not be able to say a word to her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, I renounce a torture which you -suppose will bring me happiness, but which consumes and eats away -my very life; to see her in the presence of strangers, and not to -tell her that I love her, when my whole being reveals my -affection and betrays me to every one; no!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have sworn never to do it again, -and I will keep my oath."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yet, sire, pray listen -to me for a moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will listen to -nothing, Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I will -continue; it is most urgent, sire - pray understand me, it is of -the greatest importance - that Madame and her maids of honor -should be absent for two hours from the palace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot understand -your meaning at all, Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is hard for me to -give my sovereign directions what to do; but under the -circumstances I do give you directions, sire; and either a -hunting or a promenade party must be got up."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But if I were to do -what you wish, it would be a caprice, a mere whim.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In displaying such an impatient -humor I show my whole court that I have no control over my own -feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not people -already say that I am dreaming of the conquest of the world, but -that I ought previously to begin by achieving a conquest over -myself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Those who say so, sire, -are as insolent as they would like to be thought facetious; but -whomever they may be, if your majesty prefers to listen to them, -I have nothing further to say.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In such a case, that which we have -fixed to take place to-morrow must be postponed -indefinitely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, Saint-Aignan, I -will go out this evening - I will go by torchlight to -Saint-Germain: I will breakfast there to-morrow, and will return -to Paris by three o'clock.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will that do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Admirably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case I will set -out this evening at eight o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty has fixed -upon the exact minute."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you positively will -tell me nothing more?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is because I have -nothing more to tell you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Industry counts for something in this world, sire; but still, -chance plays so important a part in it that I have been -accustomed to leave her the sidewalk, confident that she will -manage so as to always take the street."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I abandon myself -entirely to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are quite -right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Comforted in this -manner, the king went immediately to Madame, to whom he announced -the intended expedition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Madame fancied at the first moment that she saw in this -unexpectedly arranged party a plot of the king's to converse with -La Vallière, either on the road under cover of the -darkness, or in some other way, but she took especial care not to -show any of her fancies to her brother-in-law, and accepted the -invitation with a smile upon her lips.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She gave directions aloud that her -maids of honor should accompany her, secretly intending in the -evening to take the most effectual steps to interfere with his -majesty's attachment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Then, when she was alone, and at the very moment the poor lover, -who had issued orders for the departure, was reveling in the idea -that Mademoiselle de la Vallière would form one of the -party, - luxuriating in the sad happiness persecuted lovers enjoy -of realizing through the sense of sight alone all the transports -of possession, - Madame, who was surrounded by her maids of -honor, was saying: - "Two ladies will be enough for me this -evening, Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente and Mademoiselle de -Montalais."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière had -anticipated her own omission, and was prepared for it: but -persecution had rendered her courageous, and she did not give -Madame the pleasure of seeing on her face the impression of the -shock her heart received.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -On the contrary, smiling with that ineffable gentleness which -gave an angelic expression to her features - "In that case, -Madame, I shall be at liberty this evening, I suppose?" she -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall be able to -employ it, then, in progressing with that piece of tapestry which -your highness has been good enough to notice, and which I have -already had the honor of offering to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And having made a -respectful obeisance she withdrew to her own apartment; -Mesdemoiselles de Tonnay-Charente and de Montalais did the -same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The rumor of the -intended promenade soon spread all over the palace; ten minutes -afterwards Malicorne learned Madame's resolution, and slipped -under Montalais's door a note, in the following terms:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "L. V. must positively -pass the night the night with Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais, in pursuance -of the compact she had entered into, began by burning the letter, -and then sat down to reflect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais was a girl full of -expedients, and so she very soon arranged her plan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards five o'clock, which was the -hour for her to repair to Madame's apartment, she was running -across the courtyard, and had reached within a dozen paces of a -group of officers, when she uttered a cry, fell gracefully on one -knee, rose again, with difficulty, and walked on limpingly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The gentlemen ran forward to -her assistance; Montalais had sprained her foot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Faithful to the discharge of her -duty, she insisted, however, notwithstanding her accident, upon -going to Madame's apartments.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter, and -why do you limp so?" she inquired; "I mistook you for La -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais related how it -had happened, that in hurrying on, in order to arrive as quickly -as possible, she had sprained her foot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame seemed to pity her, and -wished to have a surgeon sent for immediately, but she, assuring -her that there was nothing really serious in the accident, said: -"My only regret, Madame, is, that it will preclude my attendance -on you, and I should have begged Mademoiselle de la -Vallière to take my place with your royal highness, but - -" seeing that Madame frowned, she added - "I have not done -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why did you not do so?" -inquired Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because poor La -Vallière seemed so happy to have her liberty for a whole -evening and night too, that I did not feel courageous enough to -ask her to take my place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, is she so -delighted as that?" inquired madame, struck by these words.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She is wild with -delight; she, who is always so melancholy, was singing like a -bird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, you -highness knows how much she detests going out, and also that her -character has a spice of wildness in it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So!" thought Madame, -"this extreme delight hardly seems natural to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She has already made -all her preparations for dining in her own room <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>tête-à-tête</i> -with one of her favorite books.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, as your highness has six -other young ladies who would be delighted to accompany you, I did -not make my proposal to La Vallière."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame did not say a word in -reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have I acted properly?" -continued Montalais, with a slight fluttering of the heart, -seeing the little success that seemed to attend the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>ruse de guerre</i> which she had -relied upon with so much confidence that she had not thought it -even necessary to try and find another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Does Madame approve of what I have -done?" she continued.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame was reflecting -that the king could very easily leave Saint-Germain during the -night, and that, as it was only four leagues and a half from -Paris to Saint-Germain, he might readily be in Paris in an hour's -time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Tell me," she -said, "whether La Vallière, when she heard of your -accident, offered at least to bear you company?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! she does not yet -know of my accident; but even did she know of it, I most -certainly should not ask her to do anything that might interfere -with her own plans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -think she wishes this evening to realize quietly by herself that -amusement of the late king, when he said to M. de Cinq-Mars, 'Let -us amuse ourselves by doing nothing, and making ourselves -miserable.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame felt convinced -that some mysterious love adventure lurked behind this strong -desire for solitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -secret <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>might</i> be Louis's -return during the night; it could not be doubted any longer La -Vallière had been informed of his intended return, and -that was the reason for her delight at having to remain behind at -the Palais Royal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -a plan settled and arranged beforehand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not be their -dupe though," said Madame, and she took a decisive step.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Mademoiselle de Montalais," -she said, "will you have the goodness to inform your friend, -Mademoiselle de la Vallière, that I am exceedingly sorry -to disarrange her projects of solitude, but that instead of -becoming <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>ennuyée</i> by remaining -behind alone as she wished, she will be good enough to accompany -us to Saint-Germain and get <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>ennuyée</i> there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! poor La -Vallière," said Montalais, compassionately, but with her -heart throbbing with delight; "oh, Madame, could there not be -some means - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enough," said Madame; -"I desire it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I prefer -Mademoiselle la Baume le Blanc's society to that of any one -else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, and send her to -me, and take care of your foot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais did not wait -for the order to be repeated; she returned to her room, almost -forgetting to feign lameness, wrote an answer to Malicorne, and -slipped it under the carpet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The answer simply said: "She -shall."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A Spartan could -not have written more laconically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By this means," thought -Madame, "I will look narrowly after all on the road; she shall -sleep near me during the night, and his majesty must be very -clever if he can exchange a single word with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -received the order to set off with the same indifferent -gentleness with which she had received the order to play -Cinderella.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, -inwardly, her delight was extreme, and she looked upon this -change in the princess's resolution as a consolation which -Providence had sent her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -With less penetration than Madame possessed, she attributed all -to chance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While every -one, with the exception of those in disgrace, of those who were -ill, and those who were suffering from sprains, were being driven -towards Saint-Germain, Malicorne smuggled his workman into the -palace in one of M. de Saint-Aignan's carriages, and led him into -the room corresponding to La Vallière's.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man set to work with a will, -tempted by the splendid reward which had been promised him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As the very best tools and -implements had been selected from the reserve stock belonging to -the engineers attached to the king's household - and among -others, a saw with teeth so sharp and well tempered that it was -able, under water even, to cut through oaken joists as hard as -iron - the work in question advanced very rapidly, and a square -portion of the ceiling, taken from between two of the joists, -fell into the arms of the delighted Saint-Aignan, Malicorne, the -workman, and a confidential valet, the latter being one brought -into the world to see and hear everything, but to repeat -nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In accordance -with a new plan indicated by Malicorne, the opening was effected -in an angle of the room - and for this reason. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As there was no dressing-closet -adjoining La Vallière's room, she had solicited, and had -that very morning obtained, a large screen intended to serve as a -partition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The screen -that had been allotted her was perfectly sufficient to conceal -the opening, which would, besides, be hidden by all the artifices -skilled cabinet-makers would have at their command.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The opening having been made, the -workman glided between the joists, and found himself in La -Vallière's room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -When there, he cut a square opening in the flooring, and out of -the boards he manufactured a trap so accurately fitting into the -opening that the most practised eye could hardly detect the -necessary interstices made by its lines of juncture with the -floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne had -provided for everything: a ring and a couple of hinges which had -been bought for the purpose, were affixed to the trap-door; and a -small circular stair-case, packed in sections, had been bought -ready made by the industrious Malicorne, who had paid two -thousand francs for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was higher than what was required, but the carpenter reduced -the number of steps, and it was found to suit exactly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This staircase, destined to -receive so illustrious a burden, was merely fastened to the wall -by a couple of iron clamps, and its base was fixed into the floor -of the comte's room by two iron pegs screwed down tightly, so -that the king, and all his cabinet councilors too, might pass up -and down the staircase without any fear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every blow of the hammer fell upon a -thick pad or cushion, and the saw was not used until the handle -had been wrapped in wool, and the blade steeped in oil.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The noisiest part of the work, -moreover, had taken place during the night and early in the -morning, that is to say, when La Vallière and Madame were -both absent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When, about -two o'clock in the afternoon, the court returned to the Palais -Royal, La Vallière went up into her own room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything was in its proper place - -not the smallest particle of sawdust, not the smallest chip, was -left to bear witness to the violation of her domicile.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan, however, wishing -to do his utmost in forwarding the work, had torn his fingers and -his shirt too, and had expended no ordinary amount of -perspiration in the king's service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The palms of his hands were covered -with blisters, occasioned by his having held the ladder for -Malicorne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had, -moreover, brought up, one by one, the seven pieces of the -staircase, each consisting of two steps.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, we can safely assert that, -if the king had seen him so ardently at work, his majesty would -have sworn an eternal gratitude towards his faithful -attendant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As Malicorne -anticipated, the workman had completely finished the job in -twenty-four hours; he received twenty-four louis, and left, -overwhelmed with delight, for he had gained in one day as much as -six months' hard work would have procured him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one had the slightest suspicion -of what had taken place in the room under Mademoiselle de la -Vallière's apartment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But in the evening of the second -day, at the very moment La Vallière had just left Madame's -circle and returned to her own room, she heard a slight creaking -sound in one corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Astonished, she looked to see whence it proceeded, and the noise -began again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Who is -there?" she said, in a tone of alarm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is I, Louise," -replied the well-known voice of the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You! you!" cried the -young girl, who for a moment fancied herself under the influence -of a dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But -where?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here," replied the -king, opening one of the folds of the screen, and appearing like -a ghost at the end of the room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -uttered a loud cry, and fell trembling into an armchair, as the -king advanced respectfully towards her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Apparition.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -L</span>a Vallière very soon recovered from her surprise, -for, owing to his respectful bearing, the king inspired her with -more confidence by his presence than his sudden appearance had -deprived her of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as -he noticed that which made La Vallière most uneasy was the -means by which he had effected an entrance into her room, he -explained to her the system of the staircase concealed by the -screen, and strongly disavowed the notion of his being a -supernatural appearance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire!" said La -Vallière, shaking her fair head with a most engaging -smile, "present or absent, you do not appear to my mind more at -one time than at another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which means, Louise - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, what you know so -well, sire; that there is not one moment in which the poor girl -whose secret you surprised at Fontainebleau, and whom you came to -snatch from the foot of the cross itself, does not think of -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Louise, you overwhelm -me with joy and happiness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -smiled mournfully, and continued: "But, sire, have you reflected -that your ingenious invention could not be of the slightest -service to us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me, - I am waiting most -anxiously."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because this room may -be subject to being searched at any moment of the day.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame herself may, at any -time, come here accidentally; my companions run in at any moment -they please.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To fasten -the door on the inside, is to denounce myself as plainly as if I -had written above, 'No admittance, - the king is within!'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Even now, sire, at this very -moment, there is nothing to prevent the door opening, and your -majesty being seen here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case," said the -king, laughingly, "I should indeed be taken for a phantom, for no -one can tell in what way I came here.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, it is only spirits that can -pass through brick walls, or floors and ceilings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire, reflect for a -moment how terrible the scandal would be!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing equal to it could ever have -been previously said about the maids of honor, poor creatures! -whom evil report, however, hardly ever spares."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And your conclusion -from all this, my dear Louise, - come, explain yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! it is a hard -thing to say - but your majesty must suppress staircase plots, -surprises and all; for the evil consequences which would result -from your being found here would be far greater than our -happiness in seeing each other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Louise," replied -the king, tenderly, "instead of removing this staircase by which -I have ascended, there is a far more simple means, of which you -have not thought."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A means - another -means!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, another.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, you do not love me as I -love you, Louise, since my invention is quicker than yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She looked at the king, -who held out his hand to her, which she took and gently pressed -between her own.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were saying," -continued the king, "that I shall be detected coming here, where -any one who pleases can enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay, sire; at this -very moment, even while you are speaking about it, I tremble with -dread of your being discovered."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you would not be -found out, Louise, if you were to descend the staircase which -leads to the room underneath."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire! what do you -say?" cried Louise, in alarm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not quite -understand me, Louise, since you get offended at my very first -word; first of all, do you know to whom the apartments underneath -belong?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To M. de Guiche, sire, -I believe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all; they are M. -de Saint-Aignan's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you sure?" cried La -Vallière; and this exclamation which escaped from the -young girl's joyous heart made the king's heart throb with -delight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, to Saint-Aignan, -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>our friend</i>," he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, sire," returned La -Vallière, "I cannot visit M. de Saint-Aignan's rooms any -more than I could M. de Guiche's.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is impossible - impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet, Louise, I -should have thought that, under the safe-conduct of the king, you -would venture anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Under the safe-conduct -of the king," she said, with a look full of tenderness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have faith in my -word, I hope, Louise?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, when you are -not present; but when you are present, - when you speak to me, - -when I look upon you, I have faith in nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What can possibly be -done to reassure you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is scarcely -respectful, I know, to doubt the king, but - for me - you are <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>not</i> the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank Heaven! - I, at -least, hope so most devoutly; you see how anxiously I am trying -to find or invent a means of removing all difficulty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay; would the presence of a third -person reassure you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The presence of M. de -Saint-Aignan would, certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Really, Louise, you -wound me by your suspicions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louise did not answer, -she merely looked steadfastly at him with that clear, piercing -gaze which penetrates the very heart, and said softly to herself, -"Alas! alas! it is not you of whom I am afraid, - it is not you -upon whom my doubts would fall."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said the king, -sighing, "I agree; and M. de Saint-Aignan, who enjoys the -inestimable privilege of reassuring you, shall always be present -at our interviews, I promise you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You promise that, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my honor as a -gentleman; and you, on your side - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, wait, sire, that is -not all yet; for such conversations ought, at least, to have a -reasonable motive of some kind for M. de Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear Louise, every -shade of delicacy of feeling is yours, and my only study is to -equal you on that point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It shall be just as you wish: therefore our conversations shall -have a reasonable motive, and I have already hit upon one; so -that from to-morrow, if you like - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you meant that that -is not soon enough?" exclaimed the king, caressing La -Vallière's hand between his own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment the sound -of steps was heard in the corridor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire! sire!" cried La -Vallière, "some one is coming; do you hear?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, fly! fly!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I implore you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king made but one -bound from the chair where he was sitting to his hiding-place -behind the screen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had -barely time; for as he drew one of the folds before him, the -handle of the door was turned, and Montalais appeared at the -threshold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As a matter of -course she entered quite naturally, and without any ceremony, for -she knew perfectly well that to knock at the door beforehand -would be showing a suspicion towards La Vallière which -would be displeasing to her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She accordingly entered, and after a -rapid glance round the room, in the brief course of which she -observed two chairs very close to each other, she was so long in -shutting the door, which seemed to be difficult to close, one can -hardly tell how or why, that the king had ample time to raise the -trap-door, and to descend again to Saint-Aignan's room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Louise," she said to -her, "I want to talk to you, and seriously, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens! my dear -Aure, what is the matter now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The matter is, that -Madame suspects <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>everything</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Explain yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is there any occasion -for us to enter into explanations, and do you not understand what -I mean?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, you must -have noticed the fluctuations in Madame's humor during several -days past; you must have noticed how she first kept you close -beside her, then dismissed you, and then sent for you again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I have noticed it, -of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, it seems Madame -has now succeeded in obtaining sufficient information, for she -has now gone straight to the point, as there is nothing further -left in France to withstand the torrent which sweeps away all -obstacles before it; you know what I mean by the torrent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière hid -her face in her hands.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean," continued -Montalais, pitilessly, "that torrent which burst through the -gates of the Carmelites of Chaillot, and overthrew all the -prejudices of the court, as well at Fontainebleau as at -Paris."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! alas!" murmured -La Vallière, her face still covered by her hands, and her -tears streaming through her fingers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, don't distress -yourself in that manner, or you have only heard half of your -troubles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In Heaven's name," -exclaimed the young girl, in great anxiety, "what is the -matter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, this is how -the matter stands: Madame, who can no longer rely upon any -further assistance in France; for she has, one after the other, -made use of the two queens, of Monsieur, and the whole court, -too, now bethinks herself of a certain person who has certain -pretended rights over you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -became as white as a marble statue.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This person," continued -Madame, "is not in Paris at this moment; but, if I am not -mistaken, is, just now, in England."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes," breathed La -Vallière, almost overwhelmed with terror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And is to be found, I -think, at the court of Charles II.; am I right?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, this -evening a letter has been dispatched by Madame to Saint James's, -with directions for the courier to go straight to Hampton Court, -which I believe is one of the royal residences, situated about a -dozen miles from London."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; as Madame writes -regularly to London once a fortnight, and as the ordinary courier -left for London not more than three days ago, I have been -thinking that some serious circumstance alone could have induced -her to write again so soon, for you know she is a very indolent -correspondent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This letter has been -written, therefore, something tells me so, at least, on your -account."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On my account?" -repeated the unhappy girl, mechanically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I, who saw the -letter lying on Madame's desk before she sealed it, fancied I -could read - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did you fancy you -could read?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I might -possibly have been mistaken, though - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me, - what was -it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The name of -Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière rose -hurriedly from her chair, a prey to the most painful -agitation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Montalais," -she said, her voice broken by sobs, "all my smiling dreams of -youth and innocence have fled already.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have nothing now to conceal, -either from you or any one else.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My life is exposed to every one's -inspection, and can be opened like a book, in which all the world -can read, from the king himself to the first passer-by.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aure, dearest Aure, what can I -do - what will become of me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais approached -close to her, and said, "Consult your own heart, of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; I do not love M. -de Bragelonne; when I say I do not love him, understand that I -love him as the most affectionate sister could love the best of -brothers, but that is not what he requires, nor what I promised -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In fact, you love the -king," said Montalais, "and that is a sufficiently good -excuse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I do love the -king," hoarsely murmured the young girl, "and I have paid dearly -enough for pronouncing those words.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, Montalais, tell me - what -can you do either for me, or against me, in my position?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You must speak more -clearly still."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What am I to say, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so you have nothing -very particular to tell me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No!" said -Louise, in astonishment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; and so all -you have to ask me is my advice respecting M. Raoul?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing else."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a -very delicate subject," replied Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, it is nothing of -the kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ought I to -marry him in order to keep the promise I made, or ought I -continue to listen to the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have really placed -me in a very difficult position," said Montalais, smiling; "you -ask me if you ought to marry Raoul, whose friend I am, and whom I -shall mortally offend in giving my opinion against him; and then, -you ask me if you should cease to listen to the king, whose -subject I am, and whom I should offend if I were to advise you in -a particular way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah, -Louise, you seem to hold a difficult position at a very cheap -rate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have not understood -me, Aure," said La Vallière, wounded by the slightly -mocking tone of her companion; "if I were to marry M. de -Bragelonne, I should be far from bestowing on him the happiness -he deserves; but, for the same reason, if I listen to the king he -would become the possessor of one indifferent in very many -aspects, I admit, but one whom his affection confers an -appearance of value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -I ask you, then, is to tell me some means of disengaging myself -honorably either from the one or from the other; or rather, I ask -you, from which side you think I can free myself most -honorably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Louise," -replied Montalais, after a pause, "I am not one of the seven wise -men of Greece, and I have no perfectly invariable rules of -conduct to govern me; but, on the other hand, I have a little -experience, and I can assure you that no woman ever asks for -advice of the nature which you have just asked me, without being -in a terrible state of embarrassment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, you have made a solemn -promise, which every principle of honor requires you to fulfil; -if, therefore, you are embarrassed, in consequence of having -undertaken such an engagement, it is not a stranger's advice -(every one is a stranger to a heart full of love), it is not my -advice, I repeat, that can extricate you from your -embarrassment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall -not give it you, therefore; and for a greater reason still - -because, were I in your place, I should feel much more -embarrassed after the advice than before it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All I can do is, to repeat what I -have already told you; shall I assist you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well; -that is all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me in -what way you wish me to help you; tell me for and against whom, - -in this way we shall not make any blunders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But first of all," said -La Vallière, pressing her companion's hand, "for whom or -against whom do you decide?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For you, if you are -really and truly my friend."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you not -Madame's confidant?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A greater reason for -being of service to you; if I were not to know what is going on -in that direction I should not be of any service at all, and -consequently you would not obtain any advantage from my -acquaintance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Friendships -live and thrive upon a system of reciprocal benefits."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The result is, then, -that you will remain at the same time Madame's friend also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Evidently.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you complain of that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hardly know," sighed -La Vallière, thoughtfully, for this cynical frankness -appeared to her an offense both to the woman and the friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All well and good, -then," said Montalais, "for if you did, you would be very -foolish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You wish to serve me, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Devotedly - if you will -serve me in return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One would almost say -that you do not know my heart," said La Vallière, looking -at Montalais with her eyes wide open.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, the fact is, that -since we have belonged to the court, my dear Louise, we are very -much changed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is very simple.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Were you the second queen of -France yonder, at Blois?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière hung -down her head, and began to weep.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais looked at her in an -indefinable manner, and murmured "Poor girl!" and then, adding, -"Poor king!" she kissed Louise on the forehead, and returned to -her apartment, where Malicorne was waiting for her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXVI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Portrait.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -I</span>n that malady which is termed love the paroxysms succeed -each other at intervals, ever accelerating from the moment the -disease declares itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -By and by, the paroxysms are less frequent, in proportion as the -cure approaches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -being laid down as a general axiom, and as the leading article of -a particular chapter, we will now proceed with our recital.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The next day, the day fixed by -the king for the first conversation in Saint-Aignan's room, La -Vallière, on opening one of the folds of the screen, found -upon the floor a letter in the king's handwriting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The letter had been passed, through -a slit in the floor, from the lower apartment to her own.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No indiscreet hand or curious -gaze could have brought or did bring this single paper.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This, too, was one of -Malicorne's ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having -seen how very serviceable Saint-Aignan would become to the king -on account of his apartment, he did not wish that the courtier -should become still more indispensable as a messenger, and so he -had, on his own private account, reserved this last post for -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La -Vallière most eagerly read the letter, which fixed two -o'clock that same afternoon for the rendezvous, and which -indicated the way of raising the trap-door which was constructed -out of the flooring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Make yourself look as beautiful as you can," added the -postscript of the letter, words which astonished the young girl, -but at the same time reassured her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The hours passed away -very slowly, but the time fixed, however, arrived at last.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As punctual as the priestess -Hero, Louise lifted up the trap-door at the last stroke of the -hour of two, and found the king on the steps, waiting for her -with the greatest respect, in order to give her his hand to -descend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The delicacy and -deference shown in this attention affected her very -powerfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the foot -of the staircase the two lovers found the comte, who, with a -smile and a low reverence distinguished by the best taste, -expressed his thanks to La Vallière for the honor she -conferred upon him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -turning towards the king, he said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, our man is -here."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière -looked at the king with some uneasiness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle," said the -king, "if I have begged you to do me the honor of coming down -here, it was from an interested motive.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have procured a most admirable -portrait painter, who is celebrated for the fidelity of his -likenesses, and I wish you to be kind enough to authorize him to -paint yours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, if -you positively wish it, the portrait shall remain in your own -possession."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La -Vallière blushed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You see," said the king to her, "we shall not be three as you -wished, but four instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And, so long as we are not alone, there can be as many present as -you please."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La -Vallière gently pressed her royal lover's hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Shall we pass into the -next room, sire?" said Saint-Aignan, opening the door to let his -guests precede him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king walked behind La Vallière, and fixed his eyes -lingeringly and passionately upon that neck as white as snow, -upon which her long fair ringlets fell in heavy masses.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière was dressed -in a thick silk robe of pearl gray color, with a tinge of rose, -with jet ornaments, which displayed to greater effect the -dazzling purity of her skin, holding in her slender and -transparent hands a bouquet of heartsease, Bengal roses, and -clematis, surrounded with leaves of the tenderest green, above -which uprose, like a tiny goblet spilling magic influence a -Haarlem tulip of gray and violet tints of a pure and beautiful -species, which had cost the gardener five years' toil of -combinations, and the king five thousand francs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis had placed this bouquet in La -Vallière's hand as he saluted her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the room, the door of which -Saint-Aignan had just opened, a young man was standing, dressed -in a purple velvet jacket, with beautiful black eyes and long -brown hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the -painter; his canvas was quite ready, and his palette prepared for -use.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He bowed to La -Vallière with the grave curiosity of an artist who is -studying his model, saluted the king discreetly, as if he did not -recognize him, and as he would, consequently, have saluted any -other gentleman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -leading Mademoiselle de la Vallière to the seat he had -arranged for her, he begged her to sit down.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young girl assumed -an attitude graceful and unrestrained, her hands occupied and her -limbs reclining on cushions; and in order that her gaze might not -assume a vague or affected expression, the painter begged her to -choose some kind of occupation, so as to engage her attention; -whereupon Louis XIV., smiling, sat down on the cushions at La -Vallière's feet; so that she, in the reclining posture she -had assumed, leaning back in the armchair, holding her flowers in -her hand, and he, with his eyes raised towards her and fixed -devouringly on her face - they, both together, formed so charming -a group, that the artist contemplated painting it with -professional delight, while on his side, Saint-Aignan regarded -them with feelings of envy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The painter sketched rapidly; and -very soon, beneath the earliest touches of the brush, there -started into life, out of the gray background, the gentle, -poetry-breathing face, with its soft calm eyes and delicately -tinted cheeks, enframed in the masses of hair which fell about -her neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lovers, -however, spoke but little, and looked at each other a great deal; -sometimes their eyes became so languishing in their gaze, that -the painter was obliged to interrupt his work in order to avoid -representing an Erycina instead of La Vallière.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was on such occasions that -Saint-Aignan came to the rescue, and recited verses, or repeated -one of those little tales such as Patru related, and Tallemant -des Réaux wrote so cleverly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Or, it might be that La -Vallière was fatigued, and the sitting was, therefore, -suspended for awhile; and, immediately, a tray of precious -porcelain laden with the most beautiful fruits which could be -obtained, and rich wines distilling their bright colors in silver -goblets, beautifully chased, served as accessories to the picture -of which the painter could but retrace the most ephemeral -resemblance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis was intoxicated -with love, La Vallière with happiness, Saint-Aignan with -ambition, and the painter was storing up recollections for his -old age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two hours passed -away in this manner, and four o'clock having struck, La -Vallière rose, and made a sign to the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis also rose, approached the -picture, and addressed a few flattering remarks to the -painter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan -also praised the picture, which, as he pretended, was already -beginning to assume an accurate resemblance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière in her turn, -blushingly thanked the painter and passed into the next room, -where the king followed her, after having previously summoned -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you not come -to-morrow?" he said to La Vallière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, pray think -that some one will be sure to come to my room, and will not find -me there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What will become of me -in that case?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are -very apprehensive, Louise."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But at all events, -suppose Madame were to send for me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" -replied the king, "will the day never come when you yourself will -tell me to brave everything so that I may not have to leave you -again?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On that -day, sire, I shall be quite out of my mind, and you must not -believe me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow, -Louise."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La -Vallière sighed, but, without the courage to oppose her -royal lover's wish, she repeated, "To-morrow, then, since you -desire it, sire," and with these words she ran lightly up the -stairs, and disappeared from her lover's gaze.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, sire?" inquired -Saint-Aignan, when she had left.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Saint-Aignan, -yesterday I thought myself the happiest of men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And does your majesty, -then, regard yourself to-day," said the comte, smiling, "as the -unhappiest of men?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but my love for her -is an unquenchable thirst; in vain do I drink, in vain do I -swallow the drops of water which your industry procures for me; -the more I drink, the more unquenchable it becomes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, that is in some -degree your own fault, and your majesty alone has made the -position such as it is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, -therefore, the means to be happy, is to fancy yourself satisfied, -and to wait."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait! you know that -word, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There, there, sire - do -not despair: I have already been at work on your behalf - I have -still other resources in store."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king shook his head in a -despairing manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, sire! have you -not been satisfied hitherto?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes, indeed, yes, -my dear Saint-Aignan; but invent, for Heaven's sake, invent some -further project yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I undertake to do -my best, and that is all that any one can do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king wished to see -the portrait again, as he was unable to see the original.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He pointed out several -alterations to the painter and left the room, and then -Saint-Aignan dismissed the artist.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The easel, paints, and painter -himself, had scarcely gone, when Malicorne showed his head in the -doorway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was received -by Saint-Aignan with open arms, but still with a little sadness, -for the cloud which had passed across the royal sun, veiled, in -its turn, the faithful satellite, and Malicorne at a glance -perceived the melancholy that brooded on Saint-Aignan's face.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, monsieur le comte," -he said, "how sad you seem!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And good reason too, my -dear Monsieur Malicorne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Will you believe that the king is still dissatisfied?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With his staircase, do -you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no; on the -contrary, he is delighted with the staircase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The decorations of the -apartments, I suppose, don't please him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! he has not even -thought of that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, -indeed, it seems that what has dissatisfied the king - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will tell you, -monsieur le comte, - he is dissatisfied at finding himself the -fourth person at a rendezvous of this kind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How is it possible you could not -have guessed that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, how is it likely I -could have done so, dear M. Malicorne, when I followed the king's -instructions to the very letter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did his majesty really -insist on your being present?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Positively."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And also required that -the painter, whom I met downstairs just now, should be here, -too?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He insisted upon -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case, I -can easily understand why his majesty is dissatisfied."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What! dissatisfied -that I have so punctually and so literally obeyed his -orders?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't -understand you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Malicorne began to -scratch his ear, as he asked, "What time did the king fix for the -rendezvous in your apartments?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Two o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you were -waiting for the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ever since -half-past one; it would have been a fine thing, indeed, to have -been unpunctual with his majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Malicorne, -notwithstanding his respect for Saint-Aignan, could not help -smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And the -painter," he said, "did the king wish him to be here at two -o'clock, also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; but I had him -waiting here from midday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Far better, you know, for a painter to be kept waiting a couple -of hours than the king a single minute."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Malicorne began to -laugh aloud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, dear -Monsieur Malicorne," said Saint-Aignan, "laugh less at me, and -speak a little more freely, I beg."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, -monsieur le comte, if you wish the king to be a little more -satisfied the next time he comes - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Ventre saint-gris!</i>' as his -grandfather used to say; of course I wish it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, all you have -to do is, when the king comes to-morrow, to be obliged to go away -on a most pressing matter of business, which cannot possibly be -postponed, and stay away for twenty minutes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What! leave the -king alone for twenty minutes?" cried Saint-Aignan, in alarm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, do as -you like; don't pay any attention to what I say," said Malicorne, -moving towards the door.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, nay, dear -Monsieur Malicorne; on the contrary, go on - I begin to -understand you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the -painter - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! the painter -must be half an hour late."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Half an hour - do -you really think so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I do, -decidedly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, then, I -will do as you tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And my opinion is, -that you will be doing perfectly right.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you allow me to call upon you -for the latest news to-morrow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have the honor -to be your most respectful servant, M. de Saint-Aignan," said -Malicorne, bowing profoundly and retiring from the room -backwards.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is no doubt -that fellow has more invention than I have," said Saint-Aignan, -as if compelled by his conviction to admit it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXVII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Hampton Court.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he revelation we have witnessed, that Montalais made to -La Vallière, in a preceding chapter, very naturally makes -us return to the principal hero of this tale, a poor wandering -knight, roving about at the king's caprice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If our readers will be good enough -to follow us, we will, in his company, cross that strait, more -stormy than the Euripus, which separates Calais from Dover; we -will speed across that green and fertile country, with its -numerous little streams; through Maidstone, and many other -villages and towns, each prettier than the other; and, finally, -arrive at London.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From -thence, like bloodhounds following a track, after having -ascertained that Raoul had made his first stay at Whitehall, his -second at St. James's, and having learned that he had been warmly -received by Monk, and introduced to the best society of Charles -II.'s court, we will follow him to one of Charles II.'s summer -residences near the lively little village of Kingston, at Hampton -Court, situated on the Thames.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The river is not, at that spot, the -boastful highway which bears upon its broad bosom its thousands -of travelers; nor are its waters black and troubled as those of -Cocytus, as it boastfully asserts, "I, too, am cousin of the old -ocean."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, at Hampton -Court it is a soft and murmuring stream, with moss-fringed banks, -reflecting, in its broad mirror, the willows and beeches which -ornament its sides, and on which may occasionally be seen a light -bark indolently reclining among the tall reeds, in a little creek -formed of alders and forget-me-nots.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The surrounding country on all sides -smiled in happiness and wealth; the brick cottages from whose -chimneys the blue smoke was slowly ascending in wreaths, peeped -forth from the belts of green holly which environed them; -children dressed in red frocks appeared and disappeared amidst -the high grass, like poppies bowed by the gentler breath of the -passing breeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -sheep, ruminating with half-closed eyes, lay lazily about under -the shadow of the stunted aspens, while, far and near, the -kingfishers, plumed with emerald and gold, skimmed swiftly along -the surface of the water, like a magic ball heedlessly touching, -as he passed, the line of his brother angler, who sat watching in -his boat the fish as they rose to the surface of the sparkling -stream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> High above this -paradise of dark shadows and soft light, rose the palace of -Hampton Court, built by Wolsey - a residence the haughty cardinal -had been obliged, timid courtier that he was, to offer to his -master, Henry VIII., who had glowered with envy and cupidity at -the magnificent new home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Hampton Court, with its brick walls, its large windows, its -handsome iron gates, as well as its curious bell turrets, its -retired covered walks, and interior fountains, like those of the -Alhambra, was a perfect bower of roses, jasmine, and -clematis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every sense, -sight and smell particularly, was gratified, and the -reception-rooms formed a very charming framework for the pictures -of love which Charles II. unrolled among the voluptuous paintings -of Titian, of Pordenone and of Van Dyck; the same Charles whose -father's portrait - the martyr king - was hanging in his gallery, -and who could show upon the wainscots of the various apartments -the holes made by the balls of the puritanical followers of -Cromwell, when on the 24th of August, 1648, at the time they had -brought Charles I. prisoner to Hampton Court.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There it was that the king, -intoxicated with pleasure and adventure, held his court - he, -who, a poet in feeling, thought himself justified in redeeming, -by a whole day of voluptuousness, every minute which had been -formerly passed in anguish and misery.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was not the soft green sward of -Hampton Court - so soft that it almost resembled the richest -velvet in the thickness of its texture - nor was it the beds of -flowers, with their variegated hues which encircled the foot of -every tree with rose-trees many feet in height, embracing most -lovingly their trunks - nor even the enormous lime-trees, whose -branches swept the earth like willows, offering a ready -concealment for love or reflection beneath the shade of their -foliage - it was none of these things for which Charles II. loved -his palace of Hampton Court.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps it might have been that -beautiful sheet of water, which the cool breeze rippled like the -wavy undulations of Cleopatra's hair, waters bedecked with -cresses and white water-lilies, whose chaste bulbs coyly -unfolding themselves beneath the sun's warm rays, reveal the -golden gems which lie concealed within their milky petals - -murmuring waters, on the bosom of which black swans majestically -floated, and the graceful water-fowl, with their tender broods -covered with silken down, darted restlessly in every direction, -in pursuit of the insects among the reeds, or the fogs in their -mossy retreats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps -it might have been the enormous hollies, with their dark and -tender green foliage; or the bridges uniting the banks of the -canals in their embrace; or the fawns browsing in the endless -avenues of the park; or the innumerable birds that hopped about -the gardens, or flew from branch to branch, amidst the emerald -foliage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It might well have been -any of these charms - for Hampton Court had them all; and -possessed, too, almost forests of white roses, which climbed and -trailed along the lofty trellises, showering down upon the ground -their snowy leaves rich with soft perfumery.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But no, what Charles II. most loved -in Hampton Court were the charming figures who, when midday was -past, flitted to and fro along the broad terraces of the gardens; -like Louis XIV., he had their wealth of beauties painted for his -gallery by one of the great artists of the period - an artist who -well knew the secret of transferring to canvas the rays of light -which escaped from beaming eyes heavy laden with love and love's -delights.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The day of our arrival -at Hampton Court is almost as clear and bright as a summer's day -in France; the atmosphere is heavy with the delicious perfume of -geraniums, sweet-peas, seringas, and heliotrope scattered in -profusion around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -past midday, and the king, having dined after his return from -hunting, paid a visit to Lady Castlemaine, the lady who was -reputed at the time to hold his heart in bondage; and this proof -of his devotion discharged, he was readily permitted to pursue -his infidelities until evening arrived.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Love and amusement ruled the entire -court; it was the period when ladies would seriously interrogate -their ruder companions as to their opinions upon a foot more or -less captivating, according to whether it wore a pink or lilac -silk stocking - for it was the period when Charles II. had -declared that there was no hope of safety for a woman who wore -green silk stockings, because Miss Lucy Stewart wore them of that -color.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While the king is -endeavoring in all directions to inculcate others with his -preferences on this point, we will ourselves bend our steps -towards an avenue of beech-trees opposite the terrace, and listen -to the conversation of a young girl in a dark-colored dress, who -is walking with another of about her own age dressed in -blue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They crossed a -beautiful lawn, from the center of which sprang a fountain, with -the figure of a siren executed in bronze, and strolled on, -talking as they went, towards the terrace, along which, looking -out upon the park and interspersed at frequent intervals, were -erected summer-houses, diverse in form and ornament; these -summer-houses were nearly all occupied; the two young women -passed on, the one blushing deeply, while the other seemed -dreamily silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last, -having reached the end of the terrace which looks on the river, -and finding there a cool retreat, they sat down close to each -other.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where are we going?" -said the younger to her companion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear, we are going -where you yourself led the way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you; to the -extremity of the palace, towards that seat yonder, where the -young Frenchman is seated, wasting his time in sighs and -lamentations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Miss Mary Grafton -hurriedly said, "No, no; I am not going there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us go -back, Lucy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, on the contrary, -let us go on, and have an explanation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What about?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About how it happens -that the Vicomte de Bragelonne always accompanies you in all your -walks, as you invariably accompany him in his."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you conclude either -that he loves me, or that I love him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not? - he is a most -agreeable and charming companion. - No one hears me, I hope," -said Lucy Stewart, as she turned round with a smile, which -indicated, moreover, that her uneasiness on the subject was not -extreme.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no," said Mary, -"the king is engaged in his summer-house with the Duke of -Buckingham."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>à propos</i> of the duke, -Mary, it seems he has shown you great attention since his return -from France; how is your own heart in that direction?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Mary Grafton shrugged -her shoulders with seeming indifference.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well, I will ask -Bragelonne about it," said Stewart, laughing; "let us go and find -him at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What for?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wish to -speak to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not yet, one word -before you do: come, come, you who know so many of the king's -secrets, tell me why M. de Bragelonne is in England?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because he -was sent as an envoy from one sovereign to another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That may be; but, -seriously, although politics do not much concern us, we know -enough to be satisfied that M. de Bragelonne has no mission of -serious import here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, listen," -said Stewart, with assumed gravity, "for your sake I am going to -betray a state secret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Shall I tell you the nature of the letter which King Louis XIV. -gave M. de Bragelonne for King Charles II.?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will; these are the very words: -'My brother, the bearer of this is a gentleman attached to my -court, and the son of one whom you regard most warmly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Treat him kindly, I beg, and -try and make him like England.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did it say that!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Word for word - or -something very like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -will not answer for the form, but the substance I am sure -of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and what -conclusion do you, or rather what conclusion does the king, draw -from that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That the king of France -has his own reasons for removing M. de Bragelonne, and for -getting him married anywhere else than in France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that, then, in -consequence of this letter - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "King Charles received -M. de Bragelonne, as you are aware, in the most distinguished and -friendly manner; the handsomest apartments in Whitehall were -allotted to him; and as you are the most valuable and precious -person in his court, inasmuch as you have rejected his heart, - -nay, do not blush, - he wished you to take a fancy to this -Frenchman, and he was desirous to confer upon him so costly a -prize.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And this is the -reason why you, the heiress of three hundred thousand pounds, a -future duchess, so beautiful, so good, have been thrown in -Bragelonne's way, in all the promenades and parties of pleasure -to which he was invited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In fact it was a plot, - a kind of conspiracy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Mary Grafton smiled with -that charming expression which was habitual to her, and pressing -her companion's arm, said: "Thank the king, Lucy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes, but the Duke -of Buckingham is jealous, so take care."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Hardly had she -pronounced these words, when the duke appeared from one of the -pavilions on the terrace, and, approaching the two girls, with a -smile, said, "You are mistaken, Miss Lucy; I am not jealous; and -the proof, Miss Mary, is yonder, in the person of M. de -Bragelonne himself, who ought to be the cause of my jealousy, but -who is dreaming in pensive solitude.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor fellow!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Allow me to leave you for a few -minutes, while I avail myself of those few minutes to converse -with Miss Lucy Stewart, to whom I have something to say."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, bowing to Lucy, he -added, "Will you do me the honor to accept my hand, in order that -I may lead you to the king, who is waiting for us?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With these words, Buckingham, still -smiling, took Miss Stewart's hand, and led her away.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When by herself, Mary Grafton, her -head gently inclined towards her shoulder, with that indolent -gracefulness of action which distinguishes young English girls, -remained for a moment with her eyes fixed on Raoul, but as if -uncertain what to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At -last, after first blushing violently, and then turning deadly -pale, thus revealing the internal combat which assailed her -heart, she seemed to make up her mind to adopt a decided course, -and with a tolerably firm step, advanced towards the seat on -which Raoul was reclining, buried in the profoundest meditation, -as we have already said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The sound of Miss Mary's steps, though they could hardly be heard -upon the green sward, awakened Raoul from his musing attitude; he -turned round, perceived the young girl, and walked forward to -meet the companion whom his happy destiny had thrown in his -way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have been sent to -you, monsieur," said Mary Grafton; "will you take care of -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To whom is my gratitude -due, for so great a happiness?" inquired Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the Duke of -Buckingham," replied Mary, affecting a gayety she did not really -feel.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the Duke of -Buckingham, do you say? - he who so passionately seeks your -charming society!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Am I -really to believe you are serious, mademoiselle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is, monsieur, -you perceive, that everything seems to conspire to make us pass -the best, or rather the longest, part of our days together.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yesterday it was the king who -desired me to beg you to seat yourself next to me at dinner; -to-day, it is the Duke of Buckingham who begs me to come and -place myself near you on this seat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And he has gone away in -order to leave us together?" asked Raoul, with some -embarrassment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look yonder, at the -turning of that path; he is just out of sight, with Miss -Stewart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are these polite -attentions usual in France, monsieur le vicomte?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot very precisely -say what people do in France, mademoiselle, for I can hardly be -called a Frenchman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have resided in many countries, and almost always as a solider; -and then, I have spent a long period of my life in the -country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am almost a -savage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not like your -residence in England, I fear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I scarcely know," said -Raoul, inattentively, and sighing deeply at the same time.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! you do not -know?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Forgive me," said -Raoul, shaking his head, and collecting his thoughts, "I did not -hear you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said the young -girl, sighing in her turn, "how wrong the duke was to send me -here!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wrong!" said Raoul, -"perhaps so; for I am but a rude, uncouth companion, and my -society annoys you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -duke did, indeed, very wrong to send you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is precisely," -replied Mary Grafton, in a clear, calm voice, "because your -society does not annoy me, that the duke was wrong to send me to -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was now Raoul's turn -to blush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But," he -resumed, "how happens it that the Duke of Buckingham should send -you to me; and why did you come? the duke loves you, and you love -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied Mary, -seriously, "the duke does not love me, because he is in love with -the Duchesse d'Orléans; and, as for myself, I have no -affection for the duke."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul looked at the -young lady with astonishment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you a friend of the -Duke of Buckingham?" she inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The duke has honored me -by calling me so ever since we met in France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are simple -acquaintances, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; for the duke is the -most intimate friend of one whom I regard as a brother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The Duc de Guiche?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He who is -in love with Madame la Duchesse d'Orléans?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What is that you are saying?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And who -loves him in return," continued the young girl, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul bent down his -head, and Mary Grafton, sighing deeply, continued, "They are very -happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, leave me, -Monsieur de Bragelonne, for the Duke of Buckingham has given you -a very troublesome commission in offering me as a companion for -your promenade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -heart is elsewhere, and it is with the greatest difficulty you -can be charitable enough to lend me your attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Confess truly; it would be unfair on -your part, vicomte, not to admit it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, I do confess -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She looked at him -steadily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was so noble -and so handsome in his bearing, his eyes revealed so much -gentleness, candor, and resolution, that the idea could not -possibly enter her mind that he was either rudely discourteous, -or a mere simpleton.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -only perceived, clearly enough, that he loved another woman, and -not herself, with the whole strength of his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I now understand you," she said; -"you have left your heart behind you in France."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul bowed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The duke is aware of your -affection?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No one knows it," -replied Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, therefore, do you -tell me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, answer -me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I -cannot."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is for -me, then, to anticipate an explanation; you do not wish to tell -me anything, because you are now convinced that I do not love the -duke; because you see that I possibly might have loved you; -because you are a gentleman of noble and delicate sentiments; and -because, instead of accepting, even were it for the mere -amusement of the passing hour, a hand which is almost pressed -upon you; and because, instead of meeting my smiles with a -smiling lip, you, who are young, have preferred to tell me, whom -men have called beautiful, 'My heart is over the sea - it is in -France.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For this, I -thank you, Monsieur de Bragelonne; you are, indeed, a -noble-hearted, noble-minded man, and I regard you all the more -for it, as a friend only.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And now let us cease speaking of myself, and talk of your own -affairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forget that I -have ever spoken to you of myself, tell me why you are sad, and -why you have become more than usually so during these past four -days?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul was deeply and -sensibly moved by these sweet and melancholy tones; and as he -could not, at the moment, find a word to say, the young girl -again came to his assistance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pity me," she -said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My mother was born -in France, and I can truly affirm that I, too, am French in -blood, as well as in feeling; but the leaden atmosphere and -characteristic gloom of England seem to weigh upon me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sometimes my dreams are -golden-hued and full of wonderful enjoyments, when suddenly a -mist rises and overspreads my fancy, blotting them out -forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such, indeed, is -the case at the present moment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forgive me; I have now said enough -on that subject; give me your hand, and relate you griefs to me -as a friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You say you are French -in heart and soul?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, not only, I repeat -it, that my mother was French, but, further, as my father, a -friend of King Charles I., was exiled in France, I, during the -trial of that prince, as well as during the Protector's life, was -brought up in Paris; at the Restoration of King Charles II., my -poor father returned to England, where he died almost immediately -afterwards; and then the king created me a duchess, and has -dowered me according to my rank.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you any relations -in France?" Raoul inquired, with the deepest interest.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have a sister there, -my senior by seven or eight years, who was married in France, and -was early left a widow; her name is Madame de -Bellière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -know her?" she added, observing Raoul start suddenly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have heard her -name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She, too, loves with -her whole heart; and her last letters inform me she is happy, and -her affection is, I conclude, returned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I told you, Monsieur de Bragelonne, -that although I possess half of her nature, I do not share her -happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But let us now -speak of yourself; whom do you love in France?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A young girl, as soft -and pure as a lily."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But if she loves you, -why are you sad?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have been told that -she ceases to love me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not -believe it, I trust?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He who -wrote me so does not sign his letter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An anonymous -denunciation! some treachery, be assured," said Miss Grafton.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay," said Raoul, -showing the young girl a letter which he had read over a thousand -times; she took it from his hand and read as follows:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "VICOMTE, - You are -perfectly right to amuse yourself yonder with the lovely faces of -Charles II.'s court, for at Louis XIV.'s court, the castle in -which your affections are enshrined is being besieged.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay in London altogether, -poor vicomte, or return without delay to Paris."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is no signature," -said Miss Mary.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "None."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Believe it not, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; but here is -a second letter, from my friend De Guiche, which says, 'I am -lying here wounded and ill.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Return, Raoul, oh, return!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you intend -doing?" inquired the young girl, with a feeling of oppression at -her heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My intention, as soon -as I received this letter, was immediately to take my leave of -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When did you receive -it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The day before -yesterday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is dated -Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A singular -circumstance, do you not think, for the court is now at -Paris?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At all events, I -would have set off; but when I mentioned my intention to the -king, he began to laugh, and said to me, 'How comes it, monsieur -l'amassadeur, that you think of leaving?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Has your sovereign recalled -you?'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I colored, -naturally enough, for I was confused by the question; for the -fact is, the king himself sent me here, and I have received no -order to return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Mary frowned in deep -thought, and said, "Do you remain, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I must, -mademoiselle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you ever receive any -letters from her to whom you are so devoted?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never, do -you say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does she not -love you, then?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At least, -she has not written to me since my departure, although she used -occasionally to write to me before.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I trust she may have been -prevented."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush! the duke is -coming."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Buckingham at that -moment was seen at the end of the walk, approaching towards them, -alone and smiling; he advanced slowly, and held out his hands to -them both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Have you -arrived at an understanding?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About whatever might -render you happy, dear Mary, and make Raoul less miserable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not understand -you, my lord," said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is my view of the -subject, Miss Mary; do you wish me to mention it before M. de -Bragelonne?" he added, with a smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you mean," replied -the young girl, haughtily, "that I was not indisposed to love M. -de Bragelonne, that is useless, for I have told him so -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Buckingham reflected for -a moment, and, without seeming in any way discountenanced, as she -expected, he said:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My -reason for leaving you with M. de Bragelonne was, that I -thoroughly knew your refined delicacy of feeling, no less than -the perfect loyalty of your mind and heart, and I hoped that M. -de Bragelonne's cure might be effected by the hands of a -physician such as you are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, my lord, before -you spoke of M. de Bragelonne's heart, you spoke to me of your -own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you mean to -effect the cure of two hearts at the same time?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly true, madame; -but you will do me the justice to admit that I have long -discontinued a useless pursuit, acknowledging that my own wound -is incurable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My lord," said Mary, -collecting herself for a moment before she spoke, "M. de -Bragelonne is happy, for he loves and is beloved.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He has no need of such a physician -as I can be."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Bragelonne," said -Buckingham, "is on the very eve of experiencing a serious -misfortune, and he has greater need than ever of sympathy and -affection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Explain yourself, my -lord," inquired Raoul, anxiously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; gradually I will -explain myself; but, if you desire it, I can tell Miss Grafton -what you may not listen to yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My lord, you are -putting me to the torture; you know something you wish to conceal -from me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know that Miss Mary -Grafton is the most charming object that a heart ill at ease -could possibly meet with in its way through life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have already told you -that the Vicomte de Bragelonne loves elsewhere," said the young -girl.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is wrong, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you assume to know, -my lord, that <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> am -wrong?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whom is it that he -loves, then?" exclaimed the young girl.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He loves a lady who is -unworthy of him," said Buckingham, with that calm, collected -manner peculiar to Englishmen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Miss Grafton uttered a -cry, which, together with the remark that Buckingham had that -moment made, spread of De Bragelonne's features a deadly -paleness, arising from the sudden surprise, and also from a vague -fear of impending misfortune.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My lord," he exclaimed, "you have -just pronounced words which compel me, without a moment's delay, -to seek their explanation in Paris."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will remain here," -said Buckingham, "because you have no right to leave; and no one -has the right to quit the service of the king for that of any -woman, even were she as worthy of being loved as Mary Grafton -is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will tell me all, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will, on condition -that you will remain."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will -remain, if you will promise to speak openly and without -reserve."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Thus far had -their conversation proceeded, and Buckingham, in all probability, -was on the point of revealing, not indeed all that had taken -place, but at least all he was aware of, when one of the king's -attendants appeared at the end of the terrace, and advanced -towards the summer-house where the king was sitting with Lucy -Stewart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A courier -followed him, covered with dust from head to foot, and who seemed -as if he had but a few moments before dismounted from his -horse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The courier from -France!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame's -courier!" exclaimed Raoul, recognizing the princess's livery; and -while the attendant and the courier advanced towards the king, -Buckingham and Miss Grafton exchanged a look full of intelligence -with each other.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXVIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Courier from Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -C</span>harles II. was busily engaged in proving, or in -endeavoring to prove, to Miss Stewart that she was the only -person for whom he cared at all, and consequently was avowing to -her an affection similar to that which his ancestor Henry IV. had -entertained for Gabrielle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Unfortunately for Charles II., he -had hit upon an unlucky day, the very day Miss Stewart had taken -it into her head to make him jealous, and therefore, instead of -being touched by his offer, as the king had hoped, she laughed -heartily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, sire," she -cried, laughing all the while; "if I were to be unfortunate -enough to ask you for a proof of the affection you possess, how -easy it would be to see that you are telling a falsehood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, listen to me," -said Charles, "you know my cartoons by Raphael; you know whether -I care for them or not; the whole world envies me their -possession, as you well know also; my father commissioned Van -Dyck to purchase them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Would you like me to send them to your house this very day?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no!" replied the -young girl; "pray keep them yourself, sire; my house is far too -small to accommodate such visitors."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case you shall -have Hampton Court to put the cartoons in."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be less generous, sire, -and learn to love a little while longer, that is all I have to -ask you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall never cease to -love you; is not that enough?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are smiling, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you wish me to -weep?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but I should like -to see you a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> little more -melancholy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank Heaven, I have -been so long enough; fourteen years of exile, poverty, and -misery, I think I may well regard it as a debt discharged; -besides, melancholy makes people look so plain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Far from that - for -look at the young Frenchman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! the Vicomte de -Bragelonne? are you smitten too?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By Heaven, they will all grow mad -over him one after the other; but he, on the contrary, has a -reason for being melancholy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, indeed! you wish me -to betray state secrets, do you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I wish it, you must -do so, for you told me you were quite ready to do everything I -wished."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, he is bored -in his own country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does -that satisfy you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bored?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, a -proof that he is a simpleton; I allow him to fall in love with -Miss Mary Grafton, and he feels bored.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can you believe it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; it seems, -then, that if you were to find Miss Lucy Stewart indifferent to -you, you would console yourself by falling in love with Miss Mary -Grafton."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't say that; in -the first place, you know that Mary Grafton does not care for me; -besides, a man can only console himself for a lost affection by -the discovery of a new one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Again, however, I repeat, the -question is not of myself, but of that young man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One might almost be tempted to call -the girl he has left behind him a Helen - a Helen before the -little ceremony she went through with Paris, of course."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has left some one, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is to say, some -one has left <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>him</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor fellow! so much -the worse!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you mean by 'so -much the worse'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not? why did he -leave?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you -think it was of his own wish or will that he left?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was he -obliged to leave, then?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He left -Paris under orders, my dear Stewart; and prepare to be surprised -- by express orders of the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! I begin to see, -now."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At least -say nothing at all about it."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know -very well that I am just as discreet as anybody else.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so the king sent him away?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And during his absence -he takes his sweetheart from him?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and, -will you believe it? the silly fellow, instead of thanking the -king, is making himself miserable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! thank the king -for depriving him of the woman he loves!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Really, sire, yours is a most -ungallant speech."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, pray understand -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If she whom the king -had run off with was either a Miss Grafton or a Miss Stewart, I -should not be of his opinion; nay, I should even think him not -half wretched enough; but she is a little, thin, lame thing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Deuce take such fidelity as -that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Surely, one can -hardly understand how a man can refuse a girl who is rich for one -who is poverty itself - a girl who loves him for one who deceives -and betrays him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you think that Mary -seriously wishes to please the vicomte, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do, indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good! the vicomte -will settle down in England, for Mary has a clear head, and when -she fixes her mind upon anything, she does so thoroughly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care, my dear Miss -Stewart; if the vicomte has any idea of adopting our country, he -has not long to do so, for it was only the day before yesterday -that he again asked me for permission to leave."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which you refused him, -I suppose?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should -think so, indeed; my royal brother is far too anxious for his -absence; and, for myself, my <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>amour propre</i> is enlisted on his -side, for I will never have it said that I had held out as a bait -to this young man the noblest and gentlest creature in England - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are very gallant, -sire," said Miss Stewart, with a pretty pout.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not allude to Miss -Stewart, for she is worthy of a king's devotion; and since she -has captivated me I trust that no one else will be caught by her; -I say, therefore, finally, that the attention I have shown this -young man will not have been thrown away; he will stay with us -here, he will marry here, or I am very much mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I hope that when he -is once married and settled, instead of being angry with your -majesty, he will be grateful to you, for every one tries his -utmost to please him; even the Duke of Buckingham, whose -brilliancy, which is incredible, seems to pale before that of -this young Frenchman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Including Miss Stewart -even, who calls him the most finished gentleman she ever -saw."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay, sire; you have -spoken quite enough, and quite highly enough, of Miss Grafton, to -overlook what I may have said about De Bragelonne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, by the by, sire, your kindness -for some time past astonishes me: you think of those who are -absent, you forgive those who have done you a wrong, in fact, you -are as nearly as possible, perfect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How does it happen - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is because you allow -yourself to be loved," he said, beginning to laugh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! there must be some -other reason."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I am doing all I -can to oblige my brother, Louis XIV."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, I must have -another reason."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, the true -motive is that Buckingham strongly recommended the young man to -me, saying: 'Sire, I begin by yielding up all claim to Miss -Grafton; I pray you follow my example.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The duke is, indeed, a -true gentleman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! of course, of -course; it is Buckingham's turn now, I suppose, to turn <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>your</i> head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You seem determined to cross me in -everything to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment some one -rapped at the door.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who is it who presumes -to interrupt us?" exclaimed Charles, impatiently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Really, sire, you are -extremely vain with your 'who is it who presumes?' and in order -to punish you for it - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She went to the door and -opened it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a courier from -France," said Miss Stewart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A courier from France!" -exclaimed Charles; "from my sister, perhaps?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire," -said the usher, "a special messenger."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let him -come in at once," said Charles.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have a letter for -me," said the king to the courier as he entered, "from the -Duchess of Orléans?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire," -replied the courier, "and so urgent in its nature that I have -only been twenty-six hours in bringing it to your majesty, and -yet I lost three-quarters of an hour at Calais."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your zeal shall not be -forgotten," said the king, as he opened the letter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he had read it he burst out -laughing, and exclaimed, "Upon my word, I am at a loss to -understand anything about it."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then read the letter a second -time, Miss Stewart assuming a manner marked by the greatest -reserve, and doing her utmost to restrain her ardent -curiosity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Francis," said the king -to his valet, "see that this excellent fellow is well taken care -of and sleeps soundly, and that on waking to-morrow he finds a -purse of fifty sovereigns by his bedside."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire!" said the -courier, amazed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Begone, begone; my -sister was perfectly right in desiring you to use the utmost -diligence; the affair was most pressing."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he again began to laugh louder -than ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The courier, -the valet, and Miss Stewart hardly knew what sort of countenance -to assume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah!" said the -king, throwing himself back in his armchair: "When I think that -you have knocked up - how many horses?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Two!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Two horses -to bring this intelligence to me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That will do, you can leave us -now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The courier retired with -the valet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Charles went -to the window, which he opened, and leaning forward, called out - -"Duke!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Buckingham! come -here, there's a good fellow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The duke hurried to him, -in obedience to the summons; but when he reached the door, and -perceived Miss Stewart, he hesitated to enter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come in, and shut the -door," said the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -duke obeyed; and, perceiving in what an excellent humor the king -was, he advanced, smiling, towards him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, my dear duke, how do you get -on with your Frenchman?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I am in the most -perfect state of utter despair about him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because charming Miss -Grafton is willing to marry him, but he is unwilling."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, he is a perfect -Bœotian!" cried Miss Stewart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Let him say either 'Yes,' or No,' -and let the affair end."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," said Buckingham, -seriously, "you know, or you ought to know, madame, that M. de -Bragelonne is in love in another direction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case," said the -king, coming to Miss Stewart's help, "nothing is easier; let him -say 'No,' then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very true; and I have -proved to him he was wrong not to say 'Yes.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You told him candidly, -I suppose, that La Vallière was deceiving him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, without the -slightest reserve; and, as soon as I had done so, he gave a -start, as if he were going to clear the Channel at a bound."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events," said -Miss Stewart, "he has done something; and a very good thing too, -upon my word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," said Buckingham, -"I stopped him; I have left him and Miss Mary in conversation -together, and I sincerely trust that now he will not leave, as he -seemed to have an idea of doing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An idea of leaving -England?" cried the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, at one moment, -hardly thought that any human power could have prevented him; but -Miss Mary's eyes are now bent fully on him, and he will -remain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, that is the very -thing which deceives you, Buckingham," said the king, with a peal -of laughter; "the poor fellow is predestined."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Predestined to -what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it were to be simply -deceived, that is nothing; but, to look at him, it is a great -deal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At a distance, and with -Miss Grafton's aid, the blow will be warded off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Far from it, far from -it; neither distance nor Miss Grafton's help will be of the -slightest avail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Bragelonne will set off for Paris within an hour's time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Buckingham started, and -Miss Stewart opened her eyes very wide in astonishment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, sire," said the -duke, "your majesty knows that it is impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is to say, my dear -Buckingham, that it is impossible until it happens."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not forget, sire, -that the young man is a perfect lion, and that his wrath is -terrible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't deny it, my -dear duke."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that if he sees -that his misfortune is certain, so much the worse for the author -of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't deny it; but -what the deuce am I to do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Were it the king -himself," cried Buckingham, "I would not answer for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, the king has his -musketeers to take care of him," said Charles, quietly; "I know -that perfectly well, for I was kept dancing attendance in his -ante-chamber at Blois.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -has M. d'Artagnan, and what better guardian could the king have -than M. d'Artagnan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -should make myself perfectly easy with twenty storms of passion, -such as Bragelonne might display, if I had four guardians like -D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I entreat your -majesty, who is so good and kind, to reflect a little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay," said Charles -II., presenting the letter to the duke, "read, and answer -yourself what you would do in my place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Buckingham slowly took -hold of Madame's letter, and trembling with emotion, read the -following words:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For your own sake, for -mine, for the honor and safety of every one, send M. de -Bragelonne back to France immediately.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your devoted sister,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -HENRIETTA."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Villiers, what do -you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Really, sire, I have -nothing to say," replied the duke, stupefied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, would you, of all -persons," said the king, artfully, "advise me not to listen to my -sister when she writes so urgently?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, no, sire; and -yet - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have not read the -postscript, Villiers; it is under the fold of the letter, and -escaped me at first; read it."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as the duke turned down a fold -of the letter, he read:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A thousand kind -remembrances to those who love me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The duke's head sank -gradually on his breast; the paper trembled in his fingers, as if -it had been changed to lead. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king paused for a moment, and, -seeing that Buckingham did not speak, "He must follow his -destiny, as we ours," continued the king; "every man has his own -share of grief in this world; I have had my own, - I have had -that of others who belong to me, - and have thus had a double -weight of woe to endure! - But the deuce take all my cares -now!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, and bring our -friend here, Villiers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The duke opened the -trellised door of the summer-house, and pointing at Raoul and -Mary, who were walking together side by side, said, "What a cruel -blow, sire, for poor Miss Grafton!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nonsense; call him," -said Charles II., knitting his black brows together; "every one -seems to be sentimental here.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There, look at Miss Stewart, who is -wiping her eyes, - now deuce take the French fellow!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The duke called to -Raoul, and taking Miss Grafton by the hand, he led her towards -the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur de -Bragelonne," said Charles II., "did you not ask me the day before -yesterday for permission to return to Paris?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire," replied -Raoul, greatly puzzled by this address.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I refused you, I -think?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For which -you were angry with me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire; -your majesty had no doubt excellent reasons for withholding it; -for you are so wise and so good that everything you do is well -done."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I alleged, -I believe, as a reason, that the king of France had not recalled -you?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, -that was the reason you assigned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, M. de Bragelonne, -I have reflected over the matter since; if the king did not, in -fact, fix your return, he begged me to render your sojourn in -England as agreeable as possible; since, however, you ask my -permission to return, it is because your longer residence in -England is no longer agreeable to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not say that, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, but your request, -at least," said the king, "signified that another place of -residence would be more agreeable to you than this."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this -moment Raoul turned towards the door, against which Miss Grafton -was leaning, pale and sorrow-stricken; her other hand was passed -through the duke's arm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not reply," -pursued Charles; "the proverb is plain enough, that 'silence -gives consent.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very -good, Monsieur de Bragelonne; I am now in a position to satisfy -you; whenever you please, therefore, you can leave for Paris, for -which you have my authority."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire!" exclaimed Raoul, -while Mary stifled an exclamation of grief which rose to her -lips, unconsciously pressing Buckingham's arm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You can be at Dover -this evening," continued the king, "the tide serves at two -o'clock in the morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul, astounded, -stammered out a few broken sentences, which equally answered the -purpose both of thanks and of excuse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I therefore bid you -adieu, Monsieur de Bragelonne, and wish you every sort of -prosperity," said the king, rising; "you will confer a pleasure -on me by keeping this diamond in remembrance of me; I had -intended it as a marriage gift."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Miss Grafton felt her -limbs almost giving way; and, as Raoul received the ring from the -king's hand, he, too, felt his strength and courage failing -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He addressed a few -respectful words to the king, a passing compliment to Miss -Stewart, and looked for Buckingham to bid him adieu.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king profited by this moment to -disappear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul found -the duke engaged in endeavoring to encourage Miss Grafton.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell him to remain, I -implore you!" said Buckingham to Mary.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I will tell him to -go," replied Miss Grafton, with returning animation; "I am not -one of those women who have more pride than heart; if she whom he -loves is in France, let him return thither and bless me for -having advised him to go and seek his happiness there.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If, on the contrary, she shall -have ceased to love him, let him come back here again; I shall -still love him, and his unhappiness will not have lessened him in -my regard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the arms of -my house you will find that which Heaven has engraven on my heart -- <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Habenti parum, egenti -cuncta</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'To the rich -is accorded little, to the poor everything.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not believe, -Bragelonne, that you will find yonder the equivalent of what you -leave behind you here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think, or at least -hope," said Raoul, with a gloomy air, "that she whom I love is -worthy of my affection; but if it be true she is unworthy of me, -as you have endeavored to make me believe, I will tear her image -from my heart, duke, even if my heart breaks in the attempt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Mary Grafton gazed upon -him with an expression of the most indefinable pity, and Raoul -returned her look with a sweet, sorrowful smile, saying, -"Mademoiselle, the diamond which the king has given me was -destined for you, - give me leave to offer it for your -acceptance: if I marry in France, you will send it me back; if I -do not marry, keep it."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And he bowed and left her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What does he mean?" -thought Buckingham, while Raoul pressed Mary's icy hand with -marks of the most reverential respect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Mary understood the look -that Buckingham fixed upon her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it were a -wedding-ring, I would not accept it," she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet you were -willing to ask him to return to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! duke," cried the -young girl in heart-broken accents, "a woman such as I am is -never accepted as a consolation by a man like him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not think he -will return, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never," said Miss -Grafton, in a choking voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I grieve to tell -you, Mary, that he will find yonder his happiness destroyed, his -mistress lost to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -honor even has not escaped.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What will be left him, then, Mary, -equal to your affection?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Answer, Mary, you who know yourself so well."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Miss Grafton -placed her white hand on Buckingham's arm, and, while Raoul was -hurrying away with headlong speed, she repeated in dying accents -the line from Romeo and Juliet:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I must be gone and live, or stay and -die.</i>"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As she -finished the last word, Raoul disappeared.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Miss Grafton returned to her own -apartments, paler than death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Buckingham availed himself of the -arrival of the courier, who had brought the letter to the king, -to write to Madame and to the Comte de Guiche.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king had not been mistaken, for -at two in the morning the tide was at full flood, and Raoul had -embarked for France.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XXXIX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Saint-Aignan Follows Malicorne's Advice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he king most assiduously followed the progress which was -made in La Vallière's portrait; and did so with a care and -attention arising as much from a desire that it should resemble -her as from the wish that the painter should prolong the period -of its completion as much as possible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was amusing to observe him follow -the artist's brush, awaiting the completion of a particular plan, -or the result of a combination of colors, and suggesting various -modifications to the painter, which the latter consented to adopt -with the most respectful docility.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And again, when the artist, -following Malicorne's advice, was a little late in arriving, and -when Saint-Aignan had been obliged to be absent for some time, it -was interesting to observe, though no one witnessed them, those -moments of silence full of deep expression, which united in one -sigh two souls most disposed to understand each other, and who by -no means objected to the quiet meditation they enjoyed -together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The minutes -flew rapidly by, as if on wings, and as the king drew closer to -Louise and bent his burning gaze upon her, a noise was suddenly -heard in the ante-room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was the artist, who had just arrived; Saint-Aignan, too, had -returned, full of apologies; and the king began to talk and La -Vallière to answer him very hurriedly, their eyes -revealing to Saint-Aignan that they had enjoyed a century of -happiness during his absence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a word, Malicorne, philosopher -that he was, though he knew it not, had learned how to inspire -the king with an appetite in the midst of plenty, and with desire -in the assurance of possession.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière's fears of -interruption had never been realized, and no one imagined she was -absent from her apartment two or three hours every day; she -pretended that her health was very uncertain; those who went to -her room always knocked before entering, and Malicorne, the man -of so many ingenious inventions, had constructed an acoustic -piece of mechanism, by means of which La Vallière, when in -Saint-Aignan's apartment, was always forewarned of any visits -which were paid to the room she usually inhabited.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this manner, therefore, without -leaving her room, and having no <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>confidante</i>, she was able to -return to her apartment, thus removing by her appearance, a -little tardy perhaps, the suspicions of the most determined -skeptics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Malicorne -having asked Saint-Aignan the next morning what news he had to -report, the latter was obliged to confess that the quarter of an -hour's liberty had made the king in most excellent humor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We must double the dose," -replied Malicorne, "but by insensible degrees; wait until they -seem to wish it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They were so desirous -for it, however, that on the evening of the fourth day, at the -moment when the painter was packing up his implements, during -Saint-Aignan's continued absence, Saint-Aignan on his return -noticed upon La Vallière's face a shade of disappointment -and vexation, which she could not conceal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king was less reserved, and -exhibited his annoyance by a very significant shrug of the -shoulders, at which La Vallière could not help -blushing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Very good!" -thought Saint-Aignan to himself; "M. Malicorne will be delighted -this evening;" as he, in fact, was, when it was reported to -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is very evident," he -remarked to the comte, "that Mademoiselle de la Vallière -hoped that you would be at least ten minutes later."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the king that I -should be half an hour later, dear Monsieur Malicorne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You would show but very -indifferent devotion to the king," replied the latter, "if you -were to refuse his majesty that half-hour's satisfaction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the painter," -objected Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> will take care of him," said -Malicorne, "only I must study faces and circumstances a little -better before I act; those are my magical inventions and -contrivances; and while sorcerers are enabled by means of their -astrolabe to take the altitude of the sun, moon, and stars, I am -satisfied merely by looking into people's faces, in order to see -if their eyes are encircled with dark lines, and if the mouth -describes a convex or concave arc."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the cunning -Malicorne had every opportunity of watching narrowly and closely, -for the very same evening the king accompanied the queen to -Madame's apartments, and made himself so remarked by his serious -face and his deep sigh, and looked at La Vallière with -such a languishing expression, that Malicorne said to Montalais -during the evening: "To-morrow."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he went off to the painter's -house in the street of the Jardins Saint-Paul to request him to -postpone the next sitting for a couple of days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan was not within, when La -Vallière, who was now quite familiar with the lower story, -lifted up the trap-door and descended.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, as usual was waiting for -her on the staircase, and held a bouquet in his hand; as soon as -he saw her, he clasped her tenderly in his arms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière, much moved at -the action, looked around the room, but as she saw the king was -alone, she did not complain of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They sat down, the king reclining -near the cushions on which Louise was seated, with his head -supported by her knees, placed there as in an asylum whence no -one could banish him; he gazed ardently upon her, and as if the -moment had arrived when nothing could interpose between their two -hearts; she, too, gazed with similar passion upon him, and from -her eyes, so softly pure, emanated a flame, whose rays first -kindled and then inflamed the heart of the king, who, trembling -with happiness as Louise's hand rested on his head, grew giddy -from excess of joy, and momentarily awaited either the painter's -or Saint-Aignan's return to break the sweet illusion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the door remained closed, and -neither Saint-Aignan nor the painter appeared, nor did the -hangings even move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -deep mysterious silence reigned in the room - a silence which -seemed to influence even the song-birds in their gilded -prisons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, -completely overcome, turned round his head and buried his burning -lips in La Vallière's hands, who, herself faint, with -excess of emotion, pressed her trembling hands against her -lover's lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis threw -himself upon his knees, and as La Vallière did not move -her head, the king's forehead being within reach of her lips, she -furtively passed her lips across the perfumed locks which -caressed her cheeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king seized her in his arms, and, unable to resist the -temptation, they exchanged their first kiss, that burning kiss, -which changes love into delirium.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly, a noise upon the upper -floor was heard, which had, in fact, continued, though it had -remained unnoticed, for some time; it had at last aroused La -Vallière's attention, though but slowly so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As the noise, however, continued, as -it forced itself upon the attention, and recalled the poor girl -from her dreams of happiness to the sad realities of life, she -rose in a state of utter bewilderment, though beautiful in her -disorder, saying:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Some one is waiting for -me above.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis, Louis, -do you not hear?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! and am I not -waiting for you, also?" said the king, with infinite tenderness -of tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Let others -henceforth wait for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But she gently shook her -head, as she replied: "Happiness hidden… power -concealed… my pride should be as silent as my heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The noise was again -resumed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hear Montalais's -voice," she said, and she hurried up the staircase; the king -followed her, unable to let her leave his sight, and covering her -hand with his kisses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Yes, yes," repeated La Vallière, who had passed half-way -through the opening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Yes, it is Montalais who is calling me; something important must -have happened."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go then, dearest love," -said the king, "but return quickly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, not to-day, -sire!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu! adieu!" she -said, as she stooped down once more to embrace her lover - and -escaped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais was, -in fact, waiting for her, very pale and agitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quick, quick! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>he</i> is coming," she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who - who is -coming?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul," -murmured Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is I - I," said a -joyous voice, upon the last steps of the grand staircase.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -uttered a terrible shriek and threw herself back.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am here, dear -Louise," said Raoul, running towards her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I knew but too well that you had -not ceased to love me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière with -a gesture, partly of extreme terror, and partly as if invoking a -blessing, attempted to speak, but could not articulate one -word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No, no!" she said, -as she fell into Montalais's arms, murmuring, "Do not touch me, -do not come near me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Montalais -made a sign to Raoul, who stood almost petrified at the door, and -did not even attempt to advance another step into the room.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, looking towards the side -of the room where the screen was, she exclaimed: "Imprudent girl, -she has not even closed the trap-door."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And she advanced towards -the corner of the room to close the screen, and also, behind the -screen, the trap-door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But suddenly the king, who had heard Louise's exclamation, darted -through the opening, and hurried forward to her assistance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He threw himself on his knees -before her, as he overwhelmed Montalais with questions, who -hardly knew where she was.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the moment, however, when the -king threw himself on his knees, a cry of utter despair rang -through the corridor, accompanied by the sound of retreating -footsteps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -wished to see who had uttered the cry and whose were the -footsteps he had heard; and it was in vain that Montalais sought -to retain him, for Louis, quitting his hold of La -Vallière, hurried towards the door, too late, however, for -Raoul was already at a distance, and the king only beheld a -shadow that quickly vanished in the silent corridor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: In the three-volume -edition, Volume 2, entitled <u>Louise de la Vallière</u>, -ends here. – JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XL:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>Two -Old Friends.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -W</span>hilst every one at court was busily engaged with his own -affairs, a man mysteriously took up his post behind the Place de -Grève, in the house which we once saw besieged by -D'Artagnan on the occasion of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>émeute</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The principal entrance of the house -was in the Place Baudoyer; it was tolerably large, surrounded by -gardens, inclosed in the Rue Saint-Jean by the shops of -toolmakers, which protected it from prying looks, and was walled -in by a triple rampart of stone, noise, and verdure, like an -embalmed mummy in its triple coffin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man we have just alluded to -walked along with a firm step, although he was no longer in his -early prime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His dark -cloak and long sword plainly revealed one who seemed in search of -adventures; and, judging from his curling mustache, his fine -smooth skin, which could be seen beneath his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>sombrero</i>, it would not have been -difficult to pronounce that gallantry had not a little share in -his adventures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, -hardly had the cavalier entered the house, when the clock struck -eight; and ten minutes afterwards a lady, followed by a servant -armed to the teeth, approached and knocked at the same door, -which an old woman immediately opened for her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lady raised her veil as she -entered; though no longer beautiful or young, she was still -active and of an imposing carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She concealed, beneath a rich -toilette and the most exquisite taste, an age which Ninon de -l'Enclos alone could have smiled at with impunity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hardly had she reached the -vestibule, when the cavalier, whose features we have only roughly -sketched, advanced towards her, holding out his hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "God day, my dear -duchesse," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How do you do, my dear -Aramis?" replied the duchesse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He led her to a most -elegantly furnished apartment, on whose high windows were -reflected the expiring rays of the setting sun, which filtered -gaudily through the dark green needles of the adjacent firs.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They sat down side by -side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Neither of them -thought of asking for additional light in the room, and they -buried themselves as it were in the shadow, as if they wished to -bury themselves in forgetfulness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Chevalier," said the -duchesse, "you have never given me a single sign of life since -our interview at Fontainebleau, and I confess that your presence -there on the day of the Franciscan's death, and your initiation -in certain secrets, caused me the liveliest astonishment I ever -experienced in my whole life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I can explain my -presence there to you, as well as my initiation," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But let us, first of -all," said the duchess, "talk a little of ourselves, for our -friendship is by no means of recent date."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, madame: and if -Heaven wills it, we shall continue to be friends, I will not say -for a long time, but forever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is quite certain, -chevalier, and my visit is a proof of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Our interests, duchess, -are no longer the same as they used to be," said Aramis, smiling -without apprehension in the growing gloom by which the room was -overcast, for it could not reveal that his smile was less -agreeable and not so bright as formerly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, chevalier, at the -present day we have other interests.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every period of life brings its own; -and, as we now understand each other in conversing, as perfectly -as we formerly did without saying a word, let us talk, if you -like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am at your orders, -duchesse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg your pardon, how did you -obtain my address, and what was your object?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You ask me why?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have told you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Curiosity in the first place.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wished to know what you -could have to do with the Franciscan, with whom I had certain -business transactions, and who died so singularly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know that on the occasion of our -interview at Fontainebleau, in the cemetery, at the foot of the -grave so recently closed, we were both so much overcome by our -emotions that we omitted to confide to each other what we may -have to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, I had no -sooner left you than I repented, and have ever since been most -anxious to ascertain the truth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know that Madame de Longueville -and myself are almost one, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was not aware," said -Aramis, discreetly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I remembered, -therefore," continued the duchesse, "that neither of us said -anything to the other in the cemetery; that you did not speak of -the relationship in which you stood to the Franciscan, whose -burial you superintended, and that I did not refer to the -position in which I stood to him; all which seemed very unworthy -of two such old friends as ourselves, and I have sought an -opportunity of an interview with you in order to give you some -information that I have recently acquired, and to assure you that -Marie Michon, now no more, has left behind her one who has -preserved her recollection of events."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis bowed over the -duchess's hand, and pressed his lips upon it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You must have had some trouble to -find me again," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," she answered, -annoyed to find the subject taking a turn which Aramis wished to -give it; "but I knew you were a friend of M. Fouquet's, and so I -inquired in that direction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A friend! oh!" -exclaimed the chevalier, "I can hardly pretend to be <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>that</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A poor priest who has been favored -by a generous protector, and whose heart is full of gratitude and -devotion, is all that I pretend to be to M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He made you a -bishop?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A very good retiring -pension for so handsome a musketeer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; in the same way -that political intrigue is for yourself," thought Aramis.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And so," he added, "you -inquired after me at M. Fouquet's?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Easily enough.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You had been to Fontainebleau -with him, and had undertaken a voyage to your diocese, which is -Belle-Île-en-Mer, I believe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, madame," said -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My diocese is -Vannes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I meant that.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I only thought that -Belle-Île-en-Mer - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is a property belonging -to M. Fouquet, nothing more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had been told that Belle-Isle was -fortified; besides, I know how great the military knowledge is -you possess."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have forgotten -everything of the kind since I entered the Church," said Aramis, -annoyed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Suffice it to know that -I learned you had returned from Vannes, and I sent off to one of -our friends, M. le Comte de la Fère, who is discretion -itself, in order to ascertain it, but he answered that he was not -aware of your address."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So like Athos," thought -the bishop; "the really good man never changes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, you know -that I cannot venture to show myself here, and that the -queen-mother has always some grievance or other against me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, indeed, and I am -surprised at it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! there are various -reasons for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, to -continue, being obliged to conceal myself, I was fortunate enough -to meet with M. d'Artagnan, who was formerly one of your old -friends, I believe?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A friend of mine still, -duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He gave me certain -information, and sent me to M. Baisemeaux, the governor of the -Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis was somewhat -agitated at this remark, and a light flashed from his eyes in the -darkness of the room, which he could not conceal from his -keen-sighted friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. -de Baisemeaux!" he said, "why did D'Artagnan send you to M. de -Baisemeaux?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot -tell you."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What can -this possibly mean?" said the bishop, summoning all the resources -of his mind to his aid, in order to carry on the combat in a -befitting manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Baisemeaux is -greatly indebted to you, D'Artagnan told me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, he is so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the address of a -creditor is as easily ascertained as that of a debtor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very true; and so -Baisemeaux indicated to you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Saint-Mandé, -where I forwarded a letter to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which I have in my -hand, and which is most precious to me," said Aramis, "because I -am indebted to it for the pleasure of seeing you here."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duchesse, satisfied at -having successfully overcome the various difficulties of so -delicate an explanation, began to breathe freely again, which -Aramis, however, could not succeed in doing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We had got as far as your visit to -M. Baisemeaux, I believe?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay," she -said, laughing, "farther than that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case we must -have been speaking about the grudge you have against the -queen-mother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Further still," she -returned, "further still; we were talking of the connection - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which existed between -you and the Franciscan," said Aramis, interrupting her eagerly, -"well, I am listening to you very attentively."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is easily -explained," returned the duchesse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You know that I am living at -Brussels with M. de Laicques?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I heard so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know that my -children have ruined and stripped me of everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How terrible, dear -duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Terrible indeed; this -obliged me to resort to some means of obtaining a livelihood, -and, particularly, to avoid vegetating for the remainder of my -existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had old -hatreds to turn to account, old friendships to make use of; I no -longer had either credit or protectors."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>You</i>, who had extended protection -towards so many persons," said Aramis, softly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is always the case, -chevalier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, at the -present time I am in the habit of seeing the king of Spain very -frequently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who has just nominated -a general of the Jesuits, according to the usual custom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it usual, -indeed?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Were you -not aware of it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon; I -was inattentive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You must be aware of -that - you who were on such good terms with the Franciscan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With the general of the -Jesuits, you mean?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> -"Exactly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, I -have seen the king of Spain, who wished me to do a service, but -was unable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gave me -recommendations, however, to Flanders, both for myself and for -Laicques too; and conferred a pension on me out of the funds -belonging to the order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of Jesuits?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The general - I mean the -Franciscan - was sent to me; and, for the purpose of conforming -with the requisitions of the statues of the order, and of -entitling me to the pension, I was reputed to be in a position to -render certain services.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are aware that that is the rule?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I did not know it," -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame de Chevreuse -paused to look at Aramis, but it was perfectly dark.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, such is the rule, however," -she resumed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I had, -therefore, to appear to possess a power of usefulness of some -kind or other, and I proposed to travel for the order, and I was -placed on the list of affiliated travelers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You understand it was a formality, -by means of which I received my pension, which was very -convenient for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens! duchesse, -what you tell me is like a dagger-thrust.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>You</i> obliged to receive a pension -from the Jesuits?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, chevalier! from -Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Except for a -conscientious scruple, duchesse, you will admit that it is pretty -nearly the same thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, not at all."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But surely -of your magnificent fortune there must remain - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dampierre is all that -remains."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that is handsome -enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but Dampierre is -burdened, mortgaged, and almost fallen to ruin, like its -owner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And can the -queen-mother know and see all that, without shedding a tear?" -said Aramis, with a penetrating look, which encountered nothing -but darkness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She has forgotten everything."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You, I -believe, attempted to get restored to favor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but, most -singularly, the young king inherits the antipathy his dear father -had for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will, -perhaps, tell me that I am indeed a woman to be hated, and that I -am no longer one who can be loved."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear duchesse, pray -come quickly to the cause that brought you here; for I think we -can be of service to each other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Such has been my own -thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I came to -Fontainebleau with a double object in view.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first place, I was summoned -there by the Franciscan whom you knew.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By the by, how did you know him? - -for I have told you my story, and have not yet heard yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I knew him in a very -natural way, duchesse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -studied theology with him at Parma.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We became fast friends; and it -happened, from time to time, that business, or travel, or war, -separated us from each other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were, of course, -aware that he was the general of the Jesuits?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I suspected it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But by what -extraordinary chance did it happen that you were at the hotel -when the affiliated travelers met together?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Aramis, in a -calm voice, "it was the merest chance in the world.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was going to Fontainebleau to see -M. Fouquet, for the purpose of obtaining an audience of the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was passing by, -unknown; I saw the poor dying monk in the road, and recognized -him immediately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know -the rest - he died in my arms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but bequeathing to -you so vast a power that you issue your sovereign orders and -directions like a monarch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He certainly did leave -me a few commissions to settle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what for me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have told -you - a sum of twelve thousand livres was to be paid to you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I thought I had given you the -necessary signature to enable you to receive it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Did you not get the money?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes, -yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You give your -orders, I am informed, with so much mystery, and such a majestic -presence, that it is generally believed you are the successor of -the defunct chief."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis colored -impatiently, and the duchesse continued: "I have obtained my -information," she said, "from the king of Spain himself; and he -cleared up some of my doubts on the point.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every general of the Jesuits is -nominated by him, and must be a Spaniard, according to the -statutes of the order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are not a Spaniard, nor have you been nominated by the king -of Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis did not reply to -this remark, except to say, "You see, duchesse, how greatly you -were mistaken, since the king of Spain told you that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my dear Aramis; -but there was something else which I have been thinking of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know, I believe, -something about most things, and it occurred to me that you know -the Spanish language."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every Frenchman who has -been actively engaged in the Fronde knows Spanish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have lived in -Flanders?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Three -years."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And have -stayed at Madrid?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fifteen months."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are in a position, -then, to become a naturalized Spaniard, when you like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Really?" said Aramis, -with a frankness which deceived the duchesse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Undoubtedly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two years' residence and an -acquaintance with the language are indispensable.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have upwards of four years - -more than double the time necessary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are you driving -at, duchesse?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At this - I am on good -terms with the king of Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I am not on bad -terms," thought Aramis to himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Shall I ask the king," -continued the duchesse, "to confer the succession to the -Franciscan's post upon you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, duchesse!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have it already, -perhaps?" she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, upon my honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, then, I can -render you that service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why did you not render -the same service to M. de Laicques, duchesse?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is a very talented man, and one -you love, besides."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, no doubt; but, at -all events, putting Laicques aside, will you have it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I thank you, -duchesse."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She -paused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He is -nominated," she thought; and then resumed aloud, "If you refuse -me in this manner, it is not very encouraging for me, supposing I -should have something to ask of you."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! ask, -pray, ask."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I cannot do so, if you have not the -power to grant what I want."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "However limited my -power and ability, ask all the same."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I need a -sum of money, to restore Dampierre."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" replied Aramis, -coldly - "money?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -duchesse, how much would you require?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! a tolerably round -sum."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the worse - you -know I am not rich."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; but the order -is - and if you had been the general - "<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know I -am not the general, I think."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that -case, you have a friend who must be very wealthy - M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is more than half ruined, -madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So it is said, but I -did not believe it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, duchesse?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I have, or -rather Laicques has, certain letters in his possession from -Cardinal Mazarin, which establish the existence of very strange -accounts."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What -accounts?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Relative to various -sums of money borrowed and disposed of.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I cannot very distinctly remember -what they are; but they establish the fact that the -superintendent, according to these letters, which are signed by -Mazarin, had taken thirteen millions of francs from the coffers -of the state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The case is -a very serious one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis clenched his -hands in anxiety and apprehension.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is it possible," he said, "that you -have such letters as you speak of, and have not communicated them -to M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" replied the -duchesse, "I keep such trifling matters as these in reserve.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The day may come when they -will be of service; and they can be withdrawn from the safe -custody in which they now remain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that day has -arrived?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are going to -show those letters to M. Fouquet?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I prefer to -talk about them with you, instead."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You must be -in sad want of money, my poor friend, to think of such things as -these - you, too, who held M. de Mazarin's prose effusions in -such indifferent esteem."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is, I <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>am</i> in want of money."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then," -continued Aramis, in cold accents, "it must have been very -distressing to you to be obliged to have recourse to such a -means.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is cruel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! if had wished to do -harm instead of good," said Madame de Chevreuse, "instead of -asking the general of the order, or M. Fouquet, for the five -hundred thousand francs I require, I - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Five hundred thousand -francs!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; no more.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you think it much?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I require at least as much as -that to restore Dampierre."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say, therefore, that -instead of asking for this amount, I should have gone to see my -old friend the queen-mother; the letters from her husband, Signor -Mazarini, would have served me as an introduction, and I should -have begged this mere trifle of her, saying to her, 'I wish, -madame, to have the honor of receiving you at Dampierre.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Permit me to put Dampierre in -a fit state for that purpose.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis did not return a -single word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well," she -said, "what are you thinking about?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am making certain -additions," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And M. Fouquet -subtractions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, on the -other hand, am trying my hand at the art of multiplication.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What excellent calculators we -all three are!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How well -we might understand one another!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you allow me to -reflect?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, for with such an -opening between people like ourselves, 'yes' or 'no' is the only -answer, and that an immediate one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a snare," thought -the bishop; "it is impossible that Anne of Austria would listen -to such a woman as this."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?" said the -duchesse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, madame, I should -be very much astonished if M. Fouquet had five hundred thousand -francs at his disposal at the present moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is no use speaking -of it, then," said the duchesse, "and Dampierre must get restored -how best it may."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you are not -embarrassed to such an extent as that, I suppose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I am never -embarrassed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the queen," -continued the bishop, "will certainly do for you what the -superintendent is unable to do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! -certainly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But tell me, -do you think it would be better that I should speak, myself, to -M. Fouquet about these letters?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, duchesse, you -will do precisely whatever you please in that respect.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet either feels or -does not feel himself to be guilty; if he really be so, I know he -is proud enough not to confess it; if he be not so, he will be -exceedingly offended at your menace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As usual, you -reason like an angel," said the duchesse, as she rose from her -seat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so, you are -now going to denounce M. Fouquet to the queen," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Denounce!'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! what a disagreeable -word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall not -'denounce' my dear friend; you know matters of policy too well to -be ignorant how easily these affairs are arranged.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall merely side against M. -Fouquet, and nothing more; and, in a war of party against party, -a weapon is always a weapon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No doubt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And once on -friendly terms again with the queen-mother, I may be dangerous -towards some persons."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are at liberty -to prove so, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A liberty of which -I shall avail myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are not -ignorant, I suppose, duchesse, that M. Fouquet is on the best -terms with the king of Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I suppose so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If, therefore, you -begin a party warfare against M. Fouquet, he will reply in the -same way; for he, too, is at perfect liberty to do so, is he -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! -certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And as he is on -good terms with Spain, he will make use of that friendship as a -weapon of attack."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You mean, that he -is, naturally, on good terms with the general of the order of the -Jesuits, my dear Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That may be the -case, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And that, -consequently, the pension I have been receiving from the order -will be stopped."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am greatly -afraid it might be."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well; I must -contrive to console myself in the best way I can; for after -Richelieu, after the Fronde, after exile, what is there left for -Madame de Chevreuse to be afraid of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The pension, you -are aware, is forty-eight thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am quite aware of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Moreover, in party -contests, you know, the friends of one's enemy do not -escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah! you mean that -poor Laicques will have to suffer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I am afraid it is -almost inevitable, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Oh! he only -receives twelve thousand francs pension."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, but the king -of Spain has some influence left; advised by M. Fouquet, he might -get M. Laicques shut up in prison for a little while."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am not very -nervous on that point, my dear friend; because, once reconciled -with Anne of Austria, I will undertake that France would insist -upon M. Laicques's liberation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"True.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In that case, you will have -something else to apprehend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What can that be?" -said the duchesse, pretending to be surprised and terrified.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will learn; -indeed, you must know it already, that having once been an -affiliated member of the order, it is not easy to leave it; for -the secrets that any particular member may have acquired are -unwholesome, and carry with them the germs of misfortune for -whosoever may reveal them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The duchesse paused -and reflected for a moment, and then said, "That is more serious: -I will think it over."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And notwithstanding -the profound obscurity, Aramis seemed to feel a basilisk glance, -like a white-hot iron, escape from his friend's eyes, and plunge -into his heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us -recapitulate," said Aramis, determined to keep himself on his -guard, and gliding his hand into his breast where he had a dagger -concealed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly, let us -recapitulate; short accounts make long friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The suppression of -your pension - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Forty-eight -thousand francs, and that of Laicques's twelve, make together -sixty thousand francs; that is what you mean, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely; and I -was trying to find out what would be your equivalent for -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Five hundred -thousand francs, which I shall get from the queen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Or, which you will -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>not</i> get."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know a means of -procuring them," said the duchesse, thoughtlessly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>This remark made -the chevalier prick up his ears; and from the moment his -adversary had committed this error, his mind was so thoroughly on -its guard, that he seemed every moment to gain the advantage more -and more; and she, consequently, to lose it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will admit, for argument's sake, -that you obtain the money," he resumed; "you will lose twice as -much, having a hundred thousand francs' pension to receive -instead of sixty thousand, and that for a<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> period of ten years."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not so, for I -shall only be subjected to this reduction of my income during the -period of M. Fouquet's remaining in power, a period which I -estimate at two months."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am frank, you -see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I thank you for -it, duchesse; but you would be wrong to suppose that after M. -Fouquet's disgrace the order would resume the payment of your -pension."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know a means of -making the order pay, as I know a means of forcing the -queen-mother to concede what I require."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case, -duchesse, we are all obliged to strike our flags to you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The victory is yours, and the -triumph also.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be clement, -I entreat you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But is it -possible," resumed the duchesse, without taking notice of the -irony, "that you really draw back from a miserable sum of five -hundred thousand francs, when it is a question of sparing you - I -mean your friend - I beg your pardon, I ought rather to say your -protector - the disagreeable consequences which a party contest -produces?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Duchesse, I tell -you why; supposing the five hundred thousand francs were to be -given you, M. Laicques will require his share, which will be -another five hundred thousand francs, I presume? and then, after -M. de Laicques's and your own portions have been arranged, the -portions which your children, your poor pensioners, and various -other persons will require, will start up as fresh claims, and -these letters, however compromising they may be in their nature, -are not worth from three to four millions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can you have forgotten the queen of -France's diamonds? - they were surely worth more than these bits -of waste paper signed by Mazarin, and yet their recovery did not -cost a fourth part of what you ask for yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, that is true; -but the merchant values his goods at his own price, and it is for -the purchaser to buy or refuse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stay a moment, -duchesse; would you like me to tell you why I will not buy your -letters?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Pray tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because the -letters you claim to be Mazarin's are false."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What an -absurdity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have no doubt of -it, for it would, to say the least, be very singular, that after -you had quarreled with the queen through M. Mazarin's means, you -should have kept up any intimate acquaintance with the latter; it -would look as if you had been acting as a spy; and upon my word, -I do not like to make use of the word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! pray do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You great -complacence would seem suspicions, at all events."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is quite -true; but the contents of the letters are even more so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I pledge you my -word, duchesse, that you will not be able to make use of it with -the queen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! yes, indeed; I -can make use of everything with the queen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good," -thought Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Croak -on, old owl - hiss, beldame-viper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>But the duchesse -had said enough, and advanced a few steps towards the door.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, however, had reserved -one exposure which she did <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>not</i> expect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>He rang the bell, -candles immediately appeared in the adjoining room, and the -bishop found himself completely encircled by lights, which shone -upon the worn, haggard face of the duchesse, revealing every -feature but too clearly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Aramis fixed a long ironical look upon her pale, thin, withered -cheeks - her dim, dull eyes - and upon her lips, which she kept -carefully closed over her discolored scanty teeth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He, however, had thrown himself into -a graceful attitude, with his haughty and intelligent head thrown -back; he smiled so as to reveal teeth still brilliant and -dazzling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The antiquated -coquette understood the trick that had been played her.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was standing immediately -before a large mirror, in which her decrepitude, so carefully -concealed, was only made more manifest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, thereupon, without even -saluting Aramis, who bowed with the ease and grace of the -musketeer of early days, she hurried away with trembling steps, -which her very precipitation only the more impeded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis sprang across the room, like -a zephyr, to lead her to the door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Chevreuse made a sign to -her servant, who resumed his musket, and she left the house where -such tender friends had not been able to understand each other -only because they had understood each other too well.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Wherein May Be Seen that a Bargain Which Cannot Be Made with One -Person, Can Be Carried Out with Another.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>ramis had been perfectly correct in his supposition; for -hardly had she left the house in the Place Baudoyer than Madame -de Chevreuse proceeded homeward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was doubtless afraid of being -followed, and by this means thought she might succeed in throwing -those who might be following her off their guard; but scarcely -had she arrived within the door of the hotel, and hardly had -assured herself that no one who could cause her any uneasiness -was on her track, when she opened the door of the garden, leading -into another street, and hurried towards the Rue Croix des -Petits-Champs, where M. Colbert resided.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> We have already said -that evening, or rather night, had closed in; it was a dark, -thick night, besides; Paris had once more sunk into its calm, -quiescent state, enshrouding alike within its indulgent mantle -the high-born duchesse carrying out her political intrigue, and -the simple citizen's wife, who, having been detained late by a -supper in the city, was making her way slowly homewards, hanging -on the arm of a lover, by the shortest possible route.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Chevreuse had been -too well accustomed to nocturnal political intrigues to be -ignorant that a minister never denies himself, even at his own -private residence, to any young and beautiful woman who may -chance to object to the dust and confusion of a public office, or -to old women, as full of experience as of years, who dislike the -indiscreet echo of official residences.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A valet received the duchesse under -the peristyle, and received her, it must be admitted, with some -indifference of manner; he intimated, after having looked at her -face, that it was hardly at such an hour that one so advanced in -years as herself could be permitted to disturb Monsieur Colbert's -important occupations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But Madame de Chevreuse, without looking or appearing to be -annoyed, wrote her name upon a leaf of her tablets - a name which -had but too frequently sounded so disagreeably in the ears of -Louis XIII. and of the great cardinal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She wrote her name in the large, -ill-formed characters of the higher classes of that period, -handed it to the valet, without uttering a word, but with so -haughty and imperious a gesture, that the fellow, well accustomed -to judge of people from their manners and appearance, perceived -at once the quality of the person before him, bowed his head, and -ran to M. Colbert's room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The minister could not control a sudden exclamation as he opened -the paper; and the valet, gathering from it the interest with -which his master regarded the mysterious visitor, returned as -fast as he could to beg the duchesse to follow him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She ascended to the first floor of -the beautiful new house very slowly, rested herself on the -landing-place, in order not to enter the apartment out of breath, -and appeared before M. Colbert, who, with his own hands, held -both the folding doors open.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duchesse paused at the -threshold, for the purpose of well studying the character of the -man with whom she was about to converse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the first glance, the round, -large, heavy head, thick brows, and ill-favored features of -Colbert, who wore, thrust low down on his head, a cap like a -priest's <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>calotte</i>, -seemed to indicate that but little difficulty was likely to be -met with in her negotiations with him, but also that she was to -expect as little interest in the discussion of particulars; for -there was scarcely any indication that the rough and uncouth -nature of the man was susceptible to the impulses of a refined -revenge, or of an exalted ambition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But when, on closer inspection, the -duchesse perceived the small, piercingly black eyes, the -longitudinal wrinkles of his high and massive forehead, the -imperceptible twitching of the lips, on which were apparent -traces of rough good-humor, Madame de Chevreuse altered her -opinion of him, and felt she could say to herself: "I have found -the man I want."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the subject, -madame, which procures me the honor of a visit from you?" he -inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The need I have you of -you, monsieur," returned the duchesse, "as well as that which you -have of me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am delighted, madame, -with the first portion of your sentence; but, as far as the -second portion is concerned - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame de Chevreuse sat -down in the armchair which M. Colbert advanced towards her.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur Colbert, you are the -intendant of finances, and are ambitious of becoming the -superintendent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, do not deny it; -that would only unnecessarily prolong our conversation, and that -is useless."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet, madame, -however well-disposed and inclined to show politeness I may be -towards a lady of your position and merit, nothing will make me -confess that I have ever entertained the idea of supplanting my -superior."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I said nothing about -supplanting, Monsieur Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Could I accidentally have made use -of that word?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I hardly -think that likely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -word 'replace' is less aggressive in its signification, and more -grammatically suitable, as M. de Voiture would say.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I presume, therefore, that you are -ambitious of replacing M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet's fortune, -madame, enables him to withstand all attempts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The superintendent in this age plays -the part of the Colossus of Rhodes; the vessels pass beneath him -and do not overthrow him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I ought to have availed -myself precisely of that very comparison.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is true, M. Fouquet plays the -part of the Colossus of Rhodes; but I remember to have heard it -said by M. Conrart, a member of the academy, I believe, that when -the Colossus of Rhodes fell from its lofty position, the merchant -who had cast it down - a merchant, nothing more, M. Colbert - -loaded four hundred camels with the ruins.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A merchant! and that is considerably -less than an intendant of finances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, I can assure -you that I shall never overthrow M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, Monsieur -Colbert, since you persist in showing so much sensitiveness with -me, as if you were ignorant that I am Madame de Chevreuse, and -also that I am somewhat advanced in years; in other words, that -you have to do with a woman who has had political dealings with -the Cardinal Richelieu, and who has no time to lose; as, I -repeat, you do not hesitate to commit such an imprudence, I shall -go and find others who are more intelligent and more desirous of -making their fortunes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How, madame, how?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You give me a very poor -idea of negotiations of the present day.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I assure you that if, in my earlier -days, a woman had gone to M. de Cinq-Mars, who was not, moreover, -a man of a very high order of intellect, and had said to him -about the cardinal what I have just said to you of M. Fouquet, M. -de Cinq-Mars would by this time have already set actively to -work."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, madame, show a -little indulgence, I entreat you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, do you -really consent to replace M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly, I do, if the -king dismisses M. Fouquet."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Again, a -word too much; it is quite evident that, if you have not yet -succeeded in driving M. Fouquet from his post, it is because you -have not been able to do so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, I should be the greatest -simpleton possible if, in coming to you, I did not bring the very -thing you require."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am distressed to be -obliged to persist, madame," said Colbert, after a silence which -enabled the duchesse to sound the depths of his dissimulation, -"but I must warn you that, for the last six years, denunciation -after denunciation has been made against M. Fouquet, and he has -remained unshaken and unaffected by them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is a time for -everything, Monsieur Colbert; those who were the authors of those -denunciations were not called Madame de Chevreuse, and they had -no proofs equal to the six letters from M. de Mazarin which -establish the offense in question."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The offense!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The crime, if you -like it better."<br> -"The crime! committed by M. Fouquet!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing less.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is rather strange, M. -Colbert, but your face, which just now was cold and indifferent, -is now positively the very reverse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A crime!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am delighted to -see that it makes an impression upon you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is because that -word, madame, embraces so many things."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It embraces the -post of superintendent of finance for yourself, and a letter of -exile, or the Bastile, for M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Forgive me, madame -la duchesse, but it is almost impossible that M. Fouquet can be -exiled; to be imprisoned or disgraced, that is already a great -deal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I am perfectly -aware of what I am saying," returned Madame de Chevreuse, -coldly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I do not live at -such a distance from Paris as not to know what takes place -there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king does not -like M. Fouquet, and he would willingly sacrifice M. Fouquet if -an opportunity were only given him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It must be a good -one, though."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good enough, and -one I estimate to be worth five hundred thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way?" said -Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I mean, monsieur, -that holding this opportunity in my own hands, I will not allow -it to be transferred to yours except for a sum of five hundred -thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I understand you -perfectly, madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -since you have fixed a price for the sale, let me now see the -value of the articles to be sold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, a mere trifle; -six letters, as I have already told you, from M. de Mazarin; and -the autographs will most assuredly not be regarded as too highly -priced, if they establish, in an irrefutable manner, that M. -Fouquet has embezzled large sums of money from the treasury and -appropriated them to his own purposes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In an irrefutable -manner, do you say?" observed Colbert, whose eyes sparkled with -delight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Perfectly so; -would you like to read the letters?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With all my -heart!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Copies, of -course?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course, the -copies," said the duchesse, as she drew from her bosom a small -packet of papers flattened by her velvet bodice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Read," she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert eagerly -snatched the papers and devoured them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Excellent!" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is clear -enough, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, madame, yes; -M. Mazarin must have handed the money to M. Fouquet, who must -have kept it for his own purposes; but the question is, what -money?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly, - what -money; if we come to terms I will join to these six letters a -seventh, which will supply you with the fullest particulars."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert -reflected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And the -originals of these letters?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A useless question -to ask; exactly as if I were to ask you, Monsieur Colbert, -whether the money-bags you will give me will be full or -empty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good, -madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Is it -concluded?"<br> -"No; for there is one circumstance to which neither of us has -given any attention."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Name it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. Fouquet can be -utterly ruined, under the legal circumstances you have detailed, -only by means of legal proceedings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A public scandal, -for instance; and yet neither the legal proceedings nor the -scandal can be commenced against him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because he is -procureur-général of the parliament; because, too, -in France, all public administrators, the army, justice itself, -and commerce, are intimately connected by ties of -good-fellowship, which people call <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>espirit de corps</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In such a case, madame, the -parliament will never permit its chief to be dragged before a -public tribunal; and never, even if he be dragged there by royal -authority, never, I say, will he be condemned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, Monsieur -Colbert, I do not see what I have to do with that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am aware of -that, madame; but I have to do with it, and it consequently -diminishes the value of what you have brought to show me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What good can a proof of a -crime be to me, without the possibility of obtaining a -condemnation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Even if he be only -suspected, M. Fouquet will lose his post of superintendent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is that all?" -exclaimed Colbert, whose dark, gloomy features were momentarily -lighted up by an expression of hate and vengeance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! ah!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur Colbert," said the -duchesse, "forgive me, but I did not think you were so -impressionable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very -good; in that case, since you need more than I have to give you, -there is no occasion to speak of the matter at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, madame, we -will go on talking of it; only, as the value of your commodities -had decreased, you must lower your pretensions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are -bargaining, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Every man who -wishes to deal loyally is obliged to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How much will you -offer me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Two hundred -thousand francs," said Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The duchesse -laughed in his face, and then said, suddenly, "Wait a moment, I -have another arrangement to propose; will you give me three -hundred thousand francs?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, you can either -accept or refuse my terms; besides, that is not all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"More still! you -are becoming too impracticable to deal with, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Less so than you -think, perhaps, for it is not money I am going to ask you -for."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A service; you -know that I have always been most affectionately attached to the -queen, and I am desirous of having an interview with her -majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With the -queen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, Monsieur -Colbert, with the queen, who is, I admit, no longer my friend, -and who has ceased to be so for a long time past, but who may -again become so if the opportunity be only given her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Her majesty has -ceased to receive any one, madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She is a great sufferer, and you may -be aware that the paroxysms of her disease occur with greater -frequency than ever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is the very -reason why I wish to have an interview with her majesty; for in -Flanders there is a great variety of these kinds of -complaints."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What, cancers - a -fearful, incurable disorder?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not believe -that, Monsieur Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The Flemish peasant is somewhat a man of nature, and his -companion for life is not alone a wife, but a female laborer -also; for while he is smoking his pipe, the woman works: it is -she who draws the water from the well; she who loads the mule or -the ass, and even bears herself a portion of the burden.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Taking but little care of -herself, she gets knocked about first in one direction, and then -in another, and very often is beaten by her husband, and cancers -frequently rise from contusions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"True, true," said -Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The Flemish women -do not die the sooner on that account.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When they are great sufferers from -this disease they go in search of remedies, and the -Béguines of Bruges are excellent doctors for every kind of -disease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They have -precious waters of one sort or another; specifics of various -kinds; and they give a bottle of it and a wax candle to the -sufferer, whereby the priests are gainers, and Heaven is served -by the disposal of both their wares.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will take the queen some of this -holy water, which I will procure from the Béguines of -Bruges; her majesty will recover, and will burn as many wax -candles as she may see fit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see, Monsieur Colbert, to -prevent my seeing the queen is almost as bad as committing the -crime of regicide."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are -undoubtedly, madame la duchesse, a woman of exceedingly great -abilities, and I am more than astounded at their display; still I -cannot but suppose that this charitable consideration towards the -queen in some measure covers a slight personal interest for -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have not given -myself the trouble to conceal it, that I am aware of, Monsieur -Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You said, I -believe, that I had a slight personal interest?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the contrary, it is a very great -interest, and I will prove it to you, by resuming what I was -saying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you procure me -a personal interview with her majesty, I will be satisfied with -the three hundred thousand francs I have claimed; if not, I shall -keep my letters, unless, indeed, you give me, on the spot, five -hundred thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And rising from her -seat with this decisive remark, the old duchesse plunged M. -Colbert into a disagreeable perplexity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To bargain any further was out of -the question; and not to bargain was to pay a great deal too -dearly for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Madame," he said, "I shall have the pleasure of handing over a -hundred thousand crowns; but how shall I get the actual letters -themselves?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the simplest -manner in the world, my dear Monsieur Colbert - whom will you -trust?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The financier began -to laugh, silently, so that his large eyebrows went up and down -like the wings of a bat, upon the deep lines of his yellow -forehead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No one," he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You surely will -make an exception in your own favor, Monsieur Colbert?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way, -madame?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I mean that, if -you would take the trouble to accompany me to the place where the -letters are, they would be delivered into your own hands, and you -would be able to verify and check them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You would bring -the hundred thousand crowns with you at the same time, for I, -too, do not trust any one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert colored to -the tips of his ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Like all eminent men in the art of figures, he was of an insolent -and mathematical probity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I will take with me, madame," he said, "two orders for the -amount agreed upon, payable at my treasury.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will that satisfy you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Would that the -orders on your treasury were for two millions, monsieur -l'intendant!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall have -the pleasure of showing you the way, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Allow me to order -my carriage?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have a carriage -below, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert coughed -like an irresolute man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He imagined, for a moment, that the proposition of the duchesse -was a snare; that perhaps some one was waiting at the door; and -that she whose secret had just been sold to Colbert for a hundred -thousand crowns, had already offered it to Fouquet for the same -sum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he still -hesitated, the duchesse looked at him full in the face.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You prefer your -own carriage?" she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I admit I <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>do</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You suppose I am -going to lead you into a snare or trap of some sort or -other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Madame la -duchesse, you have the character of being somewhat inconsiderate -at times, as I am reputed a sober, solemn character, a jest or -practical joke might compromise me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; the fact is, -you are afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -then, take your own carriage, as many servants as you like, only -think well of what I am going to say.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What we two may arrange between -ourselves, we are the only persons who will know - if a third -person is present we might as well tell the whole world about -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After all, I do not -make a point of it; my carriage shall follow yours, and I shall -be satisfied to accompany you in your own carriage to the -queen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To the queen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you forgotten -that already?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it -possible that one of the clauses of the agreement of so much -importance to me, can have escaped you so soon?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How trifling it seems to you, -indeed; if I had known it I should have asked double what I have -done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have reflected, -madame, and I shall not accompany you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Really - and why -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because I have the -most perfect confidence in you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You overpower -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But - provided I -receive the hundred thousand crowns?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here they are, -madame," said Colbert, scribbling a few lines on a piece of -paper, which he handed to the duchesse, adding, "You are -paid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The trait is a -fine one, Monsieur Colbert, and I will reward you for it," she -said, beginning to laugh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Madame de -Chevreuse's laugh was a very sinister sound; a man with youth, -faith, love, life itself, throbbing in his heart, would prefer a -sob to such a lamentable laugh.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duchesse opened the front of her -dress and drew forth from her bosom, somewhat less white than it -once had been, a small packet of papers, tied with a -flame-colored ribbon, and, still laughing, she said, "There, -Monsieur Colbert, are the originals of Cardinal Mazarin's -letters; they are now your own property," she added, refastening -the body of her dress; "your fortune is secured.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now accompany me to the -queen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, madame; if you -are again about to run the chance of her majesty's displeasure, -and it were known at the Palais Royal that I had been the means -of introducing you there, the queen would never forgive me while -she lived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No; there are -certain persons at the palace who are devoted to me, who will -procure you an admission without my being compromised."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Just as you -please, provided I enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you term -those religions women at Bruges who cure disorders?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'> -"Béguines."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good; are you -one?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As you please, - -but I must soon cease to be one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is your -affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Excuse me, but I -do not wish to be exposed to a refusal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is again your -own affair, madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -going to give directions to the head valet of the gentleman in -waiting on the queen to allow admission to a Béguine, who -brings an effectual remedy for her majesty's sufferings.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are the bearer of my -letter, you will undertake to be provided with the remedy, and -will give every explanation on the subject.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I admit a knowledge of a -Béguine, but I deny all knowledge of Madame de -Chevreuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here, madame, -then, is your letter of introduction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Skin of the Bear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -C</span>olbert handed the duchesse the letter, and gently drew -aside the chair behind which she was standing; Madame de -Chevreuse, with a very slight bow, immediately left the -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert, who had -recognized Mazarin's handwriting, and had counted the letters, -rang to summon his secretary, whom he enjoined to go in immediate -search of M. Vanel, a counselor of the parliament.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The secretary replied that, -according to his usual practice, M. Vanel had just that moment -entered the house, in order to give the intendant an account of -the principal details of the business which had been transacted -during the day in parliament.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert approached one of the lamps, -read the letters of the deceased cardinal over again, smiled -repeatedly as he recognized the great value of the papers Madame -de Chevreuse had just delivered - and burying his head in his -hands for a few minutes, reflected profoundly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime, a tall, -loosely-made man entered the room; his spare, thin face, steady -look, and hooked nose, as he entered Colbert's cabinet, with a -modest assurance of manner, revealed a character at once supple -and decided, - supple towards the master who could throw him the -prey, firm towards the dogs who might possibly be disposed to -dispute its possession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -M. Vanel carried a voluminous bundle of papers under his arm, and -placed it on the desk on which Colbert was leaning both his -elbows, as he supported his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good day, M. Vanel," -said the latter, rousing himself from his meditation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good day, monseigneur," -said Vanel, naturally.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You should say -monsieur, and not monseigneur," replied Colbert, gently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We give the title of -monseigneur to ministers," returned Vanel, with extreme -self-possession, "and you are a minister."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are so in point of -fact, and I call you monseigneur accordingly; besides you are -seigneur for <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me</i>, and -that is sufficient; if you dislike my calling you monseigneur -before others, allow me, at least, to call you so in -private."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert raised his head -as if to read, or try to read, upon Vanel's face how much or how -little sincerity entered into this protestation of devotion.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the counselor knew -perfectly well how to sustain the weight of such a look, even -backed with the full authority of the title he had -conferred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert -sighed; he could not read anything in Vanel's face, and Vanel -might possibly be honest in his professions, but Colbert -recollected that this man, inferior to himself in every other -respect, was actually his master in virtue of the fact of his -having a wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he was -pitying this man's lot, Vanel coldly drew from his pocket a -perfumed letter, sealed with Spanish wax, and held it towards -Colbert, saying, "A letter from my wife, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert coughed, took, -opened and read the letter, and then put it carefully away in his -pocket, while Vanel turned over the leaves of the papers he had -brought with him with an unmoved and unconcerned air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Vanel," he said suddenly to his <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>protégé,</i> -"you are a hard-working man, I know; would twelve hours' daily -labor frighten you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I work fifteen hours -every day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Impossible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A counselor need not work more than -three hours a day in parliament."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am working up some returns for a -friend of mine in the department of accounts, and, as I still -have spare time on my hands, I am studying Hebrew."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your reputation stands -high in the parliament, Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe so, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You must not grow rusty -in your post of counselor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What must I do to avoid -it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Purchase a high -place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mean and low -ambitions are very difficult to satisfy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Small purses are the -most difficult ones to fill, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What post have you in -view?" said Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see none - not -one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is one, -certainly, but one need be almost the king himself to be able to -buy it without inconvenience; and the king will not be inclined, -I suppose, to purchase the post of -procureur-général."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At these words, Vanel -fixed his peculiar, humble, dull look upon Colbert, who could -hardly tell whether Vanel comprehended him or not.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why do you speak to me, -monseigneur," said Vanel, "of the post of -procureur-général to the parliament; I know no -other post than the one M. Fouquet fills."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly so, my dear -counselor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are not over -fastidious, monseigneur; but before the post can be bought, it -must be offered for sale."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe, Monsieur -Vanel, that it will be for sale before long."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For sale!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet's post of -procureur-général?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So it is <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>said</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The post which renders -him so perfectly invincible, for sale!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ha, ha!" said Vanel, beginning to -laugh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Would you be afraid, -then, of the post?" said Colbert, gravely.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Afraid! no; but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you desirous of -obtaining it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are laughing at me, -monseigneur," replied Vanel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is it likely that a counselor of -the parliament would not be desirous of becoming -procureur-général?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Monsieur Vanel, -since I tell you that the post, as report goes, will be shortly -for sale - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot help -repeating, monseigneur, that it is impossible; a man never throws -away the buckler, behind which he maintains his honor, his -fortune, his very life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There are certain men -mad enough, Vanel, to fancy themselves out of the reach of all -mischances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur; but -such men never commit their mad acts for the advantage of the -poor Vanels of the world."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For the very reason -that those Vanels are poor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is true that M. -Fouquet's post might cost a good round sum.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What would you bid for it, Monsieur -Vanel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Everything I am -worth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which means?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Three or -four hundred thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the post is worth - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A million and a half, -at the very lowest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -know persons who have offered one million seven hundred thousand -francs, without being able to persuade M. Fouquet to sell.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, supposing it were to -happen that M. Fouquet wished to sell, which I do not believe, in -spite of what I have been told - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you have heard -something about it, then; who told you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Gourville, M. -Pélisson, and others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; if, -therefore, M. Fouquet did wish to sell - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I could not buy it just -yet, since the superintendent will only sell for ready money, and -no one has a million and a half to put down at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert suddenly -interrupted the counselor by an imperious gesture; he had begun -to meditate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Observing -his superior's serious attitude, and his perseverance in -continuing the conversation on this subject, Vanel awaited the -solution without venturing to precipitate it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Explain to me the -privileges which this post confers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The right of impeaching -every French subject who is not a prince of the blood; the right -of quashing all proceedings taken against any Frenchman, who is -neither king nor prince.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The procureur-général is the king's right hand to -punish the guilty; the office is the means whereby also he can -evade the administration of justice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet, therefore, would be -able, by stirring up parliament, to maintain himself even against -the king; and the king could as easily, by humoring M. Fouquet, -get his edicts registered in spite of every opposition and -objection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -procureur-général can be made a very useful or a -very dangerous instrument."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Vanel, would you like -to be procureur-général?" said Colbert, suddenly, -softening both his look and his voice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I!" exclaimed the -latter; "I have already had the honor to represent to you that I -want about eleven hundred thousand francs to make up the -amount."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Borrow that sum from -your friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have no friends -richer than myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are an honest and -honorable man, Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monseigneur, if the -world would only think as you do!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think so, and that is -quite enough; and if it should be needed, I will be your -security."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not forget the -proverb, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That he who -becomes responsible for another has to pay for his fancy."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let that -make no difference."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Vanel rose, bewildered -by this offer which had been so suddenly and unexpectedly made to -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are not -trifling with me, monseigneur?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay; you say that M. -Gourville has spoken to you about M. Fouquet's post?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and M. -Pélisson, also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Officially so, or only -through their own suggestion?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "These were -their very words: 'The parliament members are as proud as they -are wealthy; they ought to club together two or three millions -among themselves, to present to their protector and leader, M. -Fouquet.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what did you -reply?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I said -that, for my own part, I would give ten thousand francs if -necessary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you like M. -Fouquet, then!" exclaimed Colbert, with a look of hatred.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but M. Fouquet is -our chief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is in debt -- is on the high road to ruin; and we ought to save the honor of -the body of which we are members."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly; and that -explains why M. Fouquet will be always safe and sound, so long as -he occupies his present post," replied Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thereupon," said Vanel, -"M. Gourville added, 'If we were to do anything out of charity to -M. Fouquet, it could not be otherwise than most humiliating to -him; and he would be sure to refuse it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let the parliament subscribe among -themselves to purchase, in a proper manner, the post of -procureur-général; in that case, all would go well; -the honor of our body would be saved, and M. Fouquet's pride -spared.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is an -opening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I considered it so, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Monsieur Vanel, -you will go at once, and find out either M. Gourville or M. -Pélisson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -know any other friend of M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know M. de la -Fontaine very well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "La Fontaine, the -rhymester?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; he used to write -verses to my wife, when M. Fouquet was one of our friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go to him, then, and -try and procure an interview with the superintendent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Willingly - but the sum -itself?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the day -and hour you arrange to settle the matter, Monsieur Vanel, you -shall be supplied with the money, so do not make yourself uneasy -on <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>that</i> account."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, such -munificence!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You eclipse -kings even - you surpass M. Fouquet himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay a moment - do not -let us mistake each other: I do not make you a present of -fourteen hundred thousand francs, Monsieur Vanel; for I have -children to provide for - but I will <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lend</i> you that sum."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask whatever interest, -whatever security you please, monseigneur; I am quite ready.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And when all your requisitions -are satisfied, I will still repeat, that you surpass kings and M. -Fouquet in munificence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What conditions do you impose?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The -repayment in eight years, and a mortgage upon the appointment -itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that all?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait a moment.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I reserve to myself the right -of purchasing the post from you at one hundred and fifty thousand -francs profit for yourself, if, in your mode of filling the -office, you do not follow out a line of conduct in conformity -with the interests of the king and with my projects."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah-h!" said Vanel, in -an altered tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is there anything in -that which can possibly be objectionable to you, Monsieur Vanel?" -said Colbert, coldly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no, no," replied -Vanel, nervously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will sign an agreement to that -effect whenever you like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And now go as quickly as you can to M. Fouquet's friend, obtain -an interview with the superintendent; do not be too difficult in -making whatever concessions may be required of you; and when once -the arrangements are all made - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will press him to -sign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be most careful to do -nothing of the kind; do not speak of signatures with M. Fouquet, -nor of deeds, nor even ask him to pass his word.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Understand this: otherwise you will -lose everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All you -have to do is to get M. Fouquet to give you his hand on the -matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>An -Interview with the Queen-Mother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he queen-mother was in the bedroom at the Palais Royal, -with Madame de Motteville and Señora Molina.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> King Louis, who had been impatiently -expected the whole day, had not made his appearance; and the -queen, who was growing impatient, had often sent to inquire about -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moral atmosphere -of the court seemed to indicate an approaching storm; the -courtiers and the ladies of the court avoided meeting in the -ante-chambers and the corridors in order not to converse on -compromising subjects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Monsieur had joined the king early in the morning for a -hunting-party; Madame remained in her own apartment, cool and -distant to every one; and the queen-mother, after she had said -her prayers in Latin, talked of domestic matters with her two -friends in pure Castilian.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Motteville, who understood -the language perfectly, answered her in French.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the three ladies had exhausted -every form of dissimulation and of politeness, as a circuitous -mode of expressing that the king's conduct was making the queen -and the queen-mother pine away through sheer grief and vexation, -and when, in the most guarded and polished phrases, they had -fulminated every variety of imprecation against Mademoiselle de -la Vallière, the queen-mother terminated her attack by an -exclamation indicative of her own reflections and character.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Estos hijos!</i>" said she to Molina -- which means, "These children!" words full of meaning on a -mother's lips - words full of terrible significance in the mouth -of a queen who, like Anne of Austria, hid many curious secrets in -her soul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Molina, -"children, children! for whom every mother becomes a -sacrifice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied the -queen; "a mother sacrifices everything, certainly."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She did not finish her phrase; for -she fancied, when she raised her eyes towards the full-length -portrait of the pale Louis XIII., that light once more flashed -from her husband's dull eyes, and his nostrils grew livid with -wrath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The portrait -seemed animated by a living expression - speak it did not, but it -seemed to threaten.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -profound silence succeeded the queen's last remark.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Molina began to turn over ribbons -and laces on a large work-table.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Motteville, surprised at -the look of mutual intelligence which had been exchanged between -the confidant and her mistress, cast down her eyes like a -discreet woman, and pretending to be observant of nothing that -was passing, listened with the utmost attention to every -word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She heard nothing, -however, but a very insignificant "hum" on the part of the -Spanish duenna, who was the incarnation of caution - and a -profound sigh on that of the queen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She looked up immediately.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are suffering?" she -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Motteville, no; why -do you say that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty almost -groaned just now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right; I did -sigh, in truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur Valot is not -far off; I believe he is in Madame's apartment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why is he with -Madame?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame is -troubled with nervous attacks."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A very fine -disorder, indeed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -is little good in M. Valot being there, when a very different -physician would quickly cure Madame."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame de -Motteville looked up with an air of great surprise, as she -replied, "Another doctor instead of M. Valot? - whom do you -mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Occupation, Motteville, -occupation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If any one is -really ill, it is my poor daughter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And your majesty, -too."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Less so -this evening, though."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not -believe that too confidently, madame," said De Motteville.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, as if to justify her -caution, a sharp, acute pain seized the queen, who turned deadly -pale, and threw herself back in the chair, with every symptom of -a sudden fainting fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Molina ran to a richly gilded tortoise-shell cabinet, from which -she took a large rock-crystal bottle of scented salts, and held -it to the queen's nostrils, who inhaled it wildly for a few -minutes, and murmured:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is hastening my -death - but Heaven's will be done!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty's death is -not so near at hand," added Molina, replacing the smelling-bottle -in the cabinet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does your majesty feel -better now?" inquired Madame de Motteville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Much better," returned -the queen, placing her finger on her lips, to impose silence on -her favorite.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is very strange," -remarked Madame de Motteville, after a pause.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is strange?" said -the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does your majesty -remember the day when this pain attacked you for the first -time?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I remember only that it -was a grievously sad day for me, Motteville."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But your majesty did -not always regard that day as a sad one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because three and -twenty years ago, on that very day, his present majesty, your own -glorious son, was born at the very same hour."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The queen uttered a loud -cry, buried her face in her hands, and seemed utterly prostrated -for some minutes; but whether from recollections which arose in -her mind, or from reflection, or even with sheer pain, was -doubtful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Molina -darted a look at Madame de Motteville, so full of bitter -reproach, that the poor woman, perfectly ignorant of its meaning, -was in her own exculpation on the point of asking an explanation, -when, suddenly, Anne of Austria arose and said, "Yes, the 5th of -September; my sorrow began on the 5th of September.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The greatest joy, one day; the -deepest sorrow the next; - the sorrow," she added, "the bitter -expiation of a too excessive joy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And, from that moment, -Anne of Austria, whose memory and reason seemed to be suspended -for the time, remained impenetrable, with vacant look, mind -almost wandering, and hands hanging heavily down, as if life had -almost departed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We must put her to -bed," said La Molina.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Presently, Molina."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us leave the queen -alone," added the Spanish attendant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame de Motteville -rose; large tears were rolling down the queen's pallid face; and -Molina, having observed this sign of weakness, fixed her black -vigilant eyes upon her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes," replied the -queen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Leave us, -Motteville; go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The word "us" produced a -disagreeable effect upon the ears of the French favorite; for it -signified that an interchange of secrets, or of revelations of -the past, was about to be made, and that one person was <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>de trop</i> in the conversation -which seemed likely to take place.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will Molina, alone, be -sufficient for your majesty to-night?" inquired the French -woman.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied the -queen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de -Motteville bowed in submission, and was about to withdraw, when -suddenly an old female attendant, dressed as if she had belonged -to the Spanish court of the year 1620, opened the door, and -surprised the queen in her tears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The remedy!" she cried, -delightedly, to the queen, as she unceremoniously approached the -group.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What remedy?" said Anne -of Austria.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For your majesty's -sufferings," the former replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who brings it?" asked -Madame de Motteville, eagerly; "Monsieur Valot?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; a lady -from Flanders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From Flanders?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is she Spanish?" inquired the -queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't know."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who sent -her?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. -Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Her name?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She did not -mention it."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Her -position in life?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She will answer that -herself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who is she?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She is -masked."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Go, Molina; go and -see!" cried the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is needless," -suddenly replied a voice, at once firm and gentle in its tone, -which proceeded from the other side of the tapestry hangings; a -voice which made the attendants start, and the queen tremble -excessively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the same -moment, a masked female appeared through the hangings, and, -before the queen could speak a syllable she added, "I am -connected with the order of the Béguines of Bruges, and -do, indeed, bring with me the remedy which is certain to effect a -cure of your majesty's complaint."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one uttered a sound, and the -Béguine did not move a step.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Speak," said the -queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will, when we -are alone," was the answer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Anne of Austria -looked at her attendants, who immediately withdrew.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Béguine, thereupon, -advanced a few steps towards the queen, and bowed reverently -before her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The queen -gazed with increasing mistrust at this woman, who, in her turn, -fixed a pair of brilliant eyes upon her, through her mask.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The queen of -France must, indeed, be very ill," said Anne of Austria, "if it -is known at the Béguinage of Bruges that she stands in -need of being cured."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty is -not irremediably ill."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But tell me how -you happen to know I am suffering?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty has -friends in Flanders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since these -friends, then, sent you, mention their names."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Impossible, -madame, since your majesty's memory has not been awakened by your -heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Anne of Austria -looked up, endeavoring to discover through the mysterious mask, -and this ambiguous language, the name of her companion, who -expressed herself with such familiarity and freedom; then, -suddenly, wearied by a curiosity which wounded every feeling of -pride in her nature, she said, "You are ignorant, perhaps, that -royal personages are never spoken to with the face masked."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Deign to excuse -me, madame," replied the Béguine, humbly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I cannot excuse -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I may, possibly, -forgive you, if you throw your mask aside."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have made a vow, -madame, to attend and aid all afflicted and suffering persons, -without ever permitting them to behold my face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I might have been able to administer -some relief to your body and to your mind, too; but since your -majesty forbids me, I will take my leave.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu, madame, adieu!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>These words were -uttered with a harmony of tone and respect of manner that -disarmed the queen of all anger and suspicion, but did not remove -her feeling of curiosity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You are right, "she said; "it ill-becomes those who are -suffering to reject the means of relief Heaven sends them.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Speak, then; and may you, -indeed, be able, as you assert, to administer relief to my body - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us first speak -a little of the mind, if you please," said the Béguine - -"of the mind, which, I am sure, must also suffer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My mind?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There are cancers -so insidious in their nature that their very pulsations cannot be -felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such cancers, -madame, leave the ivory whiteness of the skin unblemished, and -putrefy not the firm, fair flesh, with their blue tints; the -physician who bends over the patient's chest hears not, though he -listens, the insatiable teeth of the disease grinding onward -through the muscles, and the blood flows freely on; the knife has -never been able to destroy, and rarely, even temporarily, to -disarm the rage of these mortal scourges, - their home is in the -mind, which they corrupt, - they gnaw the whole heart until it -breaks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such, madame, are -the cancers fatal to queens; are you, too, free from their -scourge?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Anne slowly raised -her arm, dazzling in its perfect whiteness, and pure in its -rounded outlines as it was in the time of her earlier days.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The evils to which -you allude," she said, "are the condition of the lives of the -high in rank upon earth, to whom Heaven has imparted mind.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When those evils become too -heavy to be borne, Heaven lightens their burdens by penitence and -confession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus, only, -we lay down our burden and the secrets that oppress us.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, forget not that the same -gracious Heaven, in its mercy, apportions to their trials the -strength of the feeble creatures of its hand; and my strength has -enabled me to bear my burden.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For the secrets of others, the -silence of Heaven is more than sufficient; for my own secrets, -that of my confessor is enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are as -courageous, madame, I see, as ever, against your enemies.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do not acknowledge your -confidence in your friends?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Queens have no -friends; if you have nothing further to say to me, - if you feel -yourself inspired by Heaven as a prophetess - leave me, I pray, -for I dread the future."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I should have -supposed," said the Béguine, resolutely, "that you would -rather have dreaded the past."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Hardly had these -words escaped her lips, than the queen rose up proudly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Speak," she cried, in a -short, imperious tone of voice; "explain yourself briefly, -quickly, entirely; or, if not - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, do not -threaten me, your majesty," said the Béguine, gently; "I -came here to you full of compassion and respect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I came here on the part of a -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Prove that to -me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Comfort, instead of -irritating me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Easily enough, and -your majesty will see who is friendly to you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What misfortune has happened to your -majesty during these three and twenty years past - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Serious -misfortunes, indeed; have I not lost the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I speak not of -misfortunes of <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>that</i> -kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to ask you, -if, since the birth of the king, any indiscretion on a friend's -part has caused your majesty the slightest serious anxiety, or -distress?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not -understand you," replied the queen, clenching her teeth in order -to conceal her emotion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will make myself -understood, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -majesty remembers that the king was born on the 5th of September, -1638, at a quarter past eleven o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," stammered -out the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At half-past -twelve," continued the Béguine, "the dauphin, who had been -baptized by Monseigneur de Meaux in the king's and your own -presence, was acknowledged as the heir of the crown of -France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king then -went to the chapel of the old Château de Saint-Germain, to -hear the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Te Deum</i> -chanted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite true, quite -true," murmured the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty's -conferment took place in the presence of Monsieur, his majesty's -late uncle, of the princes, and of the ladies attached to the -court.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king's -physician, Bouvard, and Honoré, the surgeon, were -stationed in the ante-chamber; your majesty slept from three -o'clock until seven, I believe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, yes; but you -tell me no more than every one else knows as well as you and -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am now, madame, -approaching that which very few persons are acquainted with.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very few persons, did I say, -alas!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I might say two -only, for formerly there were but five in all, and, for many -years past, the secret has been well preserved by the deaths of -the principal participators in it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The late king sleeps now with his -ancestors; Perronnette, the midwife, soon followed him; Laporte -is already forgotten."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The queen opened -her lips as though to reply; she felt, beneath her icy hand, with -which she kept her face half concealed, the beads of perspiration -on her brow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It was eight -o'clock," pursued the Béguine; "the king was seated at -supper, full of joy and happiness; around him on all sides arose -wild cries of delight and drinking of healths; the people cheered -beneath the balconies; the Swiss guards, the musketeers, and the -royal guards wandered through the city, borne about in triumph by -the drunken students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Those boisterous sounds of general joy disturbed the dauphin, the -future king of France, who was quietly lying in the arms of -Madame de Hausac, his nurse, and whose eyes, as he opened them, -and stared about, might have observed two crowns at the foot of -his cradle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly your -majesty uttered a piercing cry, and Dame Perronnette immediately -flew to your beside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -doctors were dining in a room at some distance from your chamber; -the palace, deserted from the frequency of the irruptions made -into it, was without either sentinels or guards.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The midwife, having questioned and -examined your majesty, gave a sudden exclamation as if in wild -astonishment, and taking you in her arms, bewildered almost out -of her senses from sheer distress of mind, dispatched Laporte to -inform the king that her majesty the queen-mother wished to see -him in her room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Laporte, -you are aware, madame, was a man of the most admirable calmness -and presence of mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -did not approach the king as if he were the bearer of alarming -intelligence and wished to inspire the terror he himself -experienced; besides, it was not a very terrifying intelligence -which awaited the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Therefore, Laporte appeared with a smile upon his lips, and -approached the king's chair, saying to him - 'Sire, the queen is -very happy, and would be still more so to see your majesty.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On that day, Louis XIII. would -have given his crown away to the veriest beggar for a 'God bless -you.' <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Animated, -light-hearted, and full of gayety, the king rose from the table, -and said to those around him, in a tone that Henry IV. might have -adopted, - 'Gentlemen, I am going to see my wife.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He came to your beside, madame, at -the very moment Dame Perronnette presented to him a second -prince, as beautiful and healthy as the former, and said - 'Sire, -Heaven will not allow the kingdom of France to fall into the -female line.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, -yielding to a first impulse, clasped the child in his arms, and -cried, 'Oh, Heaven, I thank Thee!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>At this part of her -recital, the Béguine paused, observing how intensely the -queen was suffering; she had thrown herself back in her chair, -and with her head bent forward and her eyes fixed, listened -without seeming to hear, and her lips moving convulsively, either -breathing a prayer to Heaven or imprecations on the woman -standing before her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not believe that, if, because -there could be but one dauphin in France, "exclaimed the -Béguine, "the queen allowed that child to vegetate, -banished from his royal parents' presence, she was on that -account an unfeeling mother.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, no, no; there are those alive -who have known and witnessed the passionate kisses she imprinted -on that innocent creature in exchange for a life of misery and -gloom to which state policy condemned the twin brother of Louis -XIV."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Heaven!" murmured the queen -feebly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is admitted," -continued the Béguine, quickly, "that when the king -perceived the effect which would result from the existence of two -sons, equal in age and pretensions, he trembled for the welfare -of France, for the tranquillity of the state; and it is equally -well known that Cardinal de Richelieu, by the direction of Louis -XIII., thought over the subject with deep attention, and after an -hour's meditation in his majesty's cabinet, he pronounced the -following sentence: - 'One prince means peace and safety for the -state; two competitors, civil war and anarchy.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The queen rose -suddenly from her seat, pale as death, and her hands clenched -together:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You know too -much," she said, in a hoarse, thick voice, "since you refer to -secrets of state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for -the friends from whom you have acquired this secret, they are -false and treacherous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are their accomplice in the crime which is being now -committed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, throw -aside your mask, or I will have you arrested by my captain of the -guards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not think that -this secret terrifies me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You have obtained it, you shall restore it to me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never shall it leave your bosom, for -neither your secret nor your own life belong to you from this -moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Anne of Austria, -joining gesture to the threat, advanced a couple of steps towards -the Béguine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Learn," said the -latter, "to know and value the fidelity, the honor, and secrecy -of the friends you have abandoned."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, then, suddenly she threw aside -her mask.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Madame de -Chevreuse!" exclaimed the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With your majesty, -the sole living <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>confidante</i> of the secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" murmured Anne -of Austria; "come and embrace me, duchesse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alas! you kill your friend in thus -trifling with her terrible distress."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And the queen, -leaning her head upon the shoulder of the old duchesse, burst -into a flood of bitter tears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How young you are - still!" said -the latter, in a hollow voice; "you can weep!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLIV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>Two -Friends.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he queen looked steadily at Madame de Chevreuse, and -said: "I believe you just now made use of the word 'happy' in -speaking of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hitherto, -duchesse, I had thought it impossible that a human creature could -anywhere be found more miserable than the queen of France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your afflictions, -madame, have indeed been terrible enough.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But by the side of those great and -grand misfortunes to which we, two old friends, separated by -men's malice, were just now alluding, you possess sources of -pleasure, slight enough in themselves it may be, but greatly -envied by the world."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are they?" said -Anne of Austria, bitterly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What can induce you to pronounce -the word 'pleasure,' duchesse - you who, just now, admitted that -my body and my mind both stood in need of remedies?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame de -Chevreuse collected herself for a moment, and then murmured, "How -far removed kings are from other people!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I mean that they -are so far removed from the vulgar herd that they forget that -others often stand in need of the bare necessities of life.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They are like the inhabitant -of the African mountains, who, gazing from the verdant tableland, -refreshed by the rills of melted snow, cannot comprehend that the -dwellers in the plains below are perishing from hunger and thirst -in the midst of the desert, burnt up by the heat of the sun."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The queen colored, -for she now began to perceive the drift of her friend's -remark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It was very -wrong," she said, "to have neglected you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! madame, I know -the king has inherited the hatred his father bore me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king would exile me if he knew I -were in the Palais Royal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I cannot say that -the king is very well disposed towards you, duchesse," replied -the queen; "but I could - secretly, you know - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The duchesse's -disdainful smile produced a feeling of uneasiness in the queen's -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Duchesse," she -hastened to add, "you did perfectly right to come here, even were -it only to give us the happiness of contradicting the report of -your death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Has it been -rumored, then, that I was dead?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Everywhere."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And yet my -children did not go into mourning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! you know, -duchesse, the court is very frequently moving about from place to -place; we see M. Albert de Luynes but seldom, and many things -escape our minds in the midst of the preoccupations that -constantly beset us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty ought -not to have believed the report of my death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alas! we are all mortal; and -you may perceive how rapidly I, your younger sister, as we used -formerly to say, am approaching the tomb."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If your majesty -believed me dead, you ought, in that case, to have been -astonished not to have received the news."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Death not -unfrequently takes us by surprise, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! your majesty, -those who are burdened with secrets such as we have just now -discussed must, as a necessity of their nature, satisfy their -craving desire to divulge them, and they feel they must gratify -that desire before they die.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Among the various preparations for -their final journey, the task of placing their papers in order is -not omitted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The queen -started.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty will -be sure to learn, in a particular manner, the day of my -death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because your -majesty will receive the next day, under several coverings, -everything connected with our mysterious correspondence of former -times."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did you not burn -them?" cried Anne, in alarm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Traitors only," -replied the duchesse, "destroy a royal correspondence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Traitors, do you -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, certainly, or -rather they pretend to destroy, instead of which they keep or -sell it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Faithful -friends, on the contrary, most carefully secrete such treasures, -for it may happen that some day or other they would wish to seek -out their queen in order to say to her: 'Madame, I am getting -old; my health is fast failing me; in the presence of the danger -of death, for there is the risk for your majesty that this secret -may be revealed, take, therefore, this paper, so fraught with -menace for yourself, and trust not to another to burn it for -you.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What paper do you -refer to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As far as I am -concerned, I have but one, it is true, but that is indeed most -dangerous in its nature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! duchesse, tell -me what it is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A letter, dated -Tuesday, the 2d of August, 1644, in which you beg me to go to -Noisy-le-Sec, to see that unhappy child.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In your own handwriting, madame, -there are those words, 'that unhappy child!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A profound silence -ensued; the queen's mind was busy in the past; Madame de -Chevreuse was watching the progress of her scheme.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, unhappy, most unhappy!" -murmured Anne of Austria; "how sad the existence he led, poor -child, to finish it in so cruel a manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is he dead?" cried -the duchesse suddenly, with a curiosity whose genuine accents the -queen instinctively detected.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He died of -consumption, died forgotten, died withered and blighted like the -flowers a lover has given to his mistress, which she leaves to -die secreted in a drawer where she had hid them from the gaze of -others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Died!" repeated -the duchesse with an air of discouragement, which would have -afforded the queen the most unfeigned delight, had it not been -tempered in some measure with a mixture of doubt - "Died - at -Noisy-le-Sec?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, in the arms -of his tutor, a poor, honest man, who did not long survive -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That can easily be -understood; it is so difficult to bear up under the weight of -such a loss and such a secret," said Madame de Chevreuse, - the -irony of which reflection the queen pretended not to -perceive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de -Chevreuse continued: "Well, madame, I inquired some years ago at -Noisy-le-Sec about this unhappy child.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was told that it was not believed -he was dead, and that was my reason for not having at first -condoled with your majesty; for, most certainly, if I could have -thought it were true, never should I have made the slightest -allusion to so deplorable an event, and thus have re-awakened -your majesty's most natural distress."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You say that it is -not believed the child died at Noisy?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What did they say -about him, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They said - but, -no doubt, they were mistaken - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, speak, -speak!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They said, that -one evening, about the year 1645, a lady, beautiful and majestic -in her bearing, which was observed notwithstanding the mask and -the mantle that concealed her figure - a lady of rank, of very -high rank, no doubt - came in a carriage to the place where the -road branches off; the very same spot, you know, where I awaited -news of the young prince when your majesty was graciously pleased -to send me there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That the boy's -tutor, or guardian, took the child to this lady."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, what -next?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That both the -child and his tutor left that part of the country the very next -day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There, you see -there is some truth in what you relate, since, in point of fact, -the poor child died from a sudden attack of illness, which makes -the lives of all children, as doctors say, suspended as it were -by a thread."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What your majesty -says is quite true; no one knows it better than yourself - no one -believes it more strongly than myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But yet, how strange it is - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What can it now -be?" thought the queen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The person who -gave me these details, who was sent to inquire after the child's -health - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did you confide -such a charge to any one else?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, duchesse!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Some one as dumb -as your majesty, as dumb as myself; we will suppose it was -myself, Madame; this some one, some months after, passing through -Touraine - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Touraine!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Recognized both -the tutor and the child, too!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am wrong, thought he recognized -them, both living, cheerful, happy, and flourishing, the one in a -green old age, the other in the flower of his youth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Judge after that what truth can be -attributed to the rumors which are circulated, or what faith, -after that, placed in anything that may happen in the world!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I am fatiguing your -majesty; it was not my intention, however, to do so, and I will -take my leave of you, after renewing to you the assurance of my -most respectful devotion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stay, duchesse; -let us first talk a little about yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of myself, -madame!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am not worthy -that you should bend your looks upon me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not, -indeed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you not the -oldest friend I have?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are -you angry with me, duchesse?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I, indeed! what -motive could I have?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I -had reason to be angry with your majesty, should I have come -here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Duchesse, age is -fast creeping on us both; we should be united against that death -whose approach cannot be far off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You overpower me, -madame, with the kindness of your language."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No one has ever -loved or served me as you have done, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty is -too kind in remembering it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not so.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me a proof of your -friendship, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My whole being is -devoted to you, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The proof I -require is, that you should ask something of me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ask - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I know you -well, - no one is more disinterested, more noble, and truly -loyal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not praise me -too highly, madame," said the duchesse, somewhat anxiously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I could never -praise you as much as you deserve to be praised."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And yet, age and -misfortune effect a terrible change in people, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So much the -better; for the beautiful, the haughty, the adored duchesse of -former days might have answered me ungratefully, 'I do not wish -for anything from you.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Heaven be praised!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -misfortunes you speak of have indeed worked a change in you, for -you will now, perhaps, answer me, 'I accept.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The duchesse's look -and smile soon changed at this conclusion, and she no longer -attempted to act a false part.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Speak, dearest, -what do you want?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I must first -explain to you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do so -unhesitatingly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, your -majesty can confer the greatest, the most ineffable pleasure upon -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it?" said -the queen, a little distant in her manner, from an uneasiness of -feeling produced by this remark.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But do not forget, my good -Chevreuse, that I am quite as much under my son's influence as I -was formerly under my husband's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will not be too -hard, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Call me as you -used to do; it will be a sweet echo of our happy youth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, my -dear mistress, my darling Anne - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know -Spanish, still?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ask me in Spanish, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Will your majesty -do me the honor to pass a few days with me at Dampierre?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is that all?" said -the queen, stupefied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Nothing more than that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good heavens! can -you possibly imagine that, in asking you that, I am not asking -you the greatest conceivable favor?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If that really be the case, you do -not know me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you -accept?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, gladly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And I shall be happy," -continued the queen, with some suspicion, "if my presence can in -any way be useful to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Useful!" exclaimed -the duchesse, laughing; "oh, no, no, agreeable - delightful, if -you like; and you promise me, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I swear it," said -the queen, whereupon the duchesse seized her beautiful hand, and -covered it with kisses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The queen could not help murmuring to herself, "She is a -good-hearted woman, and very generous, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Will your majesty -consent to wait a fortnight before you come?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly; but -why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because," said the -duchesse, "knowing me to be in disgrace, no one would lend me the -hundred thousand francs, which I require to put Dampierre into a -state of repair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But when -it is known that I require that sum for the purpose of receiving -your majesty at Dampierre properly, all the money in Paris will -be at my disposal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said the -queen, gently nodding her head in sign of intelligence, "a -hundred thousand francs! you want a hundred thousand francs to -put Dampierre into repair?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite as much as -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And no one will -lend you them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will lend them -to you, if you like, duchesse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I hardly dare -accept such a sum."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You would be wrong -if you did <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>not</i>.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, a hundred thousand -francs is really not much.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know but too well that you never -set a right value upon your silence and secrecy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Push that table a little towards me, -duchesse, and I will write you an order on M. Colbert; no, on M. -Fouquet, who is a far more courteous and obliging man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Will he pay it, -though?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If he will not pay -it, I will; but it will be the first time he will have refused -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The queen wrote and -handed the duchesse the order, and afterwards dismissed her with -a warm embrace.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>How -Jean de La Fontaine Came to Write His First Tale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>ll these intrigues are exhausted; the human mind, so -variously complicated, has been enabled to develop itself at its -ease in the three outlines with which our recital has supplied -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not unlikely -that, in the future we are now preparing, a question of politics -and intrigues may still arise, but the springs by which they work -will be so carefully concealed that no one will be able to see -aught but flowers and paintings, just as at a theater, where a -colossus appears upon the scene, walking along moved by the small -legs and slender arms of a child concealed within the -framework.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> We now return to -Saint-Mandé, where the superintendent was in the habit of -receiving his select confederacy of epicureans.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For some time past the host had met -with nothing but trouble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Every one in the house was aware of and felt for the minister's -distress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No more -magnificent or recklessly improvident <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>réunions</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Money had been the pretext assigned -by Fouquet, and never <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>was</i> any pretext, as Gourville -said, more fallacious, for there was not even a shadow of money -to be seen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. Vatel was resolutely -painstaking in keeping up the reputation of the house, and yet -the gardeners who supplied the kitchens complained of ruinous -delays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The agents for -the supply of Spanish wines sent drafts which no one honored; -fishermen, whom the superintendent engaged on the coast of -Normandy, calculated that if they were paid all that was due to -them, the amount would enable them to retire comfortably for -life; fish, which, at a later period, was the cause of Vatel's -death, did not arrive at all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However, on the ordinary reception -days, Fouquet's friends flocked in more numerously than -ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville and the -Abbé Fouquet talked over money matters - that is to say, -the abbé borrowed a few pistoles from Gourville; -Pélisson, seated with his legs crossed, was engaged in -finishing the peroration of a speech with which Fouquet was to -open the parliament; and this speech was a masterpiece, because -Pélisson wrote it for his friend - that is to say, he -inserted all kinds of clever things the latter would most -certainly never have taken the trouble to say of his own -accord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Presently Loret -and La Fontaine would enter from the garden, engaged in a dispute -about the art of making verses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The painters and musicians, in their -turn, were hovering near the dining-room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as eight o'clock struck the -supper would be announced, for the superintendent never kept any -one waiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -already half-past seven, and the appetites of the guests were -beginning to declare themselves in an emphatic manner.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as all the guests were -assembled, Gourville went straight up to Pélisson, awoke -him out of his reverie, and led him into the middle of a room, -and closed the doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Well," he said, "anything new?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Pélisson raised -his intelligent and gentle face, and said: "I have borrowed five -and twenty thousand francs of my aunt, and I have them here in -good sterling money."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good," replied -Gourville; "we only what one hundred and ninety-five thousand -livres for the first payment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The payment of -what?" asked La Fontaine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What! -absent-minded as usual!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Why, it was you who told us the small estate at Corbeli was going -to be sold by one of M. Fouquet's creditors; and you, also, who -proposed that all his friends should subscribe - more than that, -it was you who said that you would sell a corner of your house at -Château-Thierry, in order to furnish your own proportion, -and you come and ask - '<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>The -payment of what?</i>'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>This remark was -received with a general laugh, which made La Fontaine blush.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I beg your pardon," he said, -"I had not forgotten it; oh, no! only - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Only you -remembered nothing about it," replied Loret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is the truth, -and the fact is, he is quite right, there is a great difference -between forgetting and not remembering."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then," added -Pélisson, "you bring your mite in the shape of the price -of the piece of land you have sold?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sold? no!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you not sold -the field, then?" inquired Gourville, in astonishment, for he -knew the poet's disinterestedness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My wife would not -let me," replied the latter, at which there were fresh bursts of -laughter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And yet you went -to Château-Thierry for that purpose," said some one.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly I did, -and on horseback."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor fellow!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I had eight -different horses, and I was almost bumped to death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are an -excellent fellow!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And you -rested yourself when you arrived there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Rested!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! of course I did, for I had -an immense deal of work to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My wife had been -flirting with the man to whom I wished to sell the land.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fellow drew back form his -bargain, and so I challenged him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good, and you -fought?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It seems not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You know nothing -about it, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, my wife and -her relations interfered in the matter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was kept a quarter of an hour with -my sword in my hand; but I was not wounded."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And your -adversary?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! he wasn't -wounded either, for he never came on the field."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Capital!" cried -his friends from all sides, "you must have been terribly -angry."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exceedingly so; I -caught cold; I returned home and then my wife began to quarrel -with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In real -earnest?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, in real -earnest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She threw a loaf -of bread at my head, a large loaf."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And what did you -do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I upset the table over her and her -guests; and then I got on my horse again, and here I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Every one had great -difficulty in keeping his countenance at the exposure of this -heroi-comedy, and when the laughter had subsided, one of the -guests present said to La Fontaine: "Is that all you have brought -back?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have an excellent idea in my -head."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you noticed -that there is a good deal of sportive, jesting poetry written in -France?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, of course," -replied every one.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And," pursued La -Fontaine, "only a very small portion of it is printed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The laws are -strict, you know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That may be; but a -rare article is a dear article, and that is the reason why I have -written a small poem, excessively free in its style, very broad, -and extremely cynical in its tone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The deuce you -have!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," continued -the poet, with assumed indifference, "and I have introduced the -greatest freedom of language I could possibly employ."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Peals of laughter -again broke forth, while the poet was thus announcing the quality -of his wares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And," he -continued, "I have tried to excel everything that Boccaccio, -Arétin, and other masters of their craft have written in -the same style."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Its fate is -clear," said Pélisson; "it will be suppressed and -forbidden."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you think so?" -said La Fontaine, simply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I assure you I did not do it on my own account so much as M. -Fouquet's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>This wonderful -conclusion again raised the mirth of all present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I have sold -the first edition of this little book for eight hundred livres," -exclaimed La Fontaine, rubbing his hands together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Serious and religions books sell at -about half that rate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It would have been -better," said Gourville, "to have written two religious books -instead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It would have been -too long, and not amusing enough," replied La Fontaine -tranquilly; "my eight hundred livres are in this little bag, and -I beg to offer them as <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> contribution."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>As he said this, he -placed his offering in the hands of their treasurer; it was then -Loret's turn, who gave a hundred and fifty livres; the others -stripped themselves in the same way; and the total sum in the -purse amounted to forty thousand livres.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The money was still being counted -over when the superintendent noiselessly entered the room; he had -heard everything; and then this man, who had possessed so many -millions, who had exhausted all the pleasures and honors the -world had to bestow, this generous heart, this inexhaustible -brain, which had, like two burning crucibles, devoured the -material and moral substance of the first kingdom in Europe, was -seen to cross the threshold with tears in his eyes, and pass his -fingers through the gold and silver which the bag contained.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor offering," he -said, in a softened and affected tone of voice, "you will -disappear into the smallest corner of my empty purse, but you -have filled to overflowing that which no one can ever exhaust, my -heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thank you, my -friends - thank you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -as he could not embrace every one present, who were all tearful, -too, philosophers as they were, he embraced La Fontaine, saying -to him, "Poor fellow! so you have, on my account, been beaten by -your wife and censured by your confessor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! it is a mere -nothing," replied the poet; "if your creditors will only wait a -couple of years, I shall have written a hundred other tales, -which, at two editions each, will pay off the debt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLVI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>La -Fontaine in the Character of a Negotiator.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -F</span>ouquet pressed La Fontaine's hand most warmly, saying to -him, "My dear poet, write a hundred other tales, not only for the -eighty pistoles which each of them will produce you, but, still -more, to enrich our language with a hundred new masterpieces of -composition."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said La Fontaine, -with a little air of pride, "you must not suppose that I have -only brought this idea and the eighty pistoles to the -superintendent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! indeed," was the -general acclimation from all parts of the room, "M. de la -Fontaine is in funds to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly," replied -La Fontaine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quick, quick!" -cried the assembly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take care," said -Pélisson in La Fontaine's ear; "you have had a most -brilliant success up to the present moment; do not go beyond your -depth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not at all, -Monsieur Pélisson; and you, who are a man of decided -taste, will be the first to approve of what I have done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We are talking of -millions, remember," said Gourville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have fifteen -hundred thousand francs here, Monsieur Gourville," he replied, -striking himself on the chest.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The deuce take -this Gascon from Château-Thierry!" cried Loret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is not the -pocket you must tap - but the brain," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stay a moment, -monsieur le surintendant," added La Fontaine; "you are not -procureur-général - you are a poet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"True, true!" cried -Loret, Conrart, and every person present connected with -literature.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are, I repeat, -a poet and a painter, a sculptor, a friend of the arts and -sciences; but, acknowledge that you are no lawyer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do acknowledge it," replied M. -Fouquet, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If you were to be -nominated at the Academy, you would refuse, I think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think I should, -with all due deference to the academicians."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good; if, -therefore, you do not wish to belong to the Academy, why do you -allow yourself to form one of the parliament?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" said -Pélisson, "we are talking politics."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I wish to know -whether the barrister's gown does or does not become M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is no -question of the gown at all," retorted Pélisson, annoyed -at the laughter of those who were present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, -it <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>is</i> the gown," said -Loret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take the gown away -from the procureur-général," said Conrart, "and we -have M. Fouquet left us still, of whom we have no reason to -complain; but, as he is no procureur-général -without his gown, we agree with M. de la Fontaine and pronounce -the gown to be nothing but a bugbear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Fugiunt risus leporesque</i>," said -Loret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The smiles and the -graces," said some one present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is not the -way," said Pélisson, gravely, "that I translate <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>lepores</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How do you -translate it?" said La Fontaine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thus: The hares -run away as soon as they see M. Fouquet."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A burst of laughter, in which the -superintendent joined, followed this sally.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But why hares?" -objected Conrart, vexed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because the hare -will be the very one who will not be over pleased to see M. -Fouquet surrounded by all the attributes which his parliamentary -strength and power confer on him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! oh!" murmured -the poets.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Quo non ascendam</i>," said -Conrart, "seems impossible to me, when one is fortunate enough to -wear the gown of the procureur-général."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "To what heights may he -not aspire?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet's -motto. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, -it seems so to me without that gown," said the obstinate -Pélisson; "what is your opinion, Gourville?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think the gown -in question is a very good thing," replied the latter; "but I -equally think that a million and a half is far better than the -gown."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I am of -Gourville's opinion," exclaimed Fouquet, stopping the discussion -by the expression of his own opinion, which would necessarily -bear down all the others.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A million and a -half," Pélisson grumbled out; "now I happen to know an -Indian fable - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Tell it to me," -said La Fontaine; "I ought to know it too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Tell it, tell it," -said the others.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There was a -tortoise, which was, as usual, well protected by its shell," said -Pélisson; "whenever its enemies threatened it, it took -refuge within its covering.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One day some one said to it, 'You -must feel very hot in such a house as that in the summer, and you -are altogether prevented showing off your graces; there is a -snake here, who will give you a million and a half for your -shell.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good!" said the -superintendent, laughing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, what next?" -said La Fontaine, more interested in the apologue than in the -moral.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The tortoise sold -his shell and remained naked and defenseless.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A vulture happened to see him, and -being hungry, broke the tortoise's back with a blow of his beak -and devoured it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -moral is, that M. Fouquet should take very good care to keep his -gown."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>La Fontaine -understood the moral seriously.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You forget Æschylus," he -said, to his adversary.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you -mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Æschylus was -bald-headed, and a vulture - your vulture, probably - who was a -great amateur in tortoises, mistook at a distance his head for a -block of stone, and let a tortoise, which was shrunk up in his -shell, fall upon it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, yes, La -Fontaine is right," resumed Fouquet, who had become very -thoughtful; "whenever a vulture wishes to devour a tortoise, he -well knows how to break his shell; but happy is that tortoise a -snake pays a million and a half for his envelope.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If any one were to bring me a -generous-hearted snake like the one in your fable, -Pélisson, I would give him my shell."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Rara avis in terres!</i>" cried -Conrart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "A creature rare on -earth." - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And like a black -swan, is he not?" added La Fontaine; "well, then, the bird in -question, black and rare, is already found."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you mean to say -that you have found a purchaser for my post of -procureur-général?" exclaimed Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But the -superintendent never said that he wished to sell," resumed -Pélisson.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I beg your -pardon," said Conrart, "you yourself spoke about it, even - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I am a -witness to that," said Gourville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He seems very -tenacious about his brilliant idea," said Fouquet, laughing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, La Fontaine, who is the -purchaser?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A perfect -blackbird, for he is a counselor belonging to the parliament, an -excellent fellow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is his -name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Vanel!" exclaimed -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Vanel the -husband of - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely, her -husband; yes, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor fellow!" said -Fouquet, with an expression of great interest.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He wishes to be -everything that you have been, monsieur," said Gourville, "and to -do everything that you have done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is very -agreeable; tell us all about it, La Fontaine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is very -simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I see him -occasionally, and a short time ago I met him, walking about on -the Place de la Bastile, at the very moment when I was about to -take the small carriage to come down here to -Saint-Mandé."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He must have been -watching his wife," interrupted Loret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no!" said La -Fontaine, "he is far from being jealous.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He accosted me, embraced me, and -took me to the inn called L'Image Saint-Fiacre, and told me all -about his troubles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He has his -troubles, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; his wife -wants to make him ambitious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, and he told -you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That some one had -spoken to him about a post in parliament; that M. Fouquet's name -had been mentioned; that ever since, Madame Vanel dreams of -nothing else than being called madame la -procureur-générale, and that it makes her ill and -kills her every night she does not dream about it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The deuce!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor woman!" said -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Wait a -moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Conrart is always -telling me that I do not know how to conduct matters of business; -you will see how I managed this one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, go on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'I suppose you -know,' said I to Vanel, 'that the value of a post such as that -which M. Fouquet holds is by no means trifling.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'How much do you -imagine it to be?' he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'M. Fouquet, I -know, has refused seventeen hundred thousand francs.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'My wife,' replied -Vanel, 'had estimated it at about fourteen hundred thousand.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Ready money?' I -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Yes; she has sold -some property of hers in Guienne, and has received the purchase -money.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That's a pretty -sum to touch all at once," said the Abbé Fouquet, who had -not hitherto said a word.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor Madame -Vanel!" murmured Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Pélisson -shrugged his shoulders, as he whispered in Fouquet's ear, "That -woman is a perfect fiend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That may be; and -it will be delightful to make use of this fiend's money to repair -the injury which an angel has done herself for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Pélisson -looked with a surprised air at Fouquet, whose thoughts were from -that moment fixed upon a fresh object in view.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!" inquired La -Fontaine, "what about my negotiation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Admirable, my dear -poet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said -Gourville; "but there are some people who are anxious to have the -steed who have not even money enough to pay for the bridle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And Vanel would -draw back from his offer if he were to be taken at his word," -continued the Abbé Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not believe -it," said La Fontaine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you know -about it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, you have not -yet heard the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dénouement</i> of my -story."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If there is a <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dénouement</i>, why do -you beat about the bush so much?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Semper ad eventum</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that correct?" said Fouquet, with -the air of a nobleman who condescends to barbarisms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To which the Latinists present -answered with loud applause.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "With an eye always to -the climax." - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>dénouement</i>," cried La -Fontaine, "is that Vanel, that determined blackbird, knowing that -I was coming to Saint-Mandé, implored me to bring him with -me, and, if possible, to present him to M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So that - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that he is here; I -left him in that part of the ground called Bel-Air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, M. Fouquet, what is your -reply?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, it is not -respectful towards Madame Vanel that her husband should run the -risk of catching cold outside my house; send for him, La -Fontaine, since you know where he is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will go -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I will -accompany you," said the Abbé Fouquet; "I will carry the -money bags."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No jesting," said -Fouquet, seriously; "let the business be a serious one, if it is -to be one at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -first of all, let us show we are hospitable.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Make my apologies, La Fontaine, to -M. Vanel, and tell him how distressed I am to have kept him -waiting, but that I was not was not aware he was there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>La Fontaine set off -at once, fortunately accompanied by Gourville, for, absorbed in -his own calculations, the poet would have mistaken the route, and -was hurrying as fast as he could towards the village of -Saint-Mandé.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Within a quarter of an hour afterwards, M. Vanel was introduced -into the superintendent's cabinet, a description of which has -already been given at the beginning of this story.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Fouquet saw him enter, he -called to Pélisson, and whispered a few words in his -ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do not lose a -single word of what I am going to say: let all the silver and -gold plate, together with my jewels of every description, be -packed up in the carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will take the black horses: the -jeweler will accompany you; and you will postpone the supper -until Madame de Bellière's arrival."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Will it be -necessary to inform Madame de Bellière of it?" said -Pélisson.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; that will be -useless; I will do that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -So, away with you, my dear friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Pélisson set -off, not quite clear as to his friend's meaning or intention, but -confident, like every true friend, in the judgment of the man he -was blindly obeying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -is that which constitutes the strength of such men; distrust only -arises in the minds of inferior natures.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel bowed lowly -to the superintendent, and was about to begin a speech.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not trouble -yourself, monsieur," said Fouquet, politely; "I am told you wish -to purchase a post I hold.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How much can you give me for -it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is for you, -monseigneur, to fix the amount you require.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know that offers of purchase have -already been made to you for it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Madame Vanel, I -have been told, values it at fourteen hundred thousand -livres."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is all we -have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Can you give me -the money immediately?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have not the -money with me," said Vanel, frightened almost by the unpretending -simplicity, amounting to greatness, of the man, for he had -expected disputes, difficulties, opposition of every kind.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"When will you be -able to bring it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whenever you -please, monseigneur;" for he began to be afraid that Fouquet was -trifling with him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If it were not for -the trouble you would have in returning to Paris, I would say at -once; but we will arrange that the payment and the signature -shall take place at six o'clock to-morrow morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good," said -Vanel, as cold as ice, and feeling quite bewildered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Adieu, Monsieur -Vanel, present my humblest respects to Madame Vanel," said -Fouquet, as he rose; upon which Vanel, who felt the blood rushing -to his head, for he was quite confounded by his success, said -seriously to the superintendent, "Will you give me your word, -monseigneur, upon this affair?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet turned -round his head, saying, "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu</i>, and you, monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel hesitated, -trembled all over, and at last finished by hesitatingly holding -out his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -opened and nobly extended his own; this loyal hand lay for a -moment in Vanel's most hypocritical palm, and he pressed it in -his own, in order the better to convince himself of the -compact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -superintendent gently disengaged his hand, as he again said, -"Adieu."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then Vanel -ran hastily to the door, hurried along the vestibule, and fled as -quickly as he could.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLVII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Madame de Bellière's Plate and Diamonds.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -F</span>ouquet had no sooner dismissed Vanel than he began to -reflect for a few moments - "A man never can do too much for the -woman he has once loved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Marguerite wishes to be the wife of a -procureur-général - and why not confer this -pleasure upon her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, -now that the most scrupulous and sensitive conscience will be -unable to reproach me with anything, let my thoughts be bestowed -on her who has shown so much devotion for me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Bellière ought to -be there by this time," he said, as he turned towards the secret -door.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> After he had locked -himself in, he opened the subterranean passage, and rapidly -hastened towards the means of communicating between the house at -Vincennes and his own residence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had neglected to apprise his -friend of his approach, by ringing the bell, perfectly assured -that she would never fail to be exact at the rendezvous; as, -indeed, was the case, for she was already waiting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The noise the superintendent made -aroused her; she ran to take from under the door the letter he -had thrust there, and which simply said, "Come, marquise; we are -waiting supper for you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -With her heart filled with happiness Madame de Bellière -ran to her carriage in the Avenue de Vincennes, and in a few -minutes she was holding out her hand to Gourville, who was -standing at the entrance, where, in order the better to please -his master, he had stationed himself to watch her arrival.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She had not observed that -Fouquet's black horse arrived at the same time, all steaming and -foam-flaked, having returned to Saint-Mandé with -Pélisson and the very jeweler to whom Madame de -Bellière had sold her plate and her jewels.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pélisson introduced the -goldsmith into the cabinet, which Fouquet had not yet left.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The superintendent thanked him -for having been good enough to regard as a simple deposit in his -hands, the valuable property which he had every right to sell; -and he cast his eyes on the total of the account, which amounted -to thirteen hundred thousand francs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, going for a few moments to his -desk, he wrote an order for fourteen hundred thousand francs, -payable at sight, at his treasury, before twelve o'clock the next -day.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A hundred thousand -francs profit!" cried the goldsmith.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, monseigneur, what -generosity!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, nay, not so, -monsieur," said Fouquet, touching him on the shoulder; "there are -certain kindnesses which can never be repaid.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This profit is only what you have -earned; but the interest of your money still remains to be -arranged."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, saying -this, he unfastened from his sleeve a diamond button, which the -goldsmith himself had often valued at three thousand -pistoles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Take this," he -said to the goldsmith, "in remembrance of me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Farewell; you are an honest -man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you, monseigneur," -cried the goldsmith, completely overcome, "are the noblest man -that ever lived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet let the worthy -goldsmith pass out of the room by a secret door, and then went to -receive Madame de Bellière, who was already surrounded by -all the guests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -marquise was always beautiful, but now her loveliness was more -dazzling than ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do -you not think, gentlemen," said Fouquet, "that madame is more -than usually beautiful this evening?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And do you happen to know why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because madame is -really the most beautiful of all women," said some one -present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but because she is -the best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yet?" said the -marquise, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet, all the jewels -which madame is wearing this evening are nothing but false -stones."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this remark -the marquise blushed most painfully.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, oh!" exclaimed all -the guests, "that can very well be said of one who has the finest -diamonds in Paris."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?" said Fouquet to -Pélisson, in a low tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, at last I have -understood you," returned the latter; "and you have done -exceedingly well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Supper is ready, -monseigneur," said Vatel, with majestic air and tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The crowd of guests -hurried, more quickly than is usually the case with ministerial -entertainments, towards the banqueting-room, where a magnificent -spectacle presented itself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon the buffets, upon the -side-tables, upon the supper-table itself, in the midst of -flowers and light, glittered most dazzlingly the richest and most -costly gold and silver plate that could possibly be seen - relics -of those ancient magnificent productions the Florentine artists, -whom the Medici family patronized, sculptured, chased, and -moulded for the purpose of holding flowers, at a time when gold -existed still in France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -These hidden marvels, which had been buried during the civil -wars, timidly reappeared during the intervals of that war of good -taste called La Fronde; at a time when noblemen fighting against -nobleman killed, but did not pillage each other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the plate present had Madame de -Bellière's arms engraved upon it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Look," cried La Fontaine, "here is -a P and a B."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But the most remarkable -object present was the cover which Fouquet had assigned to the -marquise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Near her was a -pyramid of diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, antique cameos, -sardonyx stones, carved by the old Greeks of Asia Minor, with -mountings of Mysian gold; curious mosaics of ancient Alexandria, -set in silver; massive Egyptian bracelets lay heaped on a large -plate of Palissy ware, supported by a tripod of gilt bronze, -sculptured by Benvenuto Cellini.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The marquise turned pale, as she -recognized what she had never expected to see again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A profound silence fell on every one -of the restless and excited guests.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet did not even make a sign in -dismissal of the richly liveried servants who crowded like bees -round the huge buffets and other tables in the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Gentlemen," he said, "all this -plate which you behold once belonged to Madame de -Bellière, who, having observed one of her friends in great -distress, sent all this gold and silver, together with the heap -of jewels now before her, to her goldsmith.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This noble conduct of a devoted -friend can well be understood by such friends as you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Happy indeed is that man who sees -himself loved in such a manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us drink to the health of Madame -de Bellière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A tremendous burst of -applause followed his words, and made poor Madame de -Bellière sink back dumb and breathless in her seat.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And then," added -Pélisson, who was always affected by a noble action, as he -was invariably impressed by beauty, "let us also drink to the -health of him who inspired madame's noble conduct; for such a man -is worthy of being worthily loved."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was now the -marquise's turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -rose, pale and smiling; and as she held out her glass with a -faltering hand, and her trembling fingers touched those of -Fouquet, her look, full of love, found its mirror in that of her -ardent and generous-hearted lover.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Begun in this manner, the supper -soon became a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>; no one tried to be -witty, but no one failed in being so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Fontaine forgot his Gorgny wine, -and allowed Vatel to reconcile him to the wines of the -Rhône, and those from the shores of Spain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Abbé Fouquet became so -kind and good-natured, that Gourville said to him, "Take care, -monsieur l'abbé; if you are so tender, you will be carved -and eaten."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The hours passed away so -joyously, that, contrary to his usual custom, the superintendent -did not leave the table before the end of the dessert.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He smiled upon his friends, -delighted as a man is whose heart becomes intoxicated before his -head - and, for the first time, looked at the clock.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly a carriage rolled into the -courtyard, and, strange to say, it was heard high above the noise -of the mirth which prevailed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet listened attentively, and -then turned his eyes towards the ante-chamber.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seemed as if he could hear a step -passing across it, a step that, instead of pressing the ground, -weighed heavily upon his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. d'Herblay, bishop of Vannes," -the usher announced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -Aramis's grave and thoughtful face appeared upon the threshold of -the door, between the remains of two garlands, of which the flame -of a lamp had just burnt the thread that once united them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLVIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>M. -de Mazarin's Receipt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -F</span>ouquet would have uttered an exclamation of delight on -seeing another friend arrive, if the cold air and averted aspect -of Aramis had not restored all his reserve.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are you going to join us at -dessert?" he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And -yet you would be frightened, perhaps, at the noise which our wild -friends here are making?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur," replied -Aramis, respectfully, "I will begin by begging you to excuse me -for having interrupted this merry meeting; and then, I will beg -you to give me, as soon as your pleasure is attended to, a -moment's audience on matters of business."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As the word "business" -had aroused the attention of some of the epicureans present, -Fouquet rose, saying: "Business first of all, Monsieur d'Herblay; -we are too happy when matters of business arrive only at the end -of a meal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As he said this, he took -the hand of Madame de Bellière, who looked at him with a -kind of uneasiness, and then led her to an adjoining <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>salon</i>, after having recommended -her to the most reasonable of his guests.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, taking Aramis by the arm, -he led him towards his cabinet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as Aramis was there, -throwing aside the respectful air he had assumed, he threw -himself into a chair, saying: "Guess whom I have seen this -evening?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear chevalier, -every time you begin in that manner, I am sure to hear you -announce something disagreeable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and this time you -will not be mistaken, either, my dear friend," replied -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not keep me in -suspense," added Fouquet, phlegmatically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, I have seen -Madame de Chevreuse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The old duchesse, do -you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes. "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Her ghost, -perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no; the old -she-wolf herself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without -teeth?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Possibly, but not -without claws."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! what harm -can she meditate against me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am no miser with women who are not -prudes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A quality always -prized, even by the woman who no longer presumes to look for -love."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Madame de -Chevreuse knows very well that you are not avaricious, since she -wishes to draw some money of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed! under what -pretext?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! pretexts are -never wanting with <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>her</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let me tell you what it is: it seems -that the duchesse has a good many letters of M. de Mazarin's in -her possession."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am not surprised -at that, for the prelate was gallant enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, but these -letters have nothing whatever to do with the prelate's love -affairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They concern, it -is said, financial matters rather."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And accordingly -they are less interesting."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you not suspect -what I mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you never -heard speak of a prosecution being instituted for an -embezzlement, or appropriation rather, of public funds?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, a hundred, -nay, a thousand times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Ever since I have been engaged in public matters I have hardly -heard of anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It is precisely your own case, when, as a bishop, people reproach -you for impiety; or, as a musketeer, for your cowardice; the very -thing of which they are always accusing ministers of finance is -the embezzlement of public funds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good; but -take a particular instance, for the duchesse asserts that M. de -Mazarin alludes to certain particular instances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What are -they?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Something like a -sum of thirteen millions of francs, of which it would be very -difficult for you to define the precise nature of the -employment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thirteen -millions!" said the superintendent, stretching himself in his -armchair, in order to enable him the more comfortably to look up -towards the ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Thirteen millions - I am trying to remember out of all those I -have been accused of having stolen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not laugh, my -dear monsieur, for it is very serious.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is positive that the duchesse has -certain letters in her possession, and that these letters must be -as she represents them, since she wished to sell them to me for -five hundred thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! one can have a -very tolerable calumny got up for such a sum as that," replied -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! now I know -what you mean," and he began to laugh very heartily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So much the -better," said Aramis, a little reassured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I remember the -story of those thirteen millions now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, yes, I remember them quite -well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am delighted to -hear it; tell me about them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, one -day Signor Mazarin, Heaven rest his soul! made a profit of -thirteen millions upon a concession of lands in the Valtelline; -he canceled them in the registry of receipts, sent them to me, -and then made me advance them to him for war expenses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good; then -there is no doubt of their proper destination."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; the cardinal -made me invest them in my own name, and gave me a receipt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have the -receipt?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course," said -Fouquet, as he quietly rose from his chair, and went to his large -ebony bureau inlaid with mother-of-pearl and gold.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What I most admire -in you," said Aramis, with an air of great satisfaction, "is, -your memory in the first place, then your self-possession, and, -finally, the perfect order which prevails in your administration; -you, of all men, too, who are by nature a poet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said -Fouquet, "I am orderly out of a spirit of idleness, to save -myself the trouble of looking after things, and so I know that -Mazarin's receipt is in the third drawer under the letter M; I -open the drawer, and place my hand upon the very paper I -need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the night, -without a light, I could find it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And with a -confident hand he felt the bundle of papers which were piled up -in the open drawer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Nay, -more than that," he continued, "I remember the paper as if I saw -it; it is thick, somewhat crumpled, with gilt edges; Mazarin had -made a blot upon the figure of the date.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!" he said, "the paper knows we -are talking about it, and that we want it very much, and so it -hides itself out of the way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And as the -superintendent looked into the drawer, Aramis rose from his -seat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This is very -singular," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your memory is -treacherous, my dear monseigneur; look in another drawer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet took out -the bundle of papers, and turned them over once more; he then -grew very pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Don't confine your -search to that drawer," said Aramis; "look elsewhere."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite useless; I -have never made a mistake; no one but myself arranges any papers -of mine of this nature; no one but myself ever opens this drawer, -of which, besides, no one, myself excepted, is aware of the -secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you -conclude, then?" said Aramis, agitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That Mazarin's -receipt has been stolen from me; Madame de Chevreuse was right, -chevalier; I have appropriated the public funds, I have robbed -the state coffers of thirteen millions of money; I am a thief, -Monsieur d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, nay, do not -get irritated - do not get excited."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why not, -chevalier? surely there is every reason for it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If legal proceedings are well -arranged, and a judgment given in accordance with them, your -friend the superintendent will soon follow Montfauçon, his -colleague Enguerrand de Marigny, and his predecessor, -Semblançay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" said Aramis, -smiling, "not so fast as that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why not? why -not so fast?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you -suppose Madame de Chevreuse has done with those letters - for you -refused them, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; at once.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I suppose that she went and -sold them to M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I said I supposed -so; I might have said I was sure of it, for I had her followed, -and, when she left me, she returned to her own house, went out by -a back door, and proceeded straight to the intendant's house in -the Rue Croix des Petits-Champs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Legal proceedings -will be instituted, then, scandal and dishonor will follow; and -all will fall upon me like a thunderbolt, blindly, -pitilessly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis approached -Fouquet, who sat trembling in his chair, close to the open -drawers; he placed his hand on his shoulder, and in an -affectionate tone of voice, said: "Do not forget that the -position of M. Fouquet can in no way be compared to that of -Semblançay or of Marigny."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why not, in -Heaven's name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because the -proceedings against those ministers were determined, completed, -and the sentence carried out, whilst in your case the same thing -cannot take place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Another blow, why -not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A peculator is, -under any circumstances, a criminal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Criminals who know -how to find a safe asylum are never in danger."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What! make my -escape?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fly?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, I do not mean -that; you forget that all such proceedings originate in the -parliament, that they are instituted by the -procureur-général, and that you are the -procureur-général.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see that, unless you wish to -condemn yourself - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" cried -Fouquet, suddenly, dashing his fist upon the table.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! what? what -is the matter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am -procureur-général no longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis, at this -reply, became as livid as death; he pressed his hands together -convulsively, and with a wild, haggard look, which almost -annihilated Fouquet, he said, laying a stress on every distinct -syllable, "You are procureur-général no longer, do -you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since when?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since the last -four or five hours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take care," -interrupted Aramis, coldly; "I do not think you are in the full -possession of your senses, my friend; collect yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I tell you," -returned Fouquet, "that a little while ago, some one came to me, -brought by my friends, to offer me fourteen hundred thousand -francs for the appointment, and that I sold it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis looked as -though he had been struck by lightning; the intelligent and -mocking expression of his countenance assumed an aspect of such -profound gloom and terror, that it had more effect upon the -superintendent than all the exclamations and speeches in the -world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You had need of -money, then?" he said, at last.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; to discharge -a debt of honor."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And in -a few words, he gave Aramis an account of Madame de -Bellière's generosity, and the manner in which he had -thought it but right to discharge that act of generosity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said Aramis, -"that is, indeed, a fine trait.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What has it cost?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly the -fourteen hundred thousand francs - the price of my -appointment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Which you received -in that manner, without reflection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, imprudent man!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have not yet -received the amount, but I shall to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is not yet -completed, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It must be carried -out, though; for I have given the goldsmith, for twelve o'clock -to-morrow, an order upon my treasury, into which the purchaser's -money will be paid at six or seven o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Heaven be -praised!" cried Aramis, clapping his hands together, "nothing is -yet completed, since you have not yet been paid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But the -goldsmith?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You shall receive -the fourteen hundred thousand francs from me, at a quarter before -twelve."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stay a moment; it -is at six o'clock, this very morning, that I am to sign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will answer that you do not -sign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have given my -word, chevalier."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If you have given -it, you will take it back again, that is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Can I believe what -I hear?" cried Fouquet, in a most expressive tone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Fouquet recall his word, after it -has once been pledged!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis replied to -the almost stern look of the minister by a look full of -anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," he -said, "I believe I have deserved to be called a man of -honor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As a soldier, I -have risked my life five hundred times; as a priest I have -rendered still greater services, both to the state and to my -friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The value of a -word, once passed, is estimated according to the worth of the man -who gives it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So long as -it is in his own keeping, it is of the purest, finest gold; when -his wish to keep it has passed away, it is a two-edged -sword.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With that word, -therefore, he defends himself as with an honorable weapon, -considering that, when he disregards his word, he endangers his -life and incurs an amount of risk far greater than that which his -adversary is likely to derive of profit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In such a case, monsieur, he appeals -to Heaven and to justice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet bent down -his head, as he replied, "I am a poor, self-determined man, a -true Breton born; my mind admires and fears yours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not say that I keep my word -from a proper feeling only; I keep it, if you like, from custom, -practice, pride, or what you will; but, at all events, the -ordinary run of men are simple enough to admire this custom of -mine; it is my sole good quality - leave me such honor as it -confers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so you are -determined to sign the sale of the very appointment which can -alone defend you against all your enemies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I shall -sign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will deliver -yourself up, then, bound hand and foot, from a false notion of -honor, which the most scrupulous casuists would disdain?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I shall sign," -repeated Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis sighed -deeply, and looked all round him with the impatient gesture of a -man who would gladly dash something to pieces, as a relief to his -feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We have still -one means left," he said; "and I trust you will not refuse me to -make use of that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly not, if -it be loyal and honorable; as everything is, in fact, which you -propose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know nothing -more loyal than the renunciation of your purchaser.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is he a friend of yours?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly: but - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'But!' - if you -allow me to manage the affair, I do not despair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! you shall be -absolutely master to do what you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whom are you in -treaty with?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What manner -of man is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am not aware -whether you know the parliament."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Most of its -members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of the -presidents, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; only a -counselor, of the name of Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis became -perfectly purple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Vanel!" he cried, rising abruptly from his seat; "Vanel! the -husband of Marguerite Vanel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of your former -mistress?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, my dear -fellow; she is anxious to be the wife of the -procureur-général.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I certainly owed poor Vanel that -slight concession, and I am a gainer by it; since I, at the same -time, can confer a pleasure on his wife."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis walked -straight up to Fouquet, and took hold of his hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do you know," he said, very calmly, -"the name of Madame Vanel's new lover?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! she has a new -lover, then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was not -aware of it; no, I have no idea what his name is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"His name is M. -Jean-Baptiste Colbert; he is intendant of the finances: he lives -in the Rue Croix des Petits-Champs, where Madame de Chevreuse has -been this evening to take him Mazarin's letters, which she wishes -to sell."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Gracious Heaven!" -murmured Fouquet, passing his hand across his forehead, from -which the perspiration was starting.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You now begin to -understand, do you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That I am utterly -lost! - yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you now think -it worth while to be so scrupulous with regard to keeping your -word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"These obstinate -people always contrive matters in such a way, that one cannot but -admire them all the while," murmured Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet held out -his hand to him, and, at the very moment, a richly ornamented -tortoise-shell clock, supported by golden figures, which was -standing on a console table opposite to the fireplace, struck -six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sound of a door -being opened in the vestibule was heard, and Gourville came to -the door of the cabinet to inquire if Fouquet would received M. -Vanel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet turned his -eyes from the gaze of Aramis, and then desired that M. Vanel -should be shown in.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -XLIX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Monsieur Colbert's Rough Draft.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -V</span>anel, who entered at this stage of the conversation, was -nothing less for Aramis and Fouquet than the full stop which -completes a phrase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, -for Vanel, Aramis's presence in Fouquet's cabinet had quite -another signification; and, therefore, at his first step into the -room, he paused as he looked at the delicate yet firm features of -the bishop of Vannes, and his look of astonishment soon became -one of scrutinizing attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for Fouquet, a perfect -politician, that is to say, complete master of himself, he had -already, by the energy of his own resolute will, contrived to -remove from his face all traces of the emotion which Aramis's -revelation had occasioned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was no longer, therefore, a man -overwhelmed by misfortune and reduced to resort to expedients; he -held his head proudly erect, and indicated by a gesture that -Vanel could enter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was -now the first minister of the state, and in his own palace.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis knew the superintendent -well; the delicacy of the feelings of his heart and the exalted -nature of his mind no longer surprised him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He confined himself, then, for the -moment - intending to resume later an active part in the -conversation - to the performance of the difficult part of a man -who looks on and listens, in order to learn and understand.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vanel was visibly overcome, -and advanced into the middle of the cabinet, bowing to everything -and everybody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I am -here," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are punctual, -Monsieur Vanel," returned Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In matters of business, -monseigneur," replied Vanel, "I look upon exactitude as a -virtue."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No doubt, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I beg your -pardon," interrupted Aramis, indicating Vanel with his finger, -but addressing himself to Fouquet; "this is the gentleman, I -believe, who has come about the purchase of your -appointment?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I am," -replied Vanel, astonished at the extremely haughty tone in which -Aramis had put the question; "but in what way am I to address -you, who do me the honor - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Call me -monseigneur," replied Aramis, dryly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vanel bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come, gentlemen, a -truce to these ceremonies; let us proceed to the matter -itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur sees," -said Vanel, "that I am waiting your pleasure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, I -am waiting," replied Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What for, may I be -permitted to ask, monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I thought that you -had perhaps something to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh," said Vanel to -himself, "he has reflected on the matter and I am lost."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But resuming his courage, he -continued, "No, monseigneur, nothing, absolutely nothing more -than what I said to you yesterday, and which I am again ready to -repeat to you now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come, now, tell me -frankly, Monsieur Vanel, is not the affair rather a burdensome -one for you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly, -monseigneur; fourteen hundred thousand francs is an important -sum."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So important, -indeed," said Fouquet, "that I have reflected - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have been -reflecting, do you say, monseigneur?" exclaimed Vanel, -anxiously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; that you -might not yet be in a position to purchase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, -monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not make -yourself uneasy on that score, Monsieur Vanel; I shall not blame -you for a failure in your word, which evidently may arise from -inability on your part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, yes, -monseigneur, you would blame me, and you would be right in doing -so," said Vanel; "for a man must either be very imprudent, or a -fool, to undertake engagements which he cannot keep; and I, at -least, have always regarded a thing agreed on as a thing actually -carried out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet colored, -while Aramis uttered a "Hum!" of impatience.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You would be wrong -to exaggerate such notions as those, monsieur," said the -superintendent; "for a man's mind is variable, and full of these -very excusable caprices, which are, however, sometimes estimable -enough; and a man may have wished for something yesterday of -which he repents to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel felt a cold -sweat trickle down his face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monseigneur!" he muttered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis, who was -delighted to find the superintendent carry on the debate with -such clearness and precision, stood leaning his arm upon the -marble top of a console table and began to play with a small gold -knife, with a malachite handle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet did not hasten to reply; but -after a moment's pause, "Come, my dear Monsieur Vanel," he said, -"I will explain to you how I am situated."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vanel began to tremble.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yesterday I wished -to sell - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur did -more than wish to sell, he actually sold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, well, that -may be so; but to-day I ask you the favor to restore me my word -which I pledged you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I received your <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>word</i> as a satisfactory -assurance that it would be kept."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know that, and -that is the reason why I now entreat you; do you understand -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I entreat you to -restore it to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet suddenly -paused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The words "I -entreat you," the effect of which he did not immediately -perceive, seemed almost to choke him as he uttered it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, still playing with his -knife, fixed a look upon Vanel which seemed as if he wished to -penetrate the recesses of his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vanel simply bowed, as he said, "I -am overcome, monseigneur, at the honor you do me to consult me -upon a matter of business which is already completed; but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, do not say <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>but</i>, dear Monsieur -Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas! monseigneur, -you see," he said, as he opened a large pocket-book, "I have -brought the money with me, - the whole sum, I mean.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And here, monseigneur, is the -contract of sale which I have just effected of a property -belonging to my wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -order is authentic in every particular, the necessary signatures -have been attached to it, and it is made payable at sight; it is -ready money, in fact, and, in one word, the whole affair is -complete."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear Monsieur -Vanel, there is not a matter of business in this world, however -important it may be, which cannot be postponed in order to oblige -a man, who, by that means, might and would be made a devoted -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly," said -Vanel, awkwardly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And much more -justly acquired would that friend become, Monsieur Vanel, since -the value of the service he had received would have been so -considerable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, what -do you say? what do you decide?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel preserved a -perfect silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the -meantime, Aramis had continued his close observation of the -man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vanel's narrow face, -his deeply sunken eyes, his arched eyebrows, had revealed to the -bishop of Vannes the type of an avaricious and ambitious -character.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis's -method was to oppose one passion by another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw that M. Fouquet was defeated -- morally subdued - and so he came to his rescue with fresh -weapons in his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Excuse me, monseigneur," he said; "you forgot to show M. Vanel -that his own interests are diametrically opposed to this -renunciation of the sale."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel looked at the -bishop with astonishment; he had hardly expected to find an -auxiliary in him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -also paused to listen to the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you not see," -continued Aramis, "that M. Vanel, in order to purchase your -appointment, has been obliged to sell a property belonging to his -wife; well, that is no slight matter; for one cannot displace, as -he has done, fourteen or fifteen hundred thousand francs without -some considerable loss, and very serious inconvenience."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Perfectly true," -said Vanel, whose secret Aramis had, with keen-sighted gaze, -wrung from the bottom of his heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Inconveniences -such as these are matters of great expense and calculation, and -whenever a man has money matters to deal with, the expenses are -generally the very first thing thought of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, yes," said -Fouquet, who began to understand Aramis's meaning.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel remained -perfectly silent; he, too, had understood him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis observed his coldness of -manner and his silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Very good," he said to himself, "you are waiting, I see, until -you know the amount; but do not fear, I shall send you such a -flight of crowns that you cannot but capitulate on the spot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We must offer M. -Vanel a hundred thousand crowns at once," said Fouquet, carried -away by his generous feelings.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The sum was a good -one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A prince, even, -would have been satisfied with such a bonus.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A hundred thousand crowns at that -period was the dowry of a king's daughter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vanel, however, did not move.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is a perfect -rascal!" thought the bishop, "well, we must offer the five -hundred thousand francs at once," and he made a sign to Fouquet -accordingly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You seem to have -spent more than that, dear Monsieur Vanel," said the -superintendent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The -price of ready money is enormous.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You must have made a great sacrifice -in selling your wife's property.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, what can I have been thinking -of?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I ought to have -offered to sign you an order for five hundred thousand francs; -and even in that case I shall feel that I am greatly indebted to -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>There was not a -gleam of delight or desire on Vanel's face, which remained -perfectly impassible; not a muscle of it changed in the slightest -degree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis cast a -look almost of despair at Fouquet, and then, going straight up to -Vanel and taking hold of him by the coat, in a familiar manner, -he said, "Monsieur Vanel, it is neither the inconvenience, nor -the displacement of your money, nor the sale of your wife's -property even, that you are thinking of at this moment; it is -something more important still.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can well understand it; so pay -particular attention to what I am going to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, monseigneur," -Vanel replied, beginning to tremble in every limb, as the -prelate's eyes seemed almost ready to devour him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I offer you, -therefore, in the superintendent's name, not three hundred -thousand livres, nor five hundred thousand, but a million.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A million - do you understand -me?" he added, as he shook him nervously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A million!" -repeated Vanel, as pale as death.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A million; in -other words, at the present rate of interest, an income of -seventy thousand francs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come, monsieur," -said Fouquet, "you can hardly refuse that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Answer - do you accept?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Impossible," -murmured Vanel.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis bit his -lips, and something like a cloud seemed to pass over his -face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The thunder behind -this cloud could easily be imagined.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He still kept his hold on -Vanel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You have -purchased the appointment for fifteen hundred thousand francs, I -think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, you will -receive these fifteen hundred thousand francs back again; by -paying M. Fouquet a visit, and shaking hands with him on the -bargain, you will have become a gainer of a million and a -half.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You get honor and -profit at the same time, Monsieur Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I cannot do it," -said Vanel, hoarsely.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well," -replied Aramis, who had grasped Vanel so tightly by the coat -that, when he let go his hold, Vanel staggered back a few paces, -"very well; one can now see clearly enough your object in coming -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said -Fouquet, "one can easily see that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But - " said -Vanel, attempting to stand erect before the weakness of these two -men of honor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Does the fellow -presume to speak?" said Aramis, with the tone of an emperor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Fellow!" repeated -Vanel.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The scoundrel, I -meant to say," added Aramis, who had now resumed his usual -self-possession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, -monsieur, produce your deed of sale, - you have it about you, I -suppose, in one of your pockets, already prepared, as an assassin -holds his pistol or his dagger concealed under his cloak.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel began to -mutter something.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Enough!" cried -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where is this -deed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel tremblingly -searched in his pockets, and as he drew out his pocket-book, a -paper fell out of it, while Vanel offered the other to -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis pounced -upon the paper which had fallen out, as soon as he recognized the -handwriting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I beg your -pardon," said Vanel, "that is a rough draft of the deed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I see that very -clearly," retorted Aramis, with a smile more cutting than a lash -of a whip; "and what I admire most is, that this draft is in M. -Colbert's handwriting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Look, monseigneur, look."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And he handed the -draft to Fouquet, who recognized the truth of the fact; for, -covered with erasures, with inserted words, the margins filled -with additions, this deed - a living proof of Colbert's plot - -had just revealed everything to its unhappy victim.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well!" murmured Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Vanel, completely -humiliated, seemed as if he were looking for some hole wherein to -hide himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!" said -Aramis, "if your name were not Fouquet, and if your enemy's name -were not Colbert - if you had not this mean thief before you, I -should say to you, 'Repudiate it;' such a proof as this absolves -you from your word; but these fellows would think you were -afraid; they would fear you less than they do; therefore sign the -deed at once."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -held out a pen towards him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet pressed -Aramis's hand; but, instead of the deed which Vanel handed to -him, he took the rough draft of it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, not that -paper," said Aramis, hastily; "this is the one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The other is too precious a document -for you to part with."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no!" replied -Fouquet; "I will sign under M. Colbert's own handwriting even; -and I write, 'The handwriting is approved of.'"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then signed, and said, "Here it -is, Monsieur Vanel."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -the latter seized the paper, dashed down the money, and was about -to make his escape.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"One moment," said -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are you quite -sure the exact amount is there?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It ought to be counted over, -Monsieur Vanel; particularly since M. Colbert makes presents of -money to ladies, I see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Ah, that worthy M. Colbert is not so generous as M. -Fouquet."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Aramis, -spelling every word, every letter of the order to pay, distilled -his wrath and his contempt, drop by drop, upon the miserable -wretch, who had to submit to this torture for a quarter of an -hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was then -dismissed, not in words, but by a gesture, as one dismisses or -discharges a beggar or a menial.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>As soon as Vanel -had gone, the minister and the prelate, their eyes fixed on each -other, remained silent for a few moments.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," said -Aramis, the first to break the silence; "to what can that man be -compared, who, at the very moment he is on the point of entering -into a conflict with an enemy armed from head to foot, panting -for his life, presents himself for the contest utterly -defenseless, throws down his arms, and smiles and kisses his -hands to his adversary in the most gracious manner?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good faith, M. Fouquet, is a weapon -which scoundrels frequently make use of against men of honor, and -it answers their purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Men of honor, ought, in their turn, also, to make use of -dishonest means against such scoundrels.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would soon see how strong they -would become, without ceasing to be men of honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What they did -would be termed the acts of a scoundrel," replied Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Far from that; it -would be merely coquetting or playing with the truth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At all events, since you have -finished with this Vanel; since you have deprived yourself of the -happiness of confounding him by repudiating your word; and since -you have given up, for the purpose of being used against -yourself, the only weapon which can ruin you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear friend," -said Fouquet, mournfully, "you are like the teacher of philosophy -whom La Fontaine was telling us about the other day; he saw a -child drowning, and began to read him a lecture divided into -three heads."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis smiled as he -said, "Philosophy - yes; teacher - yes; a drowning child - yes; -but a child can be saved - you shall see.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But first of all let us talk about -business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Did you not -some time ago," he continued, as Fouquet looked at him with a -bewildered air, "speak to me about an idea you had of giving a <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at Vaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" said Fouquet, -"that was when affairs were flourishing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fête</i>, I believe, to which -the king invited himself of his own accord?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no, my dear -prelate; a <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> -to which M. Colbert advised the king to invite himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah - exactly; as -it would be a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> of so costly a -character that you would be ruined in giving it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely so.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In happier days, as I said -just now, I had a kind of pride in showing my enemies how -inexhaustible my resources were; I felt it a point of honor to -strike them with amazement, by creating millions under -circumstances where they imagined nothing but bankruptcies and -failures would follow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But, at present, I am arranging my accounts with the state, with -the king, with myself; and I must now become a mean, stingy man; -I shall be able to prove to the world that I can act or operate -with my deniers as I used to do with my bags of pistoles, and -from to-morrow my equipages shall be sold, my mansions mortgaged, -my expenses curtailed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"From to-morrow," -interrupted Aramis, quietly, "you will occupy yourself, without -the slightest delay, with your <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at Vaux, which must -hereafter be spoken of as one of the most magnificent productions -of your most prosperous days."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you mad, Chevalier -d'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I! do you think -so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean, -then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you not know -that a <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at -Vaux, one of the very simplest possible character, would cost -four or five millions?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not speak of a <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> of the very -simplest possible character, my dear superintendent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, since the <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> is to be given -to the king," replied Fouquet, who misunderstood Aramis's idea, -"it cannot be simple."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Just so: it ought to be -on a scale of the most unbounded magnificence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I shall -have to spend ten or twelve millions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You shall spend -twenty, if you require it," said Aramis, in a perfectly calm -voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where shall I get -them?" exclaimed Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is my affair, -monsieur le surintendant; and do not be uneasy for a moment about -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The money shall be -placed at once at your disposal, the moment you have arranged the -plans of your <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fête</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Chevalier! -chevalier!" said Fouquet, giddy with amazement, "whither are you -hurrying me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Across the gulf -into which you were about to fall," replied the bishop of -Vannes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Take hold of my -cloak, and throw fear aside."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why did you not -tell me that sooner, Aramis?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was a day when, with one -million only, you could have saved me; whilst to-day - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whilst to-day I -can give you twenty," said the prelate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Such is the case, however - the -reason is very simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On -the day you speak of, I had not the million which you had need of -at my disposal, whilst now I can easily procure the twenty -millions we require."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"May Heaven hear -you, and save me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis resumed his -usual smile, the expression of which was so singular.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Heaven never fails to hear me," he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I abandon myself -to your unreservedly," Fouquet murmured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no; I do not -understand it in that manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am unreservedly devoted to -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, as you -have the clearest, the most delicate, and the most ingenious mind -of the two, you shall have entire control over the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, even to the very -smallest details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Only?" said -Fouquet, as a man accustomed to understand and appreciate the -value of a parenthesis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, -leaving the entire invention of the details to you, I shall -reserve to myself a general superintendence over the -execution."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I mean, that you -will make of me, on that day, a major-domo, a sort of -inspector-general, or factotum - something between a captain of -the guard and manager or steward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will look after the people, and -will keep the keys of the doors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will give your orders, of -course: but will give them to no one but me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They will pass through my lips, to -reach those for whom they are intended - you understand?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, I am very far -from understanding."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you -agree?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course, of -course, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is all I care -about, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thanks; and -now go and prepare your list of invitations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whom shall I -invite?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Everybody you -know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -L:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>In -Which the Author Thinks It Is High Time to Return to the Vicomte -de Bragelonne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -O</span>ur readers will have observed in this story, the -adventures of the new and of the past generation being detailed, -as it were, side by side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He will have noticed in the former, the reflection of the glory -of earlier years, the experience of the bitter things of this -world; in the former, also, that peace which takes possession of -the heart, and that healing of the scars which were formerly deep -and painful wounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -the latter, the conflicts of love and vanity; bitter -disappointments, ineffable delights; life instead of memory.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If, therefore, any variety has -been presented to the reader in the different episodes of this -tale, it is to be attributed to the numerous shades of color -which are presented on this double tablet, where two pictures are -seen side by side, mingling and harmonizing their severe and -pleasing tones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -repose of the emotions of one is found in harmonious contrast -with the fiery sentiments of the other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After having talked reason with -older heads, one loves to talk nonsense with youth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, if the threads of the -story do not seem very intimately to connect the chapter we are -now writing with the one we have just written, we do not intend -to give ourselves any more thought or trouble about it than -Ruysdaël took in painting an autumn sky, after having -finished a spring-time scene.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We accordingly resume Raoul de -Bragelonne's story at the very place where our last sketch left -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In a state of frenzy and -dismay, or rather without power or will of his own, - hardly -knowing what he was doing, - he fled swiftly, after the scene in -La Vallière's chamber, that strange exclusion, Louise's -grief, Montalais's terror, the king's wrath - all seemed to -indicate some misfortune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had arrived -from London because he had been told of the existence of a -danger; and almost on his arrival this appearance of danger was -manifest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was not this -sufficient for a lover?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Certainly it was, but it was insufficient for a pure and upright -heart such as his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -yet Raoul did not seek for explanations in the very quarter where -more jealous or less timid lovers would have done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not go straightaway to his -mistress, and say, "Louise, is it true that you love me no -longer?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it true that -you love another?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Full -of courage, full of friendship as he was full of love; a -religious observer of his word, and believing blindly the word of -others, Raoul said within himself, "Guiche wrote to put me on my -guard, Guiche knows something; I will go and ask Guiche what he -knows, and tell him what I have seen."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The journey was not a long one.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Guiche, who had been brought -from Fontainebleau to Paris within the last two days, was -beginning to recover from his wounds, and to walk about a little -in his room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He uttered a -cry of joy as he saw Raoul, with the eagerness of friendship, -enter the apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Raoul was unable to refrain from a cry of grief, when he saw De -Guiche, so pale, so thin, so melancholy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A very few words, and a simple -gesture which De Guiche made to put aside Raoul's arm, were -sufficient to inform the latter of the truth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! so it is," said -Raoul, seating himself beside his friend; "one loves and -dies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, not dies," -replied Guiche, smiling, "since I am now recovering, and since, -too, I can press you in my arms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I understand you, -too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You fancy I am -unhappy, Raoul?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I am the happiest -of men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My body suffers, -but not my mind or my heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you only knew - Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am, indeed, the very happiest of -men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the better," -said Raoul; "so much the better, provided it lasts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is over.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have had enough happiness to last -me to my dying day, Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have no doubt you -have had; but she - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Listen; I love her, -because - but you are not listening to me."<span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I beg your -pardon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your mind is -preoccupied."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, your health, in -the first place - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not that, I -know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend, you -would be wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I think, -to ask me any questions - <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> of all persons in the -world;" and he laid so much weight upon the "you," that he -completely enlightened his friend upon the nature of the evil, -and the difficulty of remedying it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You say that, Raoul, on -account of what I wrote to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will talk over that matter a -little, when you have finished telling me of all your own -pleasures and your pains."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend, I am -entirely at your service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you; I have -hurried, I have flown here; I came in half the time the -government couriers usually take.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, tell me, my dear friend, what -did you want?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing whatever, but -to make you come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, I am -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All is quite right, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There must have been -something else, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "De Guiche!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my honor!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You cannot -possibly have crushed all my hopes so violently, or have exposed -me to being disgraced by the king for my return, which is in -disobedience of his orders - you cannot, I say, have planted -jealousy in my heart, merely to say to me, 'It is all right, be -perfectly easy.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not say to you, -Raoul, 'Be perfectly easy;' but pray understand me; I never will, -nor can I, indeed, tell you anything else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What sort of person do -you take me for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you know anything, -why conceal it from me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -If you do not know anything, why did you write so warningly?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, true, I was very -wrong, and I regret having done so, Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seems nothing to write to a -friend and say 'Come;' but to have this friend face to face, to -feel him tremble, and breathlessly and anxiously wait to hear -what one hardly dare tell him, is very difficult."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dare!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have courage enough, if you have -not," exclaimed Raoul, in despair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "See how unjust you are, -and how soon you forget you have to do with a poor wounded fellow -such as your unhappy friend is.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, calm yourself, Raoul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I said to you, 'Come' - you -are here, so ask me nothing further."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your object in telling -me to come was your hope that I should see with my own eyes, was -it not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, do not -hesitate, for I have seen all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" exclaimed De -Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Or at least I thought - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There, now, you see you -are not sure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But if you -have any doubt, my poor friend, what remains for me to do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I saw Louise much -agitated - Montalais in a state of bewilderment - the king - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You turn your head aside.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The danger is there, the evil -is there; tell me, is it not so, is it not the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you say a thousand -times more than nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Give me facts, for pity's sake, give me proofs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My friend, the only friend I have, -speak - tell me all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My -heart is crushed, wounded to death; I am dying from despair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If that really be so, -as I see it is, indeed, dear Raoul," replied De Guiche, "you -relieve me from my difficulty, and I will tell you all, perfectly -sure that I can tell you nothing but what is consoling, compared -to the despair from which I see you suffering."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go on, - go on; I am -listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, I can only -tell you what you might learn from every one you meet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From every one, do you -say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is talked about, -then!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Before you say people -talk about it, learn what it is that people have to talk -about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I assure you -solemnly, that people only talk about what may, in truth, be very -innocent; perhaps a walk - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! a walk with the -king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, certainly, a walk -with the king; and I believe the king has already very frequently -before taken walks with ladies, without on that account - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You would not have -written to me, shall I say again, if there had been nothing -unusual in this promenade."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know that while the -storm lasted, it would have been far better if the king had taken -shelter somewhere else, than to have remained with his head -uncovered before La Vallière; but the king is so very -courteous and polite."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche, De Guiche, you are -killing me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not let us talk any -more, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, let us -continue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This walk was -followed by others, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No - I mean yes: there -was the adventure of the oak, I think.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I know nothing about the matter -at all."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul rose; De -Guiche endeavored to imitate him, notwithstanding his -weakness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, I will -not add another word: I have said either too much or not -enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let others give -you further information if they will, or if they can; my duty was -to warn you, and <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>that</i> I -have done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Watch over -your own affairs now, yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Question others!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alas! you are no true friend -to speak to me in that manner," said the young man, in utter -distress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The first man -I meet may be either evilly disposed or a fool, - if the former, -he will tell me a lie to make me suffer more than I do now; if -the latter, he will do worse still.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche, De Guiche, before two -hours are over, I shall have been told ten falsehoods, and shall -have as many duels on my hands.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Save me, then; is it not best to -know the worst always?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I know nothing, I -tell you; I was wounded, attacked by fever: out of my senses; and -I have only a very faint recollection of it all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But there is on reason why we should -search very far, when the very man we want is close at hand.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is not D'Artagnan your -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! true, true!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Got to him, then.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will be able to throw -sufficient light upon the subject."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this moment a lackey entered the -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is it?" said -De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Some one is waiting for -monseigneur in the Cabinet des Porcelaines."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you excuse me, my dear -Raoul?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am so proud -since I have been able to walk again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I would offer you my -arm, De Guiche, if I did not guess that the person in question is -a lady."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe so," said De -Guiche, smiling as he quitted Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul remained -motionless, absorbed in grief, overwhelmed, like the miner upon -whom a vault has just fallen in, who, wounded, his life-blood -welling fast, his thoughts confused, endeavors to recover -himself, to save his life and to retain his reason.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few minutes were all Raoul needed -to dissipate the bewildering sensations occasioned by these two -revelations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had -already recovered the thread of his ideas, when, suddenly, -through the door, he fancied he recognized Montalais's voice in -the Cabinet des Porcelaines.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "She!" he cried.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, it is indeed her voice!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She will be able to tell me -the whole truth; but shall I question her here?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She conceals herself even from me; -she is coming, no doubt, from Madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will see her in her own -apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She will -explain her alarm, her flight, the strange manner in which I was -driven out; she will tell me all that - after M. d'Artagnan, who -knows everything, shall have given me a fresh strength and -courage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame, a -coquette I fear, and yet a coquette who is herself in love, has -her moments of kindness; a coquette who is as capricious and -uncertain as life or death, but who tells De Guiche that he is -the happiest of men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -at least is lying on roses."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so he hastily quitted the -comte's apartments, reproaching himself as he went for having -talked of nothing but his own affairs to De Guiche, and soon -reached D'Artagnan's quarters.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Bragelonne Continues His Inquiries.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he captain, sitting buried in his leathern armchair, his -spurs fixed in the floor, his sword between his legs, was reading -a number of letters, as he twisted his mustache.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan uttered a welcome full of -pleasure when he perceived his friend's son.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Raoul, my boy, " he said, "by what -lucky accident does it happen that the king has recalled -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> These words did not -sound agreeably in the young man's ears, who, as he seated -himself, replied, "Upon my word I cannot tell you; all that I -know is - I have come back."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hum!" said D'Artagnan, -folding up his letters and directing a look full of meaning at -him; "what do you say, my boy? that the king has not recalled -you, and you have returned?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not understand that at -all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul was already pale -enough; and he now began to turn his hat round and round in his -hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What the deuce is the -matter that you look as you do, and what makes you so dumb?" said -the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do people -nowadays assume that sort of airs in England?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have been in England, and came -here again as lively as a chaffinch.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you not say something?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have too much to -say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! how is your -father?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Forgive me, my dear -friend, I was going to ask you that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan increased the -sharpness of his penetrating gaze, which no secret was capable of -resisting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are -unhappy about something," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am, indeed; and you -know the reason very well, Monsieur d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of -course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, do not -pretend to be astonished."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not pretending to -be astonished, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear captain, I know -very well that in all trials of <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>finesse</i>, as well as in all -trials of strength, I shall be beaten by you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can see that at the present -moment I am an idiot, an absolute noodle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have neither head nor arm; do not -despise, but help me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -two words, I am the most wretched of living beings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, oh! why that?" -inquired D'Artagnan, unbuckling his belt and thawing the asperity -of his smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because Mademoiselle de -la Vallière is deceiving me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She is deceiving you," -said D'Artagnan, not a muscle of whose face had moved; "those are -big words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who makes use -of them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! if every one says -so, there must be some truth in it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I begin to believe there is fire -when I see smoke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -ridiculous, perhaps, but it is so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Therefore you <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>do</i> believe me?" exclaimed -Bragelonne, quickly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I never mix myself up -in affairs of that kind; you know that very well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! not for a friend, -for a son!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you were a stranger, I should -tell you - I will tell <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> nothing at all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How is Porthos, do you know?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," cried Raoul, -pressing D'Artagnan's hand, "I entreat you in the name of the -friendship you vowed my father!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The deuce take it, you -are really ill - from curiosity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, it is not from -curiosity, it is from love."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Another big word.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you were really in love, my dear -Raoul, you would be very different."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean that if you were -really so deeply in love that I could believe I was addressing -myself to your heart - but it is impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I tell you I love -Louise to distraction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan could read to -the very bottom of the young man's heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Impossible, I tell -you," he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are -like all young men; you are not in love, you are out of your -senses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! suppose it were -only that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No sensible man ever -succeeded in making much of a brain when the head was -turned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have completely -lost my senses in the same way a hundred times in my life.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would listen to me, but -you would not hear me! you would hear, but you would not -understand me; you would understand, but you would not obey -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! try, try."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I go far.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Even if I were unfortunate enough to -know something, and foolish enough to communicate it to you - You -are my friend, you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed, yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should quarrel with you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would never forgive me for -having destroyed your illusion, as people say in love -affairs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, -you know all; and yet you plunge me in perplexity and despair, in -death itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There, there now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I never complain, as -you know; but as Heaven and my father would never forgive me for -blowing out my brains, I will go and get the first person I meet -to give me the information which you withhold; I will tell him he -lies, and - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you would kill -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And a fine affair -that would be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So much -the better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What should I -care?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Kill any one you -please, my boy, if it gives you any pleasure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is exactly like a man with a -toothache, who keeps on saying, "Oh! what torture I am -suffering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could bite a -piece of iron in half.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -My answer always is, 'Bite, my friend, bite; the tooth will -remain all the same.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall not kill any -one, monsieur," said Raoul, gloomily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes! you now -assume a different tone: instead of killing, you will get killed -yourself, I suppose you mean?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very fine, indeed!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How much I should regret you!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of course I should go about -all day, saying, 'Ah! what a fine stupid fellow that Bragelonne -was! as great a stupid as I ever met with.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have passed my whole life almost -in teaching him how to hold and use his sword properly, and the -silly fellow has got himself spitted like a lark.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, then, Raoul, go and get yourself -disposed of, if you like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I hardly know who can have taught you logic, but deuce take me if -your father has not been regularly robbed of his money."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul buried his face in -his hands, murmuring: "No, no; I have not a single friend in the -world."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! bah!" said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I meet with nothing but -raillery or indifference."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Idle fancies, -monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not laugh -at you, although I am a Gascon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, as for being indifferent, if I -were so, I should have sent you about your business a quarter of -an hour ago, for you would make a man who was out of his senses -with delight as dull as possible, and would be the death of one -who was out of spirits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -How now, young man! do you wish me to disgust you with the girl -you are attached to, and to teach you to execrate the whole sex -who constitute the honor and happiness of human life?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! tell me, monsieur, -and I will bless you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you think, my dear -fellow, that I can have crammed into my brain all about the -carpenter, and the painter, and the staircase, and a hundred -other similar tales of the same kind?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A carpenter! what do -you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word I don't -know; some one told me there was a carpenter who made an opening -through a certain flooring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In La Vallière's -room!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't know where."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the king's -apartment, perhaps?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course, -if it were in the king's apartment, I should tell you, I -suppose."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In whose -room, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have told you for the -last hour that I know nothing of the whole affair."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the -painter, then? the portrait - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It seems that the king -wished to have the portrait of one of the ladies belonging to the -court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "La -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, you seem to have -only that name in your mouth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who spoke to you of La -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it be not her -portrait, then, why do you suppose it would concern me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not suppose it -will concern you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you -ask me all sorts of questions, and I answer you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You positively will learn all the -scandal of the affair, and I tell you - make the best you can of -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul struck his -forehead with his hand in utter despair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It will kill me!" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So you have said -already."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you are right," -and he made a step or two, as if he were going to leave.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where are you -going?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To look for some one -who will tell me the truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A woman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle de la -Vallière herself, I suppose you mean?" said D'Artagnan, -with a smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! a -famous idea that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -wish to be consoled by some one, and you will be so at once.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She will tell you nothing ill -of herself, of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So -be off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mistaken, -monsieur," replied Raoul; "the woman I mean will tell me all the -evil she possibly can."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You allude to -Montalais, I suppose - her friend; a woman who, on that account, -will exaggerate all that is either bad or good in the -matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not talk to -Montalais, my good fellow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have some reasons -for wishing me not to talk with Montalais?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I admit it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, in point of fact, why -should I play with you as a cat does with a poor mouse?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You distress me, you do, -indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And if I wish you -not to speak to Montalais just now, it is because you will be -betraying your secret, and people will take advantage of it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Wait, if you can."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the worse.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, you see, Raoul, if I had -an idea, - but I have not got one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Promise me that you -will pity me, my friend, that is all I need, and leave me to get -out of the affair by myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes, indeed, in -order that you may get deeper into the mire!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A capital idea, truly! go and sit -down at that table and take a pen in your hand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What for?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To write -and ask Montalais to give you an interview."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said -Raoul, snatching eagerly at the pen which the captain held out to -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Suddenly the door -opened, and one of the musketeers, approaching D'Artagnan, said, -"Captain, Mademoiselle de Montalais is here, and wishes to speak -to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To me?" murmured -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ask her to -come in; I shall soon see," he said to himself, "whether she -wishes to speak to me or not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The cunning captain was -quite right in his suspicions; for as soon as Montalais entered -she exclaimed, "Oh, monsieur! monsieur!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg your pardon, Monsieur -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I forgive you, mademoiselle," said -D'Artagnan; "I know that, at my age, those who are looking for me -generally need me for something or another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was looking for M. de -Bragelonne," replied Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How very fortunate that -is; he was looking for you, too.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, will you accompany -Mademoiselle de Montalais?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go along, then," he -said, as he gently pushed Raoul out of the cabinet; and then, -taking hold of Montalais's hand, he said, in a low voice, "Be -kind towards him; spare him, and spare her, too, if you can."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" she said, in the -same tone of voice, "it is not I who am going to speak to -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who, then?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is -Madame who has sent for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good," cried -D'Artagnan, "it is Madame, is it?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In an hour's time, then, the poor -fellow will be cured."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Or else dead," said -Montalais, in a voice full of compassion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Adieu, Monsieur d'Artagnan," she -said; and she ran to join Raoul, who was waiting for her at a -little distance from the door, very much puzzled and thoroughly -uneasy at the dialogue, which promised no good augury for -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>Two -Jealousies.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -L</span>overs are tender towards everything that forms part of -the daily life of the object of their affection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul no sooner found himself alone -with Montalais, than he kissed her hand with rapture.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There, there," said the young girl, -sadly, "you are throwing your kisses away; I will guarantee that -they will not bring you back any interest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How so? - Why? - Will -you explain to me, my dear Aure?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame will explain -everything to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -going to take you to her apartments.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>What!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Silence! and throw away -your dark and savage looks.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The windows here have eyes, the -walls have ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have the -kindness not to look at me any longer; be good enough to speak to -me aloud of the rain, of the fine weather, and of the charms of -England."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At all events - " -interrupted Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I tell you, I warn you, -that wherever people may be, I know not how, Madame is sure to -have eyes and ears open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I am not very desirous, you can easily believe, of being -dismissed or thrown in to the Bastile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us talk, I tell you, or rather, -do not let us talk at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul clenched his -hands, and tried to assume the look and gait of a man of courage, -it is true, but of a man of courage on his way to the torture -chamber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais, -glancing in every direction, walking along with an easy swinging -gait, and holding up her head pertly in the air, preceded him to -Madame's apartments, where he was at once introduced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well," he thought, "this day will -pass away without my learning anything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Guiche showed too much consideration -for my feelings; he had no doubt come to an understanding with -Madame, and both of them, by a friendly plot, agreed to postpone -the solution of the problem.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why have I not a determined, -inveterate enemy - that serpent, De Wardes, for instance; that he -would bite, is very likely; but I should not hesitate any -more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To hesitate, to -doubt - better, far, to die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The next moment Raoul -was in Madame's presence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Henrietta, more charming than ever, was half lying, half -reclining in her armchair, her small feet upon an embroidered -velvet cushion; she was playing with a kitten with long silky -fur, which was biting her fingers and hanging by the lace of her -collar.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame seemed plunged in -deep thought, so deep, indeed, that it required both Montalais -and Raoul's voice to disturb her from her reverie.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your highness sent for -me?" repeated Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame shook her head as -if she were just awakening, and then said, "Good morning, -Monsieur de Bragelonne; yes, I sent for you; so you have returned -from England?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame, and am at -your royal highness's commands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you; leave us, -Montalais," and the latter immediately left the room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have a few minutes -to give me, Monsieur de Bragelonne, have you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My life is at your -royal highness's disposal," Raoul returned with respect, guessing -that there was something serious in these unusual courtesies; nor -was he displeased, indeed, to observe the seriousness of her -manner, feeling persuaded that there was some sort of affinity -between Madame's sentiments and his own.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, every one at court, of any -perception at all, knew perfectly well the capricious fancy and -absurd despotism of the princess's singular character.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame had been flattered -beyond all bounds by the king's attention; she had made herself -talked about; she had inspired the queen with that mortal -jealousy which is the stinging scorpion at the heel of every -woman's happiness; Madame, in a word, in her attempts to cure a -wounded pride, found that her heart had become deeply and -passionately attached.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -know what Madame had done to recall Raoul, who had been sent out -of the way by Louis XIV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Raoul did not know of her letter to Charles II., although -D'Artagnan had guessed its contents.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who will undertake to account for -that seemingly inexplicable mixture of love and vanity, that -passionate tenderness of feeling, that prodigious duplicity of -conduct?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one can, -indeed; not even the bad angel who kindles the love of coquetry -in the heart of a woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur de Bragelonne," said the princess, after a moment's -pause, "have you returned satisfied?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Bragelonne looked at -Madame Henrietta, and seeing how pale she was, not alone from -what she was keeping back, but also from what she was burning to -say, said: "Satisfied! what is there for me to be satisfied or -dissatisfied about, Madame?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what are those -things with which a man of your age, and of your appearance, is -usually either satisfied or dissatisfied?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How eager she is," -thought Raoul, almost terrified; "what venom is it she is going -to distil into my heart?" and then, frightened at what she might -possibly be going to tell him, and wishing to put off the -opportunity of having everything explained, which he had hitherto -so ardently wished for, yet had dreaded so much, he replied: "I -left, Madame, a dear friend in good health, and on my return I -find him very ill."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You refer to M. de -Guiche," replied Madame Henrietta, with imperturbable -self-possession; "I <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>have</i> heard he is a very dear -friend of yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is, indeed, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, it is quite true -he has been wounded; but he is better now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Guiche is not to be pitied," -she said hurriedly; and then, recovering herself, added, "But has -he anything to complain of?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Has he complained of anything?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is there any cause of grief or -sorrow that we are not acquainted with?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I allude only to his -wound, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the better, -then, for, in other respects, M. de Guiche seems to be very -happy; he is always in very high spirits.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am sure that you, Monsieur de -Bragelonne, would far prefer to be, like him, wounded only in the -body… for what, in deed, is such a wound, after all!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul started.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Alas!" he said to himself, -"she is returning to it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did you say?" she -inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I did not say anything -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You did not say -anything; you disapprove of my observation, then? you are -perfectly satisfied, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul approached closer -to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Madame," he -said, "your royal highness wishes to say something to me, and -your instinctive kindness and generosity of disposition induce -you to be careful and considerate as to your manner of conveying -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will your royal -highness throw this kind forbearance aside?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am able to bear everything; and I -am listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" replied Henrietta, -"what do you understand, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That which your royal -highness wishes me to understand," said Raoul, trembling, -notwithstanding his command over himself, as he pronounced these -words.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In point of fact," -murmured the princess… "it seems cruel, but since I have -begun - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame, once your -highness has deigned to begin, will you condescend to finish - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Henrietta rose hurriedly -and walked a few paces up and down her room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What did M. de Guiche tell you?" -she said, suddenly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Did he say nothing?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! how well I recognize him in -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No doubt he wished to -spare me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that is what -friends call friendship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But surely, M. d'Artagnan, whom you have just left, must have -told you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No more than De Guiche, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Henrietta made a gesture -full of impatience, as she said, "At least, you know all the -court knows."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know nothing at all, -Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not the scene in the -storm?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>tête-à-tête</i> -in the forest?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nor the flight to -Chaillot?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul, whose head -dropped like a blossom cut down by the reaper, made an almost -superhuman effort to smile, as he replied with the greatest -gentleness: "I have had the honor of telling your royal highness -that I am absolutely ignorant of everything, that I am a poor -unremembered outcast, who has this moment arrived from -England.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There have -rolled so many stormy waves between myself and those I left -behind me here, that the rumor of none of the circumstances your -highness refers to, has been able to reach me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Henrietta was affected -by his extreme pallor, his gentleness, and his great -courage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The principal -feeling in her heart at that moment was an eager desire to hear -the nature of the remembrance which the poor lover retained of -the woman who had made him suffer so much.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur de Bragelonne," she said, -"that which your friends have refused to do, I will do for you, -whom I like and esteem very much.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will be your friend on this -occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You hold your -head high, as a man of honor should; and I deeply regret that you -may have to bow before ridicule, and in a few days, it might be, -contempt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" exclaimed Raoul, -perfectly livid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is -as bad as that, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you do not know," -said the princess, "I see that you guess; you were affianced, I -believe, to Mademoiselle de la Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By that right, you -deserve to be warned about her, as some day or another I shall be -obliged to dismiss Mademoiselle de la Vallière from my -service - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dismiss La -Vallière!" cried Bragelonne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you suppose I shall always be -amenable to the tears and protestations of the king?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no! my house shall no longer be -made a convenience for such practices; but you tremble, you -cannot stand - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Madame, no," said -Bragelonne, making an effort over himself; "I thought I should -have died just now, that was all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your royal highness did me the honor -to say that the king wept and implored you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, but in vain," -returned the princess; who then related to Raoul the scene that -took place at Chaillot, and the king's despair on his return; she -told him of his indulgence to herself and the terrible word with -which the outraged princess, the humiliated coquette, had quashed -the royal anger.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul stood with his -head bent down.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you think of it -all?" she said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king loves her," he -replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you seem to think -she does not love him!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas, Madame, I was -thinking of the time when she loved <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>me</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Henrietta was for a -moment struck with admiration at this sublime disbelief: and -then, shrugging her shoulders, she said, "You do not believe me, -I see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How deeply you -must love her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And you -doubt if she loves the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do, until I have a -proof of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forgive me, -Madame, but she has given me her word; and her mind and heart are -too upright to tell a falsehood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You require a -proof!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be it so.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come with me, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>A -Domiciliary Visit.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he princess, preceding Raoul, led him through the -courtyard towards that part of the building La Vallière -inhabited, and, ascending the same staircase which Raoul himself -had ascended that very morning, she paused at the door of the -room in which the young man had been so strangely received by -Montalais.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -opportunity was remarkably well chosen to carry out the project -Madame Henrietta had conceived, for the château was -empty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, the -courtiers, and the ladies of the court, had set off for -Saint-Germain; Madame Henrietta was the only one who knew of -Bragelonne's return, and thinking over the advantages which might -be drawn from this return, she had feigned indisposition in order -to remain behind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame -was therefore confident of finding La Vallière's room and -Saint-Aignan's apartment perfectly empty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She took a pass-key from her pocket -and opened the door of her maid of honor's apartment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Bragelonne's gaze was immediately -fixed upon the interior of the room, which he recognized at once; -and the impression which the sight of it produced upon him was -torture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The princess -looked at him, and her practiced eye at once detected what was -passing in the young man's heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You asked for proofs," -she said; "do not be astonished, then, if I give you them.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But if you do not think you -have courage enough to confront them, there is still time to -withdraw."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thank you, Madame," -said Bragelonne; "but I came here to be convinced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You promised to convince me, - do -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enter, then," said -Madame, "and shut the door behind you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Bragelonne obeyed, and -then turned towards the princess, whom he interrogated by a -look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know where you are, -I suppose?" inquired Madame Henrietta.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Everything leads me to -believe I am in Mademoiselle de la Vallière's room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"But I would -observe to your highness, that this room is a room, and is not a -proof."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Wait," said the -princess, as she walked to the foot of the bed, folded up the -screen into its several compartments, and stooped down towards -the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Look here," -she continued; "stoop down and lift up this trap-door -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A trap-door!" said -Raoul, astonished; for D'Artagnan's words began to return to his -memory, and he had an indistinct recollection that D'Artagnan had -made use of the same word.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked, but uselessly, for some -cleft or crevice which might indicate an opening or a ring to -assist in lifting up the planking.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, I forgot," -said Madame Henrietta, "I forgot the secret spring; the fourth -plank of the flooring, - press on the spot where you will observe -a knot in the wood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those -are the instructions; press, vicomte! press, I say, -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul, pale as -death, pressed his finger on the spot which had been indicated to -him; at the same moment the spring began to work, and the trap -rose of its own accord.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is ingenious -enough, certainly," said the princess; "and one can see that the -architect foresaw that a woman's hand only would have to make use -of this spring, for see how easily the trap-door opened without -assistance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A staircase!" -cried Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, and a very pretty -one, too," said Madame Henrietta.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "See, vicomte, the staircase has a -balustrade, intended to prevent the falling of timid persons, who -might be tempted to descend the staircase; and I will risk myself -on it accordingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, -vicomte, follow me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But before following -you, madame, may I ask where this staircase leads to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, true; I forgot to -tell you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know, -perhaps, that formerly M. de Saint-Aignan lived in the very next -apartment to the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame, I am aware -of that; that was the arrangement, at least, before I left; and -more than once I had the honor of visiting his rooms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, he obtained the -king's leave to change his former convenient and beautiful -apartment for the two rooms to which this staircase will conduct -us, and which together form a lodging for him half the size, and -at ten times greater the distance from the king, - a close -proximity to whom is by no means disdained, in general, by the -gentlemen belonging to the court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, Madame," -returned Raoul; "but go on, I beg, for I do not understand -yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then it -accidentally happened," continued the princess, "that M. de -Saint-Aignan's apartment is situated underneath the apartments of -my maids of honor, and by a further coincidence, exactly -underneath the room of La Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what was the motive -of this trap-door and this staircase?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That I cannot tell -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Would you like to go -down to Monsieur de Saint-Aignan's rooms?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps we shall be able to find the -solution of the enigma there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Madame set the -example by going down herself, while Raoul, sighing deeply, -followed her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At every -step Bragelonne took, he advanced further into that mysterious -apartment which had witnessed La Vallière's sighs and -still retained the perfume of her presence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Bragelonne fancied he perceived, as -he inhaled the atmosphere, that the young girl must have passed -through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then succeeded -to these emanations of herself, which he regarded as invisible -though certain proofs, flowers she preferred to all others - -books of her own selection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If Raoul retained a single doubt on -the subject, it would have vanished at the secret harmony of -tastes and connection of the mind with the ordinary objects of -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière, -in Bragelonne's eyes, was present there in each article of -furniture, in the color of the hangings, in all that surrounded -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dumb, and now -completely overwhelmed, there was nothing further for him now to -learn, and he followed his pitiless conductress as blindly as the -culprit follows the executioner; while Madame, as cruel as women -of overstrung temperaments generally are, did not spare him the -slightest detail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it -must be admitted that, notwithstanding the kind of apathy into -which he had fallen, none of these details, even had he been left -alone, would have escaped him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The happiness of the woman who -loves, when that happiness is derived from a rival, is a living -torture for a jealous man; but for a jealous man such as Raoul -was, for one whose heart for the first time in its existence was -being steeped in gall and bitterness, Louise's happiness was in -reality an ignominious death, a death of body and soul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He guessed all; he fancied he -could see them, with their hands clasped in each other's, their -faces drawn close together, and reflected, side by side, in -loving proximity, and they gazed upon the mirrors around them - -so sweet an occupation for lovers, who, as they thus see -themselves twice over, imprint the picture still more deeply on -their memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He could -guess, too, the stolen kiss snatched as they separated from each -other's loved society.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The luxury, the studied elegance, eloquent of the perfection of -indolence, of ease; the extreme care shown, either to spare the -loved object every annoyance, or to occasion her a delightful -surprise; that might and majesty of love multiplied by the -majesty and might of royalty itself, seemed like a death-blow to -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If there be -anything which can in any way assuage or mitigate the tortures of -jealousy, it is the inferiority of the man who is preferred to -yourself; whilst, on the very contrary, if there be one anguish -more bitter than another, a misery for which language lacks a -word, it is the superiority of the man preferred to yourself, -superior, perhaps, in youth, beauty, grace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is in such moments as these that -Heaven almost seems to have taken part against the disdained and -rejected lover.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> One final pang was -reserved for poor Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Madame Henrietta lifted up a silk curtain, and behind the canvas -he perceived La Vallière's portrait.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not only the portrait of La -Vallière, but of La Vallière radiant with youth, -beauty, and happiness, inhaling life and enjoyment at every pore, -because at eighteen years of age love itself is life.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Louise!" murmured -Bragelonne, - "Louise! is it true, then?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, you have never loved me, for -never have you looked at me in that manner."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he felt as if his heart were -crushed within his bosom.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame Henrietta looked -at him, almost envious of his extreme grief, although she well -knew there was nothing to envy in it, and that she herself was as -passionately loved by De Guiche as Louise by Bragelonne.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul interpreted Madame -Henrietta's look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, forgive me, forgive -me, Madame; in your presence I know I ought to have greater -self-control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Heaven -grant that you may never be struck by similar misery to that -which crushes me at this moment, for you are but a woman, and -would not be able to endure so terrible an affliction.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forgive me, I again entreat -you, Madame; I am but a man without rank or position, while you -belong to a race whose happiness knows no bounds, whose power -acknowledges no limit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur de -Bragelonne," replied Henrietta, "a mind such as your merits all -the consideration and respect which a queen's heart even can -bestow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Regard me as your -friend, monsieur; and as such, indeed, I would not allow your -whole life to be poisoned by perfidy, and covered with -ridicule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was I, -indeed, who, with more courage than any of your pretended -friends, - I except M. de Guiche, - was the cause of your return -from London; it is I, also, who now give you the melancholy -proofs, necessary, however, for your cure if you are a lover with -courage in his heart, and not a weeping Amadis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not thank me; pity me, even, and -do not serve the king less faithfully than you have done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul smiled -bitterly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! true, -true; I was forgetting that; the king is my master."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your liberty, nay, your -very life, is in danger."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A steady, penetrating -look informed Madame Henrietta that she was mistaken, and that -her last argument was not a likely one to affect the young -man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Take care, Monsieur -de Bragelonne," she said, "for if you do not weigh well all your -actions, you might throw into an extravagance of wrath a prince -whose passions, once aroused, exceed the bounds of reason, and -you would thereby involve your friends and family in the deepest -distress; you must bend, you must submit, and you must cure -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thank you, Madame; I -appreciate the advice your royal highness is good enough to give -me, and I will endeavor to follow it; but one final word, I -beg."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Name it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Should I be indiscreet -in asking you the secret of this staircase, of this trap-door; a -secret, which, it seems, you have discovered?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing more -simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For the purpose -of exercising a surveillance over the young girls who are -attached to my service, I have duplicate keys of their -doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seemed very -strange to me that M. de Saint-Aignan should change his -apartments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seemed -very strange that the king should come to see M. de Saint-Aignan -every day, and, finally, it seemed very strange that so many -things should be done during your absence, that the very habits -and customs of the court appeared changed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not wish to be trifled with by -the king, nor to serve as a cloak for his love affairs; for after -La Vallière, who weeps incessantly, he will take a fancy -to Montalais, who is always laughing; and then to -Tonnay-Charente, who does nothing but sing all day; to act such a -part as that would be unworthy of me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I thrust aside the scruples which my -friendship for you suggested.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I discovered the secret.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have wounded your feelings, I -know, and I again entreat you to pardon me; but I had a duty to -fulfil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have discharged -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are now -forewarned; the tempest will soon burst; protect yourself -accordingly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You naturally expect, -however, that a result of some kind must follow," replied -Bragelonne, with firmness; "for you do not suppose I shall -silently accept the shame thus thrust upon me, or the treachery -which has been practiced against me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will take whatever -steps in the matter you please, Monsieur Raoul, only do not -betray the source whence you derived the truth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is all I have to ask, - the -only price I require for the service I have rendered you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fear nothing, Madame," -said Bragelonne, with a bitter smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I bribed the locksmith, -in whom the lovers confided.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can just as well have done so as -myself, can you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Madame.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your royal highness, however, -has no other advice or caution to give me, except that of not -betraying you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "None."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am about, therefore, -to beg your royal highness to allow me to remain here for one -moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Without me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no, -Madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It matters very -little; for what I have to do can be done in your presence.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I only ask one moment to write -a line to some one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is dangerous, -Monsieur de Bragelonne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Take care."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No one can possibly -know that your royal highness has done me the honor to conduct me -here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, I shall -sign the letter I am going to write."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do as you please, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul drew out his -tablet, and wrote rapidly on one of the leaves the following -words:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MONSIEUR LE COMTE, - Do -not be surprised to find this paper signed by me; the friend I -shall very shortly send to call on you will have the honor to -explain the object of my visit.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -"VICOMTE RAOUL DE BRAGELONNE."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He rolled up the paper, -slipped it into the lock of the door which communicated with the -room set apart for the two lovers, and satisfied himself that the -missive was so apparent that Saint-Aignan could not but see it as -he entered; he rejoined the princess, who had already reached the -top of the staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -They then separated, Raoul pretending to thank her highness; -Henrietta pitying, or seeming to pity, with all her heart, the -wretched young man she had just condemned to such fearful -torture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!" she said, -as she saw him disappear, pale as death, and his eyes bursting -with blood, "if I had foreseen this, I would have hid the truth -from that poor gentleman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LIV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Porthos's Plan of Action.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he great number of individuals we have introduced into -this long story is the reason why each of them has been forced to -appear only in turn, according to the exigencies of the -recital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The result is, -that our readers have had no opportunity of meeting our friend -Porthos since his return from Fontainebleau.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The honors which he had received -from the king had not changed the easy, affectionate character of -that excellent-hearted man; he may, perhaps, have held up his -head a little higher than usual, and a majesty of demeanor, as it -were, may have betrayed itself since the honor of dining at the -king's table had been accorded him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty's banqueting-room had -produced a certain effect on Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Le Seigneur de Bracieux et de -Pierrefonds delighted to remember that, during that memorable -dinner, the numerous array of servants, and the large number of -officials in attendance on the guests, gave a certain tone and -effect to the repast, and seemed, as it were, to furnish the -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos undertook -to confer upon Mouston a position of some kind or other, in order -to establish a sort of hierarchy among his other domestics, and -to create a military household, which was not unusual among the -great captains of the age, since, in the preceding century, this -luxury had been greatly encouraged by Messieurs de -Tréville, de Schomberg, de la Vieuville, without alluding -to M. de Richelieu, M. de Condé, and de -Bouillon-Turenne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, -therefore, why should not he, Porthos, the friend of the king, -and of M. Fouquet, a baron, and engineer, etc., why should not -he, indeed, enjoy all the delightful privileges which large -possessions and unusual merit invariably confer?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Somewhat neglected by Aramis, who, -we know, was greatly occupied with M. Fouquet; neglected, also, -on account of his being on duty, by D'Artagnan; tired of -Trüchen and Planchet, Porthos was surprised to find himself -dreaming, without precisely knowing why; but if any one had said -to him, "Do you want anything, Porthos?" he would most certainly -have replied, "Yes."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -After one of those dinners, during which Porthos attempted to -recall to his recollection all the details of the royal banquet, -gently joyful, thanks to the excellence of the wines; gently -melancholy, thanks to his ambitions ideas, Porthos was gradually -falling off into a placid doze, when his servant entered to -announce that M. de Bragelonne wished to speak to him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos passed into an -adjoining room, where he found his young friend in the -disposition of mind we are already aware of.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul advanced towards Porthos, and -shook him by the hand; Porthos, surprised at his seriousness of -aspect, offered him a seat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Dear M. du Vallon," said Raoul, "I -have a service to ask of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing could happen -more fortunately, my young friend," replied Porthos; "I have -eight thousand livres sent me this morning from Pierrefonds; and -if you want any money - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I thank you; it is -not money."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the worse, -then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have always heard -it said that that is the rarest service, but the easiest to -render.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The remark struck -me; I like to cite remarks that strike me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your heart is as good -as your mind is sound and true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are much too kind, -I declare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will dine -here, of course?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I am -not hungry."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! not dine?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What a dreadful country -England is!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not too much so, indeed -- but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, if such excellent -fish and meat were not to be procured there, it would hardly be -endurable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I came to - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am listening.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only just allow me to take a -little sip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One gets -thirsty in Paris;" and he ordered a bottle of champagne to be -brought; and, having first filled Raoul's glass, he filled his -own, drank it down at a gulp, and then resumed: "I needed that, -in order to listen to you with proper attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am now entirely at your -service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you wish -to ask me, dear Raoul?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What do you want?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give me your opinion on -quarrels in general, my dear friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My opinion!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well - but - Explain your idea a -little more coherently," replied Porthos, rubbing his -forehead.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean - you are -generally good-humored, good-tempered, whenever any -misunderstanding arises between a friend of yours and a stranger, -for instance?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! in the -best of tempers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; but what do -you do, in such a case?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whenever any friend of -mine gets into a quarrel, I always act on one principle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That lost time is -irreparable, and one never arranges an affair so well as when -everything has been done to embroil the disputants as much as -possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! indeed, is that the -principle on which you proceed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely; so, as soon -as a quarrel takes place, I bring the two parties together."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You -understand that by this means it is impossible for an affair not -to be arranged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should have thought -that, treated in this manner, an affair would, on the contrary - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! not the least in -the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Just fancy, -now, I have had in my life something like a hundred and eighty to -a hundred and ninety regular duels, without reckoning hasty -encounters, or chance meetings."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a -very handsome aggregate," said Raoul, unable to resist a -smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A mere nothing; but I -am so gentle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -reckons his duels by hundreds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is very true he is a little too -hard and sharp - I have often told him so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so," resumed Raoul, -"you generally arrange the affairs of honor your friends confide -to you."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is -not a single instance in which I have not finished by arranging -every one of them," said Porthos, with a gentleness and -confidence that surprised Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the way in which -you settle them is at least honorable, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! rely upon that; and -at this stage, I will explain my other principle to you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as my friend has -intrusted his quarrel to me, this is what I do; I go to his -adversary at once, armed with a politeness and self-possession -absolutely requisite under such circumstances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the way, then," -said Raoul, bitterly, "that you arrange affairs so safely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I go to the adversary, then, -and say to him: 'It is impossible, monsieur, that you are -ignorant of the extent to which you have insulted my -friend.'"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul frowned -at this remark.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It sometimes happens - -very often, indeed," pursued Porthos - "that my friend has not -been insulted at all; he has even been the first to give offense; -you can imagine, therefore, whether my language is or is not well -chosen."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Porthos -burst into a peal of laughter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Decidedly," said Raoul -to himself while the merry thunder of Porthos's laughter was -resounding in his ears, "I am very unfortunate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> De Guiche treats me with coolness, -D'Artagnan with ridicule, Porthos is too tame; no one will settle -this affair in the only way I wish it to be settled.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And I came to Porthos because I -wanted to find a sword instead of cold reasoning at my -service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My ill-luck dogs -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos, who had -recovered himself, continued: "By one simple expression, I leave -my adversary without an excuse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is as it may -happen," said Raoul, absently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all, it is quite -certain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have not left -him an excuse; and then it is that I display all my courtesy, in -order to attain the happy issue of my project.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I advance, therefore, with an air of -great politeness, and taking my adversary by the hand, I say to -him: 'Now that you are convinced of having given the offense, we -are sure of reparation; between my friend and yourself, the -future can only offer an exchange of mutual courtesies of -conduct, and consequently, my mission now is to acquaint you with -the length of my friend's sword.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!" said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait a minute.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'The length of my friend's -sword.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My horse is -waiting below; my friend is in such and such a spot and is -impatiently awaiting your agreeable society; I will take you with -me; we can call upon your second as we go along:' and the affair -is arranged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so," said Raoul, -pale with vexation, "you reconcile the two adversaries on the -ground."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon," -interrupted Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Reconcile!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You said that the -affair was arranged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course! since my -friend is waiting for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! what then?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he is waiting - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! if he is waiting, -it is merely to stretch his legs a little.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The adversary, on the contrary, is -stiff from riding; they place themselves in proper order, and my -friend kills the opponent, and the affair is ended."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! he kills him, -then?" cried Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should think so," -said Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is it -likely I should ever have as a friend a man who allows himself to -get killed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have a -hundred and one friends; at the head of the list stand your -father, Aramis, and D'Artagnan, all of whom are living and well, -I believe?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, my dear baron," -exclaimed Raoul, as he embraced Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You approve of my -method, then?" said the giant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I approve of it so -thoroughly, that I shall have recourse to it this very day, -without a moment's delay, - at once, in fact.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are the very man I have been -looking for."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good; here I am, then; -you want to fight, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Absolutely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is very -natural.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With whom?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With M. de -Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know him - a most -agreeable man, who was exceedingly polite to me the day I had the -honor of dining with the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall certainly acknowledge his -politeness in return, even if it had not happened to be my usual -custom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, he has given -you an offense?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A mortal -offense."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The -deuce!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can say so, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "More than that, even, -if you like."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a -very great convenience."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I may look upon it as -one of your arranged affairs, may I not?" said Raoul, -smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As a matter of -course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where will you be -waiting for him?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I forgot; it is a very -delicate matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Saint-Aignan is a very great friend of the king's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So I have heard it -said."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that if -I kill him - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you will kill him, -certainly; you must take every precaution to do so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But there is no difficulty in these -matters now; if you had lived in our early days, - ah, those were -days worth living for!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend, you do -not quite understand me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I mean, that M. de Saint-Aignan being a friend of the king, the -affair will be more difficult to manage, since the king might -learn beforehand - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no; that is not -likely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know my -method: 'Monsieur, you have just injured my friend, and - '"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then: 'Monsieur, I -have horses below.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -carry him off before he can have spoken to any one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will he allow himself -to be carried off like that?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should -think so!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should like -to see it fail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would -be the first time, if it did.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is true, though, that the young -men of the present day - Bah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I would carry him off bodily, if -that were all," and Porthos, adding gesture to speech, lifted -Raoul and the chair he was sitting on off the ground, and carried -them round the room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good," said Raoul, -laughing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "All we have to -do is to state the grounds of the quarrel with M. de -Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, but that is done, -it seems."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, my dear M. du -Vallon, the usage of the present day requires that the cause of -the quarrel should be explained."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me what it is, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Deuce take it! how -troublesome all this is!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In former days we had no occasion to say anything about the -matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> People fought for -the sake of fighting; and I, for one, know no better reason than -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are quite right, M. -du Vallon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"However, tell me -what<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> the cause -is.”</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is too long a -story to tell; only, as one must particularize to a certain -extent, and as, on the other hand, the affair is full of -difficulties, and requires the most absolute secrecy, you will -have the kindness merely to tell M. de Saint-Aignan that he has, -in the first place, insulted me by changing his lodgings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By changing his -lodgings?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good," said -Porthos, who began to count on his fingers; "next?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then in getting a -trap-door made in his new apartments."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I understand," -said Porthos; "a trap-door: upon my word, that is very serious; -you ought to be furious at that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What the deuce does the fellow mean -by getting trap-doors made without first consulting you?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trap-doors! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I haven't got any, except in my -dungeons at Bracieux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you will -please add," said Raoul, "that my last motive for considering -myself insulted is, the existence of the portrait that M. de -Saint-Aignan well knows."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is it -possible?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A portrait, -too!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A change of -residence, a trap-door, and a portrait!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, my dear friend, with but one of -these causes of complaint there is enough, and more than enough, -for all the gentlemen in France and Spain to cut each other's -throats, and that is saying but very little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, my dear -friend, you are furnished with all you need, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I shall take a -second horse with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Select your own rendezvous, and while you are waiting there, you -can practice some of the best passes, so as to get your limbs as -elastic as possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thank you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall be waiting for you in -the wood of Vincennes, close to Minimes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"All goes well, -then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where am I to find -this M. de Saint-Aignan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the Palais -Royal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos ran a huge -hand-bell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My court -suit," he said to the servant who answered the summons, "my -horse, and a led horse to accompany me."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then turning to Raoul, as soon as -the servant had quitted the room, he said: "Does your father know -anything about this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; I am going to -write to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And -D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, nor D'Artagnan -either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is very -cautions, you know, and might have diverted me from my -purpose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"D'Artagnan is a -sound adviser, though," said Porthos, astonished that, in his own -loyal faith in D'Artagnan, any one could have thought of himself, -so long as there was a D'Artagnan in the world.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Dear M. du -Vallon," said Raoul, "do not question me any more, I implore -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have told you all -that I had to say; it is prompt action I now expect, sharp and -decided as you know how to arrange it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That, indeed, is my reason for -having chosen you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will be -satisfied with me," replied Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not forget, -either, that, except ourselves, no one must know anything of this -meeting."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"People generally -find these things out," said Porthos, dryly, "when a dead body is -discovered in a wood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -I promise everything, my dear friend, except the concealment of -the dead body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There it -is, and it must be seen, as a matter of course.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a principle of mine, not to -bury bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That has a -smack of the assassin about it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every risk has its -peculiarities."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To work, then, my -dear friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Rely upon me," -said the giant, finishing the bottle, while a servant spread out -upon a sofa the gorgeously decorated dress trimmed with lace.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul left the -room, saying to himself, with a secret delight, "Perfidious king! -traitorous monarch!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -cannot reach thee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do -not wish it; for kings are sacred objects.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But your friend, your accomplice, -your panderer - the coward who represents you - shall pay for -your crime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will kill -him in thy name, and, afterwards, we will bethink ourselves of - -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Louise</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Change of Residence, the Trap-Door, and the Portrait.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -P</span>orthos, intrusted, to his great delight, with this -mission, which made him feel young again, took half an hour less -than his usual time to put on his court suit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To show that he was a man acquainted -with the usages of high society, he had begun by sending his -lackey to inquire if Monsieur de Saint-Aignan were at home, and -heard, in answer, that M. le Comte de Saint-Aignan had had the -honor of accompanying the king to Saint-Germain, as well as the -whole court; but that monsieur le comte had just that moment -returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Immediately -upon this reply, Porthos made as much haste as possible, and -reached Saint-Aignan's apartments just as the latter was having -his boots taken off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -promenade had been delightful.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, who was in love more than -ever, and of course happier than ever, behaved in the most -charming manner to every one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing could possibly equal his -kindness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Saint-Aignan, it may be remembered, was a poet, and fancied that -he had proved that he was so under too many a memorable -circumstance to allow the title to be disputed by any one.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An indefatigable rhymester, he -had, during the whole of the journey, overwhelmed with quatrains, -sextains, and madrigals, first the king, and then La -Vallière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king, on his side, was in a similarly poetical mood, and had made -a distich; while La Vallière, delighting in poetry, as -most women do who are in love, had composed two sonnets.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The day, then, had not been a -bad one for Apollo; and so, as soon as he had returned to Paris, -Saint-Aignan, who knew beforehand that his verse would be sure to -be extensively circulated in court circles, occupied himself, -with a little more attention than he had been able to bestow -during the promenade, with the composition, as well as with the -idea itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Consequently, with all the tenderness of a father about to start -his children in life, he candidly interrogated himself whether -the public would find these offsprings of his imagination -sufficiently elegant and graceful; and in order to make his mind -easy on the subject, M. de Saint-Aignan recited to himself the -madrigal he had composed, and which he had repeated from memory -to the king, and had promised to write out for him on his -return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the time he -was committing these words to memory, the comte was engaged in -undressing himself more completely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had just taken off his coat, and -was putting on his dressing-gown, when he was informed that -Monsieur le Baron du Vallon de Bracieux de Pierrefonds was -waiting to be received.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh!" he said, "what -does that bunch of names mean?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't know anything about -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the same -gentleman," replied the lackey, "who had the honor of dining with -you, monseigneur, at the king's table, when his majesty was -staying at Fontainebleau."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Introduce him, then, at -once," cried Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos, in a few -minutes, entered the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Saint-Aignan had an excellent -recollection of persons, and, at the first glance, he recognized -the gentleman from the country, who enjoyed so singular a -reputation, and whom the king had received so favorably at -Fontainebleau, in spite of the smiles of some of those who were -present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore -advanced towards Porthos with all the outward signs of -consideration of manner which Porthos thought but natural, -considering that he himself, whenever he called upon an -adversary, hoisted a standard of the most refined -politeness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan -desired the servant to give Porthos a chair; and the latter, who -saw nothing unusual in this act of politeness, sat down gravely -and coughed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The ordinary -courtesies having been exchanged between the two gentlemen, the -comte, to whom the visit was paid, said, "May I ask, monsieur le -baron, to what happy circumstance I am indebted for the favor of -a visit from you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The very thing I am -about to have the honor of explaining to you, monsieur le comte; -but, I beg your pardon - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter, -monsieur?" inquired Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I regret to say that I -have broken your chair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all, monsieur," -said Saint-Aignan; "not at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the fact, though, -monsieur le comte; I have broken it - so much so, indeed, that if -I do not move, I shall fall down, which would be an exceedingly -disagreeable position for me in the discharge of the very serious -mission which has been intrusted to me with regard to -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos rose; and but -just in time, for the chair had given way several inches.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan looked about him -for something more solid for his guest to sit upon.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Modern articles of -furniture," said Porthos, while the comte was looking about, "are -constructed in a ridiculously flimsy manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In my early days, when I used to sit -down with far more energy than is now the case, I do not remember -ever to have broken a chair, except in taverns, with my -arms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan smiled at -this remark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But," said -Porthos, as he settled himself down on a couch, which creaked, -but did not give way beneath his weight, "that unfortunately has -nothing whatever to do with my present visit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why unfortunately?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you the bearer of a -message of ill-omen, monsieur le baron?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of ill-omen - for a -gentleman?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Certainly not, -monsieur le comte," replied Porthos, nobly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have simply come to say that you -have seriously insulted a friend of mine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, monsieur?" exclaimed -Saint-Aignan - "I have insulted a friend of yours, do you -say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> May I ask his -name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Raoul de -Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have insulted M. -Raoul de Bragelonne!" cried Saint-Aignan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I really assure you, monsieur, that -it is quite impossible; for M. de Bragelonne, whom I know but -very slightly, - nay, whom I know hardly at all - is in England, -and, as I have not seen him for a long time past, I cannot -possibly have insulted him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Bragelonne is in -Paris, monsieur le comte," said Porthos, perfectly unmoved; "and -I repeat, it is quite certain you have insulted him, since he -himself told me you had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Yes, monsieur, you have seriously insulted him, mortally insulted -him, I repeat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is impossible, -monsieur le baron, I swear, quite impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Besides," added -Porthos, "you cannot be ignorant of the circumstance, since M. de -Bragelonne informed me that he had already apprised you of it by -a note."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I give you my word of -honor, monsieur, that I have received no note whatever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is most -extraordinary," replied Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will convince you," -said Saint-Aignan, "that<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -have received nothing in any way from him."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he rang the bell.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Basque," he said to the servant who -entered, "how many letters have or notes were sent here during my -absence?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Three, monsieur le -comte - a note from M. de Fiesque, one from Madame de -Laferté, and a letter from M. de las Fuentès."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is that all?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur le -comte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak the truth before -this gentleman - the truth, you understand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will take care you are not -blamed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There was a note, also, -from - from - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, from -whom?"<br> -"From Mademoiselle - de - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Out with it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"De Laval."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That is quite -sufficient," interrupted Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I believe you, monsieur le -comte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan -dismissed the valet, and followed him to the door, in order to -close it after him; and when he had done so, looking straight -before him, he happened to see in the keyhole of the adjoining -apartment the paper which Bragelonne had slipped in there as he -left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is this?" he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos, who was -sitting with his back to the room, turned round.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Aha!" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A note in the -keyhole!" exclaimed Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is not -unlikely to be the missing letter, monsieur le comte," said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan took -out the paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A note -from M. de Bragelonne!" he exclaimed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You see, monsieur, -I was right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, when I -say a thing - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Brought here by M. -de Bragelonne himself," the comte murmured, turning pale.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "This is infamous!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How could he possibly have come -here?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the comte rang -again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who has been here -during my absence with the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No one, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is -impossible!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Some one must -have been here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No one could -possibly have entered, monsieur, since the keys have never left -my pocket."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And yet I find the -letter in yonder lock; some one must have put it there; it could -not have come here of its own accord."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Basque opened his -arms as if signifying the most absolute ignorance on the -subject.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Probably it was M. -de Bragelonne himself who placed it there," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case he -must have entered here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How could that -have been, since I have the key in my own pocket?" returned -Basque, perseveringly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan -crumpled the letter in his palm, after having read it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is something mysterious -about this," he murmured, absorbed in thought.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos left him to his reflections; -but after a while returned to the mission he had undertaken.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Shall we return to -our little affair?" Porthos resumed, addressing Saint-Aignan -after a brief pause.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think I can now -understand it, from this note, which has arrived here in so -singular a manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Monsieur de Bragelonne says that a friend will call."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am his -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am the person -he alludes to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"For the purpose of -giving me a challenge?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And he complains -that I have insulted him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Mortally."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way, may I -ask; for his conduct is so mysterious, that, at least, it needs -some explanation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," replied -Porthos, "my friend cannot but be right; and, as far as his -conduct is concerned, if it be mysterious, as you say, you have -only yourself to blame for it."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos pronounced these words with -an amount of confidence which, for a man who was unaccustomed to -his ways, must have revealed an infinity of sense.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Mystery, so be it; -but what is all the mystery about?" said Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will think it -the best, perhaps," Porthos replied, with a low bow, "if I do not -enter in to particulars."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I perfectly -understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will touch -very lightly upon it, then, so speak, monsieur, I am -listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the first -place, monsieur," said Porthos, "you have changed your -apartments."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, that is quite -true," said Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You admit it," -said Porthos, with an air of satisfaction.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Admit it! of -course I admit it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why -should I not admit it, do you suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have admitted -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very good," said -Porthos, lifting up one finger.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But how can my -having moved my lodgings have done M. de Bragelonne any -harm?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have the goodness -to tell me that, for I positively do not comprehend a word of -what you are saying."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos stopped -him, and then said, with great gravity, "Monsieur, this is the -first of M. de Bragelonne's complaints against you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he makes a complaint, it is -because he feels himself insulted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan began -to beat his foot impatiently on the ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "This looks like a spurious -quarrel," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No one can -possibly have a spurious quarrel with the Vicomte de Bragelonne," -returned Porthos; "but, at all events, you have nothing to add on -the subject of your changing your apartments, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what is the next -point?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, the next!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will observe, monsieur, -that the one I have already mentioned is a most serious injury, -to which you have given no answer, or rather, have answered very -indifferently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it -possible, monsieur, that you have changed your lodgings?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Bragelonne feels -insulted at your having done so, and you do not attempt to excuse -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What!" cried -Saint-Aignan, who was getting annoyed at the perfect coolness of -his visitor - "what! am I to consult M. de Bragelonne whether I -am to move or not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -can hardly be serious, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And it is absolutely necessary, -monsieur; but under any circumstances, you will admit that it is -nothing in comparison with the second ground of complaint."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, what is -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos assumed a -very solemn expression as he said: "How about the trap-door, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan turned -exceedingly pale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -pushed back his chair so abruptly, that Porthos, simple as he -was, perceived that the blow had told.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The trap-door," murmured -Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, monsieur, -explain that if you can," said Porthos, shaking his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan held -down his head, as he murmured: "I have been betrayed, everything -is known!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Everything," -replied Porthos, who knew nothing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You see me -perfectly overwhelmed," pursued Saint-Aignan, "overwhelmed to a -degree that I hardly know what I am about."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A guilty -conscience, monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Your affair is a bad one, and when the public learns all about -it, it will judge - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, monsieur!" -exclaimed the count, hurriedly, "such a secret ought not to be -known even by one's confessor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That we will think -about," said Porthos; "the secret will not go far, in fact."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Surely, monsieur," -returned Saint-Aignan, "since M. de Bragelonne has penetrated the -secret, he must be aware of the danger he as well as others run -the risk of incurring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. de Bragelonne -runs no danger, monsieur, nor does he fear any either, as you, if -it please Heaven, will find out very soon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This fellow is a -perfect madman," thought Saint-Aignan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What, in Heaven's name, does he -want?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then said -aloud: "Come, monsieur, let us hush up this affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You forget the -portrait," said Porthos, in a voice of thunder, which made the -comte's blood freeze in his veins.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>As the portrait in -question was La Vallière's portrait, and no mistake could -any longer exist on the subject, Saint-Aignan's eyes were -completely opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah!" -he exclaimed - "ah! monsieur, I remember now that M. de -Bragelonne was engaged to be married to her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos assumed an -imposing air, all the majesty of ignorance, in fact, as he said: -"It matters nothing whatever to me, nor to yourself, indeed, -whether or not my friend was, as you say, engaged to be -married.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am even -astonished that you should have made use of so indiscreet a -remark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It may possibly -do your cause harm, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," replied -Saint-Aignan, "you are the incarnation of intelligence, delicacy, -and loyalty of feeling united.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I see the whole matter now clearly -enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So much the -better," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And," pursued -Saint-Aignan, "you have made me comprehend it in the most -ingenious and the most delicate manner possible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg you to accept my best -thanks."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos drew -himself up, unable to resist the flattery of the remark.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Only, now that I know -everything, permit me to explain - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos shook his -head, as a an who does not wish to hear, but Saint-Aignan -continued: "I am in despair, I assure you, at all that has -happened; but how would you have acted in my place?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, between ourselves, tell me -what you would have done?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos drew -himself up as he answered: "There is now no question of all of -what I should have done, young man; you have been made acquainted -with the three causes of complaint against you, I believe?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As for the first, -my change of rooms, and I now address myself to you as a man of -honor and of great intelligence, could I, when the desire of so -august a personage was so urgently expressed that I should move, -ought I to have disobeyed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos was about -to speak, but Saint-Aignan did not give him time to answer.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! my frankness, I see, -convinces you," he said, interpreting the movement according to -his own fancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You feel -that I am right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos did not -reply, and so Saint-Aignan continued: "I pass by that unfortunate -trap-door," he said, placing his hand on Porthos's arm, "that -trap-door, the occasion and means of so much unhappiness, and -which was constructed for - you know what.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, in plain truth, do you -suppose that<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> it was I -who, of my own accord, in such a place, too, had that trap-door -made? - Oh, no! - you do not believe it; and here, again, you -feel, you guess, you understand the influence of a will superior -to my own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can -conceive the infatuation, the blind, irresistible passion which -has been at work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, -thank Heaven!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -fortunate in speaking to a man who has so much sensitiveness of -feeling; and if it were not so, indeed, what an amount of misery -and scandal would fall upon her, poor girl! and upon him - whom I -will not name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos, confused -and bewildered by the eloquence and gestures of Saint-Aignan, -made a thousand efforts to stem this torrent of words, of which, -by the by, he did not understand a single one; he remained -upright and motionless on his seat, and that was all he could -do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan -continued, and gave a new inflection to his voice, and an -increasing vehemence to his gesture: "As for the portrait, for I -readily believe the portrait is the principal cause of complaint, -tell me candidly if you think me to blame? - Who was it who -wished to have her portrait?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was it I? - Who is in love with -her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it I? - Who -wishes to gain her affection?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Again, is it I? - Who took her -likeness?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, do you -think?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No! a thousand -times no!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know M. de -Bragelonne must be in a state of despair; I know these -misfortunes are most cruel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I, too, am suffering as well; -and yet there is no possibility of offering any resistance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suppose we were to fight? we -would be laughed at.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If -he obstinately persist in his course, he is lost.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will tell me, I know, that -despair is ridiculous, but then you are a sensible man.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have understood me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I perceived by your serious, -thoughtful, embarrassed air, even, that the importance of the -situation we are placed in has not escaped you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Return, therefore, to M. de -Bragelonne; thank him - as I have indeed reason to thank him - -for having chosen as an intermediary a man of your high -merit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Believe me that I -shall, on my side, preserve an eternal gratitude for the man who -has so ingeniously, so cleverly arranged the misunderstanding -between us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And since ill -luck would have it that the secret should be known to four -instead of three, why, this secret, which might make the most -ambitious man's fortune, I am delighted to share with you, -monsieur, from the bottom of my heart I am delighted at it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From this very moment you can -make use of me as you please, I place myself entirely at your -mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What can I -possibly do for you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -can I solicit, nay, require even?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have only to speak, monsieur, -only to speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And, according to -the familiarly friendly fashion of that period, Saint-Aignan -threw his arms round Porthos, and clasped him tenderly in his -embrace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos allowed -him to do this with the most perfect indifference.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Speak," resumed Saint-Aignan, "what -do you require?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -Porthos, "I have a horse below: be good enough to mount him; he -is a very good one and will play you no tricks."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Mount on -horseback! what for?" inquired Saint-Aignan, with no little -curiosity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To accompany me to -where M. de Bragelonne is waiting us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! he wishes to -speak to me, I suppose?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -can well believe that; he wishes to have the details, very -likely; alas! it is a very delicate matter; but at the present -moment I cannot, for the king is waiting for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king must -wait, then" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you say? -the king must wait!" interrupted the finished courtier, with a -smile of utter amazement, for he could not understand that the -king could under any circumstances be supposed to have to -wait.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is merely the -affair of a very short hour," returned Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But where is M. de -Bragelonne waiting for me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the Minimes, at -Vincennes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, indeed! but -are we going to laugh over the affair when we get there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I don't think it -likely," said Porthos, as his face assumed a look of utter -hardness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But the Minimes is -a rendezvous where duels take place, and what can I have to do at -the Minimes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos slowly drew -his sword, and said: "That is the length of my friend's -sword."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, the man is -mad!" cried Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The color mounted -to Porthos's face, as he replied: "If I had not the honor of -being in your own apartment, monsieur, and of representing M. de -Bragelonne's interests, I would throw you out of the window.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It will be merely a pleasure -postponed, and you will lose nothing by waiting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you come with me to the -Minimes, monsieur, of your own free will?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take care, I will -carry you if you do not come quickly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Basque!" cried -Saint-Aignan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as -Basque appeared, he said, "The king wishes to see monsieur le -comte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is very -different," said Porthos; "the king's service before anything -else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will wait until -this evening, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And saluting -Saint-Aignan with his usual courtesy, Porthos left the room, -delighted at having arranged another affair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan looked after him as he -left; and then hastily putting on his court dress again, he ran -off, arranging his costume as he went along, muttering to -himself, "The Minimes! the Minimes!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall see how the king will fancy -this challenge; for it is for him after all, that is -certain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LVI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Rivals in Politics.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -O</span>n his return from the promenade, which had been so -prolific in poetical effusions, and in which every one had paid -his or her tribute to the Muses, as the poets of the period used -to say, the king found M. Fouquet waiting for an audience.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Colbert had lain in wait -for his majesty in the corridor, and followed him like a jealous -and watchful shadow; M. Colbert, with his square head, his vulgar -and untidy, though rich costume, somewhat resembled a Flemish -gentleman after he had been over-indulging in his national drink -- beer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet, at sight -of his enemy, remained perfectly unmoved, and during the whole of -the scene which followed scrupulously resolved to observe a line -of conduct particularly difficult to the man of superior mind, -who does not even wish to show his contempt, for fear of doing -his adversary too much honor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert made no attempt to conceal -his insolent expression of the vulgar joy he felt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In his opinion, M. Fouquet's was a -game very badly played and hopelessly lost, although not yet -finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert -belonged to that school of politicians who think cleverness alone -worthy of their admiration, and success the only thing worth -caring for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert, -moreover, who was not simply an envious and jealous man, but who -had the king's interest really at heart, because he was -thoroughly imbued with the highest sense of probity in all -matters of figures and accounts, could well afford to assign as a -pretext for his conduct, that in hating and doing his utmost to -ruin M. Fouquet, he had nothing in view but the welfare of the -state and the dignity of the crown.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> None of these details escaped -Fouquet's observation; through his enemy's thick, bushy brows, -and despite the restless movement of his eyelids, he could, by -merely looking at his eyes, penetrate to the very bottom of -Colbert's heart, and he read to what an unbounded extent hate -towards himself and triumph at his approaching fall existed -there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But as, in -observing everything, he wished to remain himself impenetrable, -he composed his features, smiled with the charmingly sympathetic -smile that was peculiarly his own, and saluted the king with the -most dignified and graceful ease and elasticity of manner.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sire," he said, "I perceive -by your majesty's joyous air that you have been gratified with -the promenade."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most gratified, indeed, -monsieur le surintendant, most gratified.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You were very wrong not to come with -us, as I invited you to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was working, sire," -replied the superintendent, who did not even seem to take the -trouble to turn aside his head in merest respect of Colbert's -presence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet," cried the king, "there -is nothing like the country.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should be delighted to live in the -country always, in the open air and under the trees."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should hope that your -majesty is not yet weary of the throne," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but thrones of soft -turf are very pleasant."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty gratifies -my utmost wishes in speaking in that manner, for I have a request -to submit to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On whose behalf, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh behalf of the nymphs -of Vaux, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah!" said Louis -XIV.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty, too, once -deigned to make me a promise," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I remember -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at Vaux, the -celebrated <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, -I think, it was, sire," said Colbert, endeavoring to show his -importance by taking part in the conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet, with the -profoundest contempt, did not take the slightest notice of the -remark, as if, as far as he was concerned, Colbert had not even -thought or said a word.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty is aware," -he said, "that I destine my estate at Vaux to receive the most -amiable of princes, the most powerful of monarchs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have given you my -promise, monsieur," said Louis XIV., smiling; "and a king never -departs from his word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I have come now, -sire, to inform your majesty that I am ready to obey your orders -in every respect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you promise me many -wonders, monsieur le surintendant?" said Louis, looking at -Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wonders?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! no, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not undertake that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I hope to be able to procure your -majesty a little pleasure, perhaps even a little forgetfulness of -the cares of state."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, nay, M. Fouquet," -returned the king; "I insist upon the word 'wonders.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are a magician, I believe; we -all know the power you wield; we also know that you can find gold -even when there is none to be found elsewhere; so much so, -indeed, that people say you coin it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet felt that the -shot was discharged from a double quiver, and that the king had -launched an arrow from his own bow as well as one from -Colbert's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!" said he, -laughingly, "the people know perfectly well out of what mine I -procure the gold; and they know it only too well, perhaps; -besides," he added, "I can assure your majesty that the gold -destined to pay the expenses of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at Vaux will cost -neither blood nor tears; hard labor it may, perhaps, but that can -be paid for."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis paused quite -confused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He wished to -look at Colbert; Colbert, too, wished to reply to him; a glance -as swift as an eagle's, a king-like glance, indeed, which Fouquet -darted at the latter, arrested the words upon his lips.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, who had by this time -recovered his self-possession, turned towards Fouquet, saying, "I -presume, therefore, I am now to consider myself formally -invited?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire, if your -majesty will condescend so far as to accept my invitation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What day have you -fixed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Any day your majesty -may find most convenient."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You speak like an -enchanter who has but to conjure up in actuality the wildest -fancies, Monsieur Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could not say so much, indeed, -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty will do, -whenever you please, everything that a monarch can and ought to -do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king of France -has servants at his bidding who are able to do anything on his -behalf, to accomplish everything to gratify his pleasures."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert tried to -look at the superintendent, in order to see whether this remark -was an approach to less hostile sentiments on his part; but -Fouquet had not even looked at his enemy, and Colbert hardly -seemed to exist as far as he was concerned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Very good, then," said the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will a week hence -suit you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Perfectly well, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is Tuesday; if I -give you until next Sunday week, will that be sufficient?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The delay which your -majesty deigns to accord me will greatly aid the various works -which my architects have in hand for the purpose of adding to the -amusement of your majesty and your friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By the by, speaking of -my friends," resumed the king; "how do you intend to treat -them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king is master -everywhere, sire; your majesty will draw up your own list and -give your own orders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All -those you may deign to invite will be my guests, my honored -guests, indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thank you!" returned -the king, touched by the noble thought expressed in so noble a -tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet, therefore, -took leave of Louis XIV., after a few words had been added with -regard to the details of certain matters of business.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt that Colbert would remain -behind with the king, that they would both converse about him, -and that neither of them would spare him in the least -degree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The satisfaction -of being able to give a last and terrible blow to his enemy -seemed to him almost like a compensation for everything they were -about to subject him to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He turned back again immediately, as soon, indeed, as he had -reached the door, and addressing the king, said, "I was -forgetting that I had to crave your majesty's forgiveness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what respect?" -said the king, graciously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"For having -committed a serious fault without perceiving it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A fault!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur Fouquet, I shall be unable -to do otherwise than forgive you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In what way or against whom have you -been found wanting?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Against every -sense of propriety, sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I forgot to inform your majesty of a circumstance that has lately -occurred of some little importance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert trembled; -he fancied that he was about to frame a denunciation against -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His conduct had been -unmasked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A single -syllable from Fouquet, a single proof formally advanced, and -before the youthful loyalty of feeling which guided Louis XIV., -Colbert's favor would disappear at once; the latter trembled, -therefore, lest so daring a blow might overthrow his whole -scaffold; in point of fact, the opportunity was so admirably -suited to be taken advantage of, that a skillful, practiced -player like Aramis would not have let it slip.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sire," said Fouquet, with an easy, -unconcerned air, "since you have had the kindness to forgive me, -I am perfectly indifferent about my confession; this morning I -sold one of the official appointments I hold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"One of your -appointments," said the king, "which?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert turned -perfectly livid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That -which conferred upon me, sire, a grand gown, and a stern air of -gravity; the appointment of procureur-général."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king -involuntarily uttered a loud exclamation and looked at Colbert, -who, with his face bedewed with perspiration, felt almost on the -point of fainting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To -whom have you sold this department, Monsieur Fouquet?" inquired -the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert was obliged -to lean against a column of the fireplace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To a councilor belonging to the -parliament, sire, whose name is Vanel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Vanel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire, a -particular friend of the intendant Colbert," added Fouquet; -letting every word fall from his lips with the most inimitable -nonchalance, and with an admirably assumed expression of -forgetfulness and ignorance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And having finished, and having -overwhelmed Colbert beneath the weight of this superiority, the -superintendent again saluted the king and quitted the room, -partially revenged by the stupefaction of the king and the -humiliation of the favorite.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is it really -possible," said the king, as soon as Fouquet had disappeared, -"that he has sold that office?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire," said -Colbert, meaningly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He must be mad," -the king added.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert this time -did not reply; he had penetrated the king's thought, a thought -which amply revenged him for the humiliation he had just been -made to suffer; his hatred was augmented by a feeling of bitter -jealousy of Fouquet; and a threat of disgrace was now added to -the plan he had arranged for his ruin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert felt perfectly assured that -for the future, between Louis XIV. and himself, their hostile -feelings and ideas would meet with no obstacles, and that at the -first fault committed by Fouquet, which could be laid hold of as -a pretext, the chastisement so long impending would be -precipitated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet had -thrown aside his weapons of defense, and hate and jealousy had -picked them up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert -was invited by the king to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fête</i> at Vaux; he bowed -like a man confident in himself, and accepted the invitation with -the air of one who almost confers a favor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king was about writing down -Saint-Aignan's name on his list of royal commands, when the usher -announced the Comte de Saint-Aignan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as the royal "Mercury" -entered, Colbert discreetly withdrew.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LVII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Rivals in Love.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -S</span>aint-Aignan had quitted Louis XIV. hardly a couple of -hours before; but in the first effervescence of his affection, -whenever Louis XIV. was out of sight of La Vallière, he -was obliged to talk about her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, the only person with whom -he could speak about her at his ease was Saint-Aignan, and thus -Saint-Aignan had become an indispensable.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, is that you, -comte?" he exclaimed, as soon as he perceived him, doubly -delighted, not only to see him again, but also to get rid of -Colbert, whose scowling face always put him out of humor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "So much the better, I am very -glad to see you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will -make one of the best traveling party, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of what traveling part -are you speaking, sire?" inquired Saint-Aignan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The one we are making -up to go to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> the superintendent is -about to give at Vaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Ah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan, you -will, at last, see a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, a royal <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, by the side of which -all our amusements at Fontainebleau are petty, contemptible -affairs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At Vaux! the -superintendent going to give a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> in your majesty's -honor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing more than -that!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Nothing more than -that,' do you say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -very diverting to find you treating it with so much disdain.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you who express such an -indifference on the subject, aware, that as soon as it is known -that M. Fouquet is going to receive me at Vaux next Sunday week, -people will be striving their very utmost to get invited to the -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête?</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I repeat, Saint-Aignan, you shall be -one of the invited guests."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, sire; unless -I shall, in the meantime, have undertaken a longer and a less -agreeable journey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What journey do you -allude to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The one across the -Styx, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!" said Louis XIV., -laughing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, seriously, sire," -replied Saint-Aignan, "I am invited; and in such a way, in truth, -that I hardly know what to say, or how to act, in order to refuse -the invitation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not understand -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know that you are -in a poetical vein; but try not to sink from Apollo to -Phœbus."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well; if your -majesty will deign to listen to me, I will not keep your mind on -the rack a moment longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty knows the -Baron du Vallon?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, indeed; a good -servant to my father, the late king, and an admirable companion -at table; for, I think, you are referring to the gentleman who -dined with us at Fontainebleau?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely so; but you -have omitted to add to his other qualifications, sire, that he is -a most charming polisher-off of other people."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does M. du Vallon wish to polish you -off?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Or to get me killed, -which is much the same thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The deuce!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not laugh, sire, for -I am not saying one word beyond the exact truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you say he wishes -to get you killed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Such is that excellent -person's present idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be easy; I will defend -you, if he be in the wrong."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is an 'if'!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; answer me as -candidly as if it were some one else's affair instead of your -own, my poor Saint-Aignan; is he right or wrong?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty shall be -the judge."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What have you done to -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To him, personally, -nothing at all; but, it seems, to one of his friends, I -have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is all the -same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is his friend one -of the celebrated 'four'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is the son of one of the -celebrated 'four,' though."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What have you done to -the son?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, tell -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, it seems that I -have helped some one to take his mistress from him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You confess it, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I cannot help -confessing it, for it is true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, you are -wrong; and if he were to kill you, he would be doing perfectly -right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that is your -majesty's way of reasoning, then!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you -think it a bad way?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a -very expeditious way, at all events."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Good justice is -prompt;' so my grandfather Henry IV. used to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, your -majesty will, perhaps, be good enough to sign my adversary's -pardon, for he is now waiting for me at the Minimes, for the -purpose of putting me out of my misery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "His name, and a -parchment!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is a parchment -upon your majesty's table; and for his name - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The Vicomte de -Bragelonne, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'The -Vicomte de Bragelonne!'" exclaimed the king; changing from a fit -of laughter to the most profound stupor, and then, after a -moment's silence, while he wiped his forehead, which was bedewed -with perspiration, he again murmured, "Bragelonne!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No other, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bragelonne, -who was affianced to - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But - he -has been in London."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but I can assure -you, sire, he is there no longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is he in Paris, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is at Minimes, sire, -where he is waiting for me, as I have already had the honor of -telling you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does he know all?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and -many things besides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Perhaps your majesty would like to look at the letter I have -received from him;" and Saint-Aignan drew from his pocket the -note we are already acquainted with.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "When your majesty has read the -letter, I will tell you how it reached me."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king -read it in a great agitation, and immediately said, "Well?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, sire; -your majesty knows a certain carved lock, closing a certain door -of carved ebony, which separates a certain apartment from a -certain blue and white sanctuary?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; Louise's -boudoir."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, it was in the keyhole of that -lock that I found yonder note."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who placed it -there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Either M. de -Bragelonne, or the devil himself; but, inasmuch as the note -smells of musk and not of sulphur, I conclude that it must be, -not the devil, but M. de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis bent his head, and -seemed absorbed in sad and bitter thought.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps something like remorse was -at that moment passing through his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The secret is discovered," he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I shall do my -utmost that the secret dies in the breast of the man who -possesses it!" said Saint-Aignan, in a tone of bravado, as he -moved towards the door; but a gesture of the king made him -pause.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where are you going?" -he inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where they await me, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What for?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To fight, -in all probability."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>You</i> fight!" exclaimed the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "One moment, if you -please, monsieur le comte!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan shook his -head, as a rebellious child does, whenever any one interferes to -prevent him throwing himself into a well, or playing with a -knife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But, sire," he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place," -continued the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -want to be enlightened a little further."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon all points, if -your majesty will be pleased to interrogate me," replied -Saint-Aignan, "I will throw what light I can."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who told you that M. de -Bragelonne had penetrated into that room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The letter which I -found in the keyhole told me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who told you that it -was De Bragelonne who put it there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who but himself would -have dared to undertake such a mission?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How was he able to -get into your rooms?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that is very -serious, inasmuch as all the doors were closed, and my lackey, -Basque, had the keys in his pocket."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your lackey must have -been bribed."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Impossible, -sire; for if he had been bribed, those who did so would not have -sacrificed the poor fellow, whom, it is not unlikely, they might -want to turn to further use by and by, in showing so clearly that -it was he whom they had made use of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite true.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now I can only form one -conjecture."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me what it is, -sire, and we shall see if it is the same that has presented -itself to my mind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That he effected an -entrance by means of the staircase."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas, sire, that seems -to me more than probable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is no doubt that -some one must have sold the secret of the trap-door."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Either sold it or given -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you make that -distinction?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because there are -certain persons, sire, who, being above the price of treason, -give, and do not sell."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, sire!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty's mind is too -clear-sighted not to guess what I mean, and you will save me the -embarrassment of naming the person I allude to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right: you mean -Madame; I suppose her suspicions were aroused by your changing -your lodgings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame has keys of the -apartments of her maids of honor, and she is powerful enough to -discover what no one but yourself could do, or she would not be -able to discover anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you suppose, then, -that my sister must have entered into an alliance with -Bragelonne, and has informed him of all the details of the -affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Possibly even better -still, for she perhaps accompanied him there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which way? through your -own apartments?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think it -impossible, sire?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -listen to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -majesty knows that Madame is very fond of perfumes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, she acquired that -taste from my mother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Vervain, -particularly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes, it is the -scent she prefers to all others."<br> -"Very good, sire! my apartments happen to smell very strongly of -vervain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king remained -silent and thoughtful for a few moments, and then resumed: "But -why should Madame take Bragelonne's part against me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan could -very easily have replied: "A woman's jealousy!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king probed his friend to the -bottom of his heart to ascertain if he had learned the secret of -his flirtation with his sister-in-law.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Saint-Aignan was not an ordinary -courtier; he did not lightly run the risk of finding out family -secrets; and he was too a friend of the Muses not to think very -frequently of poor Ovidius Naso, whose eyes shed so many tears in -expiation of his crime for having once beheld something, one -hardly knows what, in the palace of Augustus.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore passed by Madame's -secret very skillfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But as he had shown no ordinary sagacity in indicating Madame's -presence in his rooms in company with Bragelonne, it was -necessary, of course, for him to repay with interest the king's -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>amour propre</i>, and reply -plainly to the question which had been put to him of: "Why has -Madame taken Bragelonne's part against me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why?" replied -Saint-Aignan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Your -majesty forgets, I presume, that the Comte de Guiche is the -intimate friend of the Vicomte de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not see the -connection, however," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg your pardon, then, sire; but I -thought the Comte de Guiche was a very great friend of -Madame's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite true," the -king returned; "there is no occasion to search any further, the -blow came from that direction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And is not your -majesty of opinion that, in order to ward it off, it will be -necessary to deal another blow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, but not one -of the kind given in the Bois de Vincennes," replied the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You forget, sire," -said Saint-Aignan, "that I am a gentleman, and that I have been -challenged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The challenge -neither concerns nor was it intended for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But I am the man, -sire, who has been expected at the Minimes, sire, during the last -hour and more; and I shall be dishonored if I do not go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The first honor -and duty of a gentleman is obedience to his sovereign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I order you to -remain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Obey, -monsieur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As your majesty -pleases."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Besides, I wish to -have the whole of this affair explained; I wish to know how it is -that I have been so insolently trifled with, as to have the -sanctuary of my affections pried into.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not you, Saint-Aignan, whose -business it is to punish those who have acted in this manner, for -it is not your honor they have attacked, but my own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I implore your -majesty not to overwhelm M. de Bragelonne with your wrath, for -although in the whole of this affair he may have shown himself -deficient in prudence, he has not been so in his feelings of -loyalty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Enough!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall know how to decide -between the just and the unjust, even in the height of my -anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But take care that -not a word of this is breathed to Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But what am I to -do with regard to M. de Bragelonne?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will be seeking me in every -direction, and - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I shall either -have spoken to him, or taken care that he has been spoken to, -before the evening is over."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let me once more -entreat your majesty to be indulgent towards him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have been -indulgent long enough, comte," said Louis XIV., frowning -severely; "it is now quite time to show certain persons that I am -master in my own palace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king had hardly -pronounced these words, which betokened that a fresh feeling of -irritation was mingling with the recollections of old, when an -usher appeared at the door of the cabinet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is the matter?" inquired the -king, "and why do you presume to come when I have not summoned -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," said the -usher, "your majesty desired me to permit M. le Comte de la -Fère to pass freely on any and every occasion, when he -might wish to speak to your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. le Comte de la -Fère is now waiting to see your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king and -Saint-Aignan at this reply exchanged a look which betrayed more -uneasiness than surprise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Louis hesitated for a moment, but immediately afterwards, seeming -to make up his mind, he said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Go, Saint-Aignan, -and find Louise; inform her of the plot against us; do not let -her be ignorant that Madame will return to her system of -persecutions against her, and that she has set those to work who -would have found it far safer to remain neuter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If Louise gets -nervous and frightened, reassure her as much as you can; tell her -that the king's affection is an impenetrable shield over her; if, -which I suspect is the case, she already knows everything, or if -she has already been herself subjected to an attack of some kind -or other from any quarter, tell her, be sure to tell her, -Saint-Aignan," added the king, trembling with passion, "tell her, -I say, that this time, instead of defending her, I will avenge -her, and that too so terribly that no one will in future even -dare to raise his eyes towards her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is that all, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, all.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go as quickly as you can, and -remain faithful; for, you who live in the midst of this stake of -infernal torments, have not, like myself, the hope of the -paradise beyond it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Saint-Aignan -exhausted himself in protestations of<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> devotion, took the king's hand, -kissed it, and left the room radiant with delight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LVIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -King and Noble.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he king endeavored to recover his self-possession as -quickly as possible, in order to meet M. de la Fère with -an untroubled countenance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He clearly saw it was not mere -chance that had induced the comte's visit, he had some vague -impression of its importance; but he felt that to a man of -Athos's tone of mind, to one of such a high order of intellect, -his first reception ought not to present anything either -disagreeable or otherwise than kind and courteous.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as the king had satisfied -himself that, as far as appearances went, he was perfectly calm -again, he gave directions to the ushers to introduce the -comte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few minutes -afterwards Athos, in full court dress, and with his breast -covered with the orders that he alone had the right to wear at -the court of France, presented himself with so grave and solemn -an air that the king perceived, at the first glance, that he was -not deceived in his anticipations.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis advanced a step towards the -comte, and, with a smile, held out his hand to him, over which -Athos bowed with the air of the deepest respect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le Comte de la -Fère," said the king rapidly, "you are so seldom here, -that it is a real piece of good fortune to see you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos bowed and replied, -"I should wish always to enjoy the happiness of being near your -majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The tone, however, in -which this reply was conveyed, evidently signified, "I should -wish to be one of your majesty's advisers, to save you the -commission of faults."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king felt it so, and determined in this man's presence to -preserve all the advantages which could be derived from his -command over himself, as well as from his rank and position.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see you have -something to say to me," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Had it not been so, I -should not have presumed to present myself before your -majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak quickly, I am -anxious to satisfy you," returned the king, seating himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am persuaded," -replied Athos, in a somewhat agitated tone of voice, "that your -majesty will give me every satisfaction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the king, -with a certain haughtiness of manner, "you have come to lodge a -complaint here, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be a -complaint," returned Athos, "only in the event of your majesty - -but if you will deign to permit me, sire, I will begin the -conversation from the very commencement."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do so, I am -listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty will -remember that at the period of the Duke of Buckingham's -departure, I had the honor of an interview with you."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At or about -that period, I think I remember you did; only, with regard to the -subject of the conversation, I have quite forgotten it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos started, as he -replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I shall have -the honor to remind your majesty of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was with regard to a formal -demand I had addressed to you respecting a marriage which M. de -Bragelonne wished to contract with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" thought the king, -"we have come to it now. - I remember," he said, aloud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At that period," -pursued Athos, "your majesty was so kind and generous towards M. -de Bragelonne and myself, that not a single word which then fell -from your lips has escaped my memory; and, when I asked your -majesty to accord me Mademoiselle de la Vallière's hand -for M. de Bragelonne, you refused."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite true," said -Louis, dryly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alleging," Athos -hastened to say, "that the young lady had no position in -society."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis could hardly force -himself to listen with an appearance of royal propriety.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That," added Athos, -"she had but little fortune."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king threw himself -back in his armchair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That her -extraction was indifferent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A renewed -impatience on the part of the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And little -beauty," added Athos, pitilessly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>This last bolt -buried itself deep in the king's heart, and made him almost bound -from his seat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have a good -memory, monsieur," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I invariably have, -on occasions when I have had the distinguished honor of an -interview with your majesty," retorted the comte, without being -in the least disconcerted.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good: it is -admitted that I said all that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I thanked your -majesty for your remarks at the time, because they testified an -interest in M. de Bragelonne which did him much honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you may -possibly remember," said the king, very deliberately, "that you -had the greatest repugnance for this marriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite true, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And that you -solicited my permission, much against your own inclination?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And finally, I -remember, for I have a memory nearly as good as your own; I -remember, I say, that you observed at the time: 'I do not believe -that Mademoiselle de la Vallière loves M. de -Bragelonne.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that -true?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The blow told well, -but Athos did not draw back.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sire," he said, "I have already -begged your majesty's forgiveness; but there are certain -particulars in that conversation which are only intelligible from -the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dénouement.</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, what is the -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dénouement</i>, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This: that your -majesty then said, 'that you would defer the marriage out of -regard for M. de Bragelonne's own interests.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king remained -silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. de Bragelonne -is now so exceedingly unhappy that he cannot any longer defer -asking your majesty for a solution of the matter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king turned -pale; Athos looked at him with fixed attention.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And what," said -the king, with considerable hesitation, "does M. de Bragelonne -request?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely the very -thing that I came to ask your majesty for at my last audience, -namely, your majesty's consent to his marriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king remained -perfectly silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The -questions which referred to the different obstacles in the way -are all now quite removed for us," continued Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -without fortune, birth, or beauty, is not the less on that -account the only good match in the world for M. de Bragelonne, -since he loves this young girl."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king pressed -his hands impatiently together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Does your majesty hesitate?" -inquired the comte, without losing a particle of either his -firmness of his politeness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not hesitate -- I refuse," replied the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos paused a -moment, as if to collect himself: "I have had the honor," he -said, in a mild tone, "to observe to your majesty that no -obstacle now interferes with M. de Bragelonne's affections, and -that his determination seems unalterable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is my will - -and that is an obstacle, I should imagine!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is the most -serious of all," Athos replied quickly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And may we, -therefore, be permitted to ask your majesty, with the greatest -humility, your reason for this refusal?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The reason! - A -question to me!" exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A demand, -sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king, leaning -with both his hands upon the table, said, in a deep tone of -concentrated passion: "You have lost all recollection of what is -usual at court.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At court, -please to remember, no one ventures to put a question to the -king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very true, sire; -but if men do not question, they conjecture."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Conjecture!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What may that mean, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very frequently, -sire, conjecture with regard to a particular subject implies a -want of frankness on the part of the king - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And a want of -confidence on the part of the subject," pursued Athos, -intrepidly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You forget -yourself," said the king, hurried away by anger in spite of all -his self-control.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, I am obliged -to seek elsewhere for what I thought I should find in your -majesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Instead of -obtaining a reply from you, I am compelled to make one for -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king rose.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur le comte," he said, -"I have now given you all the time I had at my disposal."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was a dismissal.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," replied the -comte, "I have not yet had time to tell your majesty what I came -with the express object of saying, and I so rarely see your -majesty that I ought to avail myself of the opportunity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Just now you spoke -rudely of conjectures; you are now becoming offensive, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, sire! offend -your majesty!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I? - -never!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All my life -through I have maintained that kings are above all other men, not -only from their rank and power, but from their nobleness of heart -and their true dignity of mind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I never can bring myself to believe -that my sovereign, he who passed his word to me, did so with a -mental reservation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you mean? -what mental reservation do you allude to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will explain my -meaning," said Athos, coldly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If, in refusing Mademoiselle de la -Vallière to Monsieur de Bragelonne, your majesty had some -other object in view than the happiness and fortune of the -vicomte - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You perceive, -monsieur, that you are offending me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If, in requiring -the vicomte to delay his marriage, your majesty's only object was -to remove the gentleman to whom Mademoiselle de la -Vallière was engaged - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur! -monsieur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have heard it -said so in every direction, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty's affection for -Mademoiselle de la Vallière is spoken of on all -sides."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king tore his -gloves, which he had been biting for some time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Woe to those," he cried, "who -interfere in my affairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I have made up my mind to take a particular course, and I will -break through every obstacle in my way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What obstacle?" -said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king stopped -short, like a horse which, having taken the bit between his teeth -and run away, finds it has slipped it back again, and that his -career is checked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -love Mademoiselle de la Vallière," he said suddenly, with -mingled nobleness of feeling and passion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But," interrupted -Athos, "that does not preclude your majesty from allowing M. de -Bragelonne to marry Mademoiselle de la Vallière.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sacrifice is worthy of so -great a monarch; it is fully merited by M. de Bragelonne, who has -already rendered great service to your majesty, and who may well -be regarded as a brave and worthy man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty, therefore, in -renouncing the affection you entertain, offers a proof at once of -generosity, gratitude, and good policy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Mademoiselle de la -Vallière does not love M. de Bragelonne," said the king, -hoarsely.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Does your majesty -know that to be the case?" remarked Athos, with a searching -look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since a very short -time, then; for doubtless, had your majesty known it when I first -preferred my request, you would have taken the trouble to inform -me of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Since a very short -time, it is true, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos remained -silent for a moment, and then resumed: "In that case, I do not -understand why your majesty should have sent M. de Bragelonne to -London.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That exile, and -most properly so, too, is a matter of astonishment to every one -who regards your majesty's honor with sincere affection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who presumes to -impugn my honor, Monsieur de la Fère?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king's honor, -sire, is made up of the honor of his whole nobility.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever the king offends one of his -gentlemen, that is, whenever he deprives him of the smallest -particle of his honor, it is from him, from the king himself, -that that portion of honor is stolen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur de la -Fère!" said the king, haughtily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, you sent M. -de Bragelonne to London either before you were Mademoiselle de la -Vallière's lover, or since you have become so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king, irritated -beyond measure, especially because he felt that he was being -mastered, endeavored to dismiss Athos by a gesture.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," replied the -comte, "I will tell you all; I will not leave your presence until -I have been satisfied by your majesty or by myself; satisfied if -you prove to me that you are right, - satisfied if I prove to you -that you are wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, -sire, you can but listen to me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am old now, and I am attached to -everything that is really great and really powerful in your -kingdom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am of those -who have shed their blood for your father and for yourself, -without ever having asked a single favor either from yourself or -from your father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -never inflicted the slightest wrong or injury on any one in this -world, and even kings are still my debtors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can but listen to me, I -repeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have come to -ask you for an account of the honor of one of your servants whom -you have deceived by a falsehood, or betrayed by want of heart of -judgment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know that -these words irritate your majesty, but the facts themselves are -killing us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know that -you are endeavoring to find some means whereby to chastise me for -my frankness; but I know also the chastisement I will implore God -to inflict upon you when I relate to Him your perjury and my -son's unhappiness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king during -these remarks was walking hurriedly to and fro, his hand thrust -into the breast of his coat, his head haughtily raised, his eyes -blazing with wrath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur," he cried, suddenly, "if I acted towards you as a -king, you would be already punished; but I am only a man, and I -have the right to love in this world every one who loves me, - a -happiness which is so rarely found."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You cannot pretend -to such a right as a man any more than as a king, sire; or if you -intend to exercise that right in a loyal manner, you should have -told M. de Bragelonne so, and not have exiled him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is too great a -condescension, monsieur, to discuss these things with you," -interrupted Louis XIV., with that majesty of air and manner he -alone seemed able to give his look and his voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I was hoping that -you would reply to me," said the comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You shall know my -reply, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You already know -my thoughts on the subject," was the Comte de la Fère's -answer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have forgotten -you are speaking to the king, monsieur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a crime."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have forgotten -you are destroying the lives of two men, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a mortal sin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Leave the -room!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not until I have -said this: 'Son of Louis XIII., you begin your reign badly, for -you begin it by abduction and disloyalty!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My race - myself too - are now freed -from all that affection and respect towards you, which I made my -son swear to observe in the vaults of Saint-Denis, in the -presence of the relics of your noble forefathers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are now become our enemy, sire, -and henceforth we have nothing to do save with Heaven alone, our -sole master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be warned, -be warned, sire.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What! do you -threaten?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no," said -Athos, sadly, "I have as little bravado as fear in my soul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The God of whom I spoke to you -is now listening to me; He knows that for the safety and honor of -your crown I would even yet shed every drop of blood twenty years -of civil and foreign warfare have left in my veins.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can well say, then, that I -threaten the king as little as I threaten the man; but I tell -you, sire, you lose two servants; for you have destroyed faith in -the heart of the father, and love in the heart of the son; the -one ceases to believe in the royal word, the other no longer -believes in the loyalty of the man, or the purity of woman: the -one is dead to every feeling of respect, the other to -obedience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Thus saying, Athos -broke his sword across his knee, slowly placed the two pieces -upon the floor, and saluting the king, who was almost choking -from rage and shame, he quitted the cabinet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis, who sat near the table, -completely overwhelmed, was several minutes before he could -collect himself; but he suddenly rose and rang the bell -violently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Tell M. -d'Artagnan to come here," he said to the terrified ushers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LIX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -After the Storm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -O</span>ur readers will doubtlessly have been asking themselves -how it happened that Athos, of whom not a word has been said for -some time past, arrived so very opportunely at court.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will, without delay, endeavor to -satisfy their curiosity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos, faithful to his -duty as an arranger of affairs, had, immediately after leaving -the Palais Royal, set off to join Raoul at the Minimes in the -Bois de Vincennes, and had related everything, even to the -smallest details, which had passed between Saint-Aignan and -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He finished by -saying that the message which the king had sent to his favorite -would probably not occasion more than a short delay, and that -Saint-Aignan, as soon as he could leave the king, would not lose -a moment in accepting the invitation Raoul had sent him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But Raoul, less -credulous than his old friend, had concluded from Porthos's -recital that if Saint-Aignan was going to the king, Saint-Aignan -would tell the king everything, and that the king would most -assuredly forbid Saint-Aignan to obey the summons he had received -to the hostile meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The consequence of his reflections was, that he had left Porthos -to remain at the place appointed for the meeting, in the very -improbable case that Saint-Aignan would come there; having -endeavored to make Porthos promise that he would not remain there -more than an hour or an hour and a half at the very longest.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, however, formally -refused to do anything of the kind, but, on the contrary, -installed himself in the Minimes as if he were going to take root -there, making Raoul promise that when he had been to see his -father, he would return to his own apartments, in order that -Porthos's servant might know where to find him in case M. de -Saint-Aignan should happen to come to the rendezvous.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Bragelonne had left -Vincennes, and proceeded at once straight to the apartments of -Athos, who had been in Paris during the last two days, the comte -having been already informed of what had taken place, by a letter -from D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -arrived at his father's; Athos, after having held out his hand to -him, and embraced him most affectionately, made a sign for him to -sit down.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know you come to me -as a man would go to a friend, vicomte, whenever he is suffering; -tell me, therefore, what is it that brings you now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man bowed, and -began his recital; more than once in the course of it his tears -almost choked his utterance, and a sob, checked in his throat, -compelled him to suspend his narrative for a few minutes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos most probably already -knew how matters stood, as we have just now said D'Artagnan had -already written to him; but, preserving until the conclusion that -calm, unruffled composure of manner which constituted the almost -superhuman side of his character, he replied, "Raoul, I do not -believe there is a word of truth in these rumors; I do not -believe in the existence of what you fear, although I do not deny -that persons best entitled to the fullest credit have already -conversed with me on the subject.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In my heart and soul I think it -utterly impossible that the king could be guilty of such an -outrage on a gentleman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -will answer for the king, therefore, and will soon bring you back -the proof of what I say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul, wavering like a -drunken man between what he had seen with his own eyes and the -imperturbable faith he had in a man who had never told a -falsehood, bowed and simply answered, "Go, then, monsieur le -comte; I will await your return."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he sat down, burying his face in -his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos dressed, -and then left him, in order to wait upon the king; the result of -that interview is already known to our readers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> When he returned to his -lodgings, Raoul, pale and dejected, had not quitted his attitude -of despair. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the -sound, however, of the opening doors, and of his father's -footsteps as he approached him, the young man raised his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos's face was -very pale, his head uncovered, and his manner full of -seriousness; he gave his cloak and hat to the lackey, dismissed -him with a gesture, and sat down near Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur," -inquired the young man, "are you convinced yet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am, Raoul; the king -loves Mademoiselle de la Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He confesses it, then?" -cried Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And she?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have not -seen her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; but the king spoke -to you about her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -did he say?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He says -that she loves him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, you see - you see, -monsieur!" said the young man, with a gesture of despair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul," resumed the -comte, "I told the king, believe me, all that you yourself could -possibly have urged, and I believe I did so in becoming language, -though sufficiently firm."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what did you say to -him, monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I told him, Raoul, that -everything was now at an end between him and ourselves; that you -would never serve him again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I told him that I, too, should -remain aloof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing -further remains for me, then, but to be satisfied of one -thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that, -monsieur?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whether you -have determined to adopt any steps."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Any -steps?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Regarding -what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With reference to your -disappointed affection, and - your ideas of vengeance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, monsieur, with -regard to my affection, I shall, perhaps, some day or other, -succeed in tearing it from my heart; I trust I shall do so, aided -by Heaven's merciful help, and your own wise exhortations.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As far as vengeance is -concerned, it occurred to me only when under the influence of an -evil thought, for I could not revenge myself upon the one who is -actually guilty; I have, therefore, already renounced every idea -of revenge."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you no longer think -of seeking a quarrel with M. de Saint-Aignan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monsieur; I sent -him a challenge: if M. de Saint-Aignan accepts it, I will -maintain it; if he does not take it up, I will leave things as -they are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And La -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You cannot, I know, -have seriously thought that I should dream of revenging myself -upon a woman!" replied Raoul, with a smile so sad that a tear -started even to the eyes of his father, who had so many times in -the course of his life bowed beneath his own sorrows and those of -others.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He held out his hand to -Raoul, which the latter seized most eagerly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so, monsieur le -comte, you are quite satisfied that the misfortune is one beyond -all remedy?" inquired the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor boy!" he -murmured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think that I still -live in hope," said Raoul, "and you pity me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, it is indeed horrible suffering -for me to despise, as I am bound to do, the one I have loved so -devotedly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I had but -some real cause of complaint against her, I should be happy, I -should be able to forgive her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos looked at his son -with a profoundly sorrowful air, for the words Raoul had just -pronounced seemed to have issued out of his own heart.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this moment the servant -announced M. d'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This name sounded very differently to the ears of Athos and -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The musketeer -entered the room with a vague smile on his lips.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul paused.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos walked towards his friend with -an expression of face that did not escape Bragelonne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan answered Athos's look by -an imperceptible movement of the eyelid; and then, advancing -towards Raoul, whom he took by the hand, he said, addressing both -father and son, "Well, you are trying to console this poor boy, -it seems."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you, kind and good -as usual, have come to help me in my difficult task."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As he said -this, Athos pressed D'Artagnan's hand between both his own.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul fancied he observed in -this pressure something beyond the sense his mere words -conveyed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied the -musketeer, smoothing his mustache with the hand that Athos had -left free, "yes, I have come too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are most welcome, -chevalier; not for the consolation you bring with you, but on -your own account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -already consoled," said Raoul; and he attempted to smile, but the -effort was more sad than any tears D'Artagnan had ever seen -shed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is all well and -good, then," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only," continued Raoul, -"you have arrived just as the comte was about to give me the -details of his interview with the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will allow the comte to -continue?" added the young man, as, with his eyes fixed on the -musketeer, he seemed to read the very depths of his heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "His interview with the -king?" said D'Artagnan, in a tone so natural and unassumed that -there was no means of suspecting that his astonishment was -feigned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You have seen -the king, then, Athos?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos smiled -as he said, "Yes, I have seen him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, indeed; you were -unaware, then, that the comte had seen his majesty?" inquired -Raoul, half reassured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, indeed, quite -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I am less -uneasy," said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Uneasy - and about -what?" inquired Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Forgive me, monsieur," -said Raoul, "but knowing so well the regard and affection you -have for me, I was afraid you might possibly have expressed -somewhat plainly to his majesty my own sufferings and your -indignation, and that the king had consequently - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that the king had -consequently?" repeated D'Artagnan; "well, go on, finish what you -were going to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have now to ask you -to forgive me, Monsieur d'Artagnan," said Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "For a moment, and I cannot help -confessing it, I trembled lest you had come here, not as M. -d'Artagnan, but as captain of the musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mad, my poor -boy," cried D'Artagnan, with a burst of laughter, in which an -exact observer might perhaps have wished to have heard a little -more frankness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the better," -said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, mad; and do you -know what I would advise you to do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me, monsieur, for -the advice is sure to be good, as it comes from you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, then; I -advise you, after your long journey from England, after your -visit to M. de Guiche, after your visit to Madame, after your -visit to Porthos, after your journey to Vincennes, I advise you, -I say, to take a few hours' rest; go and lie down, sleep for a -dozen hours, and when you wake up, go and ride one of my horses -until you have tired him to death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And drawing Raoul -towards him, he embraced him as he would have done his own -child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos did the -like; only it was very visible that the kiss was still more -affectionate, and the pressure of his lips even warmer with the -father than with the friend.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young man again looked at both -his companions, endeavoring to penetrate their real meaning or -their real feelings with the utmost strength of his intelligence; -but his look was powerless upon the smiling countenance of the -musketeer or upon the calm and composed features of the Comte de -la Fère.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where -are you going, Raoul?" inquired the latter, seeing that -Bragelonne was preparing to go out.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To my own apartments," -replied the latter, in his soft, sad voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We shall be sure to -find you there, then, if we should have anything to say to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur; but do -you suppose it likely you will have something to say to me?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can I -tell?" said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, something fresh to -console you with," said D'Artagnan, pushing him towards the -door.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul, observing the -perfect composure which marked every gesture of his two friends, -quitted the comte's room, carrying away with him nothing but the -individual feeling of his own particular distress.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank Heaven," he said, -"since that is the case, I need only think of myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And wrapping himself up -in his cloak, in order to conceal from the passers-by in the -streets his gloomy and sorrowful face, he quitted them, for the -purpose of returning to his own rooms, as he had promised -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two friends -watched the young man as he walked away with a feeling of genuine -disinterested pity; only each expressed it in a different -way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor Raoul!" said -Athos, sighing deeply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor Raoul!" said -D'Artagnan, shrugging his shoulders.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Heu!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Miser!</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -"P</span>oor Raoul!" had said Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Poor Raoul!" had said D'Artagnan: -and, in point of fact, to be pitied by both these men, Raoul must -indeed have been most unhappy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And therefore, when he found himself -alone, face to face, as it were, with his own troubles, leaving -behind him the intrepid friend and the indulgent father; when he -recalled the avowal of the king's affection, which had robbed him -of Louise de la Vallière, whom he loved so deeply, he felt -his heart almost breaking, as indeed we all have at least once in -our lives, at the first illusion destroyed, the first affection -betrayed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!" he -murmured, "all is over, then.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing is now left me in this -world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing to look -forward to, nothing to hope for.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Guiche has told me so, my father has -told me so, M. d'Artagnan has told me so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All life is but an idle dream.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The future which I have been -hopelessly pursuing for the last ten years is a dream! the union -of hearts, a dream! a life of love and happiness, a dream!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor fool that I am," he -continued, after a pause, "to dream away my existence aloud, -publicly, and in the face of others, friends and enemies - and -for what purpose, too? in order that my friends may be saddened -by my troubles, and my enemies may laugh at my sorrows.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so my unhappiness will -soon become a notorious disgrace, a public scandal; and who knows -but that to-morrow I may even be a public laughing-stock?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And, despite the -composure which he had promised his father and D'Artagnan to -observe, Raoul could not resist uttering a few words of darkest -menace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And yet," he -continued, "if my name were De Wardes, and if I had the pliancy -of character and strength of will of M. d'Artagnan, I should -laugh, with my lips at least; I should convince other women that -this perfidious girl, honored by the affection I have wasted on -her, leaves me only one regret, that of having been abused and -deceived by her seemingly modest and irreproachable conduct; a -few might perhaps fawn on the king by jesting at my expense; I -should put myself on the track of some of those buffoons; I -should chastise a few of them, perhaps; the men would fear me, -and by the time I had laid three dying or dead at my feet, I -should be adored by the women.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, yes, that, indeed, would be the -proper course to adopt, and the Comte de la Fère himself -would not object to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Has not he also been tried, in his earlier days, in the same -manner as I have just been tried myself?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Did he not replace affection by -intoxication?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He has -often told me so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why -should I not replace love by pleasure?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He must have suffered as much as I -suffer, even more - if that is possible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The history of one man is the -history of all, a dragging trial, more or less prolonged, more or -less bitter - sorrowful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The note of human nature is nothing but one sustained cry.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what are the sufferings of -others compared to those from which I am now suffering?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does the open wound in -another's breast soften the anguish of the gaping ulcer in our -own?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does the blood which -is welling from another man's side stanch that which is pouring -from our own?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does the -general grief of our fellow-creatures lessen our own private and -particular woe?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no, -each suffers on his own account, each struggles with his own -grief, each sheds his own tears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And besides," he went on, "what has -my life been up to the present moment?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A cold, barren, sterile arena, in -which I have always fought for others, never for myself.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sometimes for a king, -sometimes for a woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king has betrayed, the woman disdained me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Miserable, unlucky wretch that I -am!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Women!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can I not make all expiate the crime -of one of their sex?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -does that need?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To have a -heart no longer, or to forget that I ever had one; to be strong, -even against weakness itself; to lean always, even when one feels -that the support is giving way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What is needed to attain, or succeed -in all that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To be young, -handsome, strong, valiant, rich.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am, or shall be, all that.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But honor?" he still -continued, "and what is honor after all?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A theory which every man understands -in his own way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My father -tells me: 'Honor is the consideration of what is due to others, -and particularly what is due to oneself.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Guiche, and Manicamp, and -Saint-Aignan particularly, would say to me: 'What's honor?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Honor consists in studying and -yielding to the passions and pleasures of one's king.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Honor such as that indeed, is -easy and productive enough.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With honor like that, I can keep my -post at the court, become a gentleman of the chamber, and accept -the command of a regiment, which may at any time be presented to -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With honor such as -that, I can be duke and peer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The stain which that -woman has stamped upon me, the grief that has broken my heart, -the heart of the friend and playmate of her childhood, in no way -affects M. de Bragelonne, an excellent officer, a courageous -leader, who will cover himself with glory at the first encounter, -and who will become a hundred times greater than Mademoiselle de -la Vallière is to-day, the mistress of the king - for the -king will not marry her - and the more publicly he will proclaim -her as his mistress, the more opaque will grow the shadow of -shame he casts upon her face, in the guise of a crown; and in -proportion as others despise, as I despise her, I shall be -gleaning honors in the field.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alas! we had walked together side by -side, she and I, during the earliest, the brightest, the most -angelic portion of our existence, hand in hand along the charming -path of life, covered with the blossoms of youth; and then, alas! -we reach a cross-road, where she separates herself from me, in -which we have to follow a different route, whereby we become more -and more widely separated from each other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And to attain the end of this path, -oh, Heaven!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am now -alone, in utter despair, and crushed to the very earth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Such were the sinister -reflections in which Raoul indulged, when his foot mechanically -paused at the door of his own dwelling.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had reached it without remarking -the streets through which he passed, without knowing how he had -come; he pushed open the door, continued to advance, and ascended -the staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -staircase, as in most of the houses at that period, was very -dark, and the landings most obscure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul lived on the first floor; he -paused in order to ring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Olivain appeared, took his sword and cloak from his hands; Raoul -himself opened the door which, from the ante-chamber, led into a -small <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>salon</i>, richly -furnished enough for the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>salon</i> of a young man, and -completely filled with flowers by Olivain, who, knowing his -master's tastes, had shown himself studiously attentive in -gratifying them, without caring whether his master perceived his -attention or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -was a portrait of La Vallière in the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>salon</i>, which had been drawn by -herself and given by her to Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This portrait, fastened above a -large easy chair covered with dark colored damask, was the first -point towards which Raoul bent his steps - the first object on -which he fixed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was, moreover, Raoul's usual habit to do so; every time he -entered his room, this portrait, before anything else, attracted -his attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This time, -as usual, he walked straight up to the portrait, placed his knees -upon the arm chair, and paused to look at it sadly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His arms were crossed upon his -breast, his head slightly thrown back, his eyes filled with -tears, his mouth worked into a bitter smile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked at the portrait of the one -he had so tenderly loved; and then all that he had said passed -before his mind again, all that he had suffered seemed again to -assail his heart; and, after a long silence, he murmured for the -third time, "Miserable, unhappy wretch that I am!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He had hardly pronounced -these words, when he heard the sound of a sigh and a groan behind -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He turned sharply -round and perceived, in the angle of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>salon</i>, standing up, a bending -veiled female figure, which he had been the means of concealing -behind the door as he opened it, and which he had not perceived -as he entered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -advanced towards the figure, whose presence in his room had not -been announced to him; and as he bowed, and inquired at the same -moment who she was, she suddenly raised her head, and removed the -veil from her face, revealing her pale and sorrow-stricken -features.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul staggered -back as if he had seen a ghost.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Louise!" he cried, in a -tone of such absolute despair, one could hardly have thought the -human voice was capable of so desponding a cry, without the -snapping of the human heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Wounds within Wounds.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>ademoiselle de la Vallière - for it was indeed she -- advanced a few steps towards him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes - Louise," she murmured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But this interval, short -as it had been, was quite sufficient for Raoul to recover -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You, -mademoiselle?" he said; and then added, in an indefinable tone, -"You here!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Raoul," the young -girl replied, "I have been waiting for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When I came into the room I -was not aware - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know - but I -entreated Olivain not to tell you - "<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She hesitated; and as Raoul did not -attempt to interrupt her, a moment's silence ensued, during which -the sound of their throbbing hearts might have been heard, not in -unison with each other, but the one beating as violently as the -other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was for Louise -to speak, and she made an effort to do so.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wished to speak to -you," she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It was -absolutely necessary that I should see you - myself - alone.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have not hesitated to adopt -a step which must remain secret; for no one, except yourself, -could understand my motive, Monsieur de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In fact, mademoiselle," -Raoul stammered out, almost breathless from emotion, "as far as I -am concerned, and despite the good opinion you have of me, I -confess - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you do me the -great kindness to sit down and listen to me?" said Louise, -interrupting him with her soft, sweet voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Bragelonne looked at her -for a moment; then mournfully shaking his head, he sat, or rather -fell down on a chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Speak," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She cast a glance all -round her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This look was -a timid entreaty, and implored secrecy far more effectually than -her expressed words had done a few minutes before.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul rouse, and went to the door, -which he opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Olivain," he said, "I am not within for any one."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, turning towards Louise, he -added, "Is not that what you wished?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Nothing could have -produced a greater effect upon Louise than these few words, which -seemed to signify, "You see that I still understand you."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She passed a handkerchief -across her eyes, in order to remove a rebellious tear which she -could not restrain; and then, having collected herself for a -moment, she said, "Raoul, do not turn your kind, frank look away -from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are not one -of those men who despise a woman for having given her heart to -another, even though her affection might render him unhappy, or -might wound his pride."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Raoul did not reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!" continued La -Vallière, "it is only too true, my cause is a bad one, and -I cannot tell in what way to begin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It will be better for me, I think, -to relate to you, very simply, everything that has befallen -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As I shall speak but -the pure and simple truth, I shall always find my path clear -before me in spite of the obscurity and obstacles I have to brave -in order to solace my heart, which is full to overflowing, and -wishes to pour itself out at your feet."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul -continued to preserve the same unbroken silence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière looked at him -with an air that seemed to say, "Encourage me; for pity's sake, -but a single word!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -Raoul did not open his lips; and the young girl was obliged to -continue:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Just now," she said, -"M. de Saint-Aignan came to me by the king's directions."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She cast down her eyes as she -said this; while Raoul, on his side, turned his away, in order to -avoid looking at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. -de Saint-Aignan came to me from the king," she repeated, "and -told me that you knew all;" and she attempted to look Raoul in -the face, after inflicting this further wound upon him, in -addition to the many others he had already received; but it was -impossible to meet Raoul's eyes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He told me you were -incensed with me - and justly so, I admit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This time Raoul looked -at the young girl, and a smile full of disdain passed across his -lips.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" she continued, "I -entreat you, do not say that you have had any other feeling -against me than that of anger merely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, wait until I have told you -all - wait until I have said to you all that I had to say - all -that I came to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul, by the strength -of his iron will, forced his features to assume a calmer -expression, and the disdainful smile upon his lip passed -away.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place," -said La Vallière, "in the first place, with my hands -raised in entreaty towards you, with my forehead bowed to the -ground before you, I entreat you, as the most generous, as the -noblest of men, to pardon, to forgive me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I have left you in ignorance of -what was passing in my own bosom, never, at least, would I have -consented to deceive you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Oh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I entreat you, Raoul -- I implore you on my knees - answer me one word, even though you -wrong me in doing so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Better, far better, an injurious word from your lips, than -suspicion resting in your heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I admire your subtlety -of expression, mademoiselle," said Raoul, making an effort to -remain calm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To leave -another in ignorance that you are deceiving him, is loyal; but to -deceive him - it seems that would be very wrong, and that you -would not do it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, for a long -time I thought that I loved you better than anything else; and so -long as I believed in my affection for you, I told you that loved -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could have sworn -it on the altar; but a day came when I was undeceived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, on that day, -mademoiselle, knowing that I still continued to love you, true -loyalty of conduct should have forced you to inform me you had -ceased to love me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But on that day, Raoul -- on that day, when I read in the depths of my own heart, when I -confessed to myself that you no longer filled my mind entirely, -when I saw another future before me than that of being your -friend, your life-long companion, your wife - on that day, Raoul, -you were not, alas! any more beside me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you knew where I -was, mademoiselle; you could have written to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul, I did not dare -to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, I have -been weak and cowardly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -knew you so thoroughly - I knew how devotedly you loved me, that -I trembled at the bare idea of the grief I was about to cause -you; and that is so true, Raoul, that this very moment I am now -speaking to you, bending thus before you, my heart crushed in my -bosom, my voice full of sighs, my eyes full of tears, it is so -perfectly true, that I have no other defense than my frankness, I -have no other sorrow greater than that which I read in your -eyes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul attempted to -smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No!" said the young -girl, with a profound conviction, "no, no; you will not do me so -foul a wrong as to disguise your feelings before me now!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You loved me; you were sure of -your affection for me; you did not deceive yourself; you do not -lie to your own heart - whilst I - I - "<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And pale as death, her arms thrown -despairingly above her head, she fell upon her knees.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whilst you," said -Raoul, "you told me you loved me, and yet you loved another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas, yes!" cried the -poor girl; "alas, yes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -do love another; and that other - oh! for Heaven's sake let me -say it, Raoul, for it is my only excuse - that other I love -better than my own life, better than my own soul even.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forgive my fault, or punish my -treason, Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I came -here in no way to defend myself, but merely to say to you: 'You -know what it is to love!' - in such a case am I!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I love to that degree, that I would -give my life, my very soul, to the man I love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he should ever cease to love me, -I shall die of grief and despair, unless Heaven come to my -assistance, unless Heaven does show pity upon me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, I came here to submit myself -to your will, whatever it might be - to die, if it were your wish -I should die.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Kill me, -then, Raoul! if in your heart you believe I deserve death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care, -mademoiselle," said Raoul: "the woman who invites death is one -who has nothing but her heart's blood to offer to her deceived -and betrayed lover."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right," she -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul uttered a deep -sigh, as he exclaimed, "And you love without being able to -forget?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I love without a wish -to forget; without a wish ever to love any one else," replied La -Vallière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well," said -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You have said to -me, in fact, all you had to say; all I could possibly wish to -know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, -mademoiselle, it is I who ask your forgiveness, for it is I who -have almost been an obstacle in your life; I, too, who have been -wrong, for, in deceiving myself, I helped to deceive you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said La -Vallière, "I do not ask you so much as that, Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I only am to blame, -mademoiselle," continued Raoul, "better informed than yourself of -the difficulties of this life, I should have enlightened -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I ought not to have -relied upon uncertainty; I ought to have extracted an answer from -your heart, whilst I hardly even sought an acknowledgement from -your lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once more, -mademoiselle, it is I who ask your forgiveness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Impossible, -impossible!" she cried, "you are mocking me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How, impossible?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, it is impossible -to be so good, and kind, ah! perfect to such a degree as -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care!' said Raoul, -with a bitter smile, "for presently you may say perhaps I did not -love you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you love me like an -affectionate brother; let me hope that, Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As a brother! undeceive -yourself, Louise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I love -you as a lover - as a husband, with the deepest, the truest, the -fondest affection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul, Raoul!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As a brother!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, Louise!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I love you so deeply, that I would -have shed my blood for you, drop by drop; I would, oh! how -willingly, have suffered myself to be torn to pieces for your -sake, have sacrificed my very future for you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I love you so deeply, Louise, that -my heart feels dead and crushed within me, - my faith in human -nature all is gone, - my eyes have lost their light; I loved you -so deeply, that I now no longer see, think of, care for, -anything, either in this world or the next."<span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Raoul - dear -Raoul! spare me, I implore you!" cried La Vallière.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! if I had but known - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is too late, -Louise; you love, you are happy in your affection; I read your -happiness through your tears - behind the tears which the loyalty -of your nature makes you shed; I feel the sighs your affection -breathes forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise, -Louise, you have made me the most abjectly wretched man living; -leave me, I entreat you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Adieu! adieu!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Forgive me! oh, -forgive me, Raoul, for what I have done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have I not done -much, much more?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Have I not told you that I -love you still?</i>"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -buried her face in her hands.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And to tell you -that - do you hear me, Louise? - to tell you that, at such a -moment as this, to tell you that, as I have told you, is to -pronounce my own sentence of death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière held out her -hands to him in vain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We ought not to -see each other again in this world," he said, and as she was on -the point of crying out in bitter agony at this remark, he placed -his hand on her mouth to stifle the exclamation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She pressed her lips upon it, and -fell fainting to the ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Olivain," said Raoul, "take this -young lady and bear her to the carriage which is waiting for her -at the door."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As Olivain -lifted her up, Raoul made a movement as if to dart towards La -Vallière, in order to give her a first and last kiss, but, -stopping abruptly, he said, "No! she is not mine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am no thief - as is the king of -France."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he returned -to his room, whilst the lackey carried La Vallière, still -fainting, to the carriage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -What Raoul Had Guessed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -A</span>s soon as Raoul had quitted Athos and D'Artagnan, as the -two exclamations that had followed his departure escaped their -lips, they found themselves face to face alone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos immediately resumed the -earnest air that he had assumed at D'Artagnan's arrival.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," he said, "what -have you come to announce to me, my friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?" inquired -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; I do not see -you in this way without some reason for it," said Athos, -smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The deuce!" said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will place you -at your ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is -furious, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, I must say -he is not altogether pleased."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you have come -to arrest me, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear friend, -you have hit the very mark."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I expected -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am quite ready to -go with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Deuce take it!" -said D'Artagnan, "what a hurry you are in."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am afraid of -delaying you," said Athos, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have plenty of -time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you not -curious, besides, to know how things went on between the king and -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If you will be -good enough to tell me, I will listen with the greatest of -pleasure," said Athos, pointing out to D'Artagnan a large chair, -into which the latter threw himself, assuming the easiest -possible attitude.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, I will do so -willingly enough," continued D'Artagnan, "for the conversation is -rather curious, I must say.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first place the king sent for -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As soon as I had -left?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You were just -going down the last steps of the staircase, as the musketeers -told me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I arrived.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My dear Athos, he was not red -in the face merely, he was positively purple.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was not aware, of course, of what -had passed; only, on the ground, lying on the floor, I saw a -sword broken in two."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Captain -d'Artagnan,' cried the king, as soon as he saw me.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Sire,' I -replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'M. de la -Fère has just left me; he is an insolent man.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'An insolent man!' -I exclaimed, in such a tone that the king stopped suddenly -short.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Captain -d'Artagnan,' resumed the king, with his teeth clenched, 'you will -be good enough to listen to and hear me.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'That is my duty, -sire.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'I have, out of -consideration for M. de la Fère, wished to spare him - he -is a man of whom I still retain some kind recollections - the -discredit of being arrested in my palace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will therefore take a -carriage.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this I made -a slight movement.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'If you object to -arrest him yourself,' continued the king, 'send me my captain of -the guards.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Sire,' I replied, -'there is no necessity for the captain of the guards, since I am -on duty.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'I should not like -to annoy you,' said the king, kindly, 'for you have always served -me well, Monsieur D'Artagnan.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'You do not -"annoy" me, sire,' I replied; 'I am on duty, that is all.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'But,' said the -king, in astonishment, 'I believe the comte is your friend?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'If he were my -father, sire, it would not make me less on duty than I am.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king looked at -me; he saw how unmoved my face was, and seemed satisfied.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'You will arrest M. le Comte -de la Fère, then?' he inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Most certainly, -sire, if you give me the order to do so.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Very well; I -order you to do so.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I bowed, and -replied, 'Where is the comte, sire?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'You will look for -him.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'And am I to -arrest him, wherever he may be?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Yes; but try that -he may be at his own house.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he should have started for his -own estate, leave Paris at once, and arrest him on his way -thither.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I bowed; but as I -did not move, he said, 'Well, what are you waiting for?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'For the order to -arrest the comte, signed by yourself.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king seemed -annoyed; for, in point of fact, it was the exercise of a fresh -act of authority, a repetition of the arbitrary act, if, indeed, -it is to be considered as such.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He took hold of his pen slowly, and -evidently in no very good temper; and then he wrote, 'Order for -M. le Chevalier d'Artagnan, captain of my musketeers, to arrest -M. le Comte de la Fère, wherever he is to be found.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then turned towards me; but -I was looking on without moving a muscle of my face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In all probability he thought he -perceived something like bravado in my tranquil manner, for he -signed hurriedly, and then handing me the order, he said, 'Go, -monsieur!'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I obeyed; and -here I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos pressed his -friend's hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, let -us set off," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! surely," said -D'Artagnan, "you must have some trifling matters to arrange -before you leave your apartments in this manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I? - not at -all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, you know, -D'Artagnan, that I have always been a very simple traveler on -this earth, ready to go to the end of the world by the order of -my sovereign; ready to quit it at the summons of my Maker.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What does a man who is thus -prepared require in such a case? - a portmanteau, or a -shroud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am ready at -this moment, as I have always been, my dear friend, and can -accompany you at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But, Bragelonne - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have brought him -up in the same principles I laid down for my own guidance; and -you observed that, as soon as he perceived you, he guessed, that -very moment, the motive of your visit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We have thrown him off his guard for -a moment; but do not be uneasy, he is sufficiently prepared for -my disgrace not to be too much alarmed at it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, let us go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, let us -go," said D'Artagnan, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As I broke my -sword in the king's presence, and threw the pieces at his feet, I -presume that will dispense with the necessity of delivering it -over to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are quite -right; and besides that, what the deuce do you suppose I could do -with your sword?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Am I to walk -behind, or before you?" inquired Athos, laughing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will walk arm -in arm with me," replied D'Artagnan, as he took the comte's arm -to descend the staircase; and in this manner they arrived at the -landing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud, whom -they had met in the ante-room, looked at them as they went out -together in this manner, with some little uneasiness; his -experience of affairs was quite sufficient to give him good -reason to suspect that there was something wrong.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! is that you, -Grimaud?" said Athos, kindly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We are going - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To take a turn in -my carriage," interrupted D'Artagnan, with a friendly nod of the -head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Grimaud thanked -D'Artagnan by a grimace, which was evidently intended for a -smile, and accompanied both the friends to the door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos entered first into the -carriage; D'Artagnan followed him without saying a word to the -coachman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The departure -had taken place so quietly, that it excited no disturbance or -attention even in the neighborhood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the carriage had reached the -quays, "You are taking me to the Bastile, I perceive," said -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I?" said -D'Artagnan, "I take you wherever you may choose to go; nowhere -else, I can assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you mean?" -said the comte, surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, surely, my -dear friend," said D'Artagnan, "you quite understand that I -undertook the mission with no other object in view than that of -carrying it out exactly as you liked.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You surely did not expect that I was -going to get you thrown into prison like that, brutally, and -without any reflection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -If I had anticipated that, I should have let the captain of the -guards undertake it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so - ?" said -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so, I repeat -again, we will go wherever you may choose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear friend," -said Athos, embracing D'Artagnan, "how like you that is!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, it seems -simple enough to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -coachman will take you to the barrier of the Cours-la-Reine; you -will find a horse there which I have ordered to be kept ready for -you; with that horse you will be able to do three posts without -stopping; and I, on my side, will take care not to return to the -king, to tell him that you have gone away, until the very moment -it will be impossible to overtake you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime you will have -reached Le Havre, and from Le Havre across to England, where you -will find the charming residence of which M. Monk made me a -present, without speaking of the hospitality which King Charles -will not fail to show you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, what do you think of this -project?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos shook his -head, and then said, smiling as he did so, "No, no, take me to -the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are an -obstinate fellow, my dear Athos," returned D'Artagnan, "reflect -for a few moments."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On what -subject?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That you are no -longer twenty years of age.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Believe me, I speak according to my -own knowledge and experience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A prison is certain death for men -who are at our time of life.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no; I will never allow you to -languish in prison in such a way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, the very thought of it makes my -head turn giddy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Dear D'Artagnan," -Athos replied, "Heaven most fortunately made my body as strong, -powerful, and enduring as my mind; and, rely upon it, I shall -retain my strength up to the very last moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But this is not -strength of mind or character; it is sheer madness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, D'Artagnan, it -is the highest order of reasoning.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not suppose that I should in the -slightest degree in the world discuss the question with you, -whether you would not be ruined in endeavoring to save me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should have done precisely -as you propose if flight had been part of my plan of action; I -should, therefore, have accepted from you what, without any -doubt, you would have accepted from me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know you too well even to breathe -a word upon the subject."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! if you would -only let me do it," said D'Artagnan, "what a dance we would give -his most gracious majesty!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Still he is the -king; do not forget that, my dear friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! that is all -the same to me; and king though he be, I would plainly tell him, -'Sire, imprison, exile, kill every one in France and Europe; -order me to arrest and poniard even whom you like - even were it -Monsieur, your own brother; but do not touch one of the four -musketeers, or if so, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux!</i>'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My dear friend," -replied Athos, with perfect calmness, "I should like to persuade -you of one thing; namely, that I wish to be arrested; that I -desire above all things that my arrest should take place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan made a -slight movement of his shoulders.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nay, I wish it, I -repeat, more than anything; if you were to let me escape, it -would be only to return of my own accord, and constitute myself a -prisoner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to prove -to this young man, who is dazzled by the power and splendor of -his crown, that he can be regarded as the first and chiefest -among men only on the one condition of his proving himself to be -the most generous and the wisest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He may punish me, imprison, torture -me, it matters not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -abuses his opportunities, and I wish him to learn the bitterness -of remorse, while Heaven teaches him what chastisement is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, well," -replied D'Artagnan, "I know only too well that, when you have -once said, 'no,' you mean 'no.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not insist any longer; you wish -to go to the Bastile?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do wish to go -there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us go, -then!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To the Bastile!" -cried D'Artagnan to the coachman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And throwing himself back in the -carriage, he gnawed the ends of his mustache with a fury which, -for Athos, who knew him well, signified a resolution either -already taken or in course of formation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A profound silence ensued in the -carriage, which continued to roll on, but neither faster nor -slower than before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos -took the musketeer by the hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are not angry -with me, D'Artagnan?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I! - oh, no! -certainly not; of course not.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What you do for heroism, I should -have done from obstinacy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you are quite -of opinion, are you not, that Heaven will avenge me, -D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I know one or -two on earth who will not fail to lend a helping hand," said the -captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXIII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Three Guests Astonished to Find Themselves at Supper -Together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he carriage arrived at the outside of the gate of the -Bastile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A soldier on -guard stopped it, but D'Artagnan had only to utter a single word -to procure admittance, and the carriage passed on without further -difficulty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst they -were proceeding along the covered way which led to the courtyard -of the governor's residence, D'Artagnan, whose lynx eyes saw -everything, even through the walls, suddenly cried out, "What is -that out yonder?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Athos, -quietly; "what is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look yonder, -Athos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the courtyard?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes; make -haste!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, a carriage; very -likely conveying a prisoner like myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That would be too -droll."<br> -"I do not understand you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Make haste and -look again, and look at the man who is just getting out of that -carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>At that very moment -a second sentinel stopped D'Artagnan, and while the formalities -were being gone through, Athos could see at a hundred paces from -him the man whom his friend had pointed out to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was, in fact, getting out of the -carriage at the door of the governor's house.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well," inquired D'Artagnan, "do you -see him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; he is a man -in a gray suit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you say of -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I cannot very well -tell; he is, as I have just now told you, a man in a gray suit, -who is getting out of a carriage; that is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Athos, I will -wager anything that it is he."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He, who?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Aramis -arrested?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Impossible!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not say he is -arrested, since we see him alone in his carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, what -is he doing here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! he knows -Baisemeaux, the governor," replied the musketeer, slyly; "so we -have arrived just in time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In order to see -what we can see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I regret this -meeting exceedingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -Aramis sees me, he will be very much annoyed, in the first place, -at seeing me, and in the next at being seen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well -reasoned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Unfortunately, -there is no remedy for it; whenever any one meets another in the -Bastile, even if he wished to draw back to avoid him, it would be -impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Athos, I have an -idea; the question is, to spare Aramis the annoyance you were -speaking of, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is to be -done?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will tell you; -or in order to explain myself in the best possible way, let me -relate the affair in my own manner; I will not recommend you to -tell a falsehood, for that would be impossible for you to do; but -I will tell falsehoods enough for both; it is easy to do that -when one is born to the nature and habits of a Gascon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos smiled.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The carriage stopped where the -one we have just now pointed out had stopped; namely, at the door -of the governor's house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"It is understood, then?" said D'Artagnan, in a low voice to his -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos consented -by a gesture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -ascended the staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There will be no occasion for surprise at the facility with which -they had entered into the Bastile, if it be remembered that, -before passing the first gate, in fact, the most difficult of -all, D'Artagnan had announced that he had brought a prisoner of -state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the third gate, -on the contrary, that is to say, when he had once fairly entered -the prison, he merely said to the sentinel, "To M. Baisemeaux;" -and they both passed on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In a few minutes they were in the governor's dining-room, and the -first face which attracted D'Artagnan's observation was that of -Aramis, who was seated side by side with Baisemeaux, awaiting the -announcement of a meal whose odor impregnated the whole -apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If D'Artagnan -pretended surprise, Aramis did not pretend at all; he started -when he saw his two friends, and his emotion was very -apparent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and -D'Artagnan, however, complimented him as usual, and Baisemeaux, -amazed, completely stupefied by the presence of his three guests, -began to perform a few evolutions around them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By what lucky -accident - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We were just going -to ask you," retorted D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are we going to -give ourselves up as prisoners?" cried Aramis, with an affection -of hilarity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! ah!" said -D'Artagnan; "it is true the walls smell deucedly like a -prison.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur de -Baisemeaux, you know you invited me to sup with you the other -day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I?" cried -Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, of course you -did, although you now seem so struck with amazement.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Don't you remember it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux turned -pale and then red, looked at Aramis, who looked at him, and -finished by stammering out, "Certainly - I am delighted - but, -upon my honor - I have not the slightest - Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have such a wretched memory."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am wrong, I see," said D'Artagnan, -as if he were offended.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Wrong, what -for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Wrong to remember -anything about it, it seems."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux hurried -towards him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do not -stand on ceremony, my dear captain," he said; "I have the worst -memory in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I no -sooner leave off thinking of my pigeons and their pigeon-house, -than I am no better than the rawest recruit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At all events, you -remember it now," said D'Artagnan, boldly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, yes," replied -the governor, hesitating; "I think I do remember."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It was when you -came to the palace to see me; you told me some story or other -about your accounts with M. de Louvière and M. de -Tremblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, yes! -perfectly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And about M. -d'Herblay's kindness towards you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" exclaimed -Aramis, looking at the unhappy governor full in the face, "and -yet you just now said you had no memory, Monsieur de -Baisemeaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux -interrupted the musketeer in the middle of his revelations.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, yes; you're quite right; -how could I have forgotten; I remember it now as well as -possible; I beg you a thousand pardons.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But now, once for all, my dear M. -d'Artagnan, be sure that at this present time, as at any other, -whether invited or not, you are perfectly at home here, you and -M. d'Herblay, your friend," he said, turning towards Aramis; "and -this gentleman, too," he added, bowing to Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, I thought it -would be sure to turn out so," replied D'Artagnan, "and that is -the reason I came.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having -nothing to do this evening at the Palais Royal, I wished to judge -for myself what your ordinary style of living was like; and as I -was coming along, I met the Comte de la Fère."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos bowed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The comte, who had just left -his majesty, handed me an order which required immediate -attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We were close -by here; I wished to call in, even if it were for no other object -than that of shaking hands with you and of presenting the comte -to you, of whom you spoke so highly that evening at the palace -when - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly, -certainly - M. le Comte de la Fère?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The comte is -welcome, I am sure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And he will sup -with you two, I suppose, whilst I, unfortunate dog that I am, -must run off on a matter of duty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! what happy beings you are, -compared to myself," he added, sighing as loud as Porthos might -have done.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so you are -going away, then?" said Aramis and Baisemeaux together, with the -same expression of delighted surprised, the tone of which was -immediately noticed by D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I leave you in my -place," he said, "a noble and excellent guest."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he touched Athos gently on the -shoulder, who, astonished also, could not help exhibiting his -surprise a little; which was noticed by Aramis only, for M. de -Baisemeaux was not quite equal to the three friends in point of -intelligence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What, are you -going to leave us?" resumed the governor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I shall only be -about an hour, or an hour and a half.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will return in time for -dessert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! we will wait -for you," said Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no; that would -be really disobliging me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will be sure -to return, though?" said Athos, with an expression of doubt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Most certainly," -he said, pressing his friend's hand confidently; and he added, in -a low voice, "Wait for me, Athos; be cheerful and lively as -possible, and above all, don't allude even to business affairs, -for Heaven's sake."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And with a renewed -pressure of the hand, he seemed to warn the comte of the -necessity of keeping perfectly discreet and impenetrable.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux led D'Artagnan to -the gate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, with -many friendly protestations of delight, sat down by Athos, -determined to make him speak; but Athos possessed every virtue -and quality to the very highest degree.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If necessity had required it, he -would have been the finest orator in the world, but on other -occasions he would rather have died than have opened his -lips.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Ten minutes after -D'Artagnan's departure, the three gentlemen sat down to table, -which was covered with the most substantial display of -gastronomic luxury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Large -joints, exquisite dishes, preserves, the greatest variety of -wines, appeared successively upon the table, which was served at -the king's expense, and of which expense M. Colbert would have -found no difficulty in saving two thirds, without any one in the -Bastile being the worse for it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux was the only one who ate -and drank with gastronomic resolution.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis allowed nothing to pass by -him, but merely touched everything he took; Athos, after the soup -and three <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>hors -d'œuvres</i>, ate nothing more.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The style of conversation was such -as might have been anticipated between three men so opposite in -temper and ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -was incessantly asking himself by what extraordinary chance Athos -was there at Baisemeaux's when D'Artagnan was no longer there, -and why D'Artagnan did not remain when Athos was there.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos sounded all the depths -of the mind of Aramis, who lived in the midst of subterfuge, -evasion, and intrigue; he studied his man well and thoroughly, -and felt convinced that he was engaged upon some important -project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then he too -began to think of his own personal affair, and to lose himself in -conjectures as to D'Artagnan's reason for having left the Bastile -so abruptly, and for leaving behind him a prisoner so badly -introduced and so badly looked after by the prison -authorities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But we shall -not pause to examine into the thoughts and feelings of these -personages, but will leave them to themselves, surrounded by the -remains of poultry, game, and fish, which Baisemeaux's generous -knife and fork had so mutilated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are going to follow D'Artagnan -instead, who, getting into the carriage which had brought him, -said to the coachman, "Return to the palace, as fast as the -horses can gallop."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXIV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -What Took Place at the Louvre During the Supper at the -Bastile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -M</span>. de Saint-Aignan had executed the commission with which -the king had intrusted him for La Vallière - as we have -already seen in one of the preceding chapters; but, whatever his -eloquence, he did not succeed in persuading the young girl that -she had in the king a protector powerful enough for her under any -combination of circumstances, and that she had no need of any one -else in the world when the king was on her side.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In point of fact, at the very first -word which the favorite mentioned of the discovery of the famous -secret, Louise, in a passion of tears, abandoned herself in utter -despair to a sorrow which would have been far from flattering for -the king, if he had been a witness of it from one of the corners -of the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Saint-Aignan, in his character of ambassador, felt almost as -greatly offended at it as his master himself would have been, and -returned to inform the king what he had seen and heard; and it is -thus we find him, in a state of great agitation, in the presence -of the king, who was, if possible, in a state of even greater -flurry than himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," said the king to -the courtier, when the latter had finished his report, "what did -she decide to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shall I -at least see her presently before supper?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will she come to me, or shall I be -obliged to go to her room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe, sire, that -if your majesty wishes to see her, you will not only have to take -the first step in advance, but will have to go the whole -way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That I do not -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you think she -has yet a secret fancy for young Bragelonne?" muttered the king -between his teeth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, that is not -possible; for it is you alone, I am convinced, Mademoiselle de la -Vallière loves, and that, too, with all her heart.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you know that De -Bragelonne belongs to that proud race who play the part of Roman -heroes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king smiled feebly; -he knew how true the illustration was, for Athos had just left -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As for Mademoiselle de -la Vallière," Saint-Aignan continued, "she was brought up -under the care of the Dowager Madame, that is to say, in the -greatest austerity and formality.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This young engaged couple coldly -exchanged their little vows in the prim presence of the moon and -stars; and now, when they find they have to break those vows -asunder, it plays the very deuce with them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Saint-Aignan thought to -have made the king laugh; but on the contrary, from a mere smile -Louis passed to the greatest seriousness of manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He already began to experience that -remorse which the comte had promised D'Artagnan he would inflict -upon him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He reflected -that, in fact, these young persons had loved and sworn fidelity -to each other; that one of the two had kept his word, and that -the other was too conscientious not to feel her perjury most -bitterly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And his remorse -was not unaccompanied; for bitter pangs of jealousy began to -beset the king's heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He did not say another word, and instead of going to pay a visit -to his mother, or the queen, or Madame, in order to amuse himself -a little, and make the ladies laugh, as he himself used to say, -he threw himself into the huge armchair in which his august -father Louis XIII. had passed so many weary days and years in -company with Barradat and Cinq-Mars.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan perceived the king was -not to be amused at that moment; he tried a last resource, and -pronounced Louise's name, which made the king look up -immediately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What does -your majesty intend to do this evening - shall Mademoiselle de la -Vallière be informed of your intention to see her?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It seems she is already -aware of that," replied the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No, no, Saint-Aignan," he -continued, after a moment's pause, "we will both of us pass our -time in thinking, and musing, and dreaming; when Mademoiselle de -la Vallière shall have sufficiently regretted what she now -regrets, she will deign, perhaps, to give us some news of -herself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! sire, is it -possible you can so misunderstand her heart, which is so full of -devotion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king rose, flushed -from vexation and annoyance; he was a prey to jealousy as well as -to remorse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan -was just beginning to feel that his position was becoming -awkward, when the curtain before the door was raised.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king turned hastily round; his -first idea was that a letter from Louise had arrived; but, -instead of a letter of love, he only saw his captain of -musketeers, standing upright, and perfectly silent in the -doorway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. d'Artagnan," -he said, "ah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan looked at -Saint-Aignan; the king's eyes took the same direction as those of -his captain; these looks would have been clear to any one, and -for a still greater reason they were so for Saint-Aignan.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The courtier bowed and quitted -the room, leaving the king and D'Artagnan alone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it done?" inquired -the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire," replied the -captain of the musketeers, in a grave voice, "it is done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king was unable to -say another word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pride, -however, obliged him not to pause at what he had done; whenever a -sovereign has adopted a decisive course, even though it be -unjust, he is compelled to prove to all witnesses, and -particularly to prove it to himself, that he was quite right all -through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A good means for -effecting that - an almost infallible means, indeed - is, to try -and prove his victim to be in the wrong.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis, brought up by Mazarin and -Anne of Austria, knew better than any one else his vocation as a -monarch; he therefore endeavored to prove it on the present -occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After a few -moment's pause, which he had employed in making silently to -himself the same reflections which we have just expressed aloud, -he said, in an indifferent tone: "What did the comte say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing at all, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Surely he did not -allow himself to be arrested without saying something?"<br> -"He said he expected to be arrested, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king raised his -head haughtily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -presume," he said, "that M. le Comte de la Fère has not -continued to play his obstinate and rebellious part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the first -place, sire, what do you wish to signify by <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>rebellious?</i>" quietly asked the -musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A rebel, in -the eyes of the king, is a man who not only allows himself to be -shut up in the Bastile, but still more, who opposes those who do -not wish to take him there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who do not wish to -take him there!" exclaimed the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do you say, captain!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you mad?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I believe not, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You speak of -persons who did not wish to arrest M. de la Fère!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who are those persons, may I -ask?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I should say those -whom your majesty intrusted with that duty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But it was you -whom I intrusted with it," exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire; it was -I."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And yet you say -that, despite my orders, you had the intention of not arresting -the man who had insulted me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire - that -was really my intention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I even proposed to the comte to mount a horse that I had prepared -for him at the Barrière de la Conférence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And what was your -object in getting this horse ready?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, sire, in -order that M. le Comte de la Fère might be able to reach -Le Havre, and from that place make his escape to England."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You betrayed me, -then, monsieur?" cried the king, kindling with a wild pride.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>There was nothing -to say in answer to statements made in such a tone; the king was -astounded at such an obstinate and open resistance on the part of -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "At least you -had a reason, Monsieur d'Artagnan, for acting as you did?" said -the king, proudly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have always a -reason for everything, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your reason cannot -be your friendship for the comte, at all events, - the only one -that can be of any avail, the only one that could possibly excuse -you, - for I placed you perfectly at your ease in that -respect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Me, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did I not give you -the choice to arrest, or not to arrest M. le Comte de la -Fère?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire, but - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But what?" -exclaimed the king, impatiently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you warned me, -sire, that if I did not arrest him, your captain of the guard -should do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Was I not -considerate enough towards you, from the very moment I did not -compel you to obey me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To me, sire, you -were, but not to my friend, for my friend would be arrested all -the same, whether by myself or by the captain of the guards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And this is your -devotion, monsieur! a devotion which argues and reasons.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are no soldier, -monsieur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I wait for your -majesty to tell me what I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then - you -are a Frondeur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And since there is -no longer any Fronde, sire, in that case - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But if what you -say is true - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What I say is -always true, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What have you come -to say to me, monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have come to say -to your majesty, 'Sire, M. de la Fère is in the -Bastile.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is not your -fault, it would seem."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is true, -sire; but at all events he is there; and since he is there, it is -important that your majesty should know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Artagnan, so you set your -king at defiance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I warn you -that you are abusing my patience."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you mean -by 'on the contrary'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have come to get -myself arrested, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To get yourself -arrested, - you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My friend will get wearied to -death in the Bastile by himself; and I have come to propose to -your majesty to permit me to bear him company; if your majesty -will but give me the word, I will arrest myself; I shall not need -the captain of the guards for that, I assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king darted -towards the table and seized hold of a pen to write the order for -D'Artagnan's imprisonment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Pay attention, monsieur, that this -is forever," cried the king, in tones of sternest menace.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I can quite -believe that," returned the musketeer; "for when you have once -done such an act as that, you will never be able to look me in -the face again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king dashed -down his pen violently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Leave the room, monsieur!" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not so, if it -please your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is that you -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, I came to -speak gently and temperately to your majesty; your majesty got -into a passion with me; that is a misfortune; but I shall not the -less on that account say what I had to say to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your resignation, -monsieur, - your resignation!" cried the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, you know -whether I care about my resignation or not, since at Blois, on -the very day when you refused King Charles the million which my -friend the Comte de la Fère gave him, I then tendered my -resignation to your majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, -monsieur - do it at once!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, sire; for -there is no question of my resignation at the present -moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty took -up your pen just now to send me to the Bastile, - why should you -change your intention?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"D'Artagnan!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gascon that you are! who is -king, allow me to ask, - you or myself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You, sire, -unfortunately."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you mean -by 'unfortunately'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire; for if -it were I - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If it were you, -you would approve of M. d'Artagnan's rebellious conduct, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Really!" said the -king, shrugging his shoulders.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I should tell -my captain of the musketeers," continued D'Artagnan, "I should -tell him, looking at him all the while with human eyes, and not -with eyes like coals of fire, 'M. d'Artagnan, I had forgotten -that I was the king, for I descended from my throne in order to -insult a gentleman.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -the king, "do you think you can excuse your friend by exceeding -him in insolence?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! sire!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should go much further than -he did," said D'Artagnan; "and it would be your own fault.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should tell you what he, a -man full of the finest sense of delicacy, did not tell you; I -should say - 'Sire, you have sacrificed his son, and he defended -his son - you sacrificed himself; he addressed you in the name of -honor, of religion, of virtue - you repulsed, drove him away, -imprisoned him.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should -be harder than he was, for I should say to you - 'Sire; it is for -you to choose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -wish to have friends or lackeys - soldiers or slaves - great men -or mere puppets?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -wish men to serve you, or to bend and crouch before you?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you wish men to love you, -or to be afraid of you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -If you prefer baseness, intrigue, cowardice, say so at once, -sire, and we will leave you, - we who are the only individuals -who are left, - nay, I will say more, the only models of the -valor of former times; we who have done our duty, and have -exceeded, perhaps, in courage and in merit, the men already great -for posterity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Choose, -sire! and that, too, without delay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whatever relics remain to you of the -great nobility, guard them with a jealous eye; you will never be -deficient in courtiers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Delay not - and send me to the Bastile with my friend; for, if -you did not know how to listen to the Comte de la Fère, -whose voice is the sweetest and noblest in all the world when -honor is the theme; if you do not know how to listen to -D'Artagnan, the frankest and honestest voice of sincerity, you -are a bad king, and to-morrow will be a poor king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And learn from me, sire, that bad -kings are hated by their people, and poor kings are driven -ignominiously away.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That -is what I had to say to you, sire; you were wrong to drive me to -say it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king threw -himself back in his chair, cold as death, and as livid as a -corpse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Had a thunderbolt -fallen at his feet, he could not have been more astonished; he -seemed as if his respiration had utterly ceased, and that he was -at the point of death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The honest voice of sincerity, as D'Artagnan had called it, had -pierced through his heart like a sword-blade.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan had said -all he had to say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Comprehending the king's anger, he drew his sword, and, -approaching Louis XIV. respectfully, he placed it on the -table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the king, with -a furious gesture, thrust aside the sword, which fell on the -ground and rolled to D'Artagnan's feet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Notwithstanding the perfect mastery -which D'Artagnan exercised over himself, he, too, in his turn, -became pale, and, trembling with indignation, said: "A king may -disgrace a soldier, - he may exile him, and may even condemn him -to death; but were he a hundred times a king, he has no right to -insult him by casting a dishonor upon his sword!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sire, a king of France has never -repulsed with contempt the sword of a man such as I am!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stained with disgrace as this -sword now is, it has henceforth no other sheath than either your -heart or my own!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I choose -my own, sire; and you have to thank Heaven and my own patience -that I do so."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -snatching up his sword, he cried, "My blood be upon your head!" -and, with a rapid gesture, he placed the hilt upon the floor and -directed the point of the blade towards his breast.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, however, with a movement -far more rapid than that of D'Artagnan, threw his right arm -around the musketeer's neck, and with his left hand seized hold -of the blade by the middle, and returned it silently to the -scabbard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -upright, pale, and still trembling, let the king do all to the -very end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis, overcome -and softened by gentler feelings, returned to the table, took a -pen in his hand, wrote a few lines, signed them, and then held it -out to D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is this -paper, sire?" inquired the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"An order for M. -d'Artagnan to set the Comte de la Fère at liberty -immediately."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan seized -the king's hand, and imprinted a kiss upon it; he then folded the -order, placed it in his belt, and quitted the room. Neither the -king nor the captain had uttered a syllable.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, human heart! -thou guide and director of kings," murmured Louis, when alone, -"when shall I learn to read in your inmost recesses, as in the -leaves of a book!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, I -am not a bad king - nor am I poor king; I am but still a child, -when all is said and done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXV:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -Political Rivals.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -D</span>'Artagnan had promised M. de Baisemeaux to return in time -for dessert, and he kept his word.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They had just reached the finer and -more delicate class of wines and liqueurs with which the -governor's cellar had the reputation of being most admirably -stocked, when the silver spurs of the captain resounded in the -corridor, and he himself appeared at the threshold.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and Aramis had played a close -game; neither of the two had been able to gain the slightest -advantage over the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -They had supped, talked a good deal about the Bastile, of the -last journey to Fontainebleau, of the intended <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> that M. Fouquet was -about to give at Vaux; they had generalized on every possible -subject; and no one, excepting Baisemeaux, had in the slightest -degree alluded to private matters.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan arrived in the very midst -of the conversation, still pale and much disturbed by his -interview with the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux hastened to give him a chair; D'Artagnan accepted a -glass of wine, and set it down empty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and Aramis both remarked his -emotion; as for Baisemeaux, he saw nothing more than the captain -of the king's musketeers, to whom he endeavored to show every -possible attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, -although Aramis had remarked his emotion, he had not been able to -guess the cause of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Athos alone believed he had detected it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For him, D'Artagnan's return, and -particularly the manner in which he, usually so impassible, -seemed overcome, signified, "I have just asked the king something -which the king has refused me."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thoroughly convinced that his -conjecture was correct, Athos smiled, rose from the table, and -made a sign to D'Artagnan, as if to remind him that they had -something else to do than to sup together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan immediately understood -him, and replied by another sign.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and Baisemeaux watched this -silent dialogue, and looked inquiringly at each other.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos felt that he was called -upon to give an explanation of what was passing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The truth is, my -friend," said the Comte de la Fère, with a smile, "that -you, Aramis, have been supping with a state criminal, and you, -Monsieur de Baisemeaux, with your prisoner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux uttered -an exclamation of surprise, and almost of delight; for he was -exceedingly proud and vain of his fortress, and for his own -individual profit, the more prisoners he had, the happier he was, -and the higher in rank the prisoners happened to be, the prouder -he felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis assumed -the expression of countenance he thought the position justified, -and said, "Well, dear Athos, forgive me, but I almost suspected -what has happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Some -prank of Raoul and La Vallière, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas!" said -Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And," continued -Aramis, "you, a high and powerful nobleman as you are, forgetful -that courtiers now exist - you have been to the king, I suppose, -and told him what you thought of his conduct?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, you have -guessed right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So that," said -Baisemeaux, trembling at having supped so familiarly with a man -who had fallen into disgrace with the king; "so that, monsieur le -comte - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So that, my dear -governor," said Athos, "my friend D'Artagnan will communicate to -you the contents of the paper which I perceived just peeping out -of his belt, and which assuredly can be nothing else than the -order for my incarceration."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux held out -his hand with his accustomed eagerness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan drew two papers from his -belt, and presented one of them to the governor, who unfolded it, -and then read, in a low tone of voice, looking at Athos over the -paper, as he did so, and pausing from time to time: "'Order to -detain, in my château of the Bastile, Monsieur le Comte de -la Fère.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, -monsieur! this is indeed a very melancholy day for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will have a -patient prisoner, monsieur," said Athos, in his calm, soft -voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A prisoner, too, -who will not remain a month with you, my dear governor," said -Aramis; while Baisemeaux, still holding the order in his hand, -transcribed it upon the prison registry.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not a day, or -rather not even a night," said D'Artagnan, displaying the second -order of the king, "for now, dear M. de Baisemeaux, you will have -the goodness to transcribe also this order for setting the comte -immediately at liberty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said Aramis, -"it is a labor that you have deprived me of, D'Artagnan;" and he -pressed the musketeer's hand in a significant manner, at the same -moment as that of Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What!" said the -latter in astonishment, "the king sets me at liberty!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Read, my dear -friend," returned D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos took the -order and read it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is -quite true," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are you sorry for -it?" asked D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no, on the -contrary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish the king -no harm; and the greatest evil or misfortune that any one can -wish kings, is that they should commit an act of injustice.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you have had a difficult -and painful task, I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Tell me, have you not, D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I? not at all," -said the musketeer, laughing: "the king does everything I wish -him to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis looked -fixedly at D'Artagnan, and saw that he was not speaking the -truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Baisemeaux had -eyes for nothing but D'Artagnan, so great was his admiration for -a man who seemed to make the king do all he wished.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And does the king -exile Athos?" inquired Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, not precisely; -the king did not explain himself upon that subject," replied -D'Artagnan; "but I think the comte could not well do better -unless, indeed, he wishes particularly to thank the king - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, indeed," -replied Athos, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, I -think," resumed D'Artagnan, "that the comte cannot do better than -to retire to his <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>own</i> -château.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However, -my dear Athos, you have only to speak, to tell me what you -want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If any particular -place of residence is more agreeable to you than another, I am -influential enough, perhaps, to obtain it for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, thank you," -said Athos; "nothing can be more agreeable to me, my dear friend, -than to return to my solitude beneath my noble trees on the banks -of the Loire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If Heaven -be the overruling physician of the evils of the mind, nature is a -sovereign remedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so, -monsieur," continued Athos, turning again towards Baisemeaux, "I -am now free, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, monsieur le -comte, I think so - at least, I hope so," said the governor, -turning over and over the two papers in question, "unless, -however, M. d'Artagnan has a third order to give me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, my dear -Baisemeaux, no," said the musketeer; "the second is quite enough: -we will stop there - if you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! monsieur le -comte," said Baisemeaux addressing Athos, "you do not know what -you are losing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should -have placed you among the thirty-franc prisoners, like the -generals - what am I saying? - I mean among the fifty-francs, -like the princes, and you would have supped every evening as you -have done to-night."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Allow me, -monsieur," said Athos, "to prefer my own simpler fare."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, turning to -D'Artagnan, he said, "Let us go, my dear friend.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shall I have that greatest of all -pleasures for me - that of having you as my companion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To the city gate -only," replied D'Artagnan, "after which I will tell you what I -told the king: 'I am on duty.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you, my dear -Aramis," said Athos, smiling; "will you accompany me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Fère is on the road to -Vannes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thank you, my dear -friend," said Aramis, "but I have an appointment in Paris this -evening, and I cannot leave without very serious interests -suffering by my absence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case," -said Athos, "I must say adieu, and take my leave of you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My dear Monsieur de -Baisemeaux, I have to thank you exceedingly for your kind and -friendly disposition towards me, and particularly for the -enjoyable specimen you have given me of the ordinary fare of the -Bastile."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, having -embraced Aramis, and shaken hands with M. de Baisemeaux, and -having received best wishes for a pleasant journey from them -both, Athos set off with D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Whilst the <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>dénouement</i> of the -scene of the Palais Royal was taking place at the Bastile, let us -relate what was going on at the lodgings of Athos and -Bragelonne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud, as -we have seen, had accompanied his master to Paris; and, as we -have said, he was present when Athos went out; he had observed -D'Artagnan gnaw the corners of his mustache; he had seen his -master get into the carriage; he had narrowly examined both their -countenances, and he had known them both for a sufficiently long -period to read and understand, through the mask of their -impassibility, that something serious was the matter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as Athos had gone, he began -to reflect; he then, and then only, remembered the strange manner -in which Athos had taken leave of him, the embarrassment - -imperceptible as it would have been to any but himself - of the -master whose ideas were, to him, so clear and defined, and the -expression of whose wishes was so precise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He knew that Athos had taken nothing -with him but the clothes he had on him at the time; and yet he -seemed to fancy that Athos had not left for an hour merely; or -even for a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A long -absence was signified by the manner in which he pronounced the -word "Adieu."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these -circumstances recurred to his mind, with feelings of deep -affection for Athos, with that horror of isolation and solitude -which invariably besets the minds of those who love; and all -these combined rendered poor Grimaud very melancholy, and -particularly uneasy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Without being able to account to himself for what he did since -his master's departure, he wandered about the room, seeking, as -it were, for some traces of him, like a faithful dog, who is not -exactly uneasy about his absent master, but at least is -restless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only as, in -addition to the instinct of the animal, Grimaud subjoined the -reasoning faculties of the man, Grimaud therefore felt uneasy and -restless too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not having -found any indication which could serve as a guide, and having -neither seen nor discovered anything which could satisfy his -doubts, Grimaud began to wonder what could possibly have -happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, -imagination is the resource, or rather the plague of gentle and -affectionate hearts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -fact, never does a feeling heart represent its absent friend to -itself as being happy or cheerful.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never does the dove that wings its -flight in search of adventures inspire anything but terror at -home.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Grimaud soon passed -from uneasiness to terror; he carefully went over, in his own -mind, everything that had taken place: D'Artagnan's letter to -Athos, the letter which had seemed to distress Athos so much -after he had read it; then Raoul's visit to Athos, which resulted -in Athos desiring him (Grimaud) to get his various orders and his -court dress ready to put on; then his interview with the king, at -the end of which Athos had returned home so unusually gloomy; -then the explanation between the father and the son, at the -termination of which Athos had embraced Raoul with such sadness -of expression, while Raoul himself went away equally weary and -melancholy; and finally, D'Artagnan's arrival, biting, as if he -were vexed, the end of his mustache, and leaving again in the -carriage, accompanied by the Comte de la Fère.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All this composed a drama in five -acts very clearly, particularly for so analytical an observer as -Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The first step he -took was to search in his master's coat for M. d'Artagnan's -letter; he found the letter still there, and its contents were -found to run as follows:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"MY DEAR FRIEND, - -Raoul has been to ask me for some particulars about the conduct -of Mademoiselle de la Vallière, during our young friend's -residence in London.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -a poor captain of musketeers, and I am sickened to death every -day by hearing all the scandal of the barracks and bedside -conversations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I had -told Raoul all I believe, I know the poor fellow would have died -of it; but I am in the king's service, and cannot relate all I -hear about the king's affairs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If your heart tells you to do it, -set off at once; the matter concerns you more than it does -myself, and almost as much as Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Grimaud tore, not a -handful, but a finger-and-thumbful of hair out of his head; he -would have done more if his head of hair had been in a more -flourishing condition.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," he said, -"that is the key of the whole enigma.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young girl has been playing her -pranks; what people say about her and the king is true, then; our -young master has been deceived; he ought to know it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur le comte has been to see -the king, and has told him a piece of his mind; and then the king -sent M. d'Artagnan to arrange the affair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! gracious goodness!" continued -Grimaud, "monsieur le comte, I now remember, returned without his -sword."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>This discovery made -the perspiration break out all over poor Grimaud's face.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not waste any more time -in useless conjecture, but clapped his hat on his head, and ran -to Raoul's lodgings.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul, after Louise -had left him, had mastered his grief, if not his affection; and, -compelled to look forward on that perilous road over which -madness and revulsion were hurrying him, he had seen, from the -very first glance, his father exposed to the royal obstinacy, -since Athos had himself been the first to oppose any resistance -to the royal will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At -this moment, from a very natural sequence of feeling, the unhappy -young man remembered the mysterious signs which Athos had made, -and the unexpected visit of D'Artagnan; the result of the -conflict between a sovereign and a subject revealed itself to his -terrified vision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As -D'Artagnan was on duty, that is, a fixture at his post without -the possibility of leaving it, it was certainly not likely that -he had come to pay Athos a visit merely for the pleasure of -seeing him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He must have -come to say something to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This something in the midst of such -painful conjectures must have been the news of either a -misfortune or a danger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Raoul trembled at having been so selfish as to have forgotten his -father for his affection; at having, in a word, passed his time -in idle dreams, or in an indulgence of despair, at a time when a -necessity existed for repelling such an imminent attack on -Athos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The very idea -nearly drove him frantic; he buckled on his sword and ran towards -his father's lodgings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On -his way there he encountered Grimaud, who, having set off from -the opposite pole, was running with equal eagerness in search of -the truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two men -embraced each other most warmly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Grimaud," -exclaimed Raoul, "is the comte well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you seen -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; where is -he?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am trying to -find out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And M. -d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Went out with -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"When?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ten minutes after -you did."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way did -they go out?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In a -carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where did they -go?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have no idea at -all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did my father take -any money with him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Or his sword?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have an idea, -Grimaud, that M. d'Artagnan came in order to - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Arrest monsieur le -comte, do you not think, monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, Grimaud."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I could have sworn -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What road did they -take?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The way leading -towards the quay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To the Bastile, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quick, quick; let -us run."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, let us not -lose a moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But where are we -to go?" said Raoul, overwhelmed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We will go to M. -d'Artagnan's first, we may perhaps learn something there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; if they keep -me in ignorance at my father's, they will do the same -everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us go to -- Oh, good heavens! why, I must be mad to-day, Grimaud; I have -forgotten M. du Vallon, who is waiting for and expecting me -still."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where is he, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the Minimes of -Vincennes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thank goodness, -that is on the same side as the Bastile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will run and saddle the horses, -and we will go at once," said Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do, my friend, -do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXVI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>In -Which Porthos Is Convinced without Having Understood -Anything.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he good and worthy Porthos, faithful to all the laws of -ancient chivalry, had determined to wait for M. de Saint-Aignan -until sunset; and as Saint-Aignan did not come, as Raoul had -forgotten to communicate with his second, and as he found that -waiting so long was very wearisome, Porthos had desired one of -the gate-keepers to fetch him a few bottles of good wine and a -good joint of meat, - so that, at least, he might pass away the -time by means of a glass or two and a mouthful of something to -eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had just finished -when Raoul arrived, escorted by Grimaud, both of them riding at -full speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as -Porthos saw the two cavaliers riding at such a pace along the -road, he did not for a moment doubt but that they were the men he -was expecting, and he rose from the grass upon which he had been -indolently reclining and began to stretch his legs and arms, -saying, "See what it is to have good habits.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fellow has finished by coming, -after all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I had gone -away he would have found no one here and would have taken -advantage of that."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -then threw himself into a martial attitude, and drew himself up -to the full height of his gigantic stature.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But instead of Saint-Aignan, he only -saw Raoul, who, with the most despairing gestures, accosted him -by crying out, "Pray forgive me, my dear friend, I am most -wretched."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul!" cried Porthos, -surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have been angry -with me?" said Raoul, embracing Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For having forgotten -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I assure you my -head seems utterly lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -If you only knew!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have killed -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Who?"<br> -"Saint-Aignan; or, if that is not the case, what is the -matter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The matter is, -that Monsieur le Comte de la Fère has by this time been -arrested."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>Porthos gave a -start that would have thrown down a wall.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Arrested!" he -cried out; "by whom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"By -D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It is impossible," -said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"My dear friend, it -is perfectly true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos turned -towards Grimaud, as if he needed a second confirmation of the -intelligence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud -nodded his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And -where have they taken him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Probably to the -Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What makes you -think that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As we came along -we questioned some persons, who saw the carriage pass; and others -who saw it enter the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" muttered -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you intend -to do?" inquired Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing; only I will not have Athos -remain at the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know," said -Raoul, advancing nearer to Porthos, "that the arrest was made by -order of the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos looked at -the young man, as if to say, "What does that matter to me?"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This dumb language seemed so -eloquent of meaning to Raoul that he did not ask any other -question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He mounted his -horse again; and Porthos, assisted by Grimaud, had already done -the same.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us arrange our -plan of action," said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," returned -Porthos, "that is the best thing we can do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul sighed -deeply, and then paused suddenly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is the -matter?" asked Porthos; "are you faint?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, only I feel -how utterly helpless our position is.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can we three pretend to go and take -the Bastile?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, if -D'Artagnan were only here," replied Porthos, "I am not so very -certain we would fail."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul could not -resist a feeling of admiration at the sight of such perfect -confidence, heroic in its simplicity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These were truly the celebrated men -who, by three or four, attacked armies and assaulted -castles!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Men who had -terrified death itself, who had survived the wrecks of a -tempestuous age, and still stood, stronger than the most robust -of the young.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said he -to Porthos, "you have just given me an idea; we absolutely must -see M. d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Undoubtedly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He ought by this -time to have returned home, after having taken my father to the -Bastile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us go to his -house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"First inquire at -the Bastile," said Grimaud, who was in the habit of speaking -little, but that to the purpose.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Accordingly, they -hastened towards the fortress, when one of those chances which -Heaven bestows on men of strong will caused Grimaud suddenly to -perceive the carriage, which was entering by the great gate of -the drawbridge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was -the moment that D'Artagnan was, as we have seen, returning from -his visit to the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -vain was it that Raoul urged on his horse in order to join the -carriage, and to see whom it contained.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horses had already gained the -other side of the great gate, which again closed, while one of -the sentries struck the nose of Raoul's horse with his musket; -Raoul turned about, only too happy to find he had ascertained -something respecting the carriage which had contained his -father.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We have him," said -Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If we wait a -little it is certain he will leave; don't you think so, my -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Unless, indeed, -D'Artagnan also be a prisoner," replied Porthos, "in which case -everything is lost."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul returned no -answer, for any hypothesis was admissible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He instructed Grimaud to lead the -horses to the little street Jean-Beausire, so as to give rise to -less suspicion, and himself with his piercing gaze watched for -the exit either of D'Artagnan or the carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nor had he decided wrongly; for -twenty minutes had not elapsed before the gate reopened and the -carriage reappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -dazzling of the eyes prevented Raoul from distinguishing what -figures occupied the interior.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud averred that he had seen two -persons, and that one of them was his master.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos kept looking at Raoul and -Grimaud by turns, in the hope of understanding their idea.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is clear," said -Grimaud, "that if the comte is in the carriage, either he is set -at liberty or they are taking him to another prison."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We shall soon see -that by the road he takes," answered Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If he is set at -liberty," said Grimaud, "they will conduct him home."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"True," rejoined -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The carriage does -not take that way," cried Raoul; and indeed the horses were just -disappearing down the Faubourg St. Antoine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us hasten," -said Porthos; "we will attack the carriage on the road and tell -Athos to flee."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Rebellion," -murmured Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Porthos darted a -second glance at Raoul, quite worthy of the first.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul replied only by spurring the -flanks of his steed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a -few moments the three cavaliers had overtaken the carriage, and -followed it so closely that their horses' breath moistened the -back of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -whose senses were ever on the alert, heard the trot of the -horses, at the moment when Raoul was telling Porthos to pass the -chariot, so as to see who was the person accompanying Athos.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos complied, but could -not see anything, for the blinds were lowered.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Rage and impatience were gaining -mastery over Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -had just noticed the mystery preserved by Athos's companion, and -determined on proceeding to extremities.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On his part D'Artagnan had perfectly -recognized Porthos, and Raoul also, from under the blinds, and -had communicated to the comte the result of his observation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were desirous only of -seeing whether Raoul and Porthos would push the affair to the -uttermost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And this they -speedily did, for Raoul, presenting his pistol, threw himself on -the leader, commanding the coachmen to stop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos seized the coachman, and -dragged him from his seat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud already had hold of the -carriage door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -threw open his arms, exclaiming, "M. le comte! M. le comte!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! is it you, -Raoul?" said Athos, intoxicated with joy.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not bad, indeed!" -added D'Artagnan, with a burst of laughter, and they both -embraced the young man and Porthos, who had taken possession of -them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My brave Porthos! -best of friends," cried Athos, "it is still the same old way with -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is still only -twenty," said D'Artagnan, "brave Porthos!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Confound it," -answered Porthos, slightly confused, "we thought that you were -being arrested."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"While," rejoined -Athos, "the matter in question was nothing but my taking a drive -in M. d'Artagnan's carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But we followed -you from the Bastile," returned Raoul, with a tone of suspicion -and reproach.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where we had been -to take supper with our friend M. Baisemeaux.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you recollect Baisemeaux, -Porthos?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, -indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And there we saw -Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the -Bastile?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At supper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said Porthos, -again breathing freely.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He gave us a -thousand messages to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And where is M. le -comte going?" asked Grimaud, already recompensed by a smile from -his master.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We were going home -to Blois."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How can that -be?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At once?" said -Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, right -forward."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without any -luggage?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul would have been instructed to -forward me mine, or to bring it with him on his return, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>if</i> he returns."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If nothing detains -him longer in Paris," said D'Artagnan, with a glance firm and -cutting as steel, and as painful (for it reopened the poor young -fellow's wounds), "he will do well to follow you, Athos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is nothing -to keep me any longer in Paris," said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then we will go -immediately."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And M. -d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! as for me, I -was only accompanying Athos as far as the barrier, and I return -with Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good," said -the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come, my son," -added the comte, gently passing his arm around Raoul's neck to -draw him into the carriage, and again embracing him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Grimaud," continued the comte, "you -will return quietly to Paris with your horse and M. du Vallon's, -for Raoul and I will mount here and give up the carriage to these -two gentlemen to return to Paris in; and then, as soon as you -arrive, you will take my clothes and letters and forward the -whole to me at home."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But," observed -Raoul, who was anxious to make the comte converse, "when you -return to Paris, there will not be a single thing there for you - -which will be very inconvenient."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think it will be -a very long time, Raoul, ere I return to Paris.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The last sojourn we have made there -has not been of a nature to encourage me to repeat it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul hung down his -head and said not a word more.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos descended from the carriage -and mounted the horse which had brought Porthos, and which seemed -no little pleased at the exchange.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then they embraced, and clasped each -other's hands, and interchanged a thousand pledges of eternal -friendship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -promised to spend a month with Athos at the first -opportunity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -engaged to take advantage of his first leave of absence; and -then, having embraced Raoul for the last time: "To you, my boy," -said he, "I will write."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Coming from D'Artagnan, who he knew wrote very seldom, these -words expressed everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul was moved even to tears.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He tore himself away from the -musketeer and departed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan rejoined -Porthos in the carriage: "Well," said he, "my dear friend, what a -day we have had!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed we have," -answered Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You must be quite -worn out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not quite; -however, I shall retire early to rest, so as to be ready for -to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And -wherefore?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why! to complete -what I have begun."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You make me -shudder, my friend, you seem to me quite angry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What the devil <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>have</i> you begun which is not -finished?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen; Raoul has -not fought, but <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> must -fight!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With whom? with -the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How!" exclaimed -Porthos, astounded, "with the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I say, you -great baby, with the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I assure you it is -with M. Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Look now, this is -what I mean; you draw your sword against the king in fighting -with this gentleman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said Porthos, -staring; "are you sure of it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What in the world -are we to do, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We must try and -make a good supper, Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain of the musketeers keeps -a tolerable table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -you will see the handsome Saint-Aignan, and will drink his -health."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I?" cried Porthos, -horrified.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What!" said -D'Artagnan, "you refuse to drink the king's health?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But, body -alive!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am not talking -to you about the king at all; I am speaking of M. de -Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But when I repeat -that it is the same thing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, well, well!" -said Porthos, overcome.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You understand, -don't you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No," answered -Porthos, "but 'tis all the same."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Chapter -LXVII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>M. -de Baisemeaux's "Society."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he reader has not forgotten that, on quitting the -Bastile, D'Artagnan and the Comte de la Fère had left -Aramis in close confabulation with Baisemeaux.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When once these two guests had -departed, Baisemeaux did not in the least perceive that the -conversation suffered by their absence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He used to think that wine after -supper, and that of the Bastile in particular, was excellent, and -that it was a stimulation quite sufficient to make any honest man -talkative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he little -knew his Greatness, who was never more impenetrable that at -dessert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His Greatness, -however, perfectly understood M. de Baisemeaux, when he reckoned -on making the governor discourse by the means which the latter -regarded as efficacious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The conversation, therefore, without flagging in appearance, -flagged in reality; for Baisemeaux not only had it nearly all to -himself, but further, kept speaking only of that singular event, -the incarceration of Athos, followed by so prompt an order to set -him again at liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Nor, moreover, had Baisemeaux failed to observe that the two -orders of arrest and of liberation, were both in the king's -hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But then, the king -would not take the trouble to write similar orders except under -pressing circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -All this was very interesting, and, above all, very puzzling to -Baisemeaux; but as, on the other hand, all this was very clear to -Aramis, the latter did not attach to the occurrence the same -importance as did the worthy governor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, Aramis rarely put himself -out of the way for anything, and he had not yet told M. de -Baisemeaux for what reason he had now done so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so at the very climax of -Baisemeaux's dissertation, Aramis suddenly interrupted him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me, my dear -Baisemeaux," said he, "have you never had any other diversions at -the Bastile than those at which I assisted during the two or -three visits I have had the honor to pay you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This address was so -unexpected that the governor, like a vane which suddenly receives -an impulsion opposed to that of the wind, was quite dumbfounded -at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Diversions!" said -he; "but I take them continually, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, to be sure!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And these diversions?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are of every kind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Visits, no -doubt?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, not -visits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Visits are not -frequent at the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What, are visits -rare, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very much so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Even on the part -of your society?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you term -my society - the prisoners?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no! - your -prisoners, indeed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know -well it is you who visit them, and not they you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By your society, I mean, my dear -Baisemeaux, the society of which you are a member."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux looked -fixedly at Aramis, and then, as if the idea which had flashed -across his mind were impossible, "Oh," he said, "I have very -little society at present.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I must own it to you, dear M. -d'Herblay, the fact is, to stay at the Bastile appears, for the -most part, distressing and distasteful to persons of the gay -world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the ladies, -it is never without a certain dread, which costs me infinite -trouble to allay, that they succeed in reaching my quarters.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, indeed, how should they -avoid trembling a little, poor things, when they see those gloomy -dungeons, and reflect that they are inhabited by prisoners who - -"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And in proportion as -the eyes of Baisemeaux concentrated their gaze on the face of -Aramis, the worthy governor's tongue faltered more and more until -it ended by stopping altogether.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, you don't -understand me, my dear M. Baisemeaux; you don't understand -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not at all mean -to speak of society in general, but of a particular society - of -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>the</i> society, in a word -- to which you are affiliated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux nearly -dropped the glass of muscat which he was in the act of raising to -his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Affiliated," -cried he, "affiliated!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, affiliated, -undoubtedly," repeated Aramis, with the greatest -self-possession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are you -not a member of a secret society, my dear M. Baisemeaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Secret?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Secret or -mysterious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, M. -d'Herblay!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Consider, now, -don't deny it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But believe -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I believe what I -know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I swear to -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen to me, my -dear M. Baisemeaux; I say yes, you say no; one of us two -necessarily says what is true, and the other, it inevitably -follows, what is false."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, and -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, we shall -come to an understanding presently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us see," said -Baisemeaux; "let us see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Now drink your -glass of muscat, dear Monsieur de Baisemeaux," said Aramis.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What the devil! you look -quite scared."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no; not the -least in the world; oh, no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Drink then."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux drank, but he -swallowed the wrong way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," resumed -Aramis, "if, I say, you are not a member of a secret or -mysterious society, which you like to call it - the epithet is of -no consequence - if, I say, you are not a member of a society -similar to that I wish to designate, well, then, you will not -understand a word of what I am going to say.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! be sure -beforehand that I shall not understand anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Try, now; let us -see!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is what I am -going to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If, on the -contrary, you are one of the members of this society, you will -immediately answer me - yes or no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Begin your -questions," continued Baisemeaux, trembling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will agree, -dear Monsieur de Baisemeaux," continued Aramis, with the same -impassibility, "that it is evident a man cannot be a member of a -society, it is evident that he cannot enjoy the advantages it -offers to the affiliated, without being himself bound to certain -little services."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In short," -stammered Baisemeaux, "that would be intelligible, if - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," resumed -Aramis, "there is in the society of which I speak, and of which, -as it seems you are not a member - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Allow me," said -Baisemeaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I should not -like to say absolutely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There is an -engagement entered into by all the governors and captains of -fortresses affiliated to the order." <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux grew pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Now the -engagement," continued Aramis firmly, "is of this nature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux rose, -manifesting unspeakable emotion: "Go on, dear M. d'Herblay: go -on," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis then spoke, -or rather recited the following paragraph, in the same tone as if -he had been reading it from a book: "The aforesaid captain or -governor of a fortress shall allow to enter, when need shall -arise, and on demand of the prisoner, a confessor affiliated to -the order."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux was -quite distressing to look at, being so wretchedly pale and -trembling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is not that -the text of the agreement?" quietly asked Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur!" -began Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! well, you -begin to understand, I think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur," -cried Baisemeaux, "do not trifle so with my unhappy mind!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I find myself as nothing in -your hands, if you have the malignant desire to draw from me the -little secrets of my administration."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! by no means; -pray undeceive yourself, dear M. Baisemeaux; it is not the little -secrets of your administration, but those of your conscience that -I aim at."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, then, my -conscience be it, dear M. d'Herblay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But have some consideration for the -situation I am in, which is no ordinary one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is no ordinary -one, my dear monsieur," continued the inflexible Aramis, "if you -are a member of this society; but it is a quite natural one if -free from all engagement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are answerable only to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, monsieur, -well!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I obey only the -king, and whom else would you have a French nobleman obey?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis did not -yield an inch, but with that silvery voice of his continued: "It -is very pleasant," said he, "for a French nobleman, for a prelate -of France, to hear a man of your mark express himself so loyally, -dear De Baisemeaux, and having heard you to believe no more than -you do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you doubted, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I? oh, no!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so you doubt -no longer?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have no longer -any doubt that such a man as you, monsieur," said Aramis, -gravely, "does not faithfully serve the masters whom he -voluntarily chose for himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Masters!" cried -Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, masters, I -said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Herblay, you are still jesting, are you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, yes!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understand that it is a more -difficult position to have several masters than one; but the -embarrassment is owing to you, my dear Baisemeaux, and I am not -the cause of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly not," -returned the unfortunate governor, more embarrassed than ever; -"but what are you doing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are leaving the table?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Assuredly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Are you -going?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I am -going."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you are -behaving very strangely towards me, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am behaving -strangely - how do you make that out?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you sworn, -then, to put me to the torture?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, I should be -sorry to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Remain, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I cannot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because I have no -longer anything to do here; and, indeed, I have duties to fulfil -elsewhere."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Duties, so late as -this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; understand me -now, my dear De Baisemeaux: they told me at the place whence I -came, 'The aforesaid governor or captain will allow to enter, as -need shall arise, on the prisoner's demand, a confessor -affiliated with the order.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I came; you do not know what I mean, -and so I shall return to tell them that they are mistaken, and -that they must send me elsewhere."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What! you are - " -cried Baisemeaux, looking at Aramis almost in terror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The confessor -affiliated to the order," said Aramis, without changing his -voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>But, gentle as the -words were, they had the same effect on the unhappy governor as a -clap of thunder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux became livid, and it seemed to him as if Aramis's -beaming eyes were two forks of flame, piercing to the very bottom -of his soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The -confessor!" murmured he; "you, monseigneur, the confessor of the -order!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I; but we -have nothing to unravel together, seeing that you are not one of -the affiliated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I understand -that, not being so, you refuse to comply with its command."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, I -beseech you, condescend to hear me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And -wherefore?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, I do -not say that I have nothing to do with the society."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I say not that I -refuse to obey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nevertheless, M. -de Baisemeaux, what has passed wears very much the air of -resistance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no! -monseigneur, no; I only wished to be certain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To be certain of -what?" said Aramis, in a tone of supreme contempt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of nothing at all, -monseigneur."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux -lowered his voice, and bending before the prelate, said, "I am at -all times and in all places at the disposal of my superiors, but -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very good.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I like you better thus, -monsieur," said Aramis, as he resumed his seat, and put out his -glass to Baisemeaux, whose hand trembled so that he could not -fill it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You were saying -'but' - " continued Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But," replied the -unhappy man, "having received no notice, I was very far from -expecting it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Does not the -Gospel say, 'Watch, for the moment is known only of God?'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not the rules of the order -say, 'Watch, for that which I will, you ought always to will -also.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what pretext -will serve you now that you did not expect the confessor, M. de -Baisemeaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because, -monseigneur, there is at present in the Bastile no prisoner -ill."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis shrugged his -shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do you -know about that?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But, nevertheless, -it appears to me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. de Baisemeaux," -said Aramis, turning round in his chair, "here is your servant, -who wishes to speak with you;" and at this moment, De -Baisemeaux's servant appeared at the threshold of the door.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it?" asked -Baisemeaux, sharply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -the man, "they are bringing you the doctor's return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis looked at De -Baisemeaux with a calm and confident eye.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," said he, -"let the messenger enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The messenger -entered, saluted, and handed in the report.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux ran his eye over it, and -raising his head, said in surprise, "No. 12 is ill!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How was it, then," -said Aramis, carelessly, "that you told me everybody was well in -your hôtel, M. de Baisemeaux?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he emptied his glass without -removing his eyes from Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The governor then -made a sign to the messenger, and when he had quitted the room, -said, still trembling, "I think that there is in the article, 'on -the prisoner's demand.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, it is so," -answered Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But see -what it is they want with you now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And that moment a -sergeant put his head in at the door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do you want now?" cried -Baisemeaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Can you not -leave me in peace for ten minutes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -the sergeant, "the sick man, No. 12, has commissioned the turnkey -to request you to send him a confessor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux very -nearly sank on the floor; but Aramis disdained to reassure him, -just as he had disdained to terrify him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What must I answer?" inquired -Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Just what you -please," replied Aramis, compressing his lips; "that is your -business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> am not the governor of the -Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Tell the -prisoner," cried Baisemeaux, quickly, - "tell the prisoner that -his request is granted."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The sergeant left the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! monseigneur, monseigneur," -murmured Baisemeaux, "how could I have suspected! - how could I -have foreseen this!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who requested you -to suspect, and who besought you to foresee?" contemptuously -answered Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The -order suspects; the order knows; the order foresees - is that not -enough?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it you -command?" added Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I? - nothing at -all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am nothing but a -poor priest, a simple confessor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have I your orders to go and see the -sufferer?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, monseigneur, I -do not order; I pray you to go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Tis well; conduct -me to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>End -of <u>Louise de la Vallière</u>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The last text in the series is -<u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">End of Project Gutenberg Etext Louise de la -Vallière, by Alexandre Dumas, Pere</p> -</div> -</body> -</html> - - |