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diff --git a/old/ironm10h.htm b/old/ironm10h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 9224289..0000000 --- a/old/ironm10h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,37167 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> -<html> -<head> -<title>New File</title> -<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content= -"text/html; charset=iso-8859-1"> -<style type="text/css"> -<!-- -body {margin:10%; text-align:justify} -blockquote {font-size:14pt} -P {font-size:14pt} ---> -</style> -</head> -<body> -<div class="Section1"> -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>Project -Gutenberg Etext The Man in the Iron Mask, by Dumas, Pere</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='punctuation-wrap:hanging'>#28 in our -series by Alexandre Dumas, Pere</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. 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-<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></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 (third in the new series) - 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'>: Etext -2759 (our new 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'>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"><u>Louise de la Vallière (Etext -2710)</u>: Believing D'Artagnan occupied at Fontainebleau and -Porthos safely tucked away at Paris, Aramis holds a funeral for -the dead Franciscan - but in fact, Aramis is wrong in both -suppositions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -has left Fontainebleau, bored to tears by the <i>fêtes</i>, -retrieved Porthos, and is visiting the country-house of Planchet, -his old lackey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -house happens to be right next door to the graveyard, and upon -observing Aramis at this funeral, and his subsequent meeting with -a mysterious hooded lady, D'Artagnan, suspicions aroused, -resolves to make a little trouble for the bishop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He presents Porthos to the king at -the same time as Fouquet presents Aramis, thereby surprising the -wily prelate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis's -professions of affection and innocence do only a little to allay -D'Artagnan's concerns, and he continues to regard Aramis's -actions with a curious and wary eye.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Meanwhile, much to his delight, -Porthos is invited to dine with the king as a result of his -presentation, and with D'Artagnan's guidance, manages to behave -in such a manner as to procure the king's marked favor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The mysterious woman -turns out to be the Duchesse de Chevreuse, a notorious schemer -and former friend of Anne of Austria.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She comes bearing more bad news for -Fouquet, who is already in trouble, as the king has invited -himself to a <i>fête</i> at Vaux, Fouquet's magnificent -mansion, that will surely bankrupt the poor superintendent.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Duchesse has letters from -Mazarin that prove that Fouquet has received thirteen million -francs from the royal coffers, and she wishes to sell these -letters to Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -refuses, and the letters are instead sold to Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet, meanwhile, discovers that -the receipt that proves his innocence in the affair has been -stolen from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Even -worse, Fouquet, desperate for money, is forced to sell the -parliamentary position that renders him untouchable by any court -proceedings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As part of -her deal with Colbert, though, Chevreuse also obtains a secret -audience with the queen-mother, where the two discuss a shocking -secret - Louis XIV has a twin brother, long believed, however, to -be dead.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Meanwhile, in other -quarters, De Wardes, Raoul's inveterate enemy, has returned from -Calais, barely recovered from his wounds, and no sooner does he -return than he begins again to insult people, particularly La -Vallière, and this time the comte de Guiche is the one to -challenge him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duel -leaves De Guiche horribly wounded, but enables Madame to use her -influence to destroy De Wardes's standing at court.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i>fêtes</i>, however, -come to an end, and the court returns to Paris.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king has been more than obvious -about his affections for Louise, and Madame, the queen-mother, -and the queen join forces to destroy her.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She is dishonorably discharged from -court, and in despair, she flees to the convent at Chaillot.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Along the way, though, she -runs into D'Artagnan, who manages to get word back to the king of -what has taken place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By -literally begging Madame in tears, Louis manages to secure -Louise's return to court - but Madame still places every obstacle -possible before the lovers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They have to resort to building a -secret staircase and meeting in the apartments of M. de -Saint-Aignan, where Louis has a painter create a portrait of -Louise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Madame -recalls Raoul from London and shows him these proofs of Louise's -infidelity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, -crushed, challenges Saint-Aignan to a duel, which the king -prevents, and Athos, furious, breaks his sword before the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king has -D'Artagnan arrest Athos, and at the Bastile they encounter -Aramis, who is paying Baisemeaux another visit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul learns of Athos's arrest, and -with Porthos in tow, they effect a daring rescue, surprising the -carriage containing D'Artagnan and Athos as they leave the -Bastile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Although quite -impressive, the intrepid raid is in vain, as D'Artagnan has -already secured Athos's pardon from the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Instead, everybody switches modes of -transport; D'Artagnan and Porthos take the horses back to Paris, -and Athos and Raoul take the carriage back to La Fère, -where they intend to reside permanently, as the king is now their -sworn enemy, Raoul cannot bear to see Louise, and they have no -more dealings in Paris.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis, left alone with -Baisemeaux, inquires the governor of the prison about his -loyalties, in particular to the Jesuits.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bishop reveals that he is a -confessor of the society, and invokes their regulations in order -to obtain access to this mysterious prisoner who bears such a -striking resemblance to Louis XIV...</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">And so Baisemeaux is conducting Aramis to -the prisoner as the final section of <u>The Vicomte de -Bragelonne</u> and this final story of the D'Artagnan Romances -opens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have written a -"Cast of Historical Characters," Etext 2760, that will enable -curious readers to compare personages in the novel with their -historical counterparts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Also of interest may be an essay Dumas wrote on the possible -identity of the real Man in the Iron Mask, which is Project -Gutenberg Etext 2751.<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'> -August, 2000</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'><b -style='mso-bidi-font-weight: normal'><i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'><u><span style= -'font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>The Man in the Iron -Mask</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 -I:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Prisoner.</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>ince Aramis's singular transformation into a confessor of -the order, Baisemeaux was no longer the same man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Up to that period, the place which -Aramis had held in the worthy governor's estimation was that of a -prelate whom he respected and a friend to whom he owed a debt of -gratitude; but now he felt himself an inferior, and that Aramis -was his master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -himself lighted a lantern, summoned a turnkey, and said, -returning to Aramis, "I am at your orders, monseigneur."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis merely nodded his head, -as much as to say, "Very good"; and signed to him with his hand -to lead the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux advanced, and Aramis followed him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was a calm and lovely starlit -night; the steps of three men resounded on the flags of the -terraces, and the clinking of the keys hanging from the jailer's -girdle made itself heard up to the stories of the towers, as if -to remind the prisoners that the liberty of earth was a luxury -beyond their reach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -might have been said that the alteration effected in Baisemeaux -extended even to the prisoners.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The turnkey, the same who, on -Aramis's first arrival had shown himself so inquisitive and -curious, was now not only silent, but impassible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He held his head down, and seemed -afraid to keep his ears open.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this wise they reached the -basement of the Bertaudière, the two first stories of -which were mounted silently and somewhat slowly; for Baisemeaux, -though far from disobeying, was far from exhibiting any eagerness -to obey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On arriving at -the door, Baisemeaux showed a disposition to enter the prisoner's -chamber; but Aramis, stopping him on the threshold, said, "The -rules do not allow the governor to hear the prisoner's -confession."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux bowed, and -made way for Aramis, who took the lantern and entered; and then -signed to them to close the door behind him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For an instant he remained standing, -listening whether Baisemeaux and the turnkey had retired; but as -soon as he was assured by the sound of their descending footsteps -that they had left the tower, he put the lantern on the table and -gazed around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On a bed of -green serge, similar in all respect to the other beds in the -Bastile, save that it was newer, and under curtains half-drawn, -reposed a young man, to whom we have already once before -introduced Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -According to custom, the prisoner was without a light.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the hour of curfew, he was -bound to extinguish his lamp, and we perceive how much he was -favored, in being allowed to keep it burning even till then.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Near the bed a large leathern -armchair, with twisted legs, sustained his clothes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A little table - without pens, -books, paper, or ink - stood neglected in sadness near the -window; while several plates, still unemptied, showed that the -prisoner had scarcely touched his evening meal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis saw that the young man was -stretched upon his bed, his face half concealed by his arms.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The arrival of a visitor did -not caused any change of position; either he was waiting in -expectation, or was asleep.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis lighted the candle from the -lantern, pushed back the armchair, and approached the bed with an -evident mixture of interest and respect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young man raised his head.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is it?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You desired a -confessor?" replied Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because you -were ill?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very -ill?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man gave -Aramis a piercing glance, and answered, "I thank you."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After a moment's silence, "I -have seen you before," he continued.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Doubtless the scrutiny -the prisoner had just made of the cold, crafty, and imperious -character stamped upon the features of the bishop of Vannes was -little reassuring to one in his situation, for he added, "I am -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so?" said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, then - being -better, I have no longer the same need of a confessor, I -think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not even of the -hair-cloth, which the note you found in your bread informed you -of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man started; -but before he had either assented or denied, Aramis continued, -"Not even of the ecclesiastic from whom you were to hear an -important revelation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it be so," said the -young man, sinking again on his pillow, "it is different; I am -listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis then looked at -him more closely, and was struck with the easy majesty of his -mien, one which can never be acquired unless Heaven has implanted -it in the blood or heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Sit down, monsieur," said the prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis bowed and -obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How does the -Bastile agree with you?" asked the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not suffer?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have nothing to -regret?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not even your -liberty?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you -call liberty, monsieur?" asked the prisoner, with the tone of a -man who is preparing for a struggle.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I call liberty, the -flowers, the air, light, the stars, the happiness of going -whithersoever the sinewy limbs of one-and-twenty chance to wish -to carry you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man smiled, -whether in resignation or contempt, it was difficult to -tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Look," said he, "I -have in that Japanese vase two roses gathered yesterday evening -in the bud from the governor's garden; this morning they have -blown and spread their vermilion chalice beneath my gaze; with -every opening petal they unfold the treasures of their perfumes, -filling my chamber with a fragrance that embalms it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look now on these two roses; even -among roses these are beautiful, and the rose is the most -beautiful of flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Why, then, do you bid me desire other flowers when I possess the -loveliest of all?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis gazed at the -young man in surprise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>flowers</i> constitute liberty," -sadly resumed the captive, "I am free, for I possess them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the air!" cried -Aramis; "air is so necessary to life!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur," -returned the prisoner; "draw near to the window; it is open.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Between high heaven and earth -the wind whirls on its waftages of hail and lightning, exhales -its torrid mist or breathes in gentle breezes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It caresses my face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When mounted on the back of this -armchair, with my arm around the bars of the window to sustain -myself, I fancy I am swimming the wide expanse before me."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The countenance of Aramis -darkened as the young man continued: "Light I have! what is -better than light?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -the sun, a friend who comes to visit me every day without the -permission of the governor or the jailer's company.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He comes in at the window, and -traces in my room a square the shape of the window, which lights -up the hangings of my bed and floods the very floor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This luminous square increases from -ten o'clock till midday, and decreases from one till three -slowly, as if, having hastened to my presence, it sorrowed at -bidding me farewell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -its last ray disappears I have enjoyed its presence for five -hours. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is not that -sufficient?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have been -told that there are unhappy beings who dig in quarries, and -laborers who toil in mines, who never behold it at all."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis wiped the drops from -his brow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "As to the -stars which are so delightful to view," continued the young man, -"they all resemble each other save in size and brilliancy.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am a favored mortal, for if -you had not lighted that candle you would have been able to see -the beautiful stars which I was gazing at from my couch before -your arrival, whose silvery rays were stealing through my -brain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis lowered his head; -he felt himself overwhelmed with the bitter flow of that sinister -philosophy which is the religion of the captive.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much, then, for the -flowers, the air, the daylight, and the stars," tranquilly -continued the young man; "there remains but exercise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do I not walk all day in the -governor's garden if it is fine - here if it rains? in the fresh -air if it is warm; in perfect warmth, thanks to my winter stove, -if it be cold?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! -monsieur, do you fancy," continued the prisoner, not without -bitterness, "that men have not done everything for me that a man -can hope for or desire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Men!" said Aramis; "be -it so; but it seems to me you are forgetting Heaven."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed I have forgotten -Heaven," murmured the prisoner, with emotion; "but why do you -mention it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of what use -is it to talk to a prisoner of Heaven?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis looked steadily -at this singular youth, who possessed the resignation of a martyr -with the smile of an atheist.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is not Heaven in everything?" he -murmured in a reproachful tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Say rather, at the end -of everything," answered the prisoner, firmly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be it so," said Aramis; -"but let us return to our starting-point."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I ask nothing better," -returned the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am your -confessor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, you ought, -as a penitent, to tell me the truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My whole desire is to -tell it you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every prisoner has -committed some crime for which he has been imprisoned.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What crime, then, have <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>you</i> committed?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You asked -me the same question the first time you saw me," returned the -prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then, as now you -evaded giving me an answer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what reason have -you for thinking that I shall now reply to you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because this time I am -your confessor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then if you wish me to -tell what crime I have committed, explain to me in what a crime -consists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For as my -conscience does not accuse me, I aver that I am not a -criminal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are often criminals -in the sight of the great of the earth, not alone for having -ourselves committed crimes, but because we know that crimes have -been committed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The prisoner manifested -the deepest attention.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I understand you," -he said, after a pause; "yes, you are right, monsieur; it is very -possible that, in such a light, I am a criminal in the eyes of -the great of the earth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! then you know -something," said Aramis, who thought he had pierced not merely -through a defect in the harness, but through the joints of -it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I am not aware of -anything," replied the young man; "but sometimes I think - and I -say to myself - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you say to -yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That if I were to think -but a little more deeply I should either go mad or I should -divine a great deal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then - and then?" -said Aramis, impatiently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then I leave off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You leave off?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; my head becomes -confused and my ideas melancholy; I feel <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>ennui</i> overtaking me; I wish - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't know; but I do -not like to give myself up to longing for things which I do not -possess, when I am so happy with what I have."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are afraid of -death?" said Aramis, with a slight uneasiness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said the young -man, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis felt the chill of -that smile, and shuddered.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, as you fear death, you know -more about matters than you say," he cried.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you," returned the -prisoner, "who bade me to ask to see you; you, who, when I did -ask to see you, came here promising a world of confidence; how is -it that, nevertheless, it is you who are silent, leaving it for -me to speak?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Since, then, -we both wear masks, either let us both retain them or put them -aside together."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis felt the force -and justice of the remark, saying to himself, "This is no -ordinary man; I must be cautious. - Are you ambitious?" said he -suddenly to the prisoner, aloud, without preparing him for the -alteration.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean by -ambitious?" replied the youth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ambition," replied -Aramis, "is the feeling which prompts a man to desire more - much -more - than he possesses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I said that I was -contented, monsieur; but, perhaps, I deceive myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am ignorant of the nature of -ambition; but it is not impossible I may have some.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me your mind; that is all I -ask."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An ambitious man," said -Aramis, "is one who covets that which is beyond his station."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I covet nothing beyond -my station," said the young man, with an assurance of manner -which for the second time made the bishop of Vannes tremble.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He was silent.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But to look at the kindling -eye, the knitted brow, and the reflective attitude of the -captive, it was evident that he expected something more than -silence, - a silence which Aramis now broke.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You lied the first time I saw you," -said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Lied!" cried the young -man, starting up on his couch, with such a tone in his voice, and -such a lightning in his eyes, that Aramis recoiled, in spite of -himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>should</i> say," returned Aramis, -bowing, "you concealed from me what you knew of your -infancy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man's secrets are his -own, monsieur," retorted the prisoner, "and not at the mercy of -the first chance-comer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," said Aramis, -bowing still lower than before, "'tis true; pardon me, but to-day -do I still occupy the place of a chance-comer?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beseech you to reply, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This title slightly -disturbed the prisoner; but nevertheless he did not appear -astonished that it was given him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I do not know you, monsieur," said -he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, but if I dared, I -would take your hand and kiss it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man seemed as -if he were going to give Aramis his hand; but the light which -beamed in his eyes faded away, and he coldly and distrustfully -withdrew his hand again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Kiss the hand of a prisoner," he said, shaking his head, "to -what purpose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why did you tell me," -said Aramis, "that you were happy here?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, that you aspired to -nothing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, in a word, -by thus speaking, do you prevent me from being frank in my -turn?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The same light shone a -third time in the young man's eyes, but died ineffectually away -as before.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You distrust me," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why say you so, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, for a very simple -reason; if you know what you ought to know, you ought to mistrust -everybody."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then do not be -astonished that I am mistrustful, since you suspect me of knowing -what I do not know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis was struck with -admiration at this energetic resistance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, monseigneur! you drive me to -despair," said he, striking the armchair with his fist.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And, on my part, I do -not comprehend you, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, try to -understand me."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -prisoner looked fixedly at Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sometimes it seems to -me," said the latter, "that I have before me the man whom I seek, -and then - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then your man -disappears, - is it not so?" said the prisoner, smiling.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "So much the better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis rose.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Certainly," said he; "I have -nothing further to say to a man who mistrusts me as you do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I, monsieur," said -the prisoner, in the same tone, "have nothing to say to a man who -will not understand that a prisoner ought to be mistrustful of -everybody."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Even of his old -friends," said Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Oh, monseigneur, you are <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>too</i> prudent!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of my old friends? - -you one of my old friends, - you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you no longer -remember," said Aramis, "that you once saw, in the village where -your early years were spent - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know the name of -the village?" asked the prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Noisy-le-Sec, monseigneur," answered -Aramis, firmly.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "Go on," said the -young man, with an immovable aspect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay, monseigneur," -said Aramis; "if you are positively resolved to carry on this -game, let us break off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -am here to tell you many things, 'tis true; but you must allow me -to see that, on your side, you have a desire to know them.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before revealing the important -matters I still withhold, be assured I am in need of some -encouragement, if not candor; a little sympathy, if not -confidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you keep -yourself intrenched in a pretended which paralyzes me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, not for the reason you -think; for, ignorant as you may be, or indifferent as you feign -to be, you are none the less what you are, monseigneur, and there -is nothing - nothing, mark me! which can cause you not to be -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I promise you," replied -the prisoner, "to hear you without impatience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only it appears to me that I have a -right to repeat the question I have already asked, 'Who <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>are</i> you?'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you remember, -fifteen or eighteen years ago, seeing at Noisy-le-Sec a cavalier, -accompanied by a lady in black silk, with flame-colored ribbons -in her hair?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said the young -man; "I once asked the name of this cavalier, and they told me -that he called himself the Abbé d'Herblay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was astonished that the -abbé had so warlike an air, and they replied that there -was nothing singular in that, seeing that he was one of Louis -XIII.'s musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Aramis, -"that musketeer and abbé, afterwards bishop of Vannes, is -your confessor now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know it; I recognized -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, monseigneur, if -you know that, I must further add a fact of which you are -ignorant - that if the king were to know this evening of the -presence of this musketeer, this abbé, this bishop, this -confessor, <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>here</i> - he, -who has risked everything to visit you, to-morrow would behold -the steely glitter of the executioner's axe in a dungeon more -gloomy, more obscure than yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> While listening to these -words, delivered with emphasis, the young man had raised himself -on his couch, and was now gazing more and more eagerly at -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The result of his -scrutiny was that he appeared to derive some confidence from -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes," he murmured, -"I remember perfectly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The woman of whom you speak came once with you, and twice -afterwards with another."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He hesitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With another, who came -to see you every month - is it not so, monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know who this -lady was?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The light seemed ready -to flash from the prisoner's eyes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I am aware that she was one of the -ladies of the court," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You remember that lady -well, do you not?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, my -recollection can hardly be very confused on this head, " said the -young prisoner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I saw -that lady once with a gentleman about forty-five years old.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I saw her once with you, and -with the lady dressed in black.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have seen her twice since then -with the same person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -These four people, with my master, and old Perronnette, my -jailer, and the governor of the prison, are the only persons with -whom I have ever spoken, and, indeed, almost the only persons I -have ever seen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then you were in -prison?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I am a -prisoner here, then I was comparatively free, although in a very -narrow sense - a house I never quitted, a garden surrounded with -walls I could not climb, these constituted my residence, but you -know it, as you have been there.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a word, being accustomed to live -within these bounds, I never cared to leave them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so you will understand, -monsieur, that having never seen anything of the world, I have -nothing left to care for; and therefore, if you relate anything, -you will be obliged to explain each item to me as you go -along."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I will do so," said -Aramis, bowing; "for it is my duty, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, begin by -telling me who was my tutor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A worthy and, above -all, an honorable gentleman, monseigneur; fit guide for both body -and soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Had you ever -any reason to complain of him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no; quite the -contrary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But this -gentleman of yours often used to tell me that my father and -mother were dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Did he -deceive me, or did he speak the truth?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He was compelled to -comply with the orders given him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then he lied?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In one respect.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your father is dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And my mother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She is dead <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>for you</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But then she lives for -others, does she not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I - and I, then" -(the young man looked sharply at Aramis) "am compelled to live in -the obscurity of a prison?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I fear so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that because my -presence in the world would lead to the revelation of a great -secret?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly, a very great -secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My enemy must indeed be -powerful, to be able to shut up in the Bastile a child such as I -then was."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "More powerful than my -mother, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why do you ask -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because my mother -would have taken my part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis -hesitated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, -monseigneur; more powerful than your mother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Seeing, then, that -my nurse and preceptor were carried off, and that I, also, was -separated from them - either they were, or I am, very dangerous -to my enemy?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; but you are -alluding to a peril from which he freed himself, by causing the -nurse and preceptor to disappear," answered Aramis, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Disappear!" cried -the prisoner, "how did they disappear?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In a very sure -way," answered Aramis - "they are dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The young man -turned pale, and passed his hand tremblingly over his face.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Poison?" he asked.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poison."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The prisoner -reflected a moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My -enemy must indeed have been very cruel, or hard beset by -necessity, to assassinate those two innocent people, my sole -support; for the worthy gentleman and the poor nurse had never -harmed a living being."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In your family, -monseigneur, necessity is stern.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so it is necessity which compels -me, to my great regret, to tell you that this gentleman and the -unhappy lady have been assassinated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, you tell me -nothing I am not aware of," said the prisoner, knitting his -brows.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I suspected -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will tell -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>At this moment the -young man, supporting himself on his two elbows, drew close to -Aramis's face, with such an expression of dignity, of -self-command and of defiance even, that the bishop felt the -electricity of enthusiasm strike in devouring flashes from that -great heart of his, into his brain of adamant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Speak, -monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -already told you that by conversing with you I endanger my -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Little value as it -has, I implore you to accept it as the ransom of your own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," resumed the -young man, "this is why I suspected they had killed my nurse and -my preceptor - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whom you used to -call your father?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; whom I called -my father, but whose son I well knew I was not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who caused you to -suppose so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Just as you, -monsieur, are too respectful for a friend, he was also too -respectful for a father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I, however," said -Aramis, "have no intention to disguise myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The young man -nodded assent and continued: "Undoubtedly, I was not destined to -perpetual seclusion," said the prisoner; "and that which makes me -believe so, above all, now, is the care that was taken to render -me as accomplished a cavalier as possible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The gentleman attached to my person -taught me everything he knew himself - mathematics, a little -geometry, astronomy, fencing and riding.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every morning I went through -military exercises, and practiced on horseback.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, one morning during the summer, -it being very hot, I went to sleep in the hall.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing, up to that period, except -the respect paid me, had enlightened me, or even roused my -suspicions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I lived as -children, as birds, as plants, as the air and the sun do.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had just turned my fifteenth -year - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This, then, is -eight years ago?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, nearly; but I -have ceased to reckon time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Excuse me; but -what did your tutor tell you, to encourage you to work?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He used to say -that a man was bound to make for himself, in the world, that -fortune which Heaven had refused him at his birth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He added that, being a poor, obscure -orphan, I had no one but myself to look to; and that nobody -either did, or ever would, take any interest in me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was, then, in the hall I have -spoken of, asleep from fatigue with long fencing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My preceptor was in his room on the -first floor, just over me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly I heard him exclaim, and -then he called: 'Perronnette!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perronnette!'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was my nurse whom he called."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, I know it," -said Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Continue, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very likely she -was in the garden; for my preceptor came hastily downstairs.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I rose, anxious at seeing him -anxious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He opened the -garden-door, still crying out, 'Perronnette!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perronnette!'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The windows of the hall looked into -the court; the shutters were closed; but through a chink in them -I saw my tutor draw near a large well, which was almost directly -under the windows of his study.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He stooped over the brim, looked -into the well, and again cried out, and made wild and affrighted -gestures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where I was, I -could not only see, but hear - and see and hear I did."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Go on, I pray -you," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Dame Perronnette -came running up, hearing the governor's cries.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He went to meet her, took her by the -arm, and drew her quickly towards the edge; after which, as they -both bent over it together, 'Look, look,' cried he, 'what a -misfortune!'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Calm yourself, -calm yourself,' said Perronnette; 'what is the matter?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'The letter!' he -exclaimed; 'do you see that letter?' pointing to the bottom of -the well.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'What letter?' she -cried.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'The letter you -see down there; the last letter from the queen.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At this word I -trembled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My tutor - he -who passed for my father, he who was continually recommending me -modesty and humility - in correspondence with the queen!</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'The queen's last -letter!' cried Perronnette, without showing more astonishment -than at seeing this letter at the bottom of the well; 'but how -came it there?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'A chance, Dame -Perronnette - a singular chance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was entering my room, and on -opening the door, the window, too, being open, a puff of air came -suddenly and carried off this paper - this letter of her -majesty's; I darted after it, and gained the window just in time -to see it flutter a moment in the breeze and disappear down the -well.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Well,' said Dame -Perronnette; 'and if the letter has fallen into the well, 'tis -all the same as if it was burnt; and as the queen burns all her -letters every time she comes - '</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so you see -this lady who came every month was the queen," said the -prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Doubtless, -doubtless,' continued the old gentleman; 'but this letter -contained instructions - how can I follow them?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Write immediately -to her; give her a plain account of the accident, and the queen -will no doubt write you another letter in place of this.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Oh! the queen -would never believe the story,' said the good gentleman, shaking -his head; 'she will imagine that I want to keep this letter -instead of giving it up like the rest, so as to have a hold over -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She is so -distrustful, and M. de Mazarin so - Yon devil of an Italian is -capable of having us poisoned at the first breath of -suspicion.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis almost -imperceptibly smiled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'You know, Dame -Perronnette, they are both so suspicious in all that concerns -Philippe.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Philippe was the -name they gave me," said the prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Well, 'tis no use -hesitating,' said Dame Perronnette, 'somebody must go down the -well.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Of course; so -that the person who goes down may read the paper as he is coming -up.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'But let us choose -some villager who cannot read, and then you will be at ease.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'Granted; but will -not any one who descends guess that a paper must be important for -which we risk a man's life?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However, you have given me an idea, -Dame Perronnette; somebody shall go down the well, but that -somebody shall be myself.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But at this notion -Dame Perronnette lamented and cried in such a manner, and so -implored the old nobleman, with tears in her eyes, that he -promised her to obtain a ladder long enough to reach down, while -she went in search of some stout-hearted youth, whom she was to -persuade that a jewel had fallen into the well, and that this -jewel was wrapped in a paper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'And as paper,' remarked my -preceptor, 'naturally unfolds in water, the young man would not -be surprised at finding nothing, after all, but the letter wide -open.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'But perhaps the -writing will be already effaced by that time,' said Dame -Perronnette.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"'No consequence, -provided we secure the letter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On returning it to the queen, she -will see at once that we have not betrayed her; and consequently, -as we shall not rouse the distrust of Mazarin, we shall have -nothing to fear from him.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Having come to -this resolution, they parted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I pushed back the shutter, and, -seeing that my tutor was about to re-enter, I threw myself on my -couch, in a confusion of brain caused by all I had just -heard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My governor opened -the door a few moments after, and thinking I was asleep gently -closed it again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon -as ever it was shut, I rose, and, listening, heard the sound of -retiring footsteps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -I returned to the shutters, and saw my tutor and Dame Perronnette -go out together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was -alone in the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -had hardly closed the gate before I sprang from the window and -ran to the well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -just as my governor had leaned over, so leaned I.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Something white and luminous -glistened in the green and quivering silence of the water.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The brilliant disk fascinated -and allured me; my eyes became fixed, and I could hardly -breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The well seemed -to draw me downwards with its slimy mouth and icy breath; and I -thought I read, at the bottom of the water, characters of fire -traced upon the letter the queen had touched.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, scarcely knowing what I was -about, and urged on by one of those instinctive impulses which -drive men to destruction, I lowered the cord from the windlass of -the well to within about three feet of the water, leaving the -bucket dangling, at the same time taking infinite pains not to -disturb that coveted letter, which was beginning to change its -white tint for the hue of chrysoprase, - proof enough that it was -sinking, - and then, with the rope weltering in my hands, slid -down into the abyss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -I saw myself hanging over the dark pool, when I saw the sky -lessening above my head, a cold shudder came over me, a chill -fear got the better of me, I was seized with giddiness, and the -hair rose on my head; but my strong will still reigned supreme -over all the terror and disquietude.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I gained the water, and at once -plunged into it, holding on by one hand, while I immersed the -other and seized the dear letter, which, alas! came in two in my -grasp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I concealed the -two fragments in my body-coat, and, helping myself with my feet -against the sides of the pit, and clinging on with my hands, -agile and vigorous as I was, and, above all, pressed for time, I -regained the brink, drenching it as I touched it with the water -that streamed off me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -was no sooner out of the well with my prize, than I rushed into -the sunlight, and took refuge in a kind of shrubbery at the -bottom of the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As -I entered my hiding-place, the bell which resounded when the -great gate was opened, rang.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was my preceptor come back -again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had but just -time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I calculated that -it would take ten minutes before he would gain my place of -concealment, even if, guessing where I was, he came straight to -it; and twenty if he were obliged to look for me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But this was time enough to allow me -to read the cherished letter, whose fragments I hastened to unite -again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The writing was -already fading, but I managed to decipher it all.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And will you tell -me what you read therein, monseigneur?" asked Aramis, deeply -interested.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite enough, -monsieur, to see that my tutor was a man of noble rank, and that -Perronnette, without being a lady of quality, was far better than -a servant; and also to perceived that I must myself be high-born, -since the queen, Anne of Austria, and Mazarin, the prime -minister, commended me so earnestly to their care."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here the young man paused, quite -overcome.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And what -happened?" asked Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It happened, -monsieur," answered he, "that the workmen they had summoned found -nothing in the well, after the closest search; that my governor -perceived that the brink was all watery; that I was not so dried -by the sun as to prevent Dame Perronnette spying that my garments -were moist; and, lastly, that I was seized with a violent fever, -owing to the chill and the excitement of my discovery, an attack -of delirium supervening, during which I related the whole -adventure; so that, guided by my avowal, my governor found the -pieces of the queen's letter inside the bolster where I had -concealed them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said Aramis, -"now I understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Beyond this, all -is conjecture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Doubtless -the unfortunate lady and gentleman, not daring to keep the -occurrence secret, wrote of all this to the queen and sent back -the torn letter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"After which," said -Aramis, "you were arrested and removed to the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As you see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your two -attendants disappeared?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us not take up -our time with the dead, but see what can be done with the -living.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You told me you -were resigned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I repeat it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without any desire -for freedom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As I told -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without ambition, -sorrow, or thought?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The young man made -no answer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," asked -Aramis, "why are you silent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think I have -spoken enough," answered the prisoner, "and that now it is your -turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am weary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis gathered -himself up, and a shade of deep solemnity spread itself over his -countenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -evident that he had reached the crisis in the part he had come to -the prison to play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "One -question," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it? -speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the house you -inhabited there were neither looking-glasses nor mirrors?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What are those two -words, and what is their meaning?" asked the young man; "I have -no sort of knowledge of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They designate two -pieces of furniture which reflect objects; so that, for instance, -you may see in them your own lineaments, as you see mine now, -with the naked eye."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; there was -neither a glass nor a mirror in the house," answered the young -man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis looked round -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Nor is there -anything of the kind here, either," he said; "they have again -taken the same precaution."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To what end?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will know -directly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, you have -told me that you were instructed in mathematics, astronomy, -fencing, and riding; but you have not said a word about -history."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My tutor sometimes -related to me the principal deeds of the king, St. Louis, King -Francis I., and King Henry IV."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is that all?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very nearly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This also was done -by design, then; just as they deprived you of mirrors, which -reflect the present, so they left you in ignorance of history, -which reflects the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Since your imprisonment, books have been forbidden you; so that -you are unacquainted with a number of facts, by means of which -you would be able to reconstruct the shattered mansion of your -recollections and your hopes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is true," said -the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen, then; I -will in a few words tell you what has passed in France during the -last twenty-three or twenty-four years; that is, from the -probable date of your birth; in a word, from the time that -interests you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Say on."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the young man resumed his -serious and attentive attitude.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know who -was the son of Henry IV.?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At least I know -who his successor was."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By means of a coin -dated 1610, which bears the effigy of Henry IV.; and another of -1612, bearing that of Louis XIII.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So I presumed that, there being only -two years between the two dates, Louis was Henry's -successor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then," said -Aramis, "you know that the last reigning monarch was Louis -XIII.?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do," answered -the youth, slightly reddening.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, he was a -prince full of noble ideas and great projects, always, alas! -deferred by the trouble of the times and the dread struggle that -his minister Richelieu had to maintain against the great nobles -of France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -himself was of a feeble character, and died young and -unhappy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He had been long -anxious about having a heir; a care which weighs heavily on -princes, who desire to leave behind them more than one pledge -that their best thoughts and works will be continued."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did the king, -then, die childless?" asked the prisoner, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, but he was -long without one, and for a long while thought he should be the -last of his race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -idea had reduced him to the depths of despair, when suddenly, his -wife, Anne of Austria - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The prisoner -trembled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Did you know," -said Aramis, "that Louis XIII.'s wife was called Anne of -Austria?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Continue," said -the young man, without replying to the question.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"When suddenly," -resumed Aramis, "the queen announced an interesting event.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was great joy at the -intelligence, and all prayed for her happy delivery.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the 5th of September, 1638, she -gave birth to a son."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Here Aramis looked -at his companion, and thought he observed him turning pale.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are about to hear," said -Aramis, "an account which few indeed could now avouch; for it -refers to a secret which they imagined buried with the dead, -entombed in the abyss of the confessional."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you will tell -me this secret?" broke in the youth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" said Aramis, -with unmistakable emphasis, "I do not know that I ought to risk -this secret by intrusting it to one who has no desire to quit the -Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I hear you, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The queen, then, -gave birth to a son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -while the court was rejoicing over the event, when the king had -show the new-born child to the nobility and people, and was -sitting gayly down to table, to celebrate the event, the queen, -who was alone in her room, was again taken ill and gave birth to -a second son."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" said the -prisoner, betraying a bitter acquaintance with affairs than he -had owned to, "I thought that Monsieur was only born in - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis raised his -finger; "Permit me to continue," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The prisoner sighed -impatiently, and paused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said Aramis, -"the queen had a second son, whom Dame Perronnette, the midwife, -received in her arms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Dame Perronnette!" -murmured the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They ran at once -to the banqueting-room, and whispered to the king what had -happened; he rose and quitted the table.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But this time it was no longer -happiness that his face expressed, but something akin to -terror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The birth of -twins changed into bitterness the joy to which that of an only -son had given rise, seeing that in France (a fact you are -assuredly ignorant of) it is the oldest of the king's sons who -succeeds his father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And that the -doctors and jurists assert that there is ground for doubting -whether the son that first makes his appearance is the elder by -the law of heaven and of nature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The prisoner -uttered a smothered cry, and became whiter than the coverlet -under which he hid himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Now you -understand," pursued Aramis, "that the king, who with so much -pleasure saw himself repeated in one, was in despair about two; -fearing that the second might dispute the first's claim to -seniority, which had been recognized only two hours before; and -so this second son, relying on party interests and caprices, -might one day sow discord and engender civil war throughout the -kingdom; by these means destroying the very dynasty he should -have strengthened."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I understand! -- I understand!" murmured the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," continued -Aramis; "this is what they relate, what they declare; this is why -one of the queen's two sons, shamefully parted from his brother, -shamefully sequestered, is buried in profound obscurity; this is -why that second son has disappeared, and so completely, that not -a soul in France, save his mother, is aware of his -existence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes! his mother, -who has cast him off," cried the prisoner in a tone of -despair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Except, also," -Aramis went on, "the lady in the black dress; and, finally, -excepting - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Excepting yourself -- is it not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You who come -and relate all this; you, who rouse in my soul curiosity, hatred, -ambition, and, perhaps, even the thirst of vengeance; except you, -monsieur, who, if you are the man to whom I expect, whom the note -I have received applies to, whom, in short, Heaven ought to send -me, must possess about you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What?" asked -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A portrait of the -king, Louis XIV., who at this moment reigns upon the throne of -France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here is the -portrait," replied the bishop, handing the prisoner a miniature -in enamel, on which Louis was depicted life-like, with a -handsome, lofty mien.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -prisoner eagerly seized the portrait, and gazed at it with -devouring eyes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And now, -monseigneur," said Aramis, "here is a mirror."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis left the prisoner time to -recover his ideas.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So high! - so -high!" murmured the young man, eagerly comparing the likeness of -Louis with his own countenance reflected in the glass.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you think -of it?" at length said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think that I am -lost," replied the captive; "the king will never set me -free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And I - I demand -to know," added the bishop, fixing his piercing eyes -significantly upon the prisoner, "I demand to know which of these -two is king; the one this miniature portrays, or whom the glass -reflects?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king, -monsieur," sadly replied the young man, "is he who is on the -throne, who is not in prison; and who, on the other hand, can -cause others to be entombed there.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Royalty means power; and you behold -how powerless I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur," -answered Aramis, with a respect he had not yet manifested, "the -king, mark me, will, if you desire it, be the one that, quitting -his dungeon, shall maintain himself upon the throne, on which his -friends will place him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Tempt me not, -monsieur," broke in the prisoner bitterly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Be not weak, -monseigneur," persisted Aramis; "I have brought you all the -proofs of your birth; consult them; satisfy yourself that you are -a king's son; it is for <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>us</i> to act."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, no; it is -impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Unless, indeed," -resumed the bishop ironically, "it be the destiny of your race, -that the brothers excluded from the throne should be always -princes void of courage and honesty, as was your uncle, M. Gaston -d'Orléans, who ten times conspired against his brother -Louis XIII."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What!" cried the -prince, astonished; "my uncle Gaston 'conspired against his -brother'; conspired to dethrone him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly, -monseigneur; for no other reason.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I tell you the truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And he had friends -- devoted friends?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As much so as I am -to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And, after all, -what did he do? - Failed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He failed, I -admit; but always through his own fault; and, for the sake of -purchasing - not his life - for the life of the king's brother is -sacred and inviolable - but his liberty, he sacrificed the lives -of all his friends, one after another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so, at this day, he is a very -blot on history, the detestation of a hundred noble families in -this kingdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I understand, -monsieur; either by weakness or treachery, my uncle slew his -friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By weakness; -which, in princes, is always treachery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And cannot a man -fail, then, from incapacity and ignorance?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you really believe it possible -that a poor captive such as I, brought up, not only at a distance -from the court, but even from the world - do you believe it -possible that such a one could assist those of his friends who -should attempt to serve him?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as Aramis was about to reply, -the young man suddenly cried out, with a violence which betrayed -the temper of his blood, "We are speaking of friends; but how can -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> have any friends - I, -whom no one knows; and have neither liberty, money, nor -influence, to gain any?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I fancy I had the -honor to offer myself to your royal highness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, do not style -me so, monsieur; 'tis either treachery or cruelty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Bid me not think of aught beyond -these prison-walls, which so grimly confine me; let me again -love, or, at least, submit to my slavery and my obscurity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, -monseigneur; if you again utter these desperate words - if, after -having received proof of your high birth, you still remain -poor-spirited in body and soul, I will comply with your desire, I -will depart, and renounce forever the service of a master, to -whom so eagerly I came to devote my assistance and my life!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," cried -the prince, "would it not have been better for you to have -reflected, before telling me all that you have done, that you -have broken my heart forever?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so I desire to -do, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To talk to me -about power, grandeur, eye, and to prate of thrones! <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is a prison the fit place?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You wish to make me believe in -splendor, and we are lying lost in night; you boast of glory, and -we are smothering our words in the curtains of this miserable -bed; you give me glimpses of power absolute whilst I hear the -footsteps of the every-watchful jailer in the corridor - that -step which, after all, makes you tremble more than it does -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To render me somewhat -less incredulous, free me from the Bastile; let me breathe the -fresh air; give me my spurs and trusty sword, then we shall begin -to understand each other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is precisely my -intention to give you all this, monseigneur, and more; only, do -you desire it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A word more," said -the prince.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I know there -are guards in every gallery, bolts to every door, cannon and -soldiery at every barrier.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How will you overcome the sentries - -spike the guns?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How will -you break through the bolts and bars?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, - how -did you get the note which announced my arrival to you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You can bribe a -jailer for such a thing as a note."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If we can corrupt -one turnkey, we can corrupt ten."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well; I admit that -it may be possible to release a poor captive from the Bastile; -possible so to conceal him that the king's people shall not again -ensnare him; possible, in some unknown retreat, to sustain the -unhappy wretch in some suitable manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur!" said -Aramis, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I admit that, -whoever would do this much for me, would seem more than mortal in -my eyes; but as you tell me I am a prince, brother of the king, -how can you restore me the rank and power which my mother and my -brother have deprived me of?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as, to effect this, I must pass -a life of war and hatred, how can you cause me to prevail in -those combats - render me invulnerable by my enemies?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! monsieur, reflect on all this; -place me, to-morrow, in some dark cavern at a mountain's base; -yield me the delight of hearing in freedom sounds of the river, -plain and valley, of beholding in freedom the sun of the blue -heavens, or the stormy sky, and it is enough.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Promise me no more than this, for, -indeed, more you cannot give, and it would be a crime to deceive -me, since you call yourself my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis waited in -silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monseigneur," -he resumed, after a moment's reflection, "I admire the firm, -sound sense which dictates your words; I am happy to have -discovered my monarch's mind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Again, again! oh, -God! for mercy's sake," cried the prince, pressing his icy hands -upon his clammy brow, "do not play with me!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no need to be a king to be -the happiest of men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But I, -monseigneur, wish you to be a king for the good of humanity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said the -prince, with fresh distrust inspired by the word; "ah! with what, -then, has humanity to reproach my brother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I forgot to say, -monseigneur, that if you would allow me to guide you, and if you -consent to become the most powerful monarch in Christendom, you -will have promoted the interests of all the friends whom I devote -to the success of your cause, and these friends are -numerous."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Numerous?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Less numerous than -powerful, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Explain -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is impossible; -I will explain, I swear before Heaven, on that day that I see you -sitting on the throne of France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But my -brother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You shall decree -his fate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you pity -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Him, who leaves me -to perish in a dungeon?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -No, no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For him I have no -pity!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So much the -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He might have -himself come to this prison, have taken me by the hand, and have -said, 'My brother, Heaven created us to love, not to contend with -one another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I come to -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A barbarous -prejudice has condemned you to pass your days in obscurity, far -from mankind, deprived of every joy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will make you sit down beside me; -I will buckle round your waist our father's sword.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you take advantage of this -reconciliation to put down or restrain me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you employ that sword to spill -my blood?'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Oh! never,' I -would have replied to him, 'I look on you as my preserver, I will -respect you as my master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You give me far more than Heaven bestowed; for through you I -possess liberty and the privilege of loving and being loved in -this world.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you would have -kept your word, monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On my life!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While now - now that I have -guilty ones to punish - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what manner, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you say as -to the resemblance that Heaven has given me to my brother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I say that there -was in that likeness a providential instruction which the king -ought to have heeded; I say that your mother committed a crime in -rendering those different in happiness and fortune whom nature -created so startlingly alike, of her own flesh, and I conclude -that the object of punishment should be only to restore the -equilibrium."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By which you mean -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That if I restore -you to your place on your brother's throne, he shall take yours -in prison."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas! there's such -infinity of suffering in prison, especially it would be so for -one who has drunk so deeply of the cup of enjoyment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your royal -highness will always be free to act as you may desire; and if it -seems good to you, after punishment, you will have it in your -power to pardon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, are you aware of one thing, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Tell me, my -prince."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is that I will -hear nothing further from you till I am clear of the -Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I was going to say -to your highness that I should only have the pleasure of seeing -you once again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And when?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The day when my -prince leaves these gloomy walls."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Heavens! how will -you give me notice of it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By myself coming -to fetch you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My prince, do not -leave this chamber save with me, or if in my absence you are -compelled to do so, remember that I am not concerned in it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so I am not to -speak a word of this to any one whatever, save to you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Save only to -me."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis bowed very -low.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prince offered -his hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," he -said, in a tone that issued from his heart, "one word more, my -last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you have sought -me for my destruction; if you are only a tool in the hands of my -enemies; if from our conference, in which you have sounded the -depths of my mind, anything worse than captivity result, that is -to say, if death befall me, still receive my blessing, for you -will have ended my troubles and given me repose from the -tormenting fever that has preyed on me for eight long, weary -years."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, wait -the results ere you judge me," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I say that, in -such a case, I bless and forgive you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If, on the other hand, you are come -to restore me to that position in the sunshine of fortune and -glory to which I was destined by Heaven; if by your means I am -enabled to live in the memory of man, and confer luster on my -race by deeds of valor, or by solid benefits bestowed upon my -people; if, from my present depths of sorrow, aided by your -generous hand, I raise myself to the very height of honor, then -to you, whom I thank with blessings, to you will I offer half my -power and my glory: though you would still be but partly -recompensed, and your share must always remain incomplete, since -I could not divide with you the happiness received at your -hands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur," -replied Aramis, moved by the pallor and excitement of the young -man, "the nobleness of your heart fills me with joy and -admiration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not you -who will have to thank me, but rather the nation whom you will -render happy, the posterity whose name you will make -glorious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes; I shall -indeed have bestowed upon you more than life, I shall have given -you immortality."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The prince offered -his hand to Aramis, who sank upon his knee and kissed it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is the first -act of homage paid to our future king," said he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "When I see you again, I shall say, -'Good day, sire.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Till then," said -the young man, pressing his wan and wasted fingers over his -heart, - "till then, no more dreams, no more strain on my life - -my heart would break!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, -monsieur, how small is my prison - how low the window - how -narrow are the doors!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To -think that so much pride, splendor, and happiness, should be able -to enter in and to remain here!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your royal -highness makes me proud," said Aramis, "since you infer it is I -who brought all this."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And he rapped immediately on the door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The jailer came to open it with -Baisemeaux, who, devoured by fear and uneasiness, was beginning, -in spite of himself, to listen at the door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Happily, neither of the speakers had -forgotten to smother his voice, even in the most passionate -outbreaks.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What a confessor!" -said the governor, forcing a laugh; "who would believe that a -compulsory recluse, a man as though in the very jaws of death, -could have committed crimes so numerous, and so long to tell -of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis made no -reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was eager to -leave the Bastile, where the secret which overwhelmed him seemed -to double the weight of the walls.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as they reached Baisemeaux's -quarters, "Let us proceed to business, my dear governor," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Alas!" replied -Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have to ask me -for my receipt for one hundred and fifty thousand livres," said -the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And to pay over -the first third of the sum," added the poor governor, with a -sigh, taking three steps towards his iron strong-box.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here is the -receipt," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And here is the -money," returned Baisemeaux, with a threefold sigh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The order -instructed me only to give a receipt; it said nothing about -receiving the money," rejoined Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language: FR'>"Adieu, monsieur le -governeur!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And he departed, -leaving Baisemeaux almost more than stifled with joy and surprise -at this regal present so liberally bestowed by the confessor -extraordinary to the Bastile.</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'>How -Mouston Had Become Fatter without Giving Porthos Notice Thereof, -and of the Troubles Which Consequently Befell that Worthy -Gentleman.</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>ince the departure of Athos for Blois, Porthos and -D'Artagnan were seldom together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One was occupied with harassing -duties for the king, the other had been making many purchases of -furniture which he intended to forward to his estate, and by aid -of which he hoped to establish in his various residences -something of the courtly luxury he had witnessed in all its -dazzling brightness in his majesty's society.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, ever faithful, one -morning during an interval of service thought about Porthos, and -being uneasy at not having heard anything of him for a fortnight, -directed his steps towards his hotel, and pounced upon him just -as he was getting up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -worthy baron had a pensive - nay, more than pensive - melancholy -air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was sitting on -his bed, only half-dressed, and with legs dangling over the edge, -contemplating a host of garments, which with their fringes, lace, -embroidery, and slashes of ill-assorted hues, were strewed all -over the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, -sad and reflective as La Fontaine's hare, did not observe -D'Artagnan's entrance, which was, moreover, screened at this -moment by M. Mouston, whose personal corpulency, quite enough at -any time to hide one man from another, was effectually doubled by -a scarlet coat which the intendant was holding up for his -master's inspection, by the sleeves, that he might the better see -it all over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -stopped at the threshold and looked in at the pensive Porthos and -then, as the sight of the innumerable garments strewing the floor -caused mighty sighs to heave the bosom of that excellent -gentleman, D'Artagnan thought it time to put an end to these -dismal reflections, and coughed by way of announcing himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" exclaimed Porthos, -whose countenance brightened with joy; "ah! ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>Here is D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> I shall then get hold of an -idea!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At these words Mouston, -doubting what was going on behind him, got out of the way, -smiling kindly at the friend of his master, who thus found -himself freed from the material obstacle which had prevented his -reaching D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos made his sturdy knees crack again in rising, and crossing -the room in two strides, found himself face to face with his -friend, whom he folded to his breast with a force of affection -that seemed to increase with every day.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah!" he repeated, "you are always -welcome, dear friend; but just now you are more welcome than -ever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you seem to have -the megrims here!" exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos replied by a -look expressive of dejection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, then, tell me all about it, -Porthos, my friend, unless it is a secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place," -returned Porthos, "you know I have no secrets from you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This, then, is what saddens -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait a minute, Porthos; -let me first get rid of all this litter of satin and velvet!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, never mind," said -Porthos, contemptuously; "it is all trash."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Trash, Porthos!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Cloth at twenty-five livres an -ell! gorgeous satin! regal velvet!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then you think these -clothes are - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Splendid, Porthos, -splendid!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I'll wager that -you alone in France have so many; and suppose you never had any -more made, and were to live to be a hundred years of age, which -wouldn't astonish me in the very least, you could still wear a -new dress the day of your death, without being obliged to see the -nose of a single tailor from now till then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos shook his -head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, my friend," said -D'Artagnan, "this unnatural melancholy in you frightens me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My dear Porthos, pray get it -out, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the sooner -the better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my friend, so I -will: if, indeed, it is possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perhaps you have -received bad news from Bracieux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No: they have felled -the wood, and it has yielded a third more than the estimate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then there has been a -falling-off in the pools of Pierrefonds?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, my friend: they -have been fished, and there is enough left to stock all the pools -in the neighborhood."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perhaps your estate at -Vallon has been destroyed by an earthquake?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, my friend; on the -contrary, the ground was struck with lightning a hundred paces -from the château, and a fountain sprung up in a place -entirely destitute of water."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What in the world <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>is</i> the matter, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is, I have -received an invitation for the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fête</i> at Vaux," said -Porthos, with a lugubrious expression.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! do you complain -of that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king has -caused a hundred mortal heart-burnings among the courtiers by -refusing invitations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -so, my dear friend, you are really going to Vaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed I am!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will see a -magnificent sight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I doubt it, though."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Everything that is -grand in France will be brought together there!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" cried Porthos, -tearing out a lock of hair in his despair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! good heavens, are -you ill?" cried D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am as firm as the -Pont-Neuf!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It isn't -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what is it, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis that I have no -clothes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan stood -petrified.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No -clothes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, no -clothes!" he cried, "when I see at least fifty suits on the -floor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fifty, truly; but not -one which fits me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What? not one that fits -you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But are you not -measured, then, when you give an order?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To be sure he is," -answered Mouston; "but unfortunately <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> have gotten stouter!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> stouter!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much so -that I am now bigger than the baron.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Would you believe it, monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!</i> it seems to me that is -quite evident."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you see, stupid?" -said Porthos, "that is quite evident!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be still, my dear -Porthos," resumed D'Artagnan, becoming slightly impatient, "I -don't understand why your clothes should not fit you, because -Mouston has grown stouter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am going to explain -it," said Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You -remember having related to me the story of the Roman general -Antony, who had always seven wild boars kept roasting, each -cooked up to a different point; so that he might be able to have -his dinner at any time of the day he chose to ask for it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, I resolved, as at -any time I might be invited to court to spend a week, I resolved -to have always seven suits ready for the occasion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Capitally reasoned, -Porthos - only a man must have a fortune like yours to gratify -such whims.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Without -counting the time lost in being measured, the fashions are always -changing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is exactly the -point," said Porthos, "in regard to which I flattered myself I -had hit on a very ingenious device."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me what it is; for -I don't doubt your genius."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You remember what -Mouston once was, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; when he used to -call himself Mousqueton."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you remember, too, -the period when he began to grow fatter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, not exactly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg your pardon, my good -Mouston."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you are not in -fault, monsieur," said Mouston, graciously.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You were in Paris, and as for us, -we were at Pierrefonds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well, my dear -Porthos; there was a time when Mouston began to grow fat.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that what you wished to -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my friend; and I -greatly rejoice over the period."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed, I believe you -do," exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You understand," -continued Porthos, "what a world of trouble it spared for -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I don't - by any -means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look here, my -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first -place, as you have said, to be measured is a loss of time, even -though it occur only once a fortnight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, one may be travelling; and -then you wish to have seven suits always with you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In short, I have a horror of letting -any one take my measure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Confound it! either one is a nobleman or not.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To be scrutinized and scanned by a -fellow who completely analyzes you, by inch and line - 'tis -degrading!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here, they -find you too hollow; there, too prominent.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They recognize your strong and weak -points.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> See, now, when we -leave the measurer's hands, we are like those strongholds whose -angles and different thicknesses have been ascertained by a -spy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In truth, my dear -Porthos, you possess ideas entirely original."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you see when a man -is an engineer - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And has fortified -Belle-Isle - 'tis natural, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I had an idea, -which would doubtless have proved a good one, but for Mouston's -carelessness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan glanced at -Mouston, who replied by a slight movement of his body, as if to -say, "You will see whether I am at all to blame in all this."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I congratulated myself, -then," resumed Porthos, "at seeing Mouston get fat; and I did all -I could, by means of substantial feeding, to make him stout - -always in the hope that he would come to equal myself in girth, -and could then be measured in my stead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Ah!" cried D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> "I see - that spared you both -time and humiliation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Consider my joy when, -after a year and a half's judicious feeding - for I used to feed -him up myself - the fellow - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I lent a good hand myself, -monsieur," said Mouston, humbly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's true.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Consider my joy when, one -morning, I perceived Mouston was obliged to squeeze in, as I once -did myself, to get through the little secret door that those -fools of architects had made in the chamber of the late Madame du -Vallon, in the château of Pierrefonds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, by the way, about that door, my -friend, I should like to ask you, who know everything, why these -wretches of architects, who ought to have the compasses run into -them, just to remind them, came to make doorways through which -nobody but thin people can pass?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, those doors," -answered D'Artagnan, "were meant for gallants, and they have -generally slight and slender figures."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame du Vallon had no -gallant!" answered Porthos, majestically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perfectly true, my -friend," resumed D'Artagnan; "but the architects were probably -making their calculations on a basis of the probability of your -marrying again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that is possible," -said Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And now I -have received an explanation of how it is that doorways are made -too narrow, let us return to the subject of Mouston's -fatness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But see how the -two things apply to each other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have always noticed that people's -ideas run parallel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -so, observe this phenomenon, D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was talking to you of Mouston, who -is fat, and it led us on to Madame du Vallon - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who was thin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hum!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it not marvelous?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend, a <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>savant</i> of my acquaintance, -M. Costar, has made the same observation as you have, and he -calls the process by some Greek name which I forget."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! my remark is not -then original?" cried Porthos, astounded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I thought I was the -discoverer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend, the fact was -known before Aristotle's days - that is to say, nearly two -thousand years ago."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well, 'tis no -less true," said Porthos, delighted at the idea of having jumped -to a conclusion so closely in agreement with the greatest sages -of antiquity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wonderfully - but -suppose we return to Mouston.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seems to me, we have left him -fattening under our very eyes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur," said -Mouston.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Porthos, -"Mouston fattened so well, that he gratified all my hopes, by -reaching my standard; a fact of which I was well able to convince -myself, by seeing the rascal, one day, in a waistcoat of mine, -which he had turned into a coat - a waistcoat, the mere -embroidery of which was worth a hundred pistoles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Twas only to try it -on, monsieur," said Mouston.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From that moment I -determined to put Mouston in communication with my tailors, and -to have him measured instead of myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A capital idea, -Porthos; but Mouston is a foot and a half shorter than you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They measured him down to the -ground, and the end of the skirt came just below my knee."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What a marvelous man -you are, Porthos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such a -thing could happen only to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! yes; pay your -compliments; you have ample grounds to go upon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was exactly at that time - that -is to say, nearly two years and a half ago - that I set out for -Belle-Isle, instructing Mouston (so as always to have, in every -event, a pattern of every fashion) to have a coat made for -himself every month."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And did Mouston neglect -complying with your instructions?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! that was anything but right, -Mouston."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monsieur, quite the -contrary; quite the contrary!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, he never forgot to -have his coats made; but he forgot to inform me that he had got -stouter!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But it was not my -fault, monsieur! your tailor never told me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And this to such an -extent, monsieur," continued Porthos, "that the fellow in two -years has gained eighteen inches in girth, and so my last dozen -coats are all too large, from a foot to a foot and a half."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the rest; those -which were made when you were of the same size?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They are no longer the -fashion, my dear friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Were I to put them on, I should look like a fresh arrival from -Siam; and as though I had been two years away from court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand your -difficulty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have how -many new suits? nine? thirty-six? and yet not one to wear.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, you must have a -thirty-seventh made, and give the thirty-six to Mouston."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monsieur!" said -Mouston, with a gratified air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The truth is, that monsieur has -always been very generous to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you mean to -insinuate that I hadn't that idea, or that I was deterred by the -expense?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it wants -only two days to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>; I received the -invitation yesterday; made Mouston post hither with my wardrobe, -and only this morning discovered my misfortune; and from now till -the day after to-morrow, there isn't a single fashionable tailor -who will undertake to make me a suit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is to say, one -covered all over with gold, isn't it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wish it so! -undoubtedly, all over."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, we shall manage -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You won't leave for -three days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -invitations are for Wednesday, and this is only Sunday -morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis true; but Aramis -has strongly advised me to be at Vaux twenty-four hours -beforehand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, it was Aramis who -brought me the invitation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! to be sure, I -see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are invited on -the part of M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By no means! by the -king, dear friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -letter bears the following as large as life: 'M. le Baron du -Vallon is informed that the king has condescended to place him on -the invitation list - '"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; but you -leave with M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And when I think," -cried Porthos, stamping on the floor, "when I think I shall have -no clothes, I am ready to burst with rage!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should like to strangle somebody -or smash something!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Neither strangle -anybody nor smash anything, Porthos; I will manage it all; put on -one of your thirty-six suits, and come with me to a tailor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pooh! my agent has seen -them all this morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Even M. Percerin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who is M. -Percerin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! only the king's -tailor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, ah, yes," said -Porthos, who wished to appear to know the king's tailor, but now -heard his name mentioned for the first time; "to M. Percerin's, -by Jove!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was afraid he -would be too busy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Doubtless he will be; -but be at ease, Porthos; he will do for me what he wouldn't do -for another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only you -must allow yourself to be measured!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Porthos, with -a sigh, "'tis vexatious, but what would you have me do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As others do; as the king does."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! do they measure -the king, too? does <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>he</i> -put up with it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king is a beau, my -good friend, and so are you, too, whatever you may say about -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos smiled -triumphantly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Let us go -to the king's tailor," he said; "and since he measures the king, -I think, by my faith, I may do worse than allow him to measure <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me!</i>"</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'>Who -Messire Jean Percerin Was.</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's tailor, Messire Jean Percerin, occupied a -rather large house in the Rue St. Honoré, near the Rue de -l'Arbre Sec.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was a man -of great taste in elegant stuffs, embroideries, and velvets, -being hereditary tailor to the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The preferment of his house reached -as far back as the time of Charles IX.; from whose reign dated, -as we know, fancy in <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>bravery</i> difficult enough to -gratify.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Percerin of -that period was a Huguenot, like Ambrose Paré, and had -been spared by the Queen of Navarre, the beautiful Margot, as -they used to write and say, too, in those days; because, in -sooth, he was the only one who could make for her those wonderful -riding-habits which she so loved to wear, seeing that they were -marvelously well suited to hide certain anatomical defects, which -the Queen of Navarre used very studiously to conceal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Percerin being saved, made, out of -gratitude, some beautiful black bodices, very inexpensively -indeed, for Queen Catherine, who ended by being pleased at the -preservation of a Huguenot people, on whom she had long looked -with detestation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -Percerin was a very prudent man; and having heard it said that -there was no more dangerous sign for a Protestant than to be -smiled up on by Catherine, and having observed that her smiles -were more frequent than usual, he speedily turned Catholic with -all his family; and having thus become irreproachable, attained -the lofty position of master tailor to the Crown of France.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Under Henry III., gay king as -he was, this position was a grand as the height of one of the -loftiest peaks of the Cordilleras.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now Percerin had been a clever man -all his life, and by way of keeping up his reputation beyond the -grave, took very good care not to make a bad death of it, and so -contrived to die very skillfully; and that at the very moment he -felt his powers of invention declining.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He left a son and a daughter, both -worthy of the name they were called upon to bear; the son, a -cutter as unerring and exact as the square rule; the daughter, -apt at embroidery, and at designing ornaments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The marriage of Henry IV. and Marie -de Medici, and the exquisite court-mourning for the -afore-mentioned queen, together with a few words let fall by M. -de Bassompière, king of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>beaux</i> of the period, made the -fortune of the second generation of Percerins.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Concino Concini, and his wife -Galligaï, who subsequently shone at the French court, sought -to Italianize the fashion, and introduced some Florentine -tailors; but Percerin, touched to the quick in his patriotism and -his self-esteem, entirely defeated these foreigners, and that so -well that Concino was the first to give up his compatriots, and -held the French tailor in such esteem that he would never employ -any other, and thus wore a doublet of his on the very day that -Vitry blew out his brains with a pistol at the Pont du -Louvre.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And so it was a doublet -issuing from M. Percerin's workshop, which the Parisians rejoiced -in hacking into so many pieces with the living human body it -contained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Notwithstanding the favor Concino Concini had shown Percerin, the -king, Louis XIII., had the generosity to bear no malice to his -tailor, and to retain him in his service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the time that Louis the Just -afforded this great example of equity, Percerin had brought up -two sons, one of whom made his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>début</i> at the marriage of -Anne of Austria, invented that admirable Spanish costume, in -which Richelieu danced a saraband, made the costumes for the -tragedy of "Mirame," and stitched on to Buckingham's mantle those -famous pearls which were destined to be scattered about the -pavements of the Louvre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -A man becomes easily notable who has made the dresses of a Duke -of Buckingham, a M. de Cinq-Mars, a Mademoiselle Ninon, a M. de -Beaufort, and a Marion de Lorme.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And thus Percerin the third had -attained the summit of his glory when his father died.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This same Percerin III., old, -famous and wealthy, yet further dressed Louis XIV.; and having no -son, which was a great cause of sorrow to him, seeing that with -himself his dynasty would end, he had brought up several hopeful -pupils.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He possessed a -carriage, a country house, men-servants the tallest in Paris; and -by special authority from Louis XIV., a pack of hounds.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He worked for MM. de Lyonne -and Letellier, under a sort of patronage; but politic man as he -was, and versed in state secrets, he never succeeded in fitting -M. Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is -beyond explanation; it is a matter for guessing or for -intuition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Great geniuses -of every kind live on unseen, intangible ideas; they act without -themselves knowing why.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The great Percerin (for, contrary to the rule of dynasties, it -was, above all, the last of the Percerins who deserved the name -of Great), the great Percerin was inspired when he cut a robe for -the queen, or a coat for the king; he could mount a mantle for -Monsieur, the clock of a stocking for Madame; but, in spite of -his supreme talent, he could never hit off anything approaching a -creditable fit for M. Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That man," he used often to say, -"is beyond my art; my needle can never dot him down."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We need scarcely say that Percerin -was M. Fouquet's tailor, and that the superintendent highly -esteemed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Percerin -was nearly eighty years old, nevertheless still fresh, and at the -same time so dry, the courtiers used to say, that he was -positively brittle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -renown and his fortune were great enough for M. le Prince, that -king of fops, to take his arm when talking over the fashions; and -for those least eager to pay never to dare to leave their -accounts in arrear with him; for Master Percerin would for the -first time make clothes upon credit, but the second never, unless -paid for the former order.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It is easy to see at -once that a tailor of such renown, instead of running after -customers, made difficulties about obliging any fresh ones.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so Percerin declined to -fit <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bourgeois</i>, or those -who had but recently obtained patents of nobility.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A story used to circulate that even -M. de Mazarin, in exchange for Percerin supplying him with a full -suit of ceremonial vestments as cardinal, one fine day slipped -letters of nobility into his pocket.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was to the house of -this grand llama of tailors that D'Artagnan took the despairing -Porthos; who, as they were going along, said to his friend, "Take -care, my good D'Artagnan, not to compromise the dignity of a man -such as I am with the arrogance of this Percerin, who will, I -expect, be very impertinent; for I give you notice, my friend, -that if he is wanting in respect I will infallibly chastise -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Presented by me," -replied D'Artagnan, "you have nothing to fear, even though you -were what you are not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! 'tis because - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you anything against Percerin, -Porthos?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think that I once -sent Mouston to a fellow of that name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fellow refused to -supply me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, a misunderstanding, -no doubt, which it will be now exceedingly easy to set -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mouston must have -made a mistake."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perhaps."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has confused the -names."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Possibly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That rascal Mouston never can -remember names."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will take it all upon -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stop the carriage, -Porthos; here we are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here! how here?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are at the Halles; and you -told me the house was at the corner of the Rue de l'Arbre -Sec."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis true, but -look."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I do look, and I -see - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i> that we are at the -Halles!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not, I suppose, -want our horses to clamber up on the roof of the carriage in -front of us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nor the carriage in -front of us to mount on top of the one in front of it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nor that the second should be -driven over the roofs of the thirty or forty others which have -arrived before us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, you are right, -indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What a number of -people!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what are they -all about?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis very simple.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They are waiting their -turn."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have the comedians of the -Hôtel de Bourgogne shifted their quarters?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; their turn to -obtain an entrance to M. Percerin's house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And we are going to -wait too?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, we shall show -ourselves prompter and not so proud."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are we to do, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Get down, pass through -the footmen and lackeys, and enter the tailor's house, which I -will answer for our doing, if you go first."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come along, then," said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They accordingly -alighted and made their way on foot towards the -establishment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cause -of the confusion was that M. Percerin's doors were closed, while -a servant, standing before them, was explaining to the -illustrious customers of the illustrious tailor that just then M. -Percerin could not receive anybody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was bruited about outside still, -on the authority of what the great lackey had told some great -noble whom he favored, in confidence, that M. Percerin was -engaged on five costumes for the king, and that, owing to the -urgency of the case, he was meditating in his office on the -ornaments, colors, and cut of these five suits.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Some, contented with this reason, -went away again, contented to repeat the tale to others, but -others, more tenacious, insisted on having the doors opened, and -among these last three Blue Ribbons, intended to take parts in a -ballet, which would inevitably fail unless the said three had -their costumes shaped by the very hand of the great Percerin -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -pushing on Porthos, who scattered the groups of people right and -left, succeeded in gaining the counter, behind which the -journeyman tailors were doing their best to answer queries.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> (We forgot to mention that at -the door they wanted to put off Porthos like the rest, but -D'Artagnan, showing himself, pronounced merely these words, "The -king's order," and was let in with his friend.)<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The poor fellows had enough to do, -and did their best, to reply to the demands of the customers in -the absence of their master, leaving off drawing a stitch to knit -a sentence; and when wounded pride, or disappointed expectation, -brought down upon them too cutting a rebuke, he who was attacked -made a dive and disappeared under the counter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The line of discontented lords -formed a truly remarkable picture.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Our captain of musketeers, a man of -sure and rapid observation, took it all in at a glance; and -having run over the groups, his eye rested on a man in front of -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This man, seated -upon a stool, scarcely showed his head above the counter that -sheltered him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was -about forty years of age, with a melancholy aspect, pale face, -and soft luminous eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He was looking at D'Artagnan and the rest, with his chin resting -upon his hand, like a calm and inquiring amateur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only on perceiving, and doubtless -recognizing, our captain, he pulled his hat down over his -eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was this action, -perhaps, that attracted D'Artagnan's attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If so, the gentleman who had pulled -down his hat produced an effect entirely different from what he -had desired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In other -respects his costume was plain, and his hair evenly cut enough -for customers, who were not close observers, to take him for a -mere tailor's apprentice, perched behind the board, and carefully -stitching cloth or velvet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nevertheless, this man held up his -head too often to be very productively employed with his -fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan was -not deceived, - not he; and he saw at once that if this man was -working at anything, it certainly was not at velvet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh!" said he, -addressing this man, "and so you have become a tailor's boy, -Monsieur Molière!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush, M. d'Artagnan!" -replied the man, softly, "you will make them recognize me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and what -harm?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fact is, there is -no harm, but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were going to say -there is no good in doing it either, is it not so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! no; for I was -occupied in examining some excellent figures."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go on - go on, Monsieur -Molière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I quite -understand the interest you take in the plates - I will not -disturb your studies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But on one condition; -that you tell me where M. Percerin really is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! willingly; in his -own room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only that one can't -enter it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Unapproachable."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For -everybody?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Everybody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He brought me here so that I might -be at my ease to make my observations, and then he went -away."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, my dear Monsieur -Molière, but you will go and tell him I am here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I!" exclaimed -Molière, in the tone of a courageous dog, from which you -snatch the bone it has legitimately gained; "I disturb -myself!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Artagnan, how hard you -are upon me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you don't go -directly and tell M. Percerin that I am here, my dear -Molière," said D'Artagnan, in a low tone, "I warn you of -one thing: that I won't exhibit to you the friend I have brought -with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Molière indicated -Porthos by an imperceptible gesture, "This gentleman, is it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Molière fixed -upon Porthos one of those looks which penetrate the minds and -hearts of men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -subject doubtless appeared a very promising one, for he -immediately rose and led the way into the adjoining chamber.</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 -Patterns.</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 this time the noble mob was slowly heaving -away, leaving at every angle of the counter either a murmur or a -menace, as the waves leave foam or scattered seaweed on the -sands, when they retire with the ebbing tide.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In about ten minutes Molière -reappeared, making another sign to D'Artagnan from under the -hangings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter -hurried after him, with Porthos in the rear, and after threading -a labyrinth of corridors, introduced him to M. Percerin's -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The old man, with -his sleeves turned up, was gathering up in folds a piece of -gold-flowered brocade, so as the better to exhibit its -luster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perceiving -D'Artagnan, he put the silk aside, and came to meet him, by no -means radiant with joy, and by no means courteous, but, take it -altogether, in a tolerably civil manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The captain of the -king's musketeers will excuse me, I am sure, for I am -engaged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! yes, on the king's -costumes; I know that, my dear Monsieur Percerin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are making three, they tell -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Five, my dear sir, -five."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Three or five, 'tis all -the same to me, my dear monsieur; and I know that you will make -them most exquisitely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I know.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once made they will be the -most beautiful in the world, I do not deny it; but that they may -be the most beautiful in the word, they must first be made; and -to do this, captain, I am pressed for time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, bah! there are two -days yet; 'tis much more than you require, Monsieur Percerin," -said D'Artagnan, in the coolest possible manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Percerin raised his head -with the air of a man little accustomed to be contradicted, even -in his whims; but D'Artagnan did not pay the least attention to -the airs which the illustrious tailor began to assume.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear M. Percerin," -he continued, "I bring you a customer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah!" exclaimed -Percerin, crossly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"M. le Baron du Vallon de Bracieux de -Pierrefonds," continued D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> Percerin attempted a bow, -which found no favor in the eyes of the terrible Porthos, who, -from his first entry into the room, had been regarding the tailor -askance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A very good friend of -mine," concluded D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will attend to -monsieur," said Percerin, "but later."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Later? but when?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When I have time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have already told -my valet as much," broke in Porthos, discontentedly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very likely," said -Percerin; "I am nearly always pushed for time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend," returned -Porthos, sententiously, "there is always time to be found when -one chooses to seek it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Percerin turned crimson; -an ominous sign indeed in old men blanched by age.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur is quite at -liberty to confer his custom elsewhere."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come, Percerin," -interposed D'Artagnan, "you are not in a good temper to-day.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, I will say one more word -to you, which will bring you on your knees; monsieur is not only -a friend of mine, but more, a friend of M. Fouquet's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah!" exclaimed the -tailor, "that is another thing."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then turning to Porthos, "Monsieur -le baron is attached to the superintendent?" he inquired.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am attached to -myself," shouted Porthos, at the very moment that the tapestry -was raised to introduce a new speaker in the dialogue.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Molière was all -observation, D'Artagnan laughed, Porthos swore.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Percerin," said -D'Artagnan, "you will make a dress for the baron.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Tis I who ask you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To you I will not say -nay, captain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But that is not all; -you will make it for him at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis impossible within -eight days."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That, then, is as much -as to refuse, because the dress is wanted for the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at Vaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I repeat that it is -impossible," returned the obstinate old man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By no means, dear -Monsieur Percerin, above all if <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>I</i> ask you," said a mild voice -at the door, a silvery voice which made D'Artagnan prick up his -ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the voice of -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Herblay!" -cried the tailor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Aramis," murmured D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "Ah! our bishop!" -said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good morning, -D'Artagnan; good morning, Porthos; good-morning, my dear -friends," said Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Come, come, M. Percerin, make the baron's dress; and I will -answer for it you will gratify M. Fouquet."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he accompanied the words with a -sign, which seemed to say, "Agree, and dismiss them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It appeared that Aramis -had over Master Percerin an influence superior even to -D'Artagnan's, for the tailor bowed in assent, and turning round -upon Porthos, said, "Go and get measured on the other side."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos colored in a -formidable manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan saw the storm coming, and addressing Molière, -said to him, in an undertone, "You see before you, my dear -monsieur, a man who considers himself disgraced, if you measure -the flesh and bones that Heaven has given him; study this type -for me, Master Aristophanes, and profit by it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Molière had no -need of encouragement, and his gaze dwelt long and keenly on the -Baron Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur," he said, "if you will come with me, I will make them -take your measure without touching you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Porthos, "how -do you make that out, my friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say that they shall -apply neither line nor rule to the seams of your dress.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a new method we have -invented for measuring people of quality, who are too sensitive -to allow low-born fellows to touch them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We know some susceptible persons who -will not put up with being measured, a process which, as I think, -wounds the natural dignity of a man; and if perchance monsieur -should be one of these - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Corbœuf!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I believe I am too!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, that is a capital -and most consolatory coincidence, and you shall have the benefit -of our invention."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But how in the world -can it be done?" asked Porthos, delighted.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said -Molière, bowing, "if you will deign to follow me, you will -see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis observed this -scene with all his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Perhaps he fancied from D'Artagnan's liveliness that he would -leave with Porthos, so as not to lose the conclusion of a scene -well begun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, -clear-sighted as he was, Aramis deceived himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos and Molière left -together: D'Artagnan remained with Percerin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From curiosity, doubtless; probably -to enjoy a little longer the society of his good friend -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As Molière -and Porthos disappeared, D'Artagnan drew near the bishop of -Vannes, a proceeding which appeared particularly to disconcert -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A dress for you, also, -is it not, my friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis smiled.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will go to Vaux, -however?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall go, but without -a new dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You forget, -dear D'Artagnan, that a poor bishop of Vannes is not rich enough -to have new dresses for every <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!" said the -musketeer, laughing, "and do we write no more poems now, -either?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan," exclaimed Aramis, "I -have long ago given up all such tomfoolery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," repeated -D'Artagnan, only half convinced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for Percerin, he was once more -absorbed in contemplation of the brocades.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Don't you perceive," -said Aramis, smiling, "that we are greatly boring this good -gentleman, my dear D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah!" murmured the -musketeer, aside; "that is, I am boring you, my friend."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then aloud, "Well, then, let -us leave; I have no further business here, and if you are as -disengaged as I, Aramis - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, not I - I wished - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you had something -particular to say to M. Percerin?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why did you not tell me so at -once?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Something particular, -certainly," repeated Aramis, "but not for you, D'Artagnan.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, at the same time, I hope -you will believe that I can never have anything so particular to -say that a friend like you may not hear it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, no!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am going," said D'Artagnan, -imparting to his voice an evident tone of curiosity; for Aramis's -annoyance, well dissembled as it was, had not a whit escaped him; -and he knew that, in that impenetrable mind, every thing, even -the most apparently trivial, was designed to some end; an unknown -one, but an end that, from the knowledge he had of his friend's -character, the musketeer felt must be important.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> On his part, Aramis saw -that D'Artagnan was not without suspicion, and pressed him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Stay, by all means," he said, -"this is what it is."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Then turning towards the tailor, "My dear Percerin," said he, - -"I am even very happy that you are here, D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, indeed," exclaimed -the Gascon, for the third time, even less deceived this time than -before.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Percerin never -moved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis roused him -violently, by snatching from his hands the stuff upon which he -was engaged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My dear -Percerin," said he, "I have, near hand, M. Lebrun, one of M. -Fouquet's painters."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, very good," thought -D'Artagnan; "but why Lebrun?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis looked at -D'Artagnan, who seemed to be occupied with an engraving of Mark -Antony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And you wish -that I should make him a dress, similar to those of the -Epicureans?" answered Percerin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And while saying this, in an absent -manner, the worthy tailor endeavored to recapture his piece of -brocade.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An Epicurean's dress?" -asked D'Artagnan, in a tone of inquiry.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see," said Aramis, -with a most engaging smile, "it is written that our dear -D'Artagnan shall know all our secrets this evening.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, friend, you have surely heard -speak of M. Fouquet's Epicureans, have you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Undoubtedly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it not a kind of poetical -society, of which La Fontaine, Loret, Pélisson, and -Molière are members, and which holds its sittings at -Saint-Mandé?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, we are going to put our poets -in uniform, and enroll them in a regiment for the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, very well, I -understand; a surprise M. Fouquet is getting up for the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be at ease; if that -is the secret about M. Lebrun, I will not mention it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Always agreeable, my -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, Monsieur -Lebrun has nothing to do with this part of it; the secret which -concerns him is far more important than the other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, if it is so -important as all that, I prefer not to know it," said D'Artagnan, -making a show of departure.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come in, M. Lebrun, -come in," said Aramis, opening a side-door with his right hand, -and holding back D'Artagnan with his left.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I'faith, I too, am -quite in the dark," quoth Percerin.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis took an -"opportunity," as is said in theatrical matters.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear M. de -Percerin," Aramis continued, "you are making five dresses for the -king, are you not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One in -brocade; one in hunting-cloth; one in velvet; one in satin; and -one in Florentine stuffs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but how - do you -know all that, monseigneur?" said Percerin, astounded.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is all very simple, -my dear monsieur; there will be a hunt, a banquet, concert, -promenade and reception; these five kinds of dress are required -by etiquette."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know everything, -monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And a thing or two in -addition," muttered D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," cried the tailor, -in triumph, "what you do not know, monseigneur - prince of the -church though you are - what nobody will know - what only the -king, Mademoiselle de la Vallière, and myself do know, is -the color of the materials and nature of the ornaments, and the -cut, the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>ensemble</i>, the -finish of it all!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Aramis, -"that is precisely what I have come to ask you, dear -Percerin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, bah!" exclaimed the -tailor, terrified, though Aramis had pronounced these words in -his softest and most honeyed tones.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The request appeared, on reflection, -so exaggerated, so ridiculous, so monstrous to M. Percerin that -first he laughed to himself, then aloud, and finished with a -shout.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -followed his example, not because he found the matter so "very -funny," but in order not to allow Aramis to cool.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At the outset, I appear -to be hazarding an absurd question, do I not?" said Aramis.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But D'Artagnan, who is -incarnate wisdom itself, will tell you that I could not do -otherwise than ask you this."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us see," said the -attentive musketeer; perceiving with his wonderful instinct that -they had only been skirmishing till now, and that the hour of -battle was approaching.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us see," said -Percerin, incredulously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, now," continued -Aramis, "does M. Fouquet give the king a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête?</i> - Is it not to -please him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Assuredly," said -Percerin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <span lang="FR" -style='mso-ansi-language:FR'>D'Artagnan nodded assent.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "By delicate -attentions? by some happy device? by a succession of surprises, -like that of which we were talking? - the enrolment of our -Epicureans."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Admirable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then; this is the -surprise we intend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -Lebrun here is a man who draws most excellently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Percerin; "I -have seen his pictures, and observed that his dresses were highly -elaborated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is why I -at once agreed to make him a costume - whether to agree with -those of the Epicureans, or an original one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear monsieur, we -accept your offer, and shall presently avail ourselves of it; but -just now, M. Lebrun is not in want of the dresses you will make -for himself, but of those you are making for the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Percerin made a bound -backwards, which D'Artagnan - calmest and most appreciative of -men, did not consider overdone, so many strange and startling -aspects wore the proposal which Aramis had just hazarded.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The king's dresses!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give the king's dresses to any -mortal whatever!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! for -once, monseigneur, your grace is mad!" cried the poor tailor in -extremity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Help me now, -D'Artagnan," said Aramis, more and more calm and smiling.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Help me now to persuade -monsieur, for <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> -understand; do you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! eh! - not exactly, -I declare."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! you do not -understand that M. Fouquet wishes to afford the king the surprise -of finding his portrait on his arrival at Vaux; and that the -portrait, which be a striking resemblance, ought to be dressed -exactly as the king will be on the day it is shown?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes, yes," said the -musketeer, nearly convinced, so plausible was this -reasoning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, my dear -Aramis, you are right; it is a happy idea.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will wager it is one of your own, -Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I don't know," -replied the bishop; "either mine or M. Fouquet's."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then scanning Percerin, after -noticing D'Artagnan's hesitation, "Well, Monsieur Percerin," he -asked, "what do you say to this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say, that - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That you are, -doubtless, free to refuse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know well - and I by no means -count upon compelling you, my dear monsieur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will say more, I even understand -all the delicacy you feel in taking up with M. Fouquet's idea; -you dread appearing to flatter the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A noble spirit, M. Percerin, a noble -spirit!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The tailor -stammered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It would, -indeed, be a very pretty compliment to pay the young prince," -continued Aramis; "but as the surintendant told me, 'if Percerin -refuse, tell him that it will not at all lower him in my opinion, -and I shall always esteem him, only - '"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Only?'" repeated -Percerin, rather troubled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Only,'" continued -Aramis, "'I shall be compelled to say to the king,' - you -understand, my dear Monsieur Percerin, that these are M. -Fouquet's words, - 'I shall be constrained to say to the king, -"Sire, I had intended to present your majesty with your portrait, -but owing to a feeling of delicacy, slightly exaggerated perhaps, -although creditable, M. Percerin opposed the project."'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Opposed!" cried the -tailor, terrified at the responsibility which would weigh upon -him; "I to oppose the desire, the will of M. Fouquet when he is -seeking to please the king!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, what a hateful word you have -uttered, monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Oppose!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, 'tis not I -who said it, Heaven have mercy on me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I call the captain of the musketeers -to witness it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it not -true, Monsieur d'Artagnan, that I have opposed nothing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan made a sign -indicating that he wished to remain neutral.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt that there was an intrigue -at the bottom of it, whether comedy or tragedy; he was at his -wit's end at not being able to fathom it, but in the meanwhile -wished to keep clear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But already Percerin, -goaded by the idea that the king was to be told he stood in the -way of a pleasant surprise, had offered Lebrun a chair, and -proceeded to bring from a wardrobe four magnificent dresses, the -fifth being still in the workmen's hands; and these masterpieces -he successively fitted upon four lay figures, which, imported -into France in the time of Concini, had been given to Percerin -II. by Marshal d'Onore, after the discomfiture of the Italian -tailors ruined in their competition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The painter set to work to draw and -then to paint the dresses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Aramis, who was closely watching -all the phases of his toil, suddenly stopped him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think you have not -quite got it, my dear Lebrun," he said; "your colors will deceive -you, and on canvas we shall lack that exact resemblance which is -absolutely requisite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Time is necessary for attentively observing the finer -shades."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite true," said -Percerin, "but time is wanting, and on that head, you will agree -with me, monseigneur, I can do nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then the affair will -fail," said Aramis, quietly, "and that because of a want of -precision in the colors."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Nevertheless Lebrun went -on copying the materials and ornaments with the closest fidelity -- a process which Aramis watched with ill-concealed -impatience.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What in the world, now, -is the meaning of this imbroglio?" the musketeer kept saying to -himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That will never do," -said Aramis: "M. Lebrun, close your box, and roll up your -canvas."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, monsieur," cried -the vexed painter, "the light is abominable here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An idea, M. Lebrun, an -idea!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If we had a pattern -of the materials, for example, and with time, and a better light -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, then," cried -Lebrun, "I would answer for the effect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good!" said D'Artagnan, -"this ought to be the knotty point of the whole thing; they want -a pattern of each of the materials.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will this Percerin give in now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Percerin, beaten from -his last retreat, and duped, moreover, by the feigned good-nature -of Aramis, cut out five patterns and handed them to the bishop of -Vannes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I like this -better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is your -opinion, is it not?" said Aramis to D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Aramis," said -D'Artagnan, "my opinion is that you are always the same."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And, consequently, -always your friend," said the bishop in a charming tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes," said -D'Artagnan, aloud; then, in a low voice, "If I am your dupe, -double Jesuit that you are, I will not be your accomplice; and to -prevent it, 'tis time I left this place. - Adieu, Aramis," he -added aloud, "adieu; I am going to rejoin Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then wait for me," said -Aramis, pocketing the patterns, "for I have done, and shall be -glad to say a parting word to our dear old friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Lebrun packed up his -paints and brushes, Percerin put back the dresses into the -closet, Aramis put his hand on his pocket to assure himself the -patterns were secure, - and they all left the study.</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'> -Where, Probably, Molière Obtained His First Idea of the -Bourgeois Gentilhomme.</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 found Porthos in the adjoining chamber; but no -longer an irritated Porthos, or a disappointed Porthos, but -Porthos radiant, blooming, fascinating, and chattering with -Molière, who was looking upon him with a species of -idolatry, and as a man would who had not only never seen anything -greater, but not even ever anything so great.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis went straight up to Porthos -and offered him his white hand, which lost itself in the gigantic -clasp of his old friend, - an operation which Aramis never -hazarded without a certain uneasiness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the friendly pressure having -been performed not too painfully for him, the bishop of Vannes -passed over to Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur," said -he, "will you come with me to Saint-Mandé?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will go anywhere you -like, monseigneur," answered Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To Saint-Mandé!" -cried Porthos, surprised at seeing the proud bishop of Vannes -fraternizing with a journeyman tailor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What, Aramis, are you going to take -this gentleman to Saint-Mandé?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Aramis, -smiling, "our work is pressing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And besides, my dear -Porthos," continued D'Artagnan, "M. Molière is not -altogether what he seems."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what way?" asked -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, this gentleman is -one of M. Percerin's chief clerks, and is expected at -Saint-Mandé to try on the dresses which M. Fouquet has -ordered for the Epicureans."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis precisely so," -said Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, then, my dear M. -Molière," said Aramis, "that is, if you have done with M. -du Vallon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We have finished," -replied Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are satisfied?" -asked D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Completely so," replied -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Molière took his -leave of Porthos with much ceremony, and grasped the hand which -the captain of the musketeers furtively offered him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pray, monsieur," -concluded Porthos, mincingly, "above all, be exact."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will have your -dress the day after to-morrow, monsieur le baron," answered -Molière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -left with Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then D'Artagnan, taking -Porthos's arm, "What has this tailor done for you, my dear -Porthos," he asked, "that you are so pleased with him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What has he done for -me, my friend! done for me!" cried Porthos, enthusiastically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I ask you, what -has he done for you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend, he has done -that which no tailor ever yet accomplished: he has taken my -measure without touching me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, bah! tell me how he -did it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "First, then, they went, -I don't know where, for a number of lay figures, of all heights -and sizes, hoping there would be one to suit mine, but the -largest - that of the drum-major of the Swiss guard - was two -inches too short, and a half foot too narrow in the chest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is exactly as I tell -you, D'Artagnan; but he is a great man, or at the very least a -great tailor, is this M. Molière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was not at all put at fault by -the circumstance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did he do, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! it is a very simple -matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I'faith, 'tis an -unheard-of thing that people should have been so stupid as not to -have discovered this method from the first.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What annoyance and humiliation they -would have spared me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not to mention of the -costumes, my dear Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, thirty -dresses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, my dear Porthos, -come, tell me M. Molière's plan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Molière?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You call him so, do you?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall make a point of -recollecting his name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; or Poquelin, if -you prefer that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I like -Molière best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -I wish to recollect his name, I shall think of <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>volière</i> [an aviary]; and -as I have one at Pierrefonds - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Capital!" returned D'Artagnan.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> "And M. -Molière's plan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis this: instead of -pulling me to pieces, as all these rascals do - of making me bend -my back, and double my joints - all of them low and dishonorable -practices - "<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -made a sign of approbation with his head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "'Monsieur,' he said to me," -continued Porthos, "'a gentleman ought to measure himself.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do me the pleasure to draw -near this glass;' and I drew near the glass.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I must own I did not exactly -understand what this good M. Volière wanted with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Molière!"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! yes, Molière -- Molière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> -And as the fear of being measured still possessed me, 'Take -care,' said I to him, 'what you are going to do with me; I am -very ticklish, I warn you.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he, with his soft voice (for he -is a courteous fellow, we must admit, my friend), he with his -soft voice, 'Monsieur,' said he, 'that your dress may fit you -well, it must be made according to your figure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your figure is exactly reflected in -this mirror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall -take the measure of this reflection.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In fact," said -D'Artagnan, "you saw yourself in the glass; but where did they -find one in which you could see your whole figure?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My good friend, it is -the very glass in which the king is used to look to see -himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but the king is a -foot and a half shorter than you are."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! well, I know not -how that may be; it is, no doubt, a cunning way of flattering the -king; but the looking-glass was too large for me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Tis true that its height was made -up of three Venetian plates of glass, placed one above another, -and its breadth of three similar parallelograms in -juxtaposition."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Porthos! what -excellent words you have command of.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where in the word did you acquire -such a voluminous vocabulary?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At Belle-Isle.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and I had to use such -words in our strategic studies and castramentative -experiments."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan recoiled, as -though the sesquipedalian syllables had knocked the breath out of -his body.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! very good.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us return to the -looking-glass, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, this good M. -Volière - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Molière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes - Molière - -you are right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will -see now, my dear friend, that I shall recollect his name quite -well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This excellent M. -Molière set to work tracing out lines on the mirror, with -a piece of Spanish chalk, following in all the make of my arms -and my shoulders, all the while expounding this maxim, which I -thought admirable: 'It is advisable that a dress should not -incommode its wearer.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In reality," said -D'Artagnan, "that is an excellent maxim, which is, unfortunately, -seldom carried out in practice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is why I found it -all the more astonishing, when he expatiated upon it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! he expatiated?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!"</i></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'><span -style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span></i> "Let me hear -his theory."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Seeing that,' he -continued, 'one may, in awkward circumstances, or in a -troublesome position, have one's doublet on one's shoulder, and -not desire to take one's doublet off - '"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"True," said D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "'And so,' -continued M. Volière - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Molière."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Molière, -yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> 'And so,' -went on M. Molière, 'you want to draw your sword, -monsieur, and you have your doublet on your back.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you do?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'I take it off,' I -answered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Well, no,' he -replied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'How no?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'I say that the dress -should be so well made, that it will in no way encumber you, even -in drawing your sword.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Ah, ah!'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Throw yourself on -guard,' pursued he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I did it with such -wondrous firmness, that two panes of glass burst out of the -window.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"''Tis nothing, -nothing,' said he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Keep -your position.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I raised my left arm in -the air, the forearm gracefully bent, the ruffle drooping, and my -wrist curved, while my right arm, half extended, securely covered -my wrist with the elbow, and my breast with the wrist."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes," said -D'Artagnan, "'tis the true guard - the academic guard."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You have said the -very word, dear friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In the meanwhile, Volière - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'> -"Molière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Hold!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should certainly, after all, -prefer to call him - what did you say his other name was?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Poquelin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I prefer to call -him Poquelin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And how will you -remember this name better than the other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You understand, he -calls himself Poquelin, does he not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"If I were to call -to mind Madame Coquenard."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And change <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Coc</i> into <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Poc</i>, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>nard</i> into <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lin</i>; and instead of Coquenard I -shall have Poquelin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis wonderful," cried -D'Artagnan, astounded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Go on, my friend, I am listening to you with admiration."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"This Coquelin -sketched my arm on the glass."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I beg your pardon -- Poquelin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What did I say, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You said -Coquelin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! true. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This Poquelin, then, sketched my arm -on the glass; but he took his time over it; he kept looking at me -a good deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fact is, -that I must have been looking particularly handsome."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Does it weary -you?' he asked.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'A little,' I -replied, bending a little in my hands, 'but I could hold out for -an hour or so longer.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'No, no, I will not -allow it; the willing fellows will make it a duty to support your -arms, as of old, men supported those of the prophet.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Very good,' I -answered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'That will not be -humiliating to you?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'My friend,' said I, -'there is, I think, a great difference between being supported -and being measured.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The distinction is -full of the soundest sense," interrupted D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then," continued -Porthos, "he made a sign: two lads approached; one supported my -left arm, while the other, with infinite address, supported my -right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Another, my man,' -cried he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A third -approached.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Support -monsieur by the waist,' said he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>garçon</i> complied."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"So that you were -at rest?" asked D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Perfectly; and -Pocquenard drew me on the glass."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Poquelin, my -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Poquelin - you are -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay, decidedly I -prefer calling him Volière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes; and then it -was over, wasn't it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"During that time -Volière drew me as I appeared in the mirror."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Twas delicate in -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I much like the -plan; it is respectful, and keeps every one in his place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And there it -ended?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Without a soul -having touched me, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Except the three -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>garçons</i> who -supported you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Doubtless; but I have, -I think, already explained to you the difference there is between -supporting and measuring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis true," answered -D'Artagnan; who said afterwards to himself, "I'faith, I greatly -deceive myself, or I have been the means of a good windfall to -that rascal Molière, and we shall assuredly see the scene -hit off to the life in some comedy or other."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos smiled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What are you -laughing at?" asked D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Must I -confess?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, I was -laughing over my good fortune."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, that is true; I -don't know a happier man than you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what is this last piece of luck -that has befallen you?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, my dear -fellow, congratulate me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I desire nothing -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It seems that I am -the first who has had his measure taken in that manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Are you so sure of -it?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nearly so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Certain signs of intelligence which -passed between Volière and the other <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>garçons</i> showed me the -fact."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, my friend, -that does not surprise me from Molière," said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Volière, my -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, no, -indeed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am very willing -to leave you to go on saying Volière; but, as for me, I -shall continued to say Molière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, this, I was saying, does not -surprise me, coming from Molière, who is a very ingenious -fellow, and inspired you with this grand idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It will be of -great use to him by and by, I am sure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Won't it be of use to -him, indeed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I believe -you, it will, and that in the highest degree; - for you see my -friend Molière is of all known tailors the man who best -clothes our barons, comtes, and marquises - according to their -measure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> On this observation, -neither the application nor depth of which we shall discuss, -D'Artagnan and Porthos quitted M. de Percerin's house and -rejoined their carriages, wherein we will leave them, in order to -look after Molière and Aramis at Saint-Mandé.</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'>The -Bee-Hive, the Bees, and the Honey.</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 bishop of Vannes, much annoyed at having met -D'Artagnan at M. Percerin's, returned to Saint-Mandé in no -very good humor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Molière, on the other hand, quite delighted at having made -such a capital rough sketch, and at knowing where to find his -original again, whenever he should desire to convert his sketch -into a picture, Molière arrived in the merriest of -moods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the first -story of the left wing was occupied by the most celebrated -Epicureans in Paris, and those on the freest footing in the house -- every one in his compartment, like the bees in their cells, -employed in producing the honey intended for that royal cake -which M. Fouquet proposed to offer his majesty Louis XIV. during -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at -Vaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pélisson, -his head leaning on his hand, was engaged in drawing out the plan -of the prologue to the "Fâcheux," a comedy in three acts, -which was to be put on the stage by Poquelin de Molière, -as D'Artagnan called him, or Coquelin de Volière, as -Porthos styled him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Loret, with all the charming innocence of a gazetteer, - the -gazetteers of all ages have always been so artless! - Loret was -composing an account of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêtes</i> at Vaux, before -those <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêtes</i> had -taken place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Fontaine -sauntered about from one to the other, a peripatetic, -absent-minded, boring, unbearable dreamer, who kept buzzing and -humming at everybody's elbow a thousand poetic abstractions.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He so often disturbed -Pélisson, that the latter, raising his head, crossly said, -"At least, La Fontaine, supply me with a rhyme, since you have -the run of the gardens at Parnassus."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What rhyme do you -want?" asked the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Fabler</i> -as Madame de Sévigné used to call him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I want a rhyme to <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lumière</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ornière</i>," answered La -Fontaine.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "Ah, but, my good -friend, one cannot talk of <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>wheel-ruts</i> when celebrating the -delights of Vaux," said Loret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Besides, it doesn't -rhyme," answered Pélisson.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! doesn't rhyme!" -cried La Fontaine, in surprise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; you have an -abominable habit, my friend, - a habit which will ever prevent -your becoming a poet of the first order.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You rhyme in a slovenly manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, oh, you think so, -do you, Pélisson?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I do, indeed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Remember that a rhyme is never -good so long as one can find a better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then I will never write -anything again save in prose," said La Fontaine, who had taken up -Pélisson's reproach in earnest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I often suspected I was nothing but -a rascally poet!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, -'tis the very truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not say so; your -remark is too sweeping, and there is much that is good in your -'Fables.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And to begin," -continued La Fontaine, following up his idea, "I will go and burn -a hundred verses I have just made."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where are your -verses?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In my head."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, if they are in -your head you cannot burn them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," said La -Fontaine; "but if I do not burn them - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what will happen -if you do not burn them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They will remain in my -mind, and I shall never forget them!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The deuce!" cried -Loret; "what a dangerous thing!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One would go mad with it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The deuce! the deuce!" -repeated La Fontaine; "what can I do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have discovered the -way," said Molière, who had entered just at this point of -the conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Write them first and -burn them afterwards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How simple!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, I should never have discovered -that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What a mind that -devil of a Molière has!" said La Fontaine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, striking his forehead, "Oh, -thou wilt never be aught but an ass, Jean La Fontaine!" he -added.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>What</i> are you saying there, my -friend?" broke in Molière, approaching the poet, whose -aside he had heard.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say I shall never be -aught but an ass," answered La Fontaine, with a heavy sigh and -swimming eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, my -friend," he added, with increasing grief, "it seems that I rhyme -in a slovenly manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, 'tis wrong to say -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nay, I am a poor -creature!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who said so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!</i> 'twas Pélisson; -did you not, Pélisson?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Pélisson, again -absorbed in his work, took good care not to answer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But if Pélisson -said you were so," cried Molière, "Pélisson has -seriously offended you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you think so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I advise you, as you are a -gentleman, not to leave an insult like that unpunished."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>What!</i>" exclaimed La -Fontaine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did you ever -fight?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Once only, with a -lieutenant in the light horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What wrong had he done -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It seems he ran away -with my wife."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah!" said -Molière, becoming slightly pale; but as, at La Fontaine's -declaration, the others had turned round, Molière kept -upon his lips the rallying smile which had so nearly died away, -and continuing to make La Fontaine speak -</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what was the result -of the duel?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The result was, that on -the ground my opponent disarmed me, and then made an apology, -promising never again to set foot in my house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you considered -yourself satisfied?" said Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all! on the -contrary, I picked up my sword.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'I beg your pardon, monsieur,' I -said, 'I have not fought you because you were my wife's friend, -but because I was told I ought to fight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, as I have never known any peace -save since you made her acquaintance, do me the pleasure to -continue your visits as heretofore, or <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>morbleu!</i> let us set to -again.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so," -continued La Fontaine, "he was compelled to resume his friendship -with madame, and I continue to be the happiest of husbands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> All burst out -laughing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Molière -alone passed his hand across his eyes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps to wipe away a tear, perhaps -to smother a sigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alas! -we know that Molière was a moralist, but he was not a -philosopher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "'Tis all -one," he said, returning to the topic of the conversation, -"Pélisson has insulted you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, truly!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had already forgotten it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I am going to -challenge him on your behalf."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, you can do so, if -you think it indispensable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do think it -indispensable, and I am going to - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay," exclaimed La -Fontaine, "I want your advice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon what? this -insult?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; tell me really now -whether <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lumière</i> -does not rhyme with <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ornière</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should make them -rhyme."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I knew you would."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I have made a -hundred thousand such rhymes in my time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A hundred thousand!" -cried La Fontaine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Four -times as many as 'La Pucelle,' which M. Chaplain is -meditating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it also on -this subject, too, that you have composed a hundred thousand -verses?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Listen to me, you -eternally absent-minded creature," said Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is certain," -continued La Fontaine, "that <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>légume</i>, for instance, -rhymes with <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>posthume</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the plural, above -all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, above all in the -plural, seeing that then it rhymes not with three letters, but -with four; as <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ornière</i> does with <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lumière</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But give me <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ornières</i> and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lumières</i> in the plural, -my dear Pélisson," said La Fontaine, clapping his hand on -the shoulder of his friend, whose insult he had quite forgotten, -"and they will rhyme."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hem!" coughed -Pélisson.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Molière says so, -and Molière is a judge of such things; he declares he has -himself made a hundred thousand verses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come," said -Molière, laughing, "he is off now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is like <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>rivage</i>, which rhymes admirably -with <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>herbage</i>.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I would take my oath of -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But - " said -Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I tell you all this," -continued La Fontaine, "because you are preparing a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>divertissement</i> for Vaux, are you -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, the -'Fâcheux.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, yes, the -'Fâcheux;' yes, I recollect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, I was thinking a prologue -would admirably suit your <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>divertissement</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Doubtless it would suit -capitally."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you are of my -opinion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much so, that I have -asked you to write this very prologue."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You asked <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me</i> to write it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you, and on your -refusal begged you to ask Pélisson, who is engaged upon it -at this moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that is what -Pélisson is doing, then?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I'faith, my dear Molière, you -are indeed often right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When you call me -absent-minded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a -monstrous defect; I will cure myself of it, and do your prologue -for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But inasmuch as -Pélisson is about it! - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, true, miserable -rascal that I am!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Loret -was indeed right in saying I was a poor creature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was not Loret who -said so, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, whoever -said so, 'tis the same to me!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so your <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>divertissement</i> is called the -'Fâcheux?'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -can you make <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>heureux</i> -rhyme with <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fâcheux?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If obliged, yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And even with <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>capriceux</i>."</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> "It would be hazardous, -and yet why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is too great a -difference in the cadences."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was fancying," said -La Fontaine, leaving Molière for Loret - "I was fancying - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What were you -fancying?" said Loret, in the middle of a sentence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Make haste."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are writing the -prologue to the 'Fâcheux,' are you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordieu!</i> it is -Pélisson."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, Pélisson," -cried La Fontaine, going over to him, "I was fancying," he -continued, "that the nymph of Vaux - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, beautiful!" cried -Loret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The nymph of -Vaux! thank you, La Fontaine; you have just given me the two -concluding verses of my paper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, if you can rhyme -so well, La Fontaine," said Pélisson, "tell me now in what -way you would begin my prologue?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should say, for -instance, 'Oh! nymph, who - '<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After 'who' I should place a verb in -the second person singular of the present indicative; and should -go on thus: 'this grot profound.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the verb, the -verb?" asked Pélisson.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To admire the greatest -king of all kings round," continued La Fontaine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the verb, the -verb," obstinately insisted Pélisson.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "This second person singular of the -present indicative?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then; -quittest:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:2'> </span> <span -style='font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>"Oh, nymph, who -quittest now this grot profound,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:2'> </span> To -admire the greatest king of all kings round."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You would not put 'who -quittest,' would you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Quittest,' after 'you -who'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! my dear fellow," -exclaimed La Fontaine, "you are a shocking pedant!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Without counting," said -Molière, "that the second verse, 'king of all kings -round,' is very weak, my dear La Fontaine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then you see clearly I -am nothing but a poor creature, - a shuffler, as you said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I never said so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, as Loret -said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And it was not Loret -either; it was Pélisson."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Pélisson -was right a hundred times over.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what annoys me more than -anything, my dear Molière, is, that I fear we shall not -have our Epicurean dresses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You expected yours, -then, for the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, for the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, and then for after -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My housekeeper told me that my -own is rather faded."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Diable!</i> your housekeeper is -right; rather more than faded."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, you see," resumed -La Fontaine, "the fact is, I left it on the floor in my room, and -my cat - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, your cat - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She made her nest upon -it, which has rather changed its color."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Molière burst out -laughing; Pélisson and Loret followed his example.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this juncture, the bishop -of Vannes appeared, with a roll of plans and parchments under his -arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As if the angel of -death had chilled all gay and sprightly fancies - as if that wan -form had scared away the Graces to whom Xenocrates sacrificed - -silence immediately reigned through the study, and every one -resumed his self-possession and his pen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis distributed the notes of -invitation, and thanked them in the name of M. Fouquet.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The superintendent," he said, -"being kept to his room by business, could not come and see them, -but begged them to send him some of the fruits of their day's -work, to enable him to forget the fatigue of his labor in the -night."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At these words, all -settled down to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La -Fontaine placed himself at a table, and set his rapid pen an -endless dance across the smooth white vellum; Pélisson -made a fair copy of his prologue; Molière contributed -fifty fresh verses, with which his visit to Percerin had inspired -him; Loret, an article on the marvelous <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêtes</i> he predicted; and -Aramis, laden with his booty like the king of the bees, that -great black drone, decked with purple and gold, re-entered his -apartment, silent and busy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But before departing, "Remember, -gentlemen," said he, "we leave to-morrow evening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I must -give notice at home," said Molière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; poor -Molière!" said Loret, smiling; "he loves his home."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>He</i> loves,' yes," replied -Molière, with his sad, sweet smile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "'He loves,' that does not mean, -they love <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>him</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As for me," said La -Fontaine, "they love me at Château Thierry, I am very -sure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis here re-entered -after a brief disappearance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will any one go with -me?" he asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I am -going by Paris, after having passed a quarter of an hour with M. -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I offer my -carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good," said -Molière, "I accept it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am in a hurry."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall dine here," -said Loret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. de -Gourville has promised me some craw-fish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has promised me some -whitings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Find a rhyme -for that, La Fontaine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis went out -laughing, as only he could laugh, and Molière followed -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were at the -bottom of the stairs, when La Fontaine opened the door, and -shouted out:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:2'> </span> <span -style='font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>"He has -promised us some whitings,</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:2'> </span> In -return for these our writings."</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The shouts of laughter -reached the ears of Fouquet at the moment Aramis opened the door -of the study.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to -Molière, he had undertaken to order the horses, while -Aramis went to exchange a parting word with the -superintendent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, how -they are laughing there!" said Fouquet, with a sigh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you not laugh, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I laugh no longer now, -M. d'Herblay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> is approaching; -money is departing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have I not told you -that was my business?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you promised me -millions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You shall have them the -day after the king's <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>entrée</i> into Vaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet looked closely -at Aramis, and passed the back of his icy hand across his -moistened brow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -perceived that the superintendent either doubted him, or felt he -was powerless to obtain the money.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How could Fouquet suppose that a -poor bishop, ex-abbé, ex-musketeer, could find any?</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why doubt me?" said -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet smiled -and shook his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Man of little faith!" -added the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear M. d'Herblay," -answered Fouquet, "if I fall - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; if you -'fall'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall, at least, fall -from such a height, that I shall shatter myself in falling."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then giving himself a shake, -as though to escape from himself, "Whence came you," said he, "my -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From Paris - from -Percerin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what have you been -doing at Percerin's, for I suppose you attach no great importance -to our poets' dresses?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I went to prepare a -surprise."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Surprise?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; which you are -going to give to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And will it cost -much?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! a hundred pistoles -you will give Lebrun."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A painting? - Ah! all -the better!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what is -this painting to represent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will tell you; then -at the same time, whatever you may say or think of it, I went to -see the dresses for our poets."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! and they will be -rich and elegant?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Splendid!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There will be few great monseigneurs -with so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> People will -see the difference there is between the courtiers of wealth and -those of friendship."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ever generous and -grateful, dear prelate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In your school."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet grasped his -hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And where are you -going?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I am off to Paris, -when you shall have given a certain letter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"For whom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"M. de Lyonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And what do you -want with Lyonne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I wish to make him -sign a <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lettre de -cachet</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span lang="FR" -style='mso-ansi-language: FR'>"'<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Lettre de cachet!</i>'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> Do you desire to put somebody -in the Bastile?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"On the contrary - -to let somebody out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And who?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A poor devil - a youth, -a lad who has been Bastiled these ten years, for two Latin verses -he made against the Jesuits."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Two Latin verses!' -and, for 'two Latin verses,' the miserable being has been in -prison for ten years!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And has committed -no other crime?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Beyond this, he is -as innocent as you or I."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"On your word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"On my honor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And his name is - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Seldon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes. - But it is -too bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You knew this, -and you never told me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"'Twas only -yesterday his mother applied to me, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And the woman is -poor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"In the deepest -misery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Heaven," said Fouquet, -"sometimes bears with such injustice on earth, that I hardly -wonder there are wretches who doubt of its existence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay, M. d'Herblay."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Fouquet, taking a pen, wrote a -few rapid lines to his colleague Lyonne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis took the letter and made -ready to go.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait," said -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He opened his -drawer, and took out ten government notes which were there, each -for a thousand francs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Stay," he said; "set the son at liberty, and give this to the -mother; but, above all, do not tell her - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That she is ten -thousand livres richer than I.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She would say I am but a poor -superintendent!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go! and I -pray that God will bless those who are mindful of his poor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"So also do I -pray," replied Aramis, kissing Fouquet's hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And he went out quickly, -carrying off the letter for Lyonne and the notes for Seldon's -mother, and taking up Molière, who was beginning to lose -patience.</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'> -Another 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'> -S</span>even o'clock sounded from the great clock of the Bastile, -that famous clock, which, like all the accessories of the state -prison, the very use of which is a torture, recalled to the -prisoners' minds the destination of every hour of their -punishment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -time-piece of the Bastile, adorned with figures, like most of the -clocks of the period, represented St. Peter in bonds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the supper hour of the -unfortunate captives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -doors, grating on their enormous hinges, opened for the passage -of the baskets and trays of provisions, the abundance and the -delicacy of which, as M. de Baisemeaux has himself taught us, was -regulated by the condition in life of the prisoner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We understand on this head the -theories of M. de Baisemeaux, sovereign dispenser of gastronomic -delicacies, head cook of the royal fortress, whose trays, -full-laden, were ascending the steep staircases, carrying some -consolation to the prisoners in the shape of honestly filled -bottles of good vintages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This same hour was that of M. le gouverneur's supper also.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had a guest to-day, and the -spit turned more heavily than usual.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Roast partridges, flanked with -quails and flanking a larded leveret; boiled fowls; hams, fried -and sprinkled with white wine, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>cardons</i> of Guipuzcoa and <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>la bisque -écrevisses</i>: these, together with soups and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>hors d'œuvres</i>, constituted -the governor's bill of fare.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux, seated at table, was -rubbing his hands and looking at the bishop of Vannes, who, -booted like a cavalier, dressed in gray and sword at side, kept -talking of his hunger and testifying the liveliest -impatience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Baisemeaux de Montlezun was not accustomed to the unbending -movements of his greatness my lord of Vannes, and this evening -Aramis, becoming sprightly, volunteered confidence on -confidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prelate -had again a little touch of the musketeer about him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bishop just trenched on the -borders only of license in his style of conversation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for M. de Baisemeaux, with the -facility of vulgar people, he gave himself up entirely upon this -point of his guest's freedom.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," said he, "for indeed -to-night I dare not call you monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By no means," said -Aramis; "call me monsieur; I am booted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know, monsieur, -of whom you remind me this evening?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No! faith," said -Aramis, taking up his glass; "but I hope I remind you of a -capital guest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You remind me of two, -monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -François, shut the window; the wind may annoy his -greatness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And let him go," added -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The supper is -completely served, and we shall eat it very well without -waiters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I like -exceedingly to be <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>tête-à-tête</i> -when I am with a friend."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux bowed respectfully.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I like exceedingly," -continued Aramis, "to help myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"Retire, François," cried -Baisemeaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> "I was -saying that your greatness puts me in mind of two persons; one -very illustrious, the late cardinal, the great Cardinal de la -Rochelle, who wore boots like you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed," said Aramis; -"and the other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The other was a certain -musketeer, very handsome, very brave, very adventurous, very -fortunate, who, from being abbé, turned musketeer, and -from musketeer turned abbé."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis condescended to smile.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "From abbé," continued -Baisemeaux, encouraged by Aramis's smile - "from abbé, -bishop - and from bishop - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! stay there, I beg," -exclaimed Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have just said, -monsieur, that you gave me the idea of a cardinal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enough, dear M. -Baisemeaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As you said, -I have on the boots of a cavalier, but I do not intend, for all -that, to embroil myself with the church this evening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you have wicked -intentions, nevertheless, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, yes, wicked, I own, -as everything mundane is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You traverse the town -and the streets in disguise?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In disguise, as you -say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you still make use -of your sword?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I should think so; -but only when I am compelled.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do me the pleasure to summon -François."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you no wine -there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis not for wine, but -because it is hot here, and the window is shut."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shut the windows at -supper-time so as not to hear the sounds or the arrival of -couriers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You hear them when the window is -open?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But too well, and that -disturbs me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -understand?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nevertheless I am -suffocated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <span lang= -"FR" style='mso-ansi-language:FR'>François."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> François entered.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> "Open the windows, I pray -you, Master François," said Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You will allow him, dear M. -Baisemeaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are at home here," -answered the governor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The window was opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Do you not think," said M. de Baisemeaux, "that you will find -yourself very lonely, now M. de la Fère has returned to -his household gods at Blois? <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is a very old friend, is he -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know it as I do, -Baisemeaux, seeing that you were in the musketeers with us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! with my friends I -reckon neither bottles of wine nor years."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are right.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I do more than love M. de -la Fère, dear Baisemeaux; I venerate him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, for my part, -though 'tis singular," said the governor, "I prefer M. d'Artagnan -to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is a man -for you, who drinks long and well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That kind of people allow you at -least to penetrate their thoughts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Baisemeaux, make me -tipsy to-night; let us have a merry time of it as of old, and if -I have a trouble at the bottom of my heart, I promise you, you -shall see it as you would a diamond at the bottom of your -glass."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bravo!" said -Baisemeaux, and he poured out a great glass of wine and drank it -off at a draught, trembling with joy at the idea of being, by -hook or by crook, in the secret of some high archiepiscopal -misdemeanor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While he was -drinking he did not see with what attention Aramis was noting the -sounds in the great court.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A courier came in about eight -o'clock as François brought in the fifth bottle, and, -although the courier made a great noise, Baisemeaux heard -nothing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The devil take him," -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! who?" asked -Baisemeaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I hope 'tis -neither the wine you drank nor he who is the cause of your -drinking it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; it is a horse, who -is making noise enough in the court for a whole squadron."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pooh! some courier or -other," replied the governor, redoubling his attention to the -passing bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes; and -may the devil take him, and so quickly that we shall never hear -him speak more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hurrah! -hurrah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You forget me, -Baisemeaux! my glass is empty," said Aramis, lifting his dazzling -Venetian goblet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my honor, you -delight me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <span lang= -"FR" style='mso-ansi-language:FR'>François, wine!" <span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> François entered.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span> "Wine, fellow! and -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur, yes; but -a courier has just arrived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let him go to the -devil, I say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur, but - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let him leave his news -at the office; we will see to it to-morrow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To-morrow, there will be time -to-morrow; there will be daylight," said Baisemeaux, chanting the -words.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, monsieur," grumbled -the soldier François, in spite of himself, "monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care," said -Aramis, "take care!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of what? dear M. -d'Herblay," said Baisemeaux, half intoxicated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The letter which the -courier brings to the governor of a fortress is sometimes an -order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nearly always."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not orders issue -from the ministers?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, undoubtedly; but - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what to these -ministers do but countersign the signature of the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perhaps you are -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nevertheless, 'tis -very tiresome when you are sitting before a good table, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>tête-à-tête</i> -with a friend - Ah! I beg your pardon, monsieur; I forgot it is I -who engage you at supper, and that I speak to a future -cardinal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us pass over that, -dear Baisemeaux, and return to our soldier, to -François."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and what has -François done?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has demurred!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He was wrong, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "However, he <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>has</i> demurred, you see; 'tis -because there is something extraordinary in this matter.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is very possible that it -was not François who was wrong in demurring, but you, who -are in the wrong in not listening to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wrong?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I to be wrong before -François? that seems rather hard."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me, merely an -irregularity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I -thought it my duty to make an observation which I deem -important."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! perhaps you are -right," stammered Baisemeaux.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The king's order is sacred; but as -to orders that arrive when one is at supper, I repeat that the -devil - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you had said as much -to the great cardinal - hem! my dear Baisemeaux, and if his order -had any importance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do it that I may not -disturb a bishop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i> am I not, then, -excusable?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not forget, -Baisemeaux, that I have worn the soldier's coat, and I am -accustomed to obedience everywhere."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You wish, then - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wish that you would -do your duty, my friend; yes, at least before this soldier."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis mathematically -true," exclaimed Baisemeaux.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> François still waited: "Let -them send this order of the king's up to me," he repeated, -recovering himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -he added in a low tone, "Do you know what it is?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will tell you something about as -interesting as this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -'Beware of fire near the powder magazine;' or, 'Look close after -such and such a one, who is clever at escaping,'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! if you only knew, monseigneur, -how many times I have been suddenly awakened from the very -sweetest, deepest slumber, by messengers arriving at full gallop -to tell me, or rather, bring me a slip of paper containing these -words: 'Monsieur de Baisemeaux, what news?'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Tis clear enough that those who -waste their time writing such orders have never slept in the -Bastile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They would know -better; they have never considered the thickness of my walls, the -vigilance of my officers, the number of rounds we go.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, indeed, what can you expect, -monseigneur?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is their -business to write and torment me when I am at rest, and to -trouble me when I am happy," added Baisemeaux, bowing to -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Then let them do -their business."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And do you do yours," -added the bishop, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> François -re-entered; Baisemeaux took from his hands the minister's -order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He slowly undid -it, and as slowly read it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis pretended to be drinking, so -as to be able to watch his host through the glass.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, Baisemeaux, having read it: -"What was I just saying?" he exclaimed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?" asked the -bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An order of -release!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There, now; -excellent news indeed to disturb us!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Excellent news for him -whom it concerns, you will at least agree, my dear governor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And at eight o'clock in -the evening!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is charitable!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! charity is all very -well, but it is for that fellow who says he is so weary and -tired, but not for me who am amusing myself," said Baisemeaux, -exasperated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you lose by him, -then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And is the prisoner -who is to be set at liberty a good payer?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, yes, indeed! a -miserable, five-franc rat!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let me see it," asked -M. d'Herblay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is no -indiscretion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By no means; read -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is 'Urgent,' on -the paper; you have seen that, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, admirable!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Urgent!' - a man who has been -there ten years!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>urgent</i> to set him free -to-day, this very evening, at eight o'clock! - <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>urgent!</i>"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Baisemeaux, shrugging his -shoulders with an air of supreme disdain, flung the order on the -table and began eating again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They are fond of these -tricks!" he said, with his mouth full; "they seize a man, some -fine day, keep him under lock and key for ten years, and write to -you, 'Watch this fellow well,' or 'Keep him very strictly.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, as soon as you are -accustomed to look upon the prisoner as a dangerous man, all of a -sudden, without rhyme or reason they write - 'Set him at -liberty,' and actually add to their missive - 'urgent.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will own, my lord, 'tis -enough to make a man at dinner shrug his shoulders!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you -expect?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is for them to -write," said Aramis, "for you to execute the order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good! good! execute -it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, patience!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You must not imagine that I am -a slave."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Gracious Heaven! my -very good M. Baisemeaux, who ever said so?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your independence is well -known."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank Heaven!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But your goodness of -heart is also known."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! don't speak of -it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And your obedience to -your superiors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once a -soldier, you see, Baisemeaux, always a soldier."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I shall directly -obey; and to-morrow morning, at daybreak, the prisoner referred -to shall be set free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At dawn."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not this evening, -seeing that the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>lettre de -cachet</i> bears, both on the direction and inside, '<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>urgent</i>'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because this evening we -are at supper, and our affairs are urgent, too!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear Baisemeaux, booted -though I be, I feel myself a priest, and charity has higher -claims upon me than hunger and thirst.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This unfortunate man has suffered -long enough, since you have just told me that he has been your -prisoner these ten years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Abridge his suffering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His good time has come; give him the benefit quickly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God will repay you in Paradise with -years of felicity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You wish it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I entreat you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! in the very -middle of our repast?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I implore you; such an -action is worth ten Benedicites."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It shall be as you -desire, only our supper will get cold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! never heed -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux leaned back -to ring for François, and by a very natural motion turned -round towards the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The order had remained on the table; Aramis seized the -opportunity when Baisemeaux was not looking to change the paper -for another, folded in the same manner, which he drew swiftly -from his pocket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"François," said the governor, "let the major come up here -with the turnkeys of the Bertaudière."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> François bowed and quitted -the room, leaving the two companions alone.</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 -General of the Order.</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 now a brief silence, during which Aramis never -removed his eyes from Baisemeaux for a moment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter seemed only half decided -to disturb himself thus in the middle of supper, and it was clear -he was trying to invent some pretext, whether good or bad, for -delay, at any rate till after dessert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And it appeared also that he had hit -upon an excuse at last.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! but it is -impossible!" he cried.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How impossible?" said -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Give me a -glimpse of this impossibility."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis impossible to set -a prisoner at liberty at such an hour.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where can he go to, a man so -unacquainted with Paris?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will find a place -wherever he can."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, now, one might -as well set a blind man free!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have a carriage, and -will take him wherever he wishes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have an answer for -everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -François, tell monsieur le major to go and open the cell -of M. Seldon, No. 3, Bertaudière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Seldon!" exclaimed -Aramis, very naturally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You said Seldon, I think?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I said Seldon, of -course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Tis the name of -the man they set free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you mean to say -Marchiali?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Marchiali? oh! yes, -indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no, -Seldon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think you are making -a mistake, Monsieur Baisemeaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have read the -order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I saw 'Seldon' in -letters as large as that," and Baisemeaux held up his finger.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I read 'Marchiali' -in characters as large as this," said Aramis, also holding up two -fingers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the proof; let us -throw a light on the matter," said Baisemeaux, confident he was -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is the -paper, you have only to read it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I read 'Marchiali,'" -returned Aramis, spreading out the paper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Look."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux looked, and -his arms dropped suddenly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, yes," he said, quite -overwhelmed; "yes, Marchiali.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Tis plainly written Marchiali!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Quite true!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How? the man of whom we -have talked so much?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -man whom they are every day telling me to take such care of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is 'Marchiali,'" -repeated the inflexible Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I must own it, -monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I -understand nothing about it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You believe your eyes, -at any rate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To tell me very plainly -there is 'Marchiali.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And in a good -handwriting, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis a wonder!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I still see this order and the -name of Seldon, Irishman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I even recollect that under this -name there was a blot of ink."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, there is no ink; -no, there is no blot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! but there was, -though; I know it, because I rubbed my finger - this very one - -in the powder that was over the blot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In a word, be it how it -may, dear M. Baisemeaux," said Aramis, "and whatever you may have -seen, the order is signed to release Marchiali, blot or no -blot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The order is signed to -release Marchiali," replied Baisemeaux, mechanically, endeavoring -to regain his courage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are going to -release this prisoner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If -your heart dictates you to deliver Seldon also, I declare to you -I will not oppose it the least in the world."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis accompanied this remark with -a smile, the irony of which effectually dispelled Baisemeaux's -confusion of mind, and restored his courage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur," he said, -"this Marchiali is the very same prisoner whom the other day a -priest confessor of <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>our -order</i> came to visit in so imperious and so secret a -manner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't know that, -monsieur," replied the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis no such long time -ago, dear Monsieur d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is true.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>with us</i>, monsieur, it is good -that the man of to-day should no longer know what the man of -yesterday did."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In any case," said -Baisemeaux, "the visit of the Jesuit confessor must have given -happiness to this man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis made no reply, -but recommenced eating and drinking.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for Baisemeaux, no longer -touching anything that was on the table, he again took up the -order and examined it every way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This investigation, under ordinary -circumstances, would have made the ears of the impatient Aramis -burn with anger; but the bishop of Vannes did not become incensed -for so little, above all, when he had murmured to himself that to -do so was dangerous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are -you going to release Marchiali?" he said.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What mellow, fragrant and delicious -sherry this is, my dear governor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur," replied -Baisemeaux, "I shall release the prisoner Marchiali when I have -summoned the courier who brought the order, and above all, when, -by interrogating him, I have satisfied myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The order is sealed, -and the courier is ignorant of the contents.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you want to satisfy yourself -about?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be it so, monseigneur; -but I shall send to the ministry, and M. de Lyonne will either -confirm or withdraw the order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the good of all -that?" asked Aramis, coldly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What good?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; what is your -object, I ask?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The object of never -deceiving oneself, monseigneur; nor being wanting in the respect -which a subaltern owes to his superior officers, nor infringing -the duties of a service one has accepted of one's own free -will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; you have -just spoken so eloquently, that I cannot but admire you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is true that a subaltern -owes respect to his superiors; he is guilty when he deceives -himself, and he should be punished if he infringed either the -duties or laws of his office."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux looked at the -bishop with astonishment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It follows," pursued -Aramis, "that you are going to ask advice, to put your conscience -at ease in the matter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And if a superior -officer gives you orders, you will obey?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never doubt it, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know the king's -signature well, M. de Baisemeaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it not on this order -of release?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is true, but it may -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be forged, you -mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is evident, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And that of M. de Lyonne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see it plain enough -on the order; but for the same reason that the king's signature -may have been forged, so also, and with even greater probability, -may M. de Lyonne's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your logic has the -stride of a giant, M. de Baisemeaux," said Aramis; "and your -reasoning is irresistible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But on what special grounds do you -base your idea that these signatures are false?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On this: the absence of -counter-signatures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Nothing checks his majesty's signature; and M. de Lyonne is not -there to tell me he has signed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Monsieur de -Baisemeaux," said Aramis, bending an eagle glance on the -governor, "I adopt so frankly your doubts, and your mode of -clearing them up, that I will take a pen, if you will give me -one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux gave him a -pen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And a sheet of white -paper," added Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux handed him -some paper.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now, I - I, also - I, -here present - incontestably, I - am going to write an order to -which I am certain you will give credence, incredulous as you -are!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux turned pale -at this icy assurance of manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seemed to him that the voice of -the bishop's, but just now so playful and gay, had become -funereal and sad; that the wax lights changed into the tapers of -a mortuary chapel, the very glasses of wine into chalices of -blood.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis took a pen and -wrote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux, in -terror, read over his shoulder.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A. M. D. G.," wrote the -bishop; and he drew a cross under these four letters, which -signify <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ad majorem Dei -gloriam</i>, "to the greater glory of God;" and thus he -continued: "It is our pleasure that the order brought to M. de -Baisemeaux de Montlezun, governor, for the king, of the castle of -the Bastile, be held by him good and effectual, and be -immediately carried into operation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -"(Signed) D'HERBLAY</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -"General of the Order, by the grace of God."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux was so -profoundly astonished, that his features remained contracted, his -lips parted, and his eyes fixed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not move an inch, nor -articulate a sound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Nothing could be heard in that large chamber but the wing-whisper -of a little moth, which was fluttering to its death about the -candles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, without -even deigning to look at the man whom he had reduced to so -miserable a condition, drew from his pocket a small case of black -wax; he sealed the letter, and stamped it with a seal suspended -at his breast, beneath his doublet, and when the operation was -concluded, presented - still in silence - the missive to M. de -Baisemeaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter, -whose hands trembled in a manner to excite pity, turned a dull -and meaningless gaze upon the letter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A last gleam of feeling played over -his features, and he fell, as if thunder-struck, on a chair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come," said -Aramis, after a long silence, during which the governor of the -Bastile had slowly recovered his senses, "do not lead me to -believe, dear Baisemeaux, that the presence of the general of the -order is as terrible as His, and that men die merely from having -seen Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Take courage, -rouse yourself; give me your hand - obey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux, reassured, -if not satisfied, obeyed, kissed Aramis's hand, and rose.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Immediately?" he -murmured.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, there is no -pressing haste, my host; take your place again, and do the honors -over this beautiful dessert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, I shall -never recover such a shock as this; I who have laughed, who have -jested with you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I who -have dared to treat you on a footing of equality!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Say nothing about it, -old comrade," replied the bishop, who perceived how strained the -cord was and how dangerous it would have been to break it; "say -nothing about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us -each live in our own way; to you, my protection and my -friendship; to me, your obedience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having exactly fulfilled these two -requirements, let us live happily."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux reflected; he -perceived, at a glance, the consequence of this withdrawal of a -prisoner by means of a forged order; and, putting in the scale -the guarantee offered him by the official order of the general, -did not consider it of any value.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis divined -this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My dear -Baisemeaux," said he, "you are a simpleton.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lose this habit of reflection when I -give myself the trouble to think for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And at another gesture -he made, Baisemeaux bowed again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How shall I set about it?" he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the process for -releasing a prisoner?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have the -regulations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, follow the -regulations, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I go with my major to -the prisoner's room, and conduct him, if he is a personage of -importance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But this Marchiali is -not an important personage," said Aramis carelessly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't know," answered -the governor, as if he would have said, "It is for you to -instruct me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then if you don't know -it, I am right; so act towards Marchiali as you act towards one -of obscure station."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good; the regulations -so provide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They are to -the effect that the turnkey, or one of the lower officials, shall -bring the prisoner before the governor, in the office."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, 'tis very wise, -that; and then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then we return to the -prisoner the valuables he wore at the time of his imprisonment, -his clothes and papers, if the minister's orders have not -otherwise dictated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was the minister's -order as to this Marchiali?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing; for the -unhappy man arrived here without jewels, without papers, and -almost without clothes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "See how simple, then, -all is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Indeed, -Baisemeaux, you make a mountain of everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Remain here, and make them bring the -prisoner to the governor's house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux obeyed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He summoned his lieutenant, -and gave him an order, which the latter passed on, without -disturbing himself about it, to the next whom it concerned.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Half an hour afterwards -they heard a gate shut in the court; it was the door to the -dungeon, which had just rendered up its prey to the free -air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis blew out all -the candles which lighted the room but one, which he left burning -behind the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -flickering glare prevented the sight from resting steadily on any -object.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It multiplied -tenfold the changing forms and shadows of the place, by its -wavering uncertainty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Steps drew near.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go and meet your men," -said Aramis to Baisemeaux.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The governor -obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sergeant and -turnkeys disappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux re-entered, followed by a prisoner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis had placed himself in the -shade; he saw without being seen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux, in an agitated tone of -voice, made the young man acquainted with the order which set him -at liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prisoner -listened, without making a single gesture or saying a word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will swear ('tis -the regulation that requires it)," added the governor, "never to -reveal anything that you have seen or heard in the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The prisoner perceived a -crucifix; he stretched out his hands and swore with his -lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And now, monsieur, -you are free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whither do -you intend going?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The prisoner turned his -head, as if looking behind him for some protection, on which he -ought to rely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then was -it that Aramis came out of the shade: "I am here," he said, "to -render the gentleman whatever service he may please to ask."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The prisoner slightly -reddened, and, without hesitation, passed his arm through that of -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "God have you in -his holy keeping," he said, in a voice the firmness of which made -the governor tremble as much as the form of the blessing -astonished him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis, on shaking hands -with Baisemeaux, said to him; "Does my order trouble you?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you fear their finding it -here, should they come to search?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I desire to keep it, -monseigneur," said Baisemeaux.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If they found it here, it would be -a certain indication I should be lost, and in that case you would -be a powerful and a last auxiliary for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Being your accomplice, -you mean?" answered Aramis, shrugging his shoulders.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Adieu, Baisemeaux," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The horses were in -waiting, making each rusty spring reverberate the carriage again -with their impatience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux accompanied the bishop to the bottom of the -steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis caused his -companion to mount before him, then followed, and without giving -the driver any further order, "Go on," said he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The carriage rattled over the -pavement of the courtyard.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An officer with a torch went before -the horses, and gave orders at every post to let them pass.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> During the time taken in -opening all the barriers, Aramis barely breathed, and you might -have heard his "sealed heart knock against his ribs."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prisoner, buried in a corner of -the carriage, made no more sign of life than his companion.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At length, a jolt more sever -than the others announced to them that they had cleared the last -watercourse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Behind the -carriage closed the last gate, that in the Rue St. Antoine.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No more walls either on the -right or the left; heaven everywhere, liberty everywhere, and -life everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -horses, kept in check by a vigorous hand, went quietly as far as -the middle of the faubourg.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There they began to trot.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Little by little, whether they -were warming to their work, or whether they were urged, they -gained in swiftness, and once past Bercy, the carriage seemed to -fly, so great was the ardor of the coursers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horses galloped thus as far as -Villeneuve St. George's, where relays were waiting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then four instead of two whirled the -carriage away in the direction of Melun, and pulled up for a -moment in the middle of the forest of Senart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No doubt the order had been given -the postilion beforehand, for Aramis had no occasion even to make -a sign.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter?" -asked the prisoner, as if waking from a long dream.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The matter is, -monseigneur," said Aramis, "that before going further, it is -necessary your royal highness and I should converse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will await an -opportunity, monsieur," answered the young prince.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We could not have a -better, monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -are in the middle of a forest, and no one can hear us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The postilion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The postilion of this -relay is deaf and dumb, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am at your service, -M. d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it your pleasure to -remain in the carriage?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; we are comfortably -seated, and I like this carriage, for it has restored me to -liberty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait, monseigneur; -there is yet a precaution to be taken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are here on the -highway; cavaliers or carriages traveling like ourselves might -pass, and seeing us stopping, deem us in some difficulty.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us avoid offers of -assistance, which would embarrass us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give the postilion -orders to conceal the carriage in one of the side avenues."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis exactly what I -wished to do, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis made a sign to -the deaf and dumb driver of the carriage, whom he touched on the -arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter -dismounted, took the leaders by the bridle, and led them over the -velvet sward and the mossy grass of a winding alley, at the -bottom of which, on this moonless night, the deep shades formed a -curtain blacker than ink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This done, the man lay down on a slope near his horses, who, on -either side, kept nibbling the young oak shoots.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am listening," said -the young prince to Aramis; "but what are you doing there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am disarming myself -of my pistols, of which we have no further need, -monseigneur."</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'>The -Tempter.</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>y prince," said Aramis, turning in the carriage towards -his companion, "weak creature as I am, so unpretending in genius, -so low in the scale of intelligent beings, it has never yet -happened to me to converse with a man without penetrating his -thoughts through that living mask which has been thrown over our -mind, in order to retain its expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But to-night, in this darkness, in -the reserve which you maintain, I can read nothing on your -features, and something tells me that I shall have great -difficulty in wresting from you a sincere declaration.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beseech you, then, not for -love of me, for subjects should never weigh as anything in the -balance which princes hold, but for love of yourself, to retain -every syllable, every inflexion which, under the present most -grave circumstances, will all have a sense and value as important -as any every uttered in the world."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I listen," replied the -young prince, "decidedly, without either eagerly seeking or -fearing anything you are about to say to me."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he buried himself still deeper -in the thick cushions of the carriage, trying to deprive his -companion not only of the sight of him, but even of the very idea -of his presence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Black was the darkness -which fell wide and dense from the summits of the intertwining -trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The carriage, -covered in by this prodigious roof, would not have received a -particle of light, not even if a ray could have struggled through -the wreaths of mist that were already rising in the avenue.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur," resumed -Aramis, "you know the history of the government which to-day -controls France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -issued from an infancy imprisoned like yours, obscure as yours, -and confined as yours; only, instead of ending, like yourself, -this slavery in a prison, this obscurity in solitude, these -straightened circumstances in concealment, he was fain to bear -all these miseries, humiliations, and distresses, in full -daylight, under the pitiless sun of royalty; on an elevation -flooded with light, where every stain appears a blemish, every -glory a stain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -has suffered; it rankles in his mind; and he will avenge -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will be a bad -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I say not that he -will pour out his people's blood, like Louis XI., or Charles IX.; -for he has no mortal injuries to avenge; but he will devour the -means and substance of his people; for he has himself undergone -wrongs in his own interest and money.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the first place, then, I acquit -my conscience, when I consider openly the merits and the faults -of this great prince; and if I condemn him, my conscience -absolves me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis paused.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was not to listen if the -silence of the forest remained undisturbed, but it was to gather -up his thoughts from the very bottom of his soul - to leave the -thoughts he had uttered sufficient time to eat deeply into the -mind of his companion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All that Heaven does, -Heaven does well," continued the bishop of Vannes; "and I am so -persuaded of it that I have long been thankful to have been -chosen depositary of the secret which I have aided you to -discover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To a just -Providence was necessary an instrument, at once penetrating, -persevering, and convinced, to accomplish a great work.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am this instrument.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I possess penetration, -perseverance, conviction; I govern a mysterious people, who has -taken for its motto, the motto of God, '<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Patiens quia -œternus</i>.'"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -prince moved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I divine, -monseigneur, why you are raising your head, and are surprised at -the people I have under my command.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You did not know you were dealing -with a king - oh! monseigneur, king of a people very humble, much -disinherited; humble because they have no force save when -creeping; disinherited, because never, almost never in this -world, do my people reap the harvest they sow, nor eat the fruit -they cultivate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -labor for an abstract idea; they heap together all the atoms of -their power, to from a single man; and round this man, with the -sweat of their labor, they create a misty halo, which his genius -shall, in turn, render a glory gilded with the rays of all the -crowns in Christendom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Such is the man you have beside you, monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is to tell you that he has drawn -you from the abyss for a great purpose, to raise you above the -powers of the earth - above himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "He is patient because -he is eternal." is how the Latin translates.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is from St. Augustine.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This motto was sometimes -applied to the Papacy, but not to the Jesuits. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The prince lightly -touched Aramis's arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You speak to me," he said, "of that religious order whose chief -you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For me, the -result of your words is, that the day you desire to hurl down the -man you shall have raised, the event will be accomplished; and -that you will keep under your hand your creation of -yesterday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Undeceive yourself, -monseigneur," replied the bishop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I should not take the trouble to -play this terrible game with your royal highness, if I had not a -double interest in gaining it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The day you are elevated, you are -elevated forever; you will overturn the footstool, as you rise, -and will send it rolling so far, that not even the sight of it -will ever again recall to you its right to simple gratitude."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, monsieur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your movement, -monseigneur, arises from an excellent disposition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I thank you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be well assured, I aspire to more -than gratitude!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -convinced that, when arrived at the summit, you will judge me -still more worthy to be your friend; and then, monseigneur, we -two will do such great deeds, that ages hereafter shall long -speak of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me plainly, -monsieur - tell me without disguise - what I am to-day, and what -you aim at my being to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are the son of King -Louis XIII., brother of Louis XIV., natural and legitimate heir -to the throne of France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In keeping you near him, as Monsieur has been kept - Monsieur, -your younger brother - the king reserved to himself the right of -being legitimate sovereign.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The doctors only could dispute his -legitimacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the -doctors always prefer the king who is to the king who is -not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Providence has -willed that you should be persecuted; this persecution to-day -consecrates you king of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You had, then, a right to reign, -seeing that it is disputed; you had a right to be proclaimed -seeing that you have been concealed; and you possess royal blood, -since no one has dared to shed yours, as that of your servants -has been shed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now see, -then, what this Providence, which you have so often accused of -having in every way thwarted you, has done for you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It has given you the features, -figure, age, and voice of your brother; and the very causes of -your persecution are about to become those of your triumphant -restoration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To-morrow, -after to-morrow - from the very first, regal phantom, living -shade of Louis XIV., you will sit upon his throne, whence the -will of Heaven, confided in execution to the arm of man, will -have hurled him, without hope of return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand," said the -prince, "my brother's blood will not be shed, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will be sole -arbiter of his fate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The secret of which -they made an evil use against me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will employ it -against him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What did he -do to conceal it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -concealed you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Living -image of himself, you will defeat the conspiracy of Mazarin and -Anne of Austria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, my -prince, will have the same interest in concealing him, who will, -as a prisoner, resemble you, as you will resemble him as a -king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I fall back on what I -was saying to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who -will guard him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who guarded <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know this secret - -you have made use of it with regard to myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who else knows it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The queen-mother and -Madame de Chevreuse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What will they do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing, if you -choose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can they recognize -you, if you act in such a manner that no one can recognize -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Tis true; but there -are grave difficulties."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "State them, -prince."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My brother is married; -I cannot take my brother's wife."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will cause Spain to -consent to a divorce; it is in the interest of your new policy; -it is human morality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All -that is really noble and really useful in this world will find -its account therein."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The imprisoned king -will speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To whom do you think he -will speak - to the walls?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You mean, by walls, the -men in whom you put confidence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If need be, yes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And besides, your royal -highness - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Besides?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was going to say, -that the designs of Providence do not stop on such a fair -road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every scheme of -this caliber is completed by its results, like a geometrical -calculation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, in -prison, will not be for you the cause of embarrassment that you -have been for the king enthroned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His soul is naturally proud and -impatient; it is, moreover, disarmed and enfeebled, by being -accustomed to honors, and by the license of supreme power.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The same Providence which has -willed that the concluding step in the geometrical calculation I -have had the honor of describing to your royal highness should be -your ascension to the throne, and the destruction of him who is -hurtful to you, has also determined that the conquered one shall -soon end both his own and your sufferings.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, his soul and body have -been adapted for but a brief agony.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Put into prison as a private -individual, left alone with your doubts, deprived of everything, -you have exhibited the most sublime, enduring principle of life -in withstanding all this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But your brother, a captive, forgotten, and in bonds, will not -long endure the calamity; and Heaven will resume his soul at the -appointed time - that is to say, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>soon</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this point in -Aramis's gloomy analysis, a bird of night uttered from the depths -of the forest that prolonged and plaintive cry which makes every -creature tremble.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will exile the -deposed king," said Philippe, shuddering; "'twill be more -human."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king's good -pleasure will decide the point," said Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But has the problem been well -put?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have I brought out -of the solution according to the wishes or the foresight of your -royal highness?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur, yes; you -have forgotten nothing - except, indeed, two things."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The first?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us speak of it at -once, with the same frankness we have already conversed in.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us speak of the causes -which may bring about the ruin of all the hopes we have -conceived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us speak -of the risks we are running."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They would be immense, -infinite, terrific, insurmountable, if, as I have said, all -things did not concur to render them of absolutely no -account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is no -danger either for you or for me, if the constancy and intrepidity -of your royal highness are equal to that perfection of -resemblance to your brother which nature has bestowed upon -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I repeat it, there -are no dangers, only obstacles; a word, indeed, which I find in -all languages, but have always ill-understood, and, were I king, -would have obliterated as useless and absurd."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, indeed, monsieur; -there is a very serious obstacle, an insurmountable danger, which -you are forgetting."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is conscience, -which cries aloud; remorse, that never dies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, true," said the -bishop; "there is a weakness of heart of which you remind -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are right, too, -for that, indeed, is an immense obstacle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horse afraid of the ditch, leaps -into the middle of it, and is killed!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man who trembling crosses his -sword with that of another leaves loopholes whereby his enemy has -him in his power."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you a brother?" -said the young man to Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am alone in the -world," said the latter, with a hard, dry voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, surely, there is -some one in the world whom you love?" added Philippe.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No one! - Yes, I love -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man sank into -so profound a silence, that the mere sound of his respiration -seemed like a roaring tumult for Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monseigneur," he resumed, "I have -not said all I had to say to your royal highness; I have not -offered you all the salutary counsels and useful resources which -I have at my disposal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -is useless to flash bright visions before the eyes of one who -seeks and loves darkness: useless, too, is it to let the -magnificence of the cannon's roar make itself heard in the ears -of one who loves repose and the quiet of the country.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monseigneur, I have your happiness -spread out before me in my thoughts; listen to my words; precious -they indeed are, in their import and their sense, for you who -look with such tender regard upon the bright heavens, the verdant -meadows, the pure air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -know a country instinct with delights of every kind, an unknown -paradise, a secluded corner of the world - where alone, -unfettered and unknown, in the thick covert of the woods, amidst -flowers, and streams of rippling water, you will forget all the -misery that human folly has so recently allotted you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! listen to me, my prince.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not jest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have a heart, and mind, and soul, -and can read your own, - aye, even to its depths.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will not take you unready for your -task, in order to cast you into the crucible of my own desires, -of my caprice, or my ambition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let it be all or nothing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are chilled and galled, -sick at heart, overcome by excess of the emotions which but one -hour's liberty has produced in you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For me, that is a certain and -unmistakable sign that you do not wish to continue at -liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Would you prefer -a more humble life, a life more suited to your strength?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Heaven is my witness, that I -wish your happiness to be the result of the trial to which I have -exposed you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak, speak," said the -prince, with a vivacity which did not escape Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know," resumed the -prelate, "in the Bas-Poitou, a canton, of which no one in France -suspects the existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Twenty leagues of country is immense, is it not?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Twenty leagues, monseigneur, all -covered with water and herbage, and reeds of the most luxuriant -nature; the whole studded with islands covered with woods of the -densest foliage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These -large marshes, covered with reeds as with a thick mantle, sleep -silently and calmly beneath the sun's soft and genial rays.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few fishermen with their -families indolently pass their lives away there, with their great -living-rafts of poplar and alder, the flooring formed of reeds, -and the roof woven out of thick rushes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These barks, these floating-houses, -are wafted to and fro by the changing winds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever they touch a bank, it is -but by chance; and so gently, too, that the sleeping fisherman is -not awakened by the shock.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Should he wish to land, it is merely -because he has seen a large flight of landrails or plovers, of -wild ducks, teal, widgeon, or woodchucks, which fall an easy pray -to net or gun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Silver -shad, eels, greedy pike, red and gray mullet, swim in shoals into -his nets; he has but to choose the finest and largest, and return -the others to the waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Never yet has the food of the stranger, be he soldier or simple -citizen, never has any one, indeed, penetrated into that -district.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sun's rays -there are soft and tempered: in plots of solid earth, whose soil -is swart and fertile, grows the vine, nourishing with generous -juice its purple, white, and golden grapes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once a week, a boat is sent to -deliver the bread which has been baked at an oven - the common -property of all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There - -like the seigneurs of early days - powerful in virtue of your -dogs, your fishing-lines, your guns, and your beautiful -reed-built house, would you live, rich in the produce of the -chase, in plentitude of absolute secrecy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There would years of your life roll -away, at the end of which, no longer recognizable, for you would -have been perfectly transformed, you would have succeeded in -acquiring a destiny accorded to you by Heaven.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There are a thousand pistoles in -this bag, monseigneur - more, far more, than sufficient to -purchase the whole marsh of which I have spoken; more than enough -to live there as many years as you have days to live; more than -enough to constitute you the richest, the freest, and the -happiest man in the country.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Accept it, as I offer it you - -sincerely, cheerfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Forthwith, without a moment's pause, I will unharness two of my -horses, which are attached to the carriage yonder, and they, -accompanied by my servant - my deaf and dumb attendant - shall -conduct you - traveling throughout the night, sleeping during the -day - to the locality I have described; and I shall, at least, -have the satisfaction of knowing that I have rendered to my -prince the major service he himself preferred.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall have made one human being -happy; and Heaven for that will hold me in better account than if -I had made one man powerful; the former task is far more -difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, -monseigneur, your answer to this proposition?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here is the money.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, do not hesitate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At Poitou, you can risk nothing, -except the chance of catching the fevers prevalent there; and -even of them, the so-called wizards of the country will cure you, -for the sake of your pistoles.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you play the other game, you run -the chance of being assassinated on a throne, strangled in a -prison-cell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon my -soul, I assure you, now I begin to compare them together, I -myself should hesitate which lot I should accept."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," replied the -young prince, "before I determine, let me alight from this -carriage, walk on the ground, and consult that still voice within -me, which Heaven bids us all to hearken to.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ten minutes is all I ask, and then -you shall have your answer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As you please, -monseigneur," said Aramis, bending before him with respect, so -solemn and august in tone and address had sounded these strange -words.</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'> -Crown and Tiara.</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 was the first to descend from the carriage; he held -the door open for the young man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw him place his foot on the -mossy ground with a trembling of the whole body, and walk round -the carriage with an unsteady and almost tottering step.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seemed as if the poor -prisoner was unaccustomed to walk on God's earth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the 15th of August, about -eleven o'clock at night; thick clouds, portending a tempest, -overspread the heavens, and shrouded every light and prospect -underneath their heavy folds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The extremities of the avenues were -imperceptibly detached from the copse, by a lighter shadow of -opaque gray, which, upon closer examination, became visible in -the midst of the obscurity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the fragrance which ascended -from the grass, fresher and more penetrating than that which -exhaled from the trees around him; the warm and balmy air which -enveloped him for the first time for many years past; the -ineffable enjoyment of liberty in an open country, spoke to the -prince in so seductive a language, that notwithstanding the -preternatural caution, we would almost say dissimulation of his -character, of which we have tried to give an idea, he could not -restrain his emotion, and breathed a sigh of ecstasy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, by degrees, he raised his -aching head and inhaled the softly scented air, as it was wafted -in gentle gusts to his uplifted face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Crossing his arms on his chest, as -if to control this new sensation of delight, he drank in -delicious draughts of that mysterious air which interpenetrates -at night the loftiest forests.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sky he was contemplating, the -murmuring waters, the universal freshness - was not all this -reality?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was not Aramis a -madman to suppose that he had aught else to dream of in this -world?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those exciting -pictures of country life, so free from fears and troubles, the -ocean of happy days that glitters incessantly before all young -imaginations, are real allurements wherewith to fascinate a poor, -unhappy prisoner, worn out by prison cares, emaciated by the -stifling air of the Bastile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the picture, it will be -remembered, drawn by Aramis, when he offered the thousand -pistoles he had with him in the carriage to the prince, and the -enchanted Eden which the deserts of Bas-Poitou hid from the eyes -of the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such were -the reflections of Aramis as he watched, with an anxiety -impossible to describe, the silent progress of the emotions of -Philippe, whom he perceived gradually becoming more and more -absorbed in his meditations.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young prince was offering up an -inward prayer to Heaven, to be divinely guided in this trying -moment, upon which his life or death depended.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was an anxious time for the -bishop of Vannes, who had never before been so perplexed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His iron will, accustomed to -overcome all obstacles, never finding itself inferior or -vanquished on any occasion, to be foiled in so vast a project -from not having foreseen the influence which a view of nature in -all its luxuriance would have on the human mind!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, overwhelmed by anxiety, -contemplated with emotion the painful struggle that was taking -place in Philippe's mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This suspense lasted the whole ten minutes which the young man -had requested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> During -this space of time, which appeared an eternity, Philippe -continued gazing with an imploring and sorrowful look towards the -heavens; Aramis did not remove the piercing glance he had fixed -on Philippe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly the -young man bowed his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His thought returned to the earth, his looks perceptibly -hardened, his brow contracted, his mouth assuming an expression -of undaunted courage; again his looks became fixed, but this time -they wore a worldly expression, hardened by covetousness, pride, -and strong desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Aramis's look immediately became as soft as it had before been -gloomy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe, seizing -his hand in a quick, agitated manner, exclaimed:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Lead me to where the -crown of France is to be found."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is this your decision, -monseigneur?" asked Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Irrevocably so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Philippe did not even -deign to reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gazed -earnestly at the bishop, as if to ask him if it were possible for -a man to waver after having once made up his mind.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Such looks are flashes -of the hidden fire that betrays men's character," said Aramis, -bowing over Philippe's hand; "you will be great, monseigneur, I -will answer for that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us resume our -conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wished to -discuss two points with you; in the first place the dangers, or -the obstacles we may meet with.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That point is decided.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The other is the conditions you -intend imposing on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -is your turn to speak, M. d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"The conditions, monseigneur?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "Doubtless.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will not allow so mere a -trifle to stop me, and you will not do me the injustice to -suppose that I think you have no interest in this affair.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, without subterfuge -or hesitation, tell me the truth - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will do so, -monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once a king -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When will that be?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow evening - I -mean in the night."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Explain yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When I shall have asked -your highness a question."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I sent to your highness -a man in my confidence with instructions to deliver some closely -written notes, carefully drawn up, which will thoroughly acquaint -your highness with the different persons who compose and will -compose your court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I perused those -notes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Attentively?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know them by -heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And understand -them?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pardon me, but I -may venture to ask that question of a poor, abandoned captive of -the Bastile?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a week's -time it will not be requisite to further question a mind like -yours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will then be -in full possession of liberty and power."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Interrogate me, then, -and I will be a scholar representing his lesson to his -master."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will begin with your -family, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My mother, Anne of -Austria! all her sorrows, her painful malady.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know her - I know her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your second brother?" -asked Aramis, bowing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To these notes," -replied the prince, "you have added portraits so faithfully -painted, that I am able to recognize the persons whose -characters, manners, and history you have so carefully -portrayed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur, my -brother, is a fine, dark young man, with a pale face; he does not -love his wife, Henrietta, whom I, Louis XIV., loved a little, and -still flirt with, even although she made me weep on the day she -wished to dismiss Mademoiselle de la Vallière from her -service in disgrace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will have to be -careful with regard to the watchfulness of the latter," said -Aramis; "she is sincerely attached to the actual king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The eyes of a woman who loves -are not easily deceived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She is fair, has blue -eyes, whose affectionate gaze reveals her identity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She halts slightly in her gait; she -writes a letter every day, to which I have to send an answer by -M. de Saint-Aignan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know the -latter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As if I saw him, and I -know the last verses he composed for me, as well as those I -composed in answer to his."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know your ministers?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Colbert, an ugly, -dark-browed man, but intelligent enough, his hair covering his -forehead, a large, heavy, full head; the mortal enemy of M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As for the latter, we -need not disturb ourselves about him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; because necessarily -you will not require me to exile him, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis, struck with -admiration at the remark, said, "You will become very great, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see," added the -prince, "that I know my lesson by heart, and with Heaven's -assistance, and yours afterwards, I shall seldom go wrong."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have still an -awkward pair of eyes to deal with, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, the captain of the -musketeers, M. d'Artagnan, your friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; I can well say 'my -friend.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He who escorted La -Vallière to Le Chaillot; he who delivered up Monk, cooped -in an iron box, to Charles II.; he who so faithfully served my -mother; he to whom the crown of France owes so much that it owes -everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you intend -to ask me to exile him also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never, sire.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan is a man to whom, -at a certain given time, I will undertake to reveal everything; -but be on your guard with him, for if he discovers our plot -before it is revealed to him, you or I will certainly be killed -or taken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is a bold -and enterprising man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will think it -over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now tell me about -M. Fouquet; what do you wish to be done with regard to him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One moment more, I -entreat you, monseigneur; and forgive me, if I seem to fail in -respect to questioning you further."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is your duty to do -so, nay, more than that, your right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Before we pass to M. -Fouquet, I should very much regret forgetting another friend of -mine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. du Vallon, the -Hercules of France, you mean; oh! as far as he is concerned, his -interests are more than safe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; it is not he whom I -intended to refer to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'>"The Comte de la Fère, -then?"</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> "And his son, the -son of all four of us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That poor boy who is -dying of love for La Vallière, whom my brother so -disloyally bereft him of?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Be easy on that score.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -shall know how to rehabilitate his happiness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me only one thing, Monsieur -d'Herblay; do men, when they love, forget the treachery that has -been shown them?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can a -man ever forgive the woman who has betrayed him?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that a French custom, or is it -one of the laws of the human heart?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man who loves deeply, -as deeply as Raoul loves Mademoiselle de la Vallière, -finishes by forgetting the fault or crime of the woman he loves; -but I do not yet know whether Raoul will be able to forget."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will see after -that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you anything -further to say about your friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; that is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, now for M. -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you wish -me to do for him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To keep him on as -surintendant, in the capacity in which he has hitherto acted, I -entreat you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be it so; but he is the -first minister at present."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not quite so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A king, ignorant and -embarrassed as I shall be, will, as a matter of course, require a -first minister of state."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty will -require a friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have only one, and -that is yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will have many -others by and by, but none so devoted, none so zealous for your -glory."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You shall be my first -minister of state."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not immediately, -monseigneur, for that would give rise to too much suspicion and -astonishment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Richelieu, the -first minister of my grandmother, Marie de Medici, was simply -bishop of Luçon, as you are bishop of Vannes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I perceive that your -royal highness has studied my notes to great advantage; your -amazing perspicacity overpowers me with delight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am perfectly aware -that M. de Richelieu, by means of the queen's protection, soon -became cardinal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be better," -said Aramis, bowing, "that I should not be appointed first -minister until your royal highness has procured my nomination as -cardinal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You shall be nominated -before two months are past, Monsieur d'Herblay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But that is a matter of very -trifling moment; you would not offend me if you were to ask more -than that, and you would cause me serious regret if you were to -limit yourself to that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I have -something still further to hope for, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak! speak!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet will not -keep long at the head of affairs, he will soon get old.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is fond of pleasure, -consistently, I mean, with all his labors, thanks to the -youthfulness he still retains; but this protracted youth will -disappear at the approach of the first serious annoyance, or at -the first illness he may experience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will spare him the annoyance, -because he is an agreeable and noble-hearted man; but we cannot -save him from ill-health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -So it is determined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -you shall have paid all M. Fouquet's debts, and restored the -finances to a sound condition, M. Fouquet will be able to remain -the sovereign ruler in his little court of poets and painters, - -we shall have made him rich.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When that has been done, and I have -become your royal highness's prime minister, I shall be able to -think of my own interests and yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young man looked at -his interrogator.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Richelieu, of -whom we were speaking just now, was very much to blame in the -fixed idea he had of governing France alone, unaided.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He allowed two kings, King Louis -XIII. and himself, to be seated on the self-same throne, whilst -he might have installed them more conveniently upon two separate -and distinct thrones."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon two thrones?" said -the young man, thoughtfully.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In fact," pursued -Aramis, quietly, "a cardinal, prime minister of France, assisted -by the favor and by the countenance of his Most Christian Majesty -the King of France, a cardinal to whom the king his master lends -the treasures of the state, his army, his counsel, such a man -would be acting with twofold injustice in applying these mighty -resources to France alone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides," added Aramis, "you will -not be a king such as your father was, delicate in health, slow -in judgment, whom all things wearied; you will be a king -governing by your brain and by your sword; you will have in the -government of the state no more than you will be able to manage -unaided; I should only interfere with you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, our friendship ought never -to be, I do not say impaired, but in any degree affected, by a -secret thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall -have given you the throne of France, you will confer on me the -throne of St. Peter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Whenever your loyal, firm, and mailed hand should joined in ties -of intimate association the hand of a pope such as I shall be, -neither Charles V., who owned two-thirds of the habitable globe, -nor Charlemagne, who possessed it entirely, will be able to reach -to half your stature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have no alliances, I have no predilections; I will not throw you -into persecutions of heretics, nor will I cast you into the -troubled waters of family dissension; I will simply say to you: -The whole universe is our own; for me the minds of men, for you -their bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as I -shall be the first to die, you will have my inheritance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you say of my plan, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I say that you render -me happy and proud, for no other reason than that of having -comprehended you thoroughly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Herblay, you shall be -cardinal, and when cardinal, my prime minister; and then you will -point out to me the necessary steps to be taken to secure your -election as pope, and I will take them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can ask what guarantees from me -you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is useless.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never shall I act except in -such a manner that you will be the gainer; I shall never ascend -the ladder of fortune, fame, or position, until I have first seen -you placed upon the round of the ladder immediately above me; I -shall always hold myself sufficiently aloof from you to escape -incurring your jealousy, sufficiently near to sustain your -personal advantage and to watch over your friendship.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the contracts in the world are -easily violated because the interests included in them incline -more to one side than to another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With us, however, this will never be -the case; I have no need of any guarantees."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so - my dear -brother - will disappear?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Simply.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will remove him from his bed by -means of a plank which yields to the pressure of the finger.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having retired to rest a -crowned sovereign, he will awake a captive.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alone you will rule from that -moment, and you will have no interest dearer and better than that -of keeping me near you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is my hand on it, -Monsieur d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Allow me to kneel -before you, sire, most respectfully.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will embrace each other on the -day we shall have upon our temples, you the crown, I the -tiara."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Still embrace me this -very day also, and be, for and towards me, more than great, more -than skillful, more than sublime in genius; be kind and indulgent -- be my father!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis was almost -overcome as he listened to his voice; he fancied he detected in -his own heart an emotion hitherto unknown; but this impression -was speedily removed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"His father!" he thought; "yes, his Holy Father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And they resumed their -places in the carriage, which sped rapidly along the road leading -to Vaux-le-Vicomte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span lang="FR" style= -'font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;mso-ansi-language:FR'> -Chapter XI:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span lang="FR" style='mso-ansi-language:FR'>The Château de -Vaux-le-Vicomte.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="FR" style= -'mso-ansi-language:FR'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> <span style= -'font-size: 20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -T</span>he château of Vaux-le-Vicomte, situated about a -league from Melun, had been built by Fouquet in 1655, at a time -when there was a scarcity of money in France; Mazarin had taken -all that there was, and Fouquet expended the remainder.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However, as certain men have -fertile, false, and useful vices, Fouquet, in scattering -broadcast millions of money in the construction of this palace, -had found a means of gathering, as the result of his generous -profusion, three illustrious men together: Levau, the architect -of the building; Lenôtre, the designer of the gardens; and -Lebrun, the decorator of the apartments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If the Château de Vaux -possessed a single fault with which it could be reproached, it -was its grand, pretentious character.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is even at the present day -proverbial to calculate the number of acres of roofing, the -restoration of which would, in our age, be the ruin of fortunes -cramped and narrowed as the epoch itself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vaux-le-Vicomte, when its -magnificent gates, supported by caryatides, have been passed -through, has the principal front of the main building opening -upon a vast, so-called, court of honor, inclosed by deep ditches, -bordered by a magnificent stone balustrade.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing could be more noble in -appearance than the central forecourt raised upon the flight of -steps, like a king upon his throne, having around it four -pavilions at the angles, the immense Ionic columns of which rose -majestically to the whole height of the building.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The friezes ornamented with -arabesques, and the pediments which crowned the pilasters, -conferred richness and grace on every part of the building, while -the domes which surmounted the whole added proportion and -majesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This mansion, -built by a subject, bore a far greater resemblance to those royal -residences which Wolsey fancied he was called upon to construct, -in order to present them to his master form the fear of rendering -him jealous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But if -magnificence and splendor were displayed in any one particular -part of this palace more than another, - if anything could be -preferred to the wonderful arrangement of the interior, to the -sumptuousness of the gilding, and to the profusion of the -paintings and statues, it would be the park and gardens of -Vaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>jets d'eau</i>, which were regarded -as wonderful in 1653, are still so, even at the present time; the -cascades awakened the admiration of kings and princes; and as for -the famous grotto, the theme of so many poetical effusions, the -residence of that illustrious nymph of Vaux, whom Pélisson -made converse with La Fontaine, we must be spared the description -of all its beauties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -will do as Despréaux did, - we will enter the park, the -trees of which are of eight years' growth only - that is to say, -in their present position - and whose summits even yet, as they -proudly tower aloft, blushingly unfold their leaves to the -earliest rays of the rising sun.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lenôtre had hastened the -pleasure of the Mæcenas of his period; all the -nursery-grounds had furnished trees whose growth had been -accelerated by careful culture and the richest plant-food.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every tree in the neighborhood -which presented a fair appearance of beauty or stature had been -taken up by its roots and transplanted to the park.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet could well afford to -purchase trees to ornament his park, since he had bought up three -villages and their appurtenances (to use a legal word) to -increase its extent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -de Scudéry said of this palace, that, for the purpose of -keeping the grounds and gardens well watered, M. Fouquet had -divided a river into a thousand fountains, and gathered the -waters of a thousand fountains into torrents.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This same Monsieur de Scudéry -said a great many other things in his "Clélie," about this -palace of Valterre, the charms of which he describes most -minutely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We should be -far wiser to send our curious readers to Vaux to judge for -themselves, than to refer them to "Clélie;" and yet there -are as many leagues from Paris to Vaux, as there are volumes of -the "Clélie."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This magnificent palace -had been got ready for the reception of the greatest reigning -sovereign of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -Fouquet's friends had transported thither, some their actors and -their dresses, others their troops of sculptors and artists; not -forgetting others with their ready-mended pens, - floods of -impromptus were contemplated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cascades, somewhat rebellious -nymphs though they were, poured forth their waters brighter and -clearer than crystal: they scattered over the bronze triton and -nereids their waves of foam, which glistened like fire in the -rays of the sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An army -of servants were hurrying to and fro in squadrons in the -courtyard and corridors; while Fouquet, who had only that morning -arrived, walked all through the palace with a calm, observant -glance, in order to give his last orders, after his intendants -had inspected everything.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was, as we have said, -the 15th of August.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -sun poured down its burning rays upon the heathen deities of -marble and bronze: it raised the temperature of the water in the -conch shells, and ripened, on the walls, those magnificent -peaches, of which the king, fifty years later, spoke so -regretfully, when, at Marly, on an occasion of a scarcity of the -finer sorts of peaches being complained of, in the beautiful -gardens there - gardens which had cost France double the amount -that had been expended on Vaux - the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>great king</i> observed to some one: -"You are far too young to have eaten any of M. Fouquet's -peaches."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Oh, fame!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, blazon of renown!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, glory of this earth!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That very man whose judgment was so -sound and accurate where merit was concerned - he who had swept -into his coffers the inheritance of Nicholas Fouquet, who had -robbed him of Lenôtre and Lebrun, and had sent him to rot -for the remainder of his life in one of the state prisons - -merely remembered the peaches of that vanquished, crushed, -forgotten enemy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -to little purpose that Fouquet had squandered thirty millions of -francs in the fountains of his gardens, in the crucibles of his -sculptors, in the writing-desks of his literary friends, in the -portfolios of his painters; vainly had he fancied that thereby he -might be remembered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -peach - a blushing, rich-flavored fruit, nestling in the trellis -work on the garden-wall, hidden beneath its long, green leaves, - -this little vegetable production, that a dormouse would nibble up -without a thought, was sufficient to recall to the memory of this -great monarch the mournful shade of the last surintendant of -France.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> With a perfect reliance -that Aramis had made arrangements fairly to distribute the vast -number of guests throughout the palace, and that he had not -omitted to attend to any of the internal regulations for their -comfort, Fouquet devoted his entire attention to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ensemble</i> alone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In one direction Gourville showed -him the preparations which had been made for the fireworks; in -another, Molière led him over the theater; at last, after -he had visited the chapel, the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>salons</i>, and the galleries, and -was again going downstairs, exhausted with fatigue, Fouquet saw -Aramis on the staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The prelate beckoned to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The surintendant joined his friend, -and, with him, paused before a large picture scarcely -finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Applying -himself, heart and soul, to his work, the painter Lebrun, covered -with perspiration, stained with paint, pale from fatigue and the -inspiration of genius, was putting the last finishing touches -with his rapid brush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was the portrait of the king, whom they were expecting, dressed -in the court suit which Percerin had condescended to show -beforehand to the bishop of Vannes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet placed himself before this -portrait, which seemed to live, as one might say, in the cool -freshness of its flesh, and in its warmth of color.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gazed upon it long and fixedly, -estimated the prodigious labor that had been bestowed upon it, -and, not being able to find any recompense sufficiently great for -this Herculean effort, he passed his arm round the painter's neck -and embraced him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -surintendant, by this action, had utterly ruined a suit of -clothes worth a thousand pistoles, but he had satisfied, more -than satisfied, Lebrun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was a happy moment for the artist; it was an unhappy moment -for M. Percerin, who was walking behind Fouquet, and was engaged -in admiring, in Lebrun's painting, the suit that he had made for -his majesty, a perfect <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>objet d'art</i>, as he called it, -which was not to be matched except in the wardrobe of the -surintendant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -distress and his exclamations were interrupted by a signal which -had been given from the summit of the mansion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the direction of Melun, in the -still empty, open plain, the sentinels of Vaux had just perceived -the advancing procession of the king and the queens.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty was entering Melun with -his long train of carriages and cavaliers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In an hour - " said -Aramis to Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In an hour!" replied -the latter, sighing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the people who ask -one another what is the good of these royal <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêtes!</i>" continued the -bishop of Vannes, laughing, with his false smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, too, who am not the people, ask -myself the same thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will answer you in -four and twenty hours, monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Assume a cheerful countenance, for -it should be a day of true rejoicing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, believe me or -not, as you like, D'Herblay," said the surintendant, with a -swelling heart, pointing at the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>cortège</i> of Louis, visible -in the horizon, "he certainly loves me but very little, and I do -not care much more for him; but I cannot tell you how it is, that -since he is approaching my house - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, since I know he -is on his way here, as my guest, he is more sacred than ever for -me; he is my acknowledged sovereign, and as such is very dear to -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear? yes," said -Aramis, playing upon the word, as the Abbé Terray did, at -a later period, with Louis XV.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not laugh, -D'Herblay; I feel that, if he really seemed to wish it, I could -love that young man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You should not say that -to me," returned Aramis, "but rather to M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To M. Colbert!" -exclaimed Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why -so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because he would allow -you a pension out of the king's privy purse, as soon as he -becomes surintendant," said Aramis, preparing to leave as soon as -he had dealt this last blow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where are you going?" -returned Fouquet, with a gloomy look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To my own apartment, in -order to change my costume, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whereabouts are you -lodging, D'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the blue room on the -second story."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The room immediately -over the king's room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will be subject to -very great restraint there.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What an idea to condemn yourself to -a room where you cannot stir or move about!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "During the night, -monseigneur, I sleep or read in my bed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And your servants?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have but one -attendant with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I find -my reader quite sufficient.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu, monseigneur; do not -overfatigue yourself; keep yourself fresh for the arrival of the -king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We shall see you by and -by, I suppose, and shall see your friend Du Vallon also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is lodging next to -me, and is at this moment dressing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Fouquet, bowing, -with a smile, passed on like a commander-in-chief who pays the -different outposts a visit after the enemy has been signaled in -sight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: In the five-volume -edition, Volume 4 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 -XII:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Wine of Melun.</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 had, in point of fact, entered Melun with the -intention of merely passing through the city.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The youthful monarch was most -eagerly anxious for amusements; only twice during the journey had -he been able to catch a glimpse of La Vallière, and, -suspecting that his only opportunity of speaking to her would be -after nightfall, in the gardens, and after the ceremonial of -reception had been gone through, he had been very desirous to -arrive at Vaux as early as possible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he reckoned without his captain -of the musketeers, and without M. Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Like Calypso, who could not be -consoled at the departure of Ulysses, our Gascon could not -console himself for not having guessed why Aramis had asked -Percerin to show him the king's new costumes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is not a doubt," he said to -himself, "that my friend the bishop of Vannes had some motive in -that;" and then he began to rack his brains most uselessly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, so intimately -acquainted with all the court intrigues, who knew the position of -Fouquet better than even Fouquet himself did, had conceived the -strangest fancies and suspicions at the announcement of the <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, which would -have ruined a wealthy man, and which became impossible, utter -madness even, for a man so poor as he was.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, the presence of Aramis, -who had returned from Belle-Isle, and been nominated by Monsieur -Fouquet inspector-general of all the arrangements; his -perseverance in mixing himself up with all the surintendant's -affairs; his visits to Baisemeaux; all this suspicious -singularity of conduct had excessively troubled and tormented -D'Artagnan during the last two weeks.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With men of Aramis's -stamp," he said, "one is never the stronger except sword in -hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So long as Aramis -continued a soldier, there was hope of getting the better of him; -but since he has covered his cuirass with a stole, we are -lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what can -Aramis's object possibly be?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan plunged again into -deep thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What does -it matter to me, after all," he continued, "if his only object is -to overthrow M. Colbert?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And what else can he be after?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan rubbed his forehead - -that fertile land, whence the plowshare of his nails had turned -up so many and such admirable ideas in his time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He, at first, thought of talking the -matter over with Colbert, but his friendship for Aramis, the oath -of earlier days, bound him too strictly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He revolted at the bare idea of such -a thing, and, besides, he hated the financier too cordially.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, again, he wished to -unburden his mind to the king; but yet the king would not be able -to understand the suspicions which had not even a shadow of -reality at their base.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -resolved to address himself to Aramis, direct, the first time he -met him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will get -him," said the musketeer, "between a couple of candles, suddenly, -and when he least expects it, I will place my hand upon his -heart, and he will tell me - What will he tell me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, he will tell me something, for -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux!</i> there is -something in it, I know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Somewhat calmer, -D'Artagnan made every preparation for the journey, and took the -greatest care that the military household of the king, as yet -very inconsiderable in numbers, should be well officered and well -disciplined in its meager and limited proportions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The result was that, through the -captain's arrangements, the king, on arriving at Melun, saw -himself at the head of both the musketeers and Swiss guards, as -well as a picket of the French guards.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might almost have been called a -small army.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Colbert -looked at the troops with great delight: he even wished they had -been a third more in number.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But why?" said the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In order to show -greater honor to M. Fouquet," replied Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In order to ruin him -the sooner," thought D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> When this little army -appeared before Melun, the chief magistrates came out to meet the -king, and to present him with the keys of the city, and invited -him to enter the Hôtel de Ville, in order to partake of the -wine of honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, -who expected to pass through the city and to proceed to Vaux -without delay, became quite red in the face from vexation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who was fool enough to -occasion this delay?" muttered the king, between his teeth, as -the chief magistrate was in the middle of a long address.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not I, certainly," -replied D'Artagnan, "but I believe it was M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert, having heard -his name pronounced, said, "What was M. d'Artagnan good enough to -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was good enough to -remark that it was you who stopped the king's progress, so that -he might taste the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>vin de -Brie</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was I -right?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite so, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, then, it -was you whom the king called some name or other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hardly know; but wait -a moment - idiot, I think it was - no, no, it was fool or -dolt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes; his majesty -said that the man who had thought of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>vin de Melun</i> was something of -the sort."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, after this -broadside, quietly caressed his mustache; M. Colbert's large head -seemed to become larger and larger than ever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, seeing how ugly anger -made him, did not stop half-way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The orator still went on with his -speech, while the king's color was visibly increasing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i>" said the musketeer, -coolly, "the king is going to have an attack of determination of -blood to the head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where -the deuce did you get hold of that idea, Monsieur Colbert?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have no luck."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said the -financier, drawing himself up, "my zeal for the king's service -inspired me with the idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, Melun is a -city, an excellent city, which pays well, and which it would be -imprudent to displease."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There, now!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, who do not pretend to be a -financier, saw only one idea in your idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was that, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That of causing a -little annoyance to M. Fouquet, who is making himself quite giddy -on his donjons yonder, in waiting for us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This was a home-stroke, -hard enough in all conscience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert was completely thrown out of -the saddle by it, and retired, thoroughly discomfited.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fortunately, the speech was -now at an end; the king drank the wine which was presented to -him, and then every one resumed the progress through the -city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king bit his -lips in anger, for the evening was closing in, and all hope of a -walk with La Vallière was at an end.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In order that the whole of the -king's household should enter Vaux, four hours at least were -necessary, owing to the different arrangements.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, therefore, who was boiling -with impatience, hurried forward as much as possible, in order to -reach it before nightfall.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, at the moment he was setting -off again, other and fresh difficulties arose.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is not the king going -to sleep at Melun?" said Colbert, in a low tone of voice, to -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. Colbert must have -been badly inspired that day, to address himself in that manner -to the chief of the musketeers; for the latter guessed that the -king's intention was very far from that of remaining where he -was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan would not -allow him to enter Vaux except he were well and strongly -accompanied; and desired that his majesty would not enter except -with all the escort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On -the other hand, he felt that these delays would irritate that -impatient monarch beyond measure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In what way could he possibly -reconcile these difficulties?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan took up Colbert's remark, -and determined to repeated it to the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," he said, "M. -Colbert has been asking me if your majesty does not intend to -sleep at Melun."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sleep at Melun!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What for?" exclaimed Louis -XIV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sleep at -Melun!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who, in Heaven's -name, can have thought of such a thing, when M. Fouquet is -expecting us this evening?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was simply," replied -Colbert, quickly, "the fear of causing your majesty the least -delay; for, according to established etiquette, you cannot enter -any place, with the exception of your own royal residences, until -the soldiers' quarters have been marked out by the quartermaster, -and the garrison properly distributed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan listened with -the greatest attention, biting his mustache to conceal his -vexation; and the queens were not less interested.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were fatigued, and would have -preferred to go to rest without proceeding any farther; more -especially, in order to prevent the king walking about in the -evening with M. de Saint-Aignan and the ladies of the court, for, -if etiquette required the princesses to remain within their own -rooms, the ladies of honor, as soon as they had performed the -services required of them, had no restrictions placed upon them, -but were at liberty to walk about as they pleased.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It will easily be conjectured that -all these rival interests, gathering together in vapors, -necessarily produced clouds, and that the clouds were likely to -be followed by a tempest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king had no mustache to gnaw, and therefore kept biting the -handle of his whip instead, with ill-concealed impatience.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How could he get out of -it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan looked as -agreeable as possible, and Colbert as sulky as he could.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who was there he could get in -a passion with?</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will consult the -queen," said Louis XIV., bowing to the royal ladies.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And this kindness of consideration -softened Maria Theresa's heart, who, being of a kind and generous -disposition, when left to her own free-will, replied:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall be delighted to -do whatever your majesty wishes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How long will it take -us to get to Vaux?" inquired Anne of Austria, in slow and -measured accents, placing her hand upon her bosom, where the seat -of her pain lay.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An hour for your -majesty's carriages," said D'Artagnan; "the roads are tolerably -good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king looked at -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And a quarter of an -hour for the king," he hastened to add.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We should arrive by -daylight?" said Louis XIV.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the billeting of -the king's military escort," objected Colbert, softly, "will make -his majesty lose all the advantage of his speed, however quick he -may be."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Double ass that you -are!" thought D'Artagnan; "if I had any interest or motive in -demolishing your credit with the king, I could do it in ten -minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I were in the -king's place," he added aloud, "I should, in going to M. Fouquet, -leave my escort behind me; I should go to him as a friend; I -should enter accompanied only by my captain of the guards; I -should consider that I was acting more nobly, and should be -invested with a still more sacred character by doing so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Delight sparkled in the -king's eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is -indeed a very sensible suggestion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will go to see a friend as -friends; the gentlemen who are with the carriages can go slowly: -but we who are mounted will ride on."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he rode off, accompanied by all -those who were mounted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Colbert hid his ugly head behind his horse's neck.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall be quits," said -D'Artagnan, as he galloped along, "by getting a little talk with -Aramis this evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -then, M. Fouquet is a man of honor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have said so, and it must be -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And this was the way -how, towards seven o'clock in the evening, without announcing his -arrival by the din of trumpets, and without even his advanced -guard, without out-riders or musketeers, the king presented -himself before the gate of Vaux, where Fouquet, who had been -informed of his royal guest's approach, had been waiting for the -last half-hour, with his head uncovered, surrounded by his -household and his friends.</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'> -Nectar and Ambrosia.</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>. Fouquet held the stirrup of the king, who, having -dismounted, bowed most graciously, and more graciously still held -out his hand to him, which Fouquet, in spite of a slight -resistance on the king's part, carried respectfully to his -lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king wished to -wait in the first courtyard for the arrival of the carriages, nor -had he long to wait, for the roads had been put into excellent -order by the superintendent, and a stone would hardly have been -found of the size of an egg the whole way from Melun to Vaux; so -that the carriages, rolling along as though on a carpet, brought -the ladies to Vaux, without jolting or fatigue, by eight -o'clock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were -received by Madame Fouquet, and at the moment they made their -appearance, a light as bright as day burst forth from every -quarter, trees, vases, and marble statues.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This species of enchantment lasted -until their majesties had retired into the palace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these wonders and magical -effects which the chronicler has heaped up, or rather embalmed, -in his recital, at the risk of rivaling the brain-born scenes of -romancers; these splendors whereby night seemed vanquished and -nature corrected, together with every delight and luxury combined -for the satisfaction of all the senses, as well as the -imagination, Fouquet did in real truth offer to his sovereign in -that enchanting retreat of which no monarch could at that time -boast of possessing an equal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We do not intend to describe the -grand banquet, at which the royal guests were present, nor the -concerts, nor the fairy-like and more than magic transformations -and metamorphoses; it will be enough for our purpose to depict -the countenance the king assumed, which, from being gay, soon -wore a very gloomy, constrained, and irritated expression.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He remembered his own -residence, royal though it was, and the mean and indifferent -style of luxury that prevailed there, which comprised but little -more than what was merely useful for the royal wants, without -being his own personal property.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The large vases of the Louvre, the -older furniture and plate of Henry II., of Francis I., and of -Louis XI., were but historic monuments of earlier days; nothing -but specimens of art, the relics of his predecessors; while with -Fouquet, the value of the article was as much in the workmanship -as in the article itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet ate from a gold service, which artists in his own employ -had modeled and cast for him alone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet drank wines of which the -king of France did not even know the name, and drank them out of -goblets each more valuable than the entire royal cellar.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> What, too, was to be -said of the apartments, the hangings, the pictures, the servants -and officers, of every description, of his household?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What of the mode of service in which -etiquette was replaced by order; stiff formality by personal, -unrestrained comfort; the happiness and contentment of the guest -became the supreme law of all who obeyed the host?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The perfect swarm of busily engaged -persons moving about noiselessly; the multitude of guests, - who -were, however, even less numerous than the servants who waited on -them, - the myriad of exquisitely prepared dishes, of gold and -silver vases; the floods of dazzling light, the masses of unknown -flowers of which the hot-houses had been despoiled, redundant -with luxuriance of unequaled scent and beauty; the perfect -harmony of the surroundings, which, indeed, was no more than the -prelude of the promised <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, charmed all who were -there; and they testified their admiration over and over again, -not by voice or gesture, but by deep silence and rapt attention, -those two languages of the courtier which acknowledge the hand of -no master powerful enough to restrain them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As for the king, his -eyes filled with tears; he dared not look at the queen.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne of Austria, whose pride -was superior to that of any creature breathing, overwhelmed her -host by the contempt with which she treated everything handed to -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young queen, -kind-hearted by nature and curious by disposition, praised -Fouquet, ate with an exceedingly good appetite, and asked the -names of the strange fruits as they were placed upon the -table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet replied -that he was not aware of their names.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fruits came from his own stores; -he had often cultivated them himself, having an intimate -acquaintance with the cultivation of exotic fruits and -plants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king felt and -appreciated the delicacy of the replies, but was only the more -humiliated; he thought the queen a little too familiar in her -manners, and that Anne of Austria resembled Juno a little too -much, in being too proud and haughty; his chief anxiety, however, -was himself, that he might remain cold and distant in his -behavior, bordering lightly the limits of supreme disdain or -simple admiration.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But Fouquet had foreseen -all this; he was, in fact, one of those men who foresee -everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king had -expressly declared that, so long as he remained under Fouquet's -roof, he did not wish his own different repasts to be served in -accordance with the usual etiquette, and that he would, -consequently, dine with the rest of society; but by the -thoughtful attention of the surintendant, the king's dinner was -served up separately, if one may so express it, in the middle of -the general table; the dinner, wonderful in every respect, from -the dishes of which was composed, comprised everything the king -liked and generally preferred to anything else.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis had no excuse - he, indeed, -who had the keenest appetite in his kingdom - for saying that he -was not hungry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nay, M. -Fouquet did even better still; he certainly, in obedience to the -king's expressed desire, seated himself at the table, but as soon -as the soups were served, he arose and personally waited on the -king, while Madame Fouquet stood behind the queen-mother's -armchair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The disdain of -Juno and the sulky fits of temper of Jupiter could not resist -this excess of kindly feeling and polite attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The queen ate a biscuit dipped in a -glass of San-Lucar wine; and the king ate of everything, saying -to M. Fouquet: "It is impossible, monsieur le surintendant, to -dine better anywhere."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Whereupon the whole court began, on all sides, to devour the -dishes spread before them with such enthusiasm that it looked as -though a cloud of Egyptian locusts was settling down on green and -growing crops.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As soon, however, as his -hunger was appeased, the king became morose and overgloomed -again; the more so in proportion to the satisfaction he fancied -he had previously manifested, and particularly on account of the -deferential manner which his courtiers had shown towards -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, who -ate a good deal and drank but little, without allowing it to be -noticed, did not lose a single opportunity, but made a great -number of observations which he turned to good profit.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> When the supper was -finished, the king expressed a wish not to lose the -promenade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The park was -illuminated; the moon, too, as if she had placed herself at the -orders of the lord of Vaux, silvered the trees and lake with her -own bright and quasi-phosphorescent light.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The air was strangely soft and -balmy; the daintily shell-gravelled walks through the thickly set -avenues yielded luxuriously to the feet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> was complete in every -respect, for the king, having met La Vallière in one of -the winding paths of the wood, was able to press her hand and -say, "I love you," without any one overhearing him except M. -d'Artagnan, who followed, and M. Fouquet, who preceded him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The dreamy night of -magical enchantments stole smoothly on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king having requested to be -shown to his room, there was immediately a movement in every -direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The queens -passed to their own apartments, accompanied by them music of -theorbos and lutes; the king found his musketeers awaiting him on -the grand flight of steps, for M. Fouquet had brought them on -from Melun and had invited them to supper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan's suspicions at once -disappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was -weary, he had supped well, and wished, for once in his life, -thoroughly to enjoy a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> given by a man who -was in every sense of the word a king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. Fouquet," he said, "is the man -for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king was conducted -with the greatest ceremony to the chamber of Morpheus, of which -we owe some cursory description to our readers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the handsomest and largest in -the palace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lebrun had -painted on the vaulted ceiling the happy as well as the unhappy -dreams which Morpheus inflicts on kings as well as on other -men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything that -sleep gives birth to that is lovely, its fairy scenes, its -flowers and nectar, the wild voluptuousness or profound repose of -the senses, had the painter elaborated on his frescoes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was a composition as soft -and pleasing in one part as dark and gloomy and terrible in -another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The poisoned -chalice, the glittering dagger suspended over the head of the -sleeper; wizards and phantoms with terrific masks, those half-dim -shadows more alarming than the approach of fire or the somber -face of midnight, these, and such as these, he had made the -companions of his more pleasing pictures.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No sooner had the king entered his -room than a cold shiver seemed to pass through him, and on -Fouquet asking him the cause of it, the king replied, as pale as -death:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am sleepy, that is -all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does your majesty wish -for your attendants at once?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I have to talk with -a few persons first," said the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you have the goodness to tell -M. Colbert I wish to see him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet bowed and left -the room.</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'>A -Gascon, and a Gascon and a Half.</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 determined to lose no time, and in fact he -never was in the habit of doing so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After having inquired for Aramis, he -had looked for him in every direction until he had succeeded in -finding him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, no -sooner had the king entered Vaux, than Aramis had retired to his -own room, meditating, doubtless, some new piece of gallant -attention for his majesty's amusement.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan desired the servants to -announce him, and found on the second story (in a beautiful room -called the Blue Chamber, on account of the color of its hangings) -the bishop of Vannes in company with Porthos and several of the -modern Epicureans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -came forward to embrace his friend, and offered him the best -seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As it was after -awhile generally remarked among those present that the musketeer -was reserved, and wished for an opportunity for conversing -secretly with Aramis, the Epicureans took their leave.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, however, did not -stir; for true it is that, having dined exceedingly well, he was -fast asleep in his armchair; and the freedom of conversation -therefore was not interrupted by a third person.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos had a deep, harmonious -snore, and people might talk in the midst of its loud bass -without fear of disturbing him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan felt that he was called -upon to open the conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and so we have -come to Vaux," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, yes, -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And how do -you like the place?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very much, and I like -M. Fouquet, also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is he not a charming -host?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No one could be more -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am told that the king -began by showing great distance of manner towards M. Fouquet, but -that his majesty grew much more cordial afterwards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You did not notice it, -then, since you say you have been told so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; I was engaged with -the gentlemen who have just left the room about the theatrical -performances and the tournaments which are to take place -to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, indeed! you are the -comptroller-general of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fêtes</i> here, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know I am a friend -of all kinds of amusement where the exercise of the imagination -is called into activity; I have always been a poet in one way or -another."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I remember the -verses you used to write, they were charming."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have forgotten them, -but I am delighted to read the verses of others, when those -others are known by the names of Molière, Pélisson, -La Fontaine, etc."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know what idea -occurred to me this evening, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; tell me what it -was, for I should never be able to guess it, you have so -many."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, the idea occurred -to me, that the true king of France is not Louis XIV."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>What!</i>" said Aramis, -involuntarily, looking the musketeer full in the eyes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, it is Monsieur -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis breathed again, -and smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! you are -like all the rest, jealous," he said.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I would wager that it was M. -Colbert who turned that pretty phrase."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, in order to throw Aramis -off his guard, related Colbert's misadventures with regard to the -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>vin de Melun</i>.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He comes of a mean -race, does Colbert," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When I think, too," -added the bishop, "that that fellow will be your minister within -four months, and that you will serve him as blindly as you did -Richelieu or Mazarin - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And as you serve M. -Fouquet," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With this difference, -though, that M. Fouquet is not M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, true," said -D'Artagnan, as he pretended to become sad and full of reflection; -and then, a moment after, he added, "Why do you tell me that M. -Colbert will be minister in four months?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because M. Fouquet will -have ceased to be so," replied Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will be ruined, you -mean?" said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Completely so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why does he give these -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêtes</i>, then?" -said the musketeer, in a tone so full of thoughtful -consideration, and so well assumed, that the bishop was for the -moment deceived by it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Why did you not dissuade him from it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The latter part of the -phrase was just a little too much, and Aramis's former suspicions -were again aroused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It -is done with the object of humoring the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By ruining -himself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, by ruining himself -for the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A most eccentric, one -might say, sinister calculation, that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Necessity, necessity, -my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't see that, dear -Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you not?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you not remarked M. Colbert's -daily increasing antagonism, and that he is doing his utmost to -drive the king to get rid of the superintendent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One must be blind not -to see it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that a cabal is -already armed against M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is well -known."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What likelihood is -there that the king would join a party formed against a man who -will have spent everything he had to please him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True, true," said -D'Artagnan, slowly, hardly convinced, yet curious to broach -another phase of the conversation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There are follies, and follies," he -resumed, "and I do not like those you are committing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you allude -to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As for the banquet, the -ball, the concert, the theatricals, the tournaments, the -cascades, the fireworks, the illuminations, and the presents - -these are well and good, I grant; but why were not these expenses -sufficient?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why was it -necessary to have new liveries and costumes for your whole -household?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are quite -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I told M. Fouquet -that myself; he replied, that if he were rich enough he would -offer the king a newly erected château, from the vanes at -the houses to the very sub-cellars; completely new inside and -out; and that, as soon as the king had left, he would burn the -whole building and its contents, in order that it might not be -made use of by any one else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How completely -Spanish!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I told him so, and he -then added this: 'Whoever advises me to spare expense, I shall -look upon as my enemy.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is positive madness; -and that portrait, too!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What portrait?" said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That of the king, and -the surprise as well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What surprise?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The surprise you seem -to have in view, and on account of which you took some specimens -away, when I met you at Percerin's."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan paused.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The shaft was discharged, and all he -had to do was to wait and watch its effect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is merely an act -of graceful attention," replied Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan went up to -his friend, took hold of both his hands, and looking him full in -the eyes, said, "Aramis, do you still care for me a very -little?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What a question to -ask!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One favor, then.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why did you take some patterns of -the king's costumes at Percerin's?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come with me and ask -poor Lebrun, who has been working upon them for the last two days -and nights."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis, that may be -truth for everybody else, but for me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word, -D'Artagnan, you astonish me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be a little -considerate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me the -exact truth; you would not like anything disagreeable to happen -to me, would you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend, you are -becoming quite incomprehensible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What suspicion can you have possibly -got hold of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you believe in my -instinctive feelings?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Formerly you used to have faith in them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, an instinct tells me -that you have some concealed project on foot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I - a project?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am convinced of -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What nonsense!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not only sure of -it, but I would even swear it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed, D'Artagnan, you -cause me the greatest pain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it likely, if I have any project -in hand that I ought to keep secret from you, I should tell you -about it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I had one -that I could and ought to have revealed, should I not have long -ago divulged it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Aramis, no.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There are certain projects -which are never revealed until the favorable opportunity -arrives."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, my dear -fellow," returned the bishop, laughing, "the only thing now is, -that the 'opportunity' has not yet arrived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan shook his -head with a sorrowful expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, friendship, friendship!" he -said, "what an idle word you are!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here is a man who, if I were but to -ask it, would suffer himself to be cut in pieces for my -sake."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right," said -Aramis, nobly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And this man, who would -shed every drop of blood in his veins for me, will not open up -before me the least corner in his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Friendship, I repeat, is nothing but -an unsubstantial shadow - a lure, like everything else in this -bright, dazzling world."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not thus you -should speak of <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>our</i> -friendship," replied the bishop, in a firm, assured voice; "for -ours is not of the same nature as those of which you have been -speaking."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look at us, Aramis; -three out of the old 'four.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are deceiving me; I suspect you; -and Porthos is fast asleep.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An admirable trio of friends, don't -you think so?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What an -affecting relic of the former dear old times!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I can only tell you one -thing, D'Artagnan, and I swear it on the Bible: I love you just -as I used to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I -ever suspect you, it is on account of others, and not on account -of either of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -everything I may do, and should happen to succeed in, you will -find your fourth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will -you promise me the same favor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I am not mistaken, -Aramis, your words - at the moment you pronounce them - are full -of generous feeling."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Such a thing is very -possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are conspiring -against M. Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If -that be all, <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux</i>, -tell me so at once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have the instrument in my own hand, and will pull out the tooth -easily enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis could not conceal -a smile of disdain that flitted over his haughty features.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And supposing that I were -conspiring against Colbert, what harm would there be in <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>that?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; that would be -too trifling a matter for you to take in hand, and it was not on -that account you asked Percerin for those patterns of the king's -costumes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, we are not enemies, remember -- we are brothers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell -me what you wish to undertake, and, upon the word of a -D'Artagnan, if I cannot help you, I will swear to remain -neuter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am undertaking -nothing," said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis, a voice within -me speaks and seems to trickle forth a rill of light within my -darkness: it is a voice that has never yet deceived me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is the king you are -conspiring against."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king?" exclaimed -the bishop, pretending to be annoyed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your face will not -convince me; the king, I repeat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you help me?" said -Aramis, smiling ironically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis, I will do more -than help you - I will do more than remain neuter - I will save -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mad, -D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am the wiser of the -two, in this matter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You to suspect me of -wishing to assassinate the king!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who spoke of such a -thing?" smiled the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, let us understand -one another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not see -what any one can do to a legitimate king as ours is, if he does -not assassinate him."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan did not say a word.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Besides, you have your guards and -your musketeers here," said the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are not in M. -Fouquet's house, but in your own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True; but in spite of -that, Aramis, grant me, for pity's sake, one single word of a -true friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A true friend's word is -ever truth itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I -think of touching, even with my finger, the son of Anne of -Austria, the true king of this realm of France - if I have not -the firm intention of prostrating myself before his throne - if -in every idea I may entertain to-morrow, here at Vaux, will not -be the most glorious day my king ever enjoyed - may Heaven's -lightning blast me where I stand!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis had pronounced these words -with his face turned towards the alcove of his own bedroom, where -D'Artagnan, seated with his back towards the alcove, could not -suspect that any one was lying concealed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The earnestness of his words, the -studied slowness with which he pronounced them, the solemnity of -his oath, gave the musketeer the most complete satisfaction.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He took hold of both Aramis's -hands, and shook them cordially.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis had endured reproaches -without turning pale, and had blushed as he listened to words of -praise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -deceived, did him honor; but D'Artagnan, trustful and reliant, -made him feel ashamed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Are you going away?" he said, as he embraced him, in order to -conceal the flush on his face.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Duty summons me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have to get the watch-word.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seems I am to be lodged in -the king's ante-room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Where does Porthos sleep?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take him away with you, -if you like, for he rumbles through his sleepy nose like a park -of artillery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! he does not stay -with you, then?" said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not the least in the -world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He has a chamber -to himself, but I don't know where."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good!" said the -musketeer; from whom this separation of the two associates -removed his last suspicion, and he touched Porthos lightly on the -shoulder; the latter replied by a loud yawn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, D'Artagnan, my -dear fellow, is that you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What a lucky chance!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, -yes - true; I have forgotten; I am at the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> at Vaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and your beautiful -dress, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, it was very -attentive on the part of Monsieur Coquelin de Volière, was -it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush!" said -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are walking -so heavily you will make the flooring give way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," said the -musketeer; "this room is above the dome, I think."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I did not choose it -for a fencing-room, I assure you," added the bishop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The ceiling of the king's room has -all the lightness and calm of wholesome sleep.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not forget, therefore, that my -flooring is merely the covering of his ceiling.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good night, my friends, and in ten -minutes I shall be asleep myself."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Aramis accompanied them to the -door, laughing quietly all the while.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as they were outside, he -bolted the door, hurriedly; closed up the chinks of the windows, -and then called out, "Monseigneur! - monseigneur!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe made his appearance from -the alcove, as he pushed aside a sliding panel placed behind the -bed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Artagnan -entertains a great many suspicions, it seems," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! - you recognized M. -d'Artagnan, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Before you called him -by his name, even."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is your captain of -musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is very devoted to -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me</i>," replied Philippe, -laying a stress upon the personal pronoun.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As faithful as a dog; -but he bites sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -If D'Artagnan does not recognize you before <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>the other</i> has disappeared, rely -upon D'Artagnan to the end of the world; for in that case, if he -has seen nothing, he will keep his fidelity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he sees, when it is too late, he -is a Gascon, and will never admit that he has been deceived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thought so.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What are we to do, now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sit in this -folding-chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am going -to push aside a portion of the flooring; you will look through -the opening, which answers to one of the false windows made in -the dome of the king's apartment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can you see?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes," said -Philippe, starting as at the sight of an enemy; "I see the -king!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What is he -doing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"He seems to wish -some man to sit down close to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"No, no; wait a -moment - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Look at the notes -and the portraits, my prince."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The man whom the -king wishes to sit down in his presence is M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Colbert sit down -in the king's presence!" exclaimed Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Look."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis looked through -the opening in the flooring.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes," he said.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Colbert himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, monseigneur! what can we be -going to hear - and what can result from this intimacy?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Nothing good for -M. Fouquet, at all events."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>The prince did not -deceive himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> We have seen that Louis -XIV. had sent for Colbert, and Colbert had arrived.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The conversation began between them -by the king according to him one of the highest favors that he -had ever done; it was true the king was alone with his -subject.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Colbert," said -he, "sit down."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The intendant, overcome -with delight, for he feared he was about to be dismissed, refused -this unprecedented honor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Does he accept?" -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"No, he remains -standing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us listen, -then."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the future -king and the future pope listened eagerly to the simple mortals -they held under their feet, ready to crush them when they -liked.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Colbert," said the -king, "you have annoyed me exceedingly to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I know it, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Very good; I like that answer.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, you knew it, and there -was courage in the doing of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I ran the risk of -displeasing your majesty, but I risked, also, the concealment of -your best interests."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What! you were -afraid of something on <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> account?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was, sire, even if it -were nothing more than an indigestion," said Colbert; "for people -do not give their sovereigns such banquets as the one of to-day, -unless it be to stifle them beneath the burden of good -living."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert awaited -the effect this coarse jest would produce upon the king; and -Louis XIV., who was the vainest and the most fastidiously -delicate man in his kingdom, forgave Colbert the joke.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The truth is," he said, -"that M. Fouquet has given me too good a meal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me, Colbert, where does he get -all the money required for this enormous expenditure, - can you -tell?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes, I do know, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Will you be able -to prove it with tolerable certainty?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Easily; and to the -utmost farthing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I know you are -very exact."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Exactitude is the -principal qualification required in an intendant of -finances."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"But all are not -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I thank you -majesty for so flattering a compliment from your own lips."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"M. Fouquet, -therefore, is rich - very rich, and I suppose every man knows he -is so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Every one, sire; -the living as well as the dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What does that -mean, Monsieur Colbert?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The living are -witnesses of M. Fouquet's wealth, - they admire and applaud the -result produced; but the dead, wiser and better informed than we -are, know how that wealth was obtained - and they rise up in -accusation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"So that M. Fouquet -owes his wealth to some cause or other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The occupation of -an intendant very often favors those who practice it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have something to -say to me more confidentially, I perceive; do not be afraid, we -are quite alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am never afraid of -anything under the shelter of my own conscience, and under the -protection of your majesty," said Colbert, bowing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"If the dead, -therefore, were to speak - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"They do speak -sometimes, sire, - read."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" murmured Aramis, -in the prince's ear, who, close beside him, listened without -losing a syllable, "since you are placed here, monseigneur, in -order to learn your vocation of a king, listen to a piece of -infamy - of a nature truly royal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are about to be a witness of one -of those scenes which the foul fiend alone conceives and -executes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Listen -attentively, - you will find your advantage in it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The prince redoubled his -attention, and saw Louis XIV. take from Colbert's hands a letter -the latter held out to him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The late -cardinal's handwriting," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty has an -excellent memory," replied Colbert, bowing; "it is an immense -advantage for a king who is destined for hard work to recognize -handwritings at the first glance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king read Mazarin's -letter, and, as its contents are already known to the reader, in -consequence of the misunderstanding between Madame de Chevreuse -and Aramis, nothing further would be learned if we stated them -here again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I do not quite -understand," said the king, greatly interested.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Your majesty has -not acquired the utilitarian habit of checking the public -accounts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I see that it -refers to money that had been given to M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Thirteen -millions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A tolerably -good sum."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, these thirteen millions are -wanting to balance the total of the account.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is what I do not very well -understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How was this -deficit possible?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Possible I do not -say; but there is no doubt about fact that it is really so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You say that these -thirteen millions are found to be wanting in the accounts?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I do not say so, -but the registry does."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And this letter of M. -Mazarin indicates the employment of that sum and the name of the -person with whom it was deposited?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"As your majesty -can judge for yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes; and the -result is, then, that M. Fouquet has not yet restored the -thirteen millions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That results from -the accounts, certainly, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, and, -consequently - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, sire, in that -case, inasmuch as M. Fouquet has not yet given back the thirteen -millions, he must have appropriated them to his own purpose; and -with those thirteen millions one could incur four times and a -little more as much expense, and make four times as great a -display, as your majesty was able to do at Fontainebleau, where -we only spent three millions altogether, if you remember."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> For a blunderer, the <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>souvenir</i> he had evoked was -a rather skillfully contrived piece of baseness; for by the -remembrance of his own <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> he, for the first -time, perceived its inferiority compared with that of -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert received -back again at Vaux what Fouquet had given him at Fontainebleau, -and, as a good financier, returned it with the best possible -interest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having once -disposed the king's mind in this artful way, Colbert had nothing -of much importance to detain him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt that such was the case, for -the king, too, had again sunk into a dull and gloomy state.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert awaited the first -words from the king's lips with as much impatience as Philippe -and Aramis did from their place of observation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you aware what is -the usual and natural consequence of all this, Monsieur Colbert?" -said the king, after a few moments' reflection.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"No, sire, I do not -know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, then, the -fact of the appropriation of the thirteen millions, if it can be -proved - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"But it is so -already."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I mean if it were -to be declared and certified, M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I think it will be -to-morrow, if your majesty - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Were we not under M. -Fouquet's roof, you were going to say, perhaps," replied the -king, with something of nobility in his demeanor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king is in his own -palace wherever he may be - especially in houses which the royal -money has constructed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think," said Philippe -in a low tone to Aramis, "that the architect who planned this -dome ought, anticipating the use it could be put to at a future -opportunity, so to have contrived that it might be made to fall -upon the heads of scoundrels such as M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I think so too," -replied Aramis; "but M. Colbert is so very <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>near the king</i> at this -moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That is true, and -that would open the succession."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of which your younger -brother would reap all the advantage, monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But stay, let us keep quiet, and go -on listening."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"We shall not have -long to listen," said the young prince.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Why not, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Because, if I were -king, I should make no further reply."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And what would you -do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I should wait -until to-morrow morning to give myself time for reflection."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis XIV. at last -raised his eyes, and finding Colbert attentively waiting for his -next remarks, said, hastily, changing the conversation, "M. -Colbert, I perceive it is getting very late, and I shall now -retire to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By -to-morrow morning I shall have made up my mind."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, sire," -returned Colbert, greatly incensed, although he restrained -himself in the presence of the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king made a gesture -of adieu, and Colbert withdrew with a respectful bow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My attendants!" cried the king; -and, as they entered the apartment, Philippe was about to quit -his post of observation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A moment longer," said -Aramis to him, with his accustomed gentleness of manner; "what -has just now taken place is only a detail, and to-morrow we shall -have no occasion to think anything more about it; but the -ceremony of the king's retiring to rest, the etiquette observed -in addressing the king, that indeed is of the greatest -importance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Learn, sire, -and study well how you ought to go to bed of a night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look! look!"</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'> -Colbert.</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'> -H</span>istory will tell us, or rather history has told us, of -the various events of the following day, of the splendid <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêtes</i> given by the -surintendant to his sovereign.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing but amusement and delight -was allowed to prevail throughout the whole of the following day; -there was a promenade, a banquet, a comedy to be acted, and a -comedy, too, in which, to his great amazement, Porthos recognized -"M. Coquelin de Volière" as one of the actors, in the -piece called "Les Fâcheux."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Full of preoccupation, however, from -the scene of the previous evening, and hardly recovered from the -effects of the poison which Colbert had then administered to him, -the king, during the whole of the day, so brilliant in its -effects, so full of unexpected and startling novelties, in which -all the wonders of the "Arabian Night's Entertainments" seemed to -be reproduced for his especial amusement - the king, we say, -showed himself cold, reserved, and taciturn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing could smooth the frowns upon -his face; every one who observed him noticed that a deep feeling -of resentment, of remote origin, increased by slow degrees, as -the source becomes a river, thanks to the thousand threads of -water that increase its body, was keenly alive in the depths of -the king's heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards -the middle of the day only did he begin to resume a little -serenity of manner, and by that time he had, in all probability, -made up his mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, -who followed him step by step in his thoughts, as in his walk, -concluded that the event he was expecting would not be long -before it was announced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This time Colbert seemed to walk in concert with the bishop of -Vannes, and had he received for every annoyance which he -inflicted on the king a word of direction from Aramis, he could -not have done better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -During the whole of the day the king, who, in all probability, -wished to free himself from some of the thoughts which disturbed -his mind, seemed to seek La Vallière's society as actively -as he seemed to show his anxiety to flee that of M. Colbert or M. -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The evening -came.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king had -expressed a wish not to walk in the park until after cards in the -evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the interval -between supper and the promenade, cards and dice were -introduced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king won -a thousand pistoles, and, having won them, put them in his -pocket, and then rose, saying, "And now, gentlemen, to the -park."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He found the -ladies of the court were already there.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, we have before observed, -had won a thousand pistoles, and had put them in his pocket; but -M. Fouquet had somehow contrived to lose ten thousand, so that -among the courtiers there was still left a hundred and ninety -thousand francs' profit to divide, a circumstance which made the -countenances of the courtiers and the officers of the king's -household the most joyous countenances in the world.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was not the same, however, with -the king's face; for, notwithstanding his success at play, to -which he was by no means insensible, there still remained a -slight shade of dissatisfaction.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert was waiting for or upon him -at the corner of one of the avenues; he was most probably waiting -there in consequence of a rendezvous which had been given him by -the king, as Louis XIV., who had avoided him, or who had seemed -to avoid him, suddenly made him a sign, and they then struck into -the depths of the park together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But La Vallière, too, had -observed the king's gloomy aspect and kindling glances; she had -remarked this - and as nothing which lay hidden or smoldering in -his heart was hidden from the gaze of her affection, she -understood that this repressed wrath menaced some one; she -prepared to withstand the current of his vengeance, and intercede -like an angel of mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Overcome by sadness, nervously agitated, deeply distressed at -having been so long separated from her lover, disturbed at the -sight of the emotion she had divined, she accordingly presented -herself to the king with an embarrassed aspect, which in his then -disposition of mind the king interpreted unfavorably.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, as they were alone - nearly -alone, inasmuch as Colbert, as soon as he perceived the young -girl approaching, had stopped and drawn back a dozen paces - the -king advanced towards La Vallière and took her by the -hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Mademoiselle," he -said to her, "should I be guilty of an indiscretion if I were to -inquire if you were indisposed? for you seem to breathe as if you -were oppressed by some secret cause of uneasiness, and your eyes -are filled with tears."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! sire, if I be -indeed so, and if my eyes are indeed full of tears, I am -sorrowful only at the sadness which seems to oppress your -majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My sadness?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are mistaken, mademoiselle; no, -it is not sadness I experience."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it, then, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Humiliation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Humiliation? oh! sire, -what a word for you to use!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean, mademoiselle, -that wherever I may happen to be, no one else ought to be the -master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, look -round you on every side, and judge whether I am not eclipsed - I, -the king of France - before the monarch of these wide -domains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!" he -continued, clenching his hands and teeth, "when I think that this -king - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, sire?" said -Louise, terrified.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> " - That this king is a -faithless, unworthy servant, who grows proud and self-sufficient -upon the strength of property that belongs to me, and which he -has stolen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And therefore -I am about to change this impudent minister's <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> into sorrow and -mourning, of which the nymph of Vaux, as the poets say, shall not -soon lose the remembrance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! your majesty - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, mademoiselle, are -you about to take M. Fouquet's part?" said Louis, -impatiently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire; I will only -ask whether you are well informed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty has more than once -learned the value of accusations made at court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis XIV. made a sign -for Colbert to approach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Speak, Monsieur Colbert," said the young prince, "for I almost -believe that Mademoiselle de la Vallière has need of your -assistance before she can put any faith in the king's word.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell mademoiselle what M. -Fouquet has done; and you, mademoiselle, will perhaps have the -kindness to listen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -will not be long."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Why did Louis XIV. -insist upon it in such a manner?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A very simple reason - his heart was -not at rest, his mind was not thoroughly convinced; he imagined -there lay some dark, hidden, tortuous intrigue behind these -thirteen millions of francs; and he wished that the pure heart of -La Vallière, which had revolted at the idea of theft or -robbery, should approve - even were it only by a single word - -the resolution he had taken, and which, nevertheless, he -hesitated before carrying into execution.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak, monsieur," said -La Vallière to Colbert, who had advanced; "speak, since -the king wishes me to listen to you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me, what is the crime with -which M. Fouquet is charged?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! not very heinous, -mademoiselle," he returned, "a mere abuse of confidence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak, speak, Colbert; -and when you have related it, leave us, and go and inform M. -d'Artagnan that I have certain orders to give him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Artagnan, sire!" -exclaimed La Vallière; "but why send for M. -d'Artagnan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I entreat you -to tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i> in order to arrest this -haughty, arrogant Titan who, true to his menace, threatens to -scale my heaven."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Arrest M. Fouquet, do -you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! does that surprise -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In his own house!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why not?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he be guilty, he is as guilty in -his own house as anywhere else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet, who at this -moment is ruining himself for his sovereign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In plain truth, -mademoiselle, it seems as if you were defending this -traitor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert began to chuckle -silently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king turned -round at the sound of this suppressed mirth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said La -Vallière, "it is not M. Fouquet I am defending; it is -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Me! you are defending -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, you would -dishonor yourself if you were to give such an order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dishonor myself!" -murmured the king, turning pale with anger.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "In plain truth, mademoiselle, you -show a strange persistence in what you say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I do, sire, my only -motive is that of serving your majesty," replied the -noble-hearted girl: "for that I would risk, I would sacrifice my -very life, without the least reserve."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert seemed inclined -to grumble and complain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -La Vallière, that timid, gentle lamb, turned round upon -him, and with a glance like lightning imposed silence upon -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," she -said, "when the king acts well, whether, in doing so, he does -either myself or those who belong to me an injury, I have nothing -to say; but were the king to confer a benefit either upon me or -mine, and if he acted badly, I should tell him so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But it appears to me, -mademoiselle," Colbert ventured to say, "that I too love the -king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur, we -both love him, but each in a different manner," replied La -Vallière, with such an accent that the heart of the young -king was powerfully affected by it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I love him so deeply, that the -whole world is aware of it; so purely, that the king himself does -not doubt my affection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He is my king and my master; I am the least of all his -servants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But whoso -touches his honor assails my life.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, I repeat, that they -dishonor the king who advise him to arrest M. Fouquet under his -own roof."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert hung down his -head, for he felt that the king had abandoned him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However, as he bent his head, he -murmured, "Mademoiselle, I have only one word to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not say it, then, -monsieur; for I would not listen to it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, what could you have to tell -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That M. Fouquet has -been guilty of certain crimes?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I believe he has, because the king -has said so; and, from the moment the king said, 'I think so,' I -have no occasion for other lips to say, 'I affirm it.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, were M. Fouquet the -vilest of men, I should say aloud, 'M. Fouquet's person is sacred -to the king because he is the guest of M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Were his house a den of thieves, -were Vaux a cave of coiners or robbers, his home is sacred, his -palace is inviolable, since his wife is living in it; and that is -an asylum which even executioners would not dare to -violate.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> La Vallière -paused, and was silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In spite of himself the king could not but admire her; he was -overpowered by the passionate energy of her voice; by the -nobleness of the cause she advocated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert yielded, overcome by the -inequality of the struggle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last the king breathed again more -freely, shook his head, and held out his hand to La -Vallière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Mademoiselle," he said, gently, "why do you decide against -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know what this -wretched fellow will do, if I give him time to breathe -again?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is he not a prey which -will always be within your grasp?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Should he escape, and -take to flight?" exclaimed Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur, it will -always remain on record, to the king's eternal honor, that he -allowed M. Fouquet to flee; and the more guilty he may have been, -the greater will the king's honor and glory appear, compared with -such unnecessary misery and shame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis kissed La -Vallière's hand, as he knelt before her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am lost," thought -Colbert; then suddenly his face brightened up again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! no, no, aha, old fox! - not -yet," he said to himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And while the king, -protected from observation by the thick covert of an enormous -lime, pressed La Vallière to his breast, with all the -ardor of ineffable affection, Colbert tranquilly fumbled among -the papers in his pocket-book and drew out of it a paper folded -in the form of a letter, somewhat yellow, perhaps, but one that -must have been most precious, since the intendant smiled as he -looked at it; he then bent a look, full of hatred, upon the -charming group which the young girl and the king formed together -- a group revealed but for a moment, as the light of the -approaching torches shone upon it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis noticed the light reflected -upon La Vallière's white dress.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Leave me, Louise," he said, "for -some one is coming."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle, -mademoiselle, some one is coming," cried Colbert, to expedite the -young girl's departure.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louise disappeared -rapidly among the trees; and then, as the king, who had been on -his knees before the young girl, was rising from his humble -posture, Colbert exclaimed, "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mademoiselle de la Vallière -has let something fall."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?" inquired -the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A paper - a letter - -something white; look there, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king stooped down -immediately and picked up the letter, crumpling it in his hand, -as he did so; and at the same moment the torches arrived, -inundating the blackness of the scene with a flood of light as -bight as day.</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'> -Jealousy.</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 torches we have just referred to, the eager attention -every one displayed, and the new ovation paid to the king by -Fouquet, arrived in time to suspend the effect of a resolution -which La Vallière had already considerably shaken in Louis -XIV.'s heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked -at Fouquet with a feeling almost of gratitude for having given La -Vallière an opportunity of showing herself so generously -disposed, so powerful in the influence she exercised over his -heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moment of the -last and greatest display had arrived.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hardly had Fouquet conducted the -king towards the château, when a mass of fire burst from -the dome of Vaux, with a prodigious uproar, pouring a flood of -dazzling cataracts of rays on every side, and illumining the -remotest corners of the gardens.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fireworks began.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert, at twenty paces from the -king, who was surrounded and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fêted</i> by the owner of -Vaux, seemed, by the obstinate persistence of his gloomy -thoughts, to do his utmost to recall Louis's attention, which the -magnificence of the spectacle was already, in his opinion, too -easily diverting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Suddenly, just as Louis was on the point of holding it out to -Fouquet, he perceived in his hand the paper which, as he -believed, La Vallière had dropped at his feet as she -hurried away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The still -stronger magnet of love drew the young prince's attention towards -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>souvenir</i> of his -idol; and, by the brilliant light, which increased momentarily in -beauty, and drew from the neighboring villages loud cheers of -admiration, the king read the letter, which he supposed was a -loving and tender epistle La Vallière had destined for -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But as he read it, a -death-like pallor stole over his face, and an expression of -deep-seated wrath, illumined by the many-colored fire which -gleamed so brightly, soaringly around the scene, produced a -terrible spectacle, which every one would have shuddered at, -could they only have read into his heart, now torn by the most -stormy and most bitter passions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was no truce for him now, -influenced as he was by jealousy and mad passion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From the very moment when the dark -truth was revealed to him, every gentler feeling seemed to -disappear; pity, kindness of consideration, the religion of -hospitality, all were forgotten.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the bitter pang which wrung his -heart, he, still too weak to hide his sufferings, was almost on -the point of uttering a cry of alarm, and calling his guards to -gather round him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -letter which Colbert had thrown down at the king's feet, the -reader has doubtlessly guessed, was the same that had disappeared -with the porter Toby at Fontainebleau, after the attempt which -Fouquet had made upon La Vallière's heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet saw the king's pallor, and -was far from guessing the evil; Colbert saw the king's anger, and -rejoiced inwardly at the approach of the storm.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet's voice drew the young -prince from his wrathful reverie.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter, -sire?" inquired the superintendent, with an expression of -graceful interest.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis made a violent -effort over himself, as he replied, "Nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am afraid your -majesty is suffering?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am suffering, and -have already told you so, monsieur; but it is nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the king, without -waiting for the termination of the fireworks, turned towards the -château.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -accompanied him, and the whole court followed, leaving the -remains of the fireworks consuming for their own amusement.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The superintendent endeavored -again to question Louis XIV., but did not succeed in obtaining a -reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He imagined there -had been some misunderstanding between Louis and La -Vallière in the park, which had resulted in a slight -quarrel; and that the king, who was not ordinarily sulky by -disposition, but completely absorbed by his passion for La -Vallière, had taken a dislike to every one because his -mistress had shown herself offended with him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This idea was sufficient to console -him; he had even a friendly and kindly smile for the young king, -when the latter wished him good night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This, however, was not all the king -had to submit to; he was obliged to undergo the usual ceremony, -which on that evening was marked by close adherence to the -strictest etiquette.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -next day was the one fixed for the departure; it was but proper -that the guests should thank their host, and show him a little -attention in return for the expenditure of his twelve -millions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The only -remark, approaching to amiability, which the king could find to -say to M. Fouquet, as he took leave of him, were in these words, -"M. Fouquet, you shall hear from me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be good enough to desire M. -d'Artagnan to come here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But the blood of Louis -XIV., who had so profoundly dissimulated his feelings, boiled in -his veins; and he was perfectly willing to order M. Fouquet to be -put an end to with the same readiness, indeed, as his predecessor -had caused the assassination of le Maréchal d'Ancre; and -so he disguised the terrible resolution he had formed beneath one -of those royal smiles which, like lightning-flashes, indicated <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coups d'état</i>.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet took the king's hand -and kissed it; Louis shuddered throughout his whole frame, but -allowed M. Fouquet to touch his hand with his lips.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Five minutes afterwards, D'Artagnan, -to whom the royal order had been communicated, entered Louis -XIV.'s apartment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -and Philippe were in theirs, still eagerly attentive, and still -listening with all their ears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king did not even give the -captain of the musketeers time to approach his armchair, but ran -forward to meet him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Take care," he exclaimed, "that no one enters here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, sire," -replied the captain, whose glance had for a long time past -analyzed the stormy indications on the royal countenance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gave the necessary order at -the door; but, returning to the king, he said, "Is there -something fresh the matter, your majesty?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How many men have you -here?" inquired the king, without making any other reply to the -question addressed to him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What for, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How many men have you, -I say?" repeated the king, stamping upon the ground with his -foot.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have the -musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; and what -others?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Twenty guards and -thirteen Swiss."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How many men will be -required to - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To do what, sire?" -replied the musketeer, opening his large, calm eyes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To arrest M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan fell back a -step.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To arrest M. Fouquet!" -he burst forth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you going to tell -me that it is impossible?" exclaimed the king, in tones of cold, -vindictive passion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I never say that -anything is impossible," replied D'Artagnan, wounded to the -quick.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well; do it, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan turned on his -heel, and made his way towards the door; it was but a short -distance, and he cleared it in half a dozen paces; when he -reached it he suddenly paused, and said, "Your majesty will -forgive me, but, in order to effect this arrest, I should like -written directions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For what purpose - and -since when has the king's word been insufficient for you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because the word of a -king, when it springs from a feeling of anger, may possibly -change when the feeling changes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A truce to set phrases, -monsieur; you have another thought besides that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, I, at least, have -certain thoughts and ideas, which, unfortunately, others have -not," D'Artagnan replied, impertinently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, in the tempest -of his wrath, hesitated, and drew back in the face of -D'Artagnan's frank courage, just as a horse crouches on his -haunches under the strong hand of a bold and experienced -rider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is your -thought?" he exclaimed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This, sire," replied -D'Artagnan: "you cause a man to be arrested when you are still -under his roof; and passion is alone the cause of that.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When your anger shall have -passed, you will regret what you have done; and then I wish to be -in a position to show you your signature.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If that, however, should fail to be -a reparation, it will at least show us that the king was wrong to -lose his temper."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wrong to lose his -temper!" cried the king, in a loud, passionate voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Did not my father, my grandfathers, -too, before me, lose their temper at times, in Heaven's -name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king your father -and the king your grandfather never lost their temper except when -under the protection of their own palace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king is master -wherever he may be."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a flattering, -complimentary phrase which cannot proceed from any one but M. -Colbert; but it happens not to be the truth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is at home in every man's -house when he has driven its owner out of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king bit his lips, -but said nothing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Can it be possible?" -said D'Artagnan; "here is a man who is positively ruining himself -in order to please you, and you wish to have him arrested!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sire, if my name was Fouquet, and -people treated me in that manner, I would swallow at a single -gulp all sorts of fireworks and other things, and I would set -fire to them, and send myself and everybody else in blown-up -atoms to the sky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it -is all the same; it is your wish, and it shall be done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go," said the king; -"but have you men enough?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you suppose I am -going to take a whole host to help me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Arrest M. Fouquet! why, that is so -easy that a very child might do it!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is like drinking a glass of -wormwood; one makes an ugly face, and that is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If he defends -himself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He! it is not at all -likely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Defend himself -when such extreme harshness as you are going to practice makes -the man a very martyr!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Nay, I am sure that if he has a million of francs left, which I -very much doubt, he would be willing enough to give it in order -to have such a termination as this.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what does that matter? it shall -be done at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay," said the king; -"do not make his arrest a public affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That will be more -difficult."</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 nothing is -easier than to go up to M. Fouquet in the midst of a thousand -enthusiastic guests who surround him, and say, 'In the king's -name, I arrest you.'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -to go up to him, to turn him first one way and then another, to -drive him up into one of the corners of the chess-board, in such -a way that he cannot escape; to take him away from his guests, -and keep him a prisoner for you, without one of them, alas! -having heard anything about it; that, indeed, is a genuine -difficulty, the greatest of all, in truth; and I hardly see how -it is to be done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You had better say it -is impossible, and you will have finished much sooner.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Heaven help me, but I seem to -be surrounded by people who prevent me doing what I wish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not prevent your -doing anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you -indeed decided?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care of M. -Fouquet, until I shall have made up my mind by to-morrow -morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That shall be done, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And return, when I rise -in the morning, for further orders; and now leave me to -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not even want M. -Colbert, then?" said the musketeer, firing his last shot as he -was leaving the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With his -whole mind fixed on the thought of revenge, he had forgotten the -cause and substance of the offense.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no one," he said; -"no one here!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Leave -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan quitted the -room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king closed the -door with his own hands, and began to walk up and down his -apartment at a furious pace, like a wounded bull in an arena, -trailing from his horn the colored streamers and the iron -darts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last he began -to take comfort in the expression of his violent feelings.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Miserable wretch that -he is! not only does he squander my finances, but with his -ill-gotten plunder he corrupts secretaries, friends, generals, -artists, and all, and tries to rob me of the one to whom I am -most attached.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is -the reason that perfidious girl so boldly took his part!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gratitude! and who can tell -whether it was not a stronger feeling - love itself?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gave himself up for a moment to -the bitterest reflections.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A satyr!" he thought, with that -abhorrent hate with which young men regard those more advanced in -life, who still think of love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A man who has never found -opposition or resistance in any one, who lavishes his gold and -jewels in every direction, and who retains his staff of painters -in order to take the portraits of his mistresses in the costume -of goddesses."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -trembled with passion as he continued, "He pollutes and profanes -everything that belongs to me!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He destroys everything that is -mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will be my death -at last, I know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That man -is too much for me; he is my mortal enemy, but he shall forthwith -fall!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I hate him - I hate -him - I hate him!" and as he pronounced these words, he struck -the arm of the chair in which he was sitting violently, over and -over again, and then rose like one in an epileptic fit.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To-morrow! to-morrow! oh, -happy day!" he murmured, "when the sun rises, no other rival -shall that brilliant king of space possess but me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That man shall fall so low that when -people look at the abject ruin my anger shall have wrought, they -will be forced to confess at last and at least that I am indeed -greater than he."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king, who was incapable of mastering his emotions any longer, -knocked over with a blow of his fist a small table placed close -to his bedside, and in the very bitterness of anger, almost -weeping, and half-suffocated, he threw himself on his bed, -dressed as he was, and bit the sheets in his extremity of -passion, trying to find repose of body at least there.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bed creaked beneath his -weight, and with the exception of a few broken sounds, emerging, -or, one might say, exploding, from his overburdened chest, -absolute silence soon reigned in the chamber of Morpheus.</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'> -High Treason.</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 ungovernable fury which took possession of the king at -the sight and at the perusal of Fouquet's letter to La -Vallière by degrees subsided into a feeling of pain and -extreme weariness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Youth, -invigorated by health and lightness of spirits, requiring soon -that what it loses should be immediately restored - youth knows -not those endless, sleepless nights which enable us to realize -the fable of the vulture unceasingly feeding on Prometheus.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In cases where the man of -middle life, in his acquired strength of will and purpose, and -the old, in their state of natural exhaustion, find incessant -augmentation of their bitter sorrow, a young man, surprised by -the sudden appearance of misfortune, weakens himself in sighs, -and groans, and tears, directly struggling with his grief, and is -thereby far sooner overthrown by the inflexible enemy with whom -he is engaged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once -overthrown, his struggles cease.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis could not hold out more than a -few minutes, at the end of which he had ceased to clench his -hands, and scorch in fancy with his looks the invisible objects -of his hatred; he soon ceased to attack with his violent -imprecations not M. Fouquet alone, but even La Vallière -herself; from fury he subsided into despair, and from despair to -prostration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After he had -thrown himself for a few minutes to and fro convulsively on his -bed, his nerveless arms fell quietly down; his head lay languidly -on his pillow; his limbs, exhausted with excessive emotion, still -trembled occasionally, agitated by muscular contractions; while -from his breast faint and infrequent sighs still issued.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Morpheus, the tutelary deity -of the apartment, towards whom Louis raised his eyes, wearied by -his anger and reconciled by his tears, showered down upon him the -sleep-inducing poppies with which his hands are ever filled; so -presently the monarch closed his eyes and fell asleep.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then it seemed to him, as it -often happens in that first sleep, so light and gentle, which -raises the body above the couch, and the soul above the earth - -it seemed to him, we say, as if the god Morpheus, painted on the -ceiling, looked at him with eyes resembling human eyes; that -something shone brightly, and moved to and fro in the dome above -the sleeper; that the crowd of terrible dreams which thronged -together in his brain, and which were interrupted for a moment, -half revealed a human face, with a hand resting against the -mouth, and in an attitude of deep and absorbed meditation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And strange enough, too, this -man bore so wonderful a resemblance to the king himself, that -Louis fancied he was looking at his own face reflected in a -mirror; with the exception, however, that the face was saddened -by a feeling of the profoundest pity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then it seemed to him as if the dome -gradually retired, escaping from his gaze, and that the figures -and attributes painted by Lebrun became darker and darker as the -distance became more and more remote.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A gentle, easy movement, as regular -as that by which a vessel plunges beneath the waves, had -succeeded to the immovableness of the bed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Doubtless the king was dreaming, and -in this dream the crown of gold, which fastened the curtains -together, seemed to recede from his vision, just as the dome, to -which it remained suspended, had done, so that the winged genius -which, with both its hand, supported the crown, seemed, though -vainly so, to call upon the king, who was fast disappearing from -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bed still -sunk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis, with his -eyes open, could not resist the deception of this cruel -hallucination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last, -as the light of the royal chamber faded away into darkness and -gloom, something cold, gloomy, and inexplicable in its nature -seemed to infect the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -No paintings, nor gold, nor velvet hangings, were visible any -longer, nothing but walls of a dull gray color, which the -increasing gloom made darker every moment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet the bed still continued to -descend, and after a minute, which seemed in its duration almost -an age to the king, it reached a stratum of air, black and chill -as death, and then it stopped.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king could no longer see the -light in his room, except as from the bottom of a well we can see -the light of day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I am -under the influence of some atrocious dream," he thought.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is time to awaken from -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come! let me -wake."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Every one has -experienced the sensation the above remark conveys; there is -hardly a person who, in the midst of a nightmare whose influence -is suffocating, has not said to himself, by the help of that -light which still burns in the brain when every human light is -extinguished, "It is nothing but a dream, after all."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was precisely what Louis XIV. -said to himself; but when he said, "Come, come! wake up," he -perceived that not only was he already awake, but still more, -that he had his eyes open also.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then he looked all round -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On his right hand -and on his left two armed men stood in stolid silence, each -wrapped in a huge cloak, and the face covered with a mask; one of -them held a small lamp in his hand, whose glimmering light -revealed the saddest picture a king could look upon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis could not help saying to -himself that his dream still lasted, and that all he had to do to -cause it to disappear was to move his arms or to say something -aloud; he darted from his bed, and found himself upon the damp, -moist ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -addressing himself to the man who held the lamp in his hand, he -said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is this, monsieur, -and what is the meaning of this jest?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is no jest," replied -in a deep voice the masked figure that held the lantern.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you belong to M. -Fouquet?" inquired the king, greatly astonished at his -situation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It matters very little -to whom we belong," said the phantom; "we are your masters now, -that is sufficient."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, more impatient -than intimidated, turned to the other masked figure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If this is a comedy," he said, "you -will tell M. Fouquet that I find it unseemly and improper, and -that I command it should cease."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The second masked person -to whom the king had addressed himself was a man of huge stature -and vast circumference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He held himself erect and motionless as any block of marble.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well!" added the king, -stamping his foot, "you do not answer!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We do not answer you, -my good monsieur," said the giant, in a stentorian voice, -"because there is nothing to say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At least, tell me what -you want," exclaimed Louis, folding his arms with a passionate -gesture.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will know by and -by," replied the man who held the lamp.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the meantime tell me -where I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis looked all round -him; but by the light of the lamp which the masked figure raised -for the purpose, he could perceive nothing but the damp walls -which glistened here and there with the slimy traces of the -snail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh - oh! - a -dungeon," cried the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, a subterranean -passage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which leads - ?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you be good enough -to follow us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall not stir from -hence!" cried the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you are obstinate, -my dear young friend," replied the taller of the two, "I will -lift you up in my arms, and roll you up in your own cloak, and if -you should happen to be stifled, why - so much the worse for -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As he said this, he -disengaged from beneath his cloak a hand of which Milo of Crotona -would have envied him the possession, on the day when he had that -unhappy idea of rending his last oak.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king dreaded violence, for he -could well believe that the two men into whose power he had -fallen had not gone so far with any idea of drawing back, and -that they would consequently be ready to proceed to extremities, -if necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He shook -his head and said: "It seems I have fallen into the hands of a -couple of assassins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Move -on, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Neither of the men -answered a word to this remark.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The one who carried the lantern -walked first, the king followed him, while the second masked -figure closed the procession.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this manner they passed along a -winding gallery of some length, with as many staircases leading -out of it as are to be found in the mysterious and gloomy palaces -of Ann Radcliffe's creation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these windings and turnings, -during which the king heard the sound of running water <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>over his head</i>, ended at last in -a long corridor closed by an iron door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The figure with the lamp opened the -door with one of the keys he wore suspended at his girdle, where, -during the whole of the brief journey, the king had heard them -rattle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as the -door was opened and admitted the air, Louis recognized the balmy -odors that trees exhale in hot summer nights.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He paused, hesitatingly, for a -moment or two; but the huge sentinel who followed him thrust him -out of the subterranean passage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Another blow," said the -king, turning towards the one who had just had the audacity to -touch his sovereign; "what do you intend to do with the king of -France?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Try to forget that -word," replied the man with the lamp, in a tone which as little -admitted of a reply as one of the famous decrees of Minos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You deserve to be -broken on the wheel for the words that you have just made use -of," said the giant, as he extinguished the lamp his companion -handed to him; "but the king is too kind-hearted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis, at that threat, -made so sudden a movement that it seemed as if he meditated -flight; but the giant's hand was in a moment placed on his -shoulder, and fixed him motionless where he stood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But tell me, at least, where we are -going," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come," replied the -former of the two men, with a kind of respect in his manner, and -leading his prisoner towards a carriage which seemed to be in -waiting.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The carriage was -completely concealed amid the trees. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two horses, with their feet -fettered, were fastened by a halter to the lower branches of a -large oak.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Get in," said the same -man, opening the carriage-door and letting down the step.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king obeyed, seated -himself at the back of the carriage, the padded door of which was -shut and locked immediately upon him and his guide.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the giant, he cut the -fastenings by which the horses were bound, harnessed them -himself, and mounted on the box of the carriage, which was -unoccupied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The carriage -set off immediately at a quick trot, turned into the road to -Paris, and in the forest of Senart found a relay of horses -fastened to the trees in the same manner the first horses had -been, and without a postilion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man on the box changed the -horses, and continued to follow the road towards Paris with the -same rapidity, so that they entered the city about three o'clock -in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -carriage proceeded along the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, and, after -having called out to the sentinel, "By the king's order," the -driver conducted the horses into the circular inclosure of the -Bastile, looking out upon the courtyard, called La Cour du -Gouvernement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There the -horses drew up, reeking with sweat, at the flight of steps, and a -sergeant of the guard ran forward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Go and wake the governor," said the -coachman in a voice of thunder.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> With the exception of -this voice, which might have been heard at the entrance of the -Faubourg Saint-Antoine, everything remained as calm in the -carriage as in the prison.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ten minutes afterwards, M. de -Baisemeaux appeared in his dressing-gown on the threshold of the -door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is the matter -now?" he asked; "and whom have you brought me there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The man with the lantern -opened the carriage-door, and said two or three words to the one -who acted as driver, who immediately got down from his seat, took -up a short musket which he kept under his feet, and placed its -muzzle on his prisoner's chest.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And fire at once if he -speaks!" added aloud the man who alighted from the carriage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good," replied his -companion, without another remark.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> With this -recommendation, the person who had accompanied the king in the -carriage ascended the flight of steps, at the top of which the -governor was awaiting him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur d'Herblay!" said the -latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush!" said -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Let us go into -your room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens! what -brings you here at this hour?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A mistake, my dear -Monsieur de Baisemeaux," Aramis replied, quietly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It appears that you were quite -right the other day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What about?" inquired -the governor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About the order of -release, my dear friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me what you mean, -monsieur - no, monseigneur," said the governor, almost suffocated -by surprise and terror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a very simple -affair: you remember, dear M. de Baisemeaux, that an order of -release was sent to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, for -Marchiali."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good! we both -thought that it was for Marchiali?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly; you will -recollect, however, that I would not credit it, but that you -compelled me to believe it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux, my good fellow, what a -word to make use of! - strongly recommended, that was all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Strongly recommended, -yes; strongly recommended to give him up to you; and that you -carried him off with you in your carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, my dear Monsieur -de Baisemeaux, it was a mistake; it was discovered at the -ministry, so that I now bring you an order from the king to set -at liberty Seldon, - that poor Seldon fellow, you know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Seldon! are you sure -this time?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, read it -yourself," added Aramis, handing him the order.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why," said Baisemeaux, -"this order is the very same that has already passed through my -hands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the very one I -assured you I saw the other evening.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I recognize it by the blot of -ink."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not know whether -it is that; but all I know is, that I bring it for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But then, what about -the other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Marchiali."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have got him here -with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But that is not enough -for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I require a new -order to take him back again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Don't talk such -nonsense, my dear Baisemeaux; you talk like a child!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where is the order you received -respecting Marchiali?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux ran to his -iron chest and took it out.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis seized hold of it, coolly -tore it in four pieces, held them to the lamp, and burnt -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Good heavens! what -are you doing?" exclaimed Baisemeaux, in an extremity of -terror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look at your position -quietly, my good governor," said Aramis, with imperturbable -self-possession, "and you will see how very simple the whole -affair is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You no longer -possess any order justifying Marchiali's release."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am a lost man!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Far from it, my good -fellow, since I have brought Marchiali back to you, and all -accordingly is just the same as if he had never left."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the governor, -completely overcome by terror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Plain enough, you see; -and you will go and shut him up immediately."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should think so, -indeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you will hand over -this Seldon to me, whose liberation is authorized by this -order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -understand?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I - I - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do understand, I -see," said Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Very -good."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux clapped -his hands together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But why, at all events, -after having taken Marchiali away from me, do you bring him back -again?" cried the unhappy governor, in a paroxysm of terror, and -completely dumbfounded.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For a friend such as -you are," said Aramis - "for so devoted a servant, I have no -secrets;" and he put his mouth close to Baisemeaux's ear, as he -said, in a low tone of voice, "you know the resemblance between -that unfortunate fellow, and - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the king? - -yes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good; the first -use that Marchiali made of his liberty was to persist - Can you -guess what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How is it likely I -should guess?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To persist in saying -that he was king of France; to dress himself up in clothes like -those of the king; and then pretend to assume that he was the -king himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Gracious heavens!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the reason why -I have brought him back again, my dear friend.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is mad and lets every one see how -mad he is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is to be done, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is very simple; -let no one hold any communication with him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You understand that when his -peculiar style of madness came to the king's ears, the king, who -had pitied his terrible affliction, and saw that all his kindness -had been repaid by black ingratitude, became perfectly furious; -so that, now - and remember this very distinctly, dear Monsieur -de Baisemeaux, for it concerns you most closely - so that there -is now, I repeat, sentence of death pronounced against all those -who may allow him to communicate with any one else but me or the -king himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -understand, Baisemeaux, sentence of death!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You need not ask me -whether I understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now, let us go -down, and conduct this poor devil back to his dungeon again, -unless you prefer he should come up here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What would be the good -of that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be better, -perhaps, to enter his name in the prison-book at once!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course, certainly; -not a doubt of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, have him -up."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux ordered the -drums to be beaten and the bell to be rung, as a warning to every -one to retire, in order to avoid meeting a prisoner, about whom -it was desired to observe a certain mystery.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, when the passages were free, -he went to take the prisoner from the carriage, at whose breast -Porthos, faithful to the directions which had been given him, -still kept his musket leveled.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! is that you, miserable wretch?" -cried the governor, as soon as he perceived the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Very good, very good."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And immediately, making the king get -out of the carriage, he led him, still accompanied by Porthos, -who had not taken off his mask, and Aramis, who again resumed -his, up the stairs, to the second Bertaudière, and opened -the door of the room in which Philippe for six long years had -bemoaned his existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king entered the cell without pronouncing a single word: he -faltered in as limp and haggard as a rain-struck lily.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux shut the door upon -him, turned the key twice in the lock, and then returned to -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is quite -true," he said, in a low tone, "that he bears a striking -resemblance to the king; but less so than you said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that," said Aramis, -"you would not have been deceived by the substitution of the one -for the other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What a question!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are a most valuable -fellow, Baisemeaux," said Aramis; "and now, set Seldon free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was going to forget that.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will go and give orders at -once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! to-morrow will be -time enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow! - oh, -no.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This very -minute."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well; go off to your -affairs, I will go away to mine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it is quite understood, is it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What 'is quite -understood'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That no one is to enter -the prisoner's cell, expect with an order from the king; an order -which I will myself bring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quite so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis returned to his -companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Now, Porthos, -my good fellow, back again to Vaux, and as fast as possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man is light and easy -enough, when he has faithfully served his king; and, in serving -him, saved his country," said Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The horses will be as light as if -our tissues were constructed of the wind of heaven.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So let us be off."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the carriage, lightened of a -prisoner, who might well be - as he in fact was - very heavy in -the sight of Aramis, passed across the drawbridge of the Bastile, -which was raised again immediately behind it.</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'>A -Night 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'> -P</span>ain, anguish, and suffering in human life are always in -proportion to the strength with which a man is endowed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will not pretend to say -that Heaven always apportions to a man's capability of endurance -the anguish with which he afflicts him; for that, indeed, would -not be true, since Heaven permits the existence of death, which -is, sometimes, the only refuge open to those who are too closely -pressed - too bitterly afflicted, as far as the body is -concerned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suffering is -in proportion to the strength which has been accorded; in other -words, the weak suffer more, where the trial is the same, than -the strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what are -the elementary principles, we may ask, that compose human -strength?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it not - -more than anything else - exercise, habit, experience?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall not even take the -trouble to demonstrate this, for it is an axiom in morals, as in -physics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the young -king, stupefied and crushed in every sense and feeling, found -himself led to a cell in the Bastile, he fancied death itself is -but a sleep; that it, too, has its dreams as well; that the bed -had broken through the flooring of his room at Vaux; that death -had resulted from the occurrence; and that, still carrying out -his dream, the king, Louis XIV., now no longer living, was -dreaming one of those horrors, impossible to realize in life, -which is termed dethronement, imprisonment, and insult towards a -sovereign who formerly wielded unlimited power.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To be present at - an actual -witness, too - of this bitterness of death; to float, -indecisively, in an incomprehensible mystery, between resemblance -and reality; to hear everything, to see everything, without -interfering in a single detail of agonizing suffering, was - so -the king thought within himself - a torture far more terrible, -since it might last forever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is this what is termed eternity - -hell?" he murmured, at the moment the door was closed upon him, -which we remember Baisemeaux had shut with his own hands.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not even look round -him; and in the room, leaning with his back against the wall, he -allowed himself to be carried away by the terrible supposition -that he was already dead, as he closed his eyes, in order to -avoid looking upon something even worse still.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How can I have died?" he said to -himself, sick with terror.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The bed might have been let down by -some artificial means?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But no!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not remember -to have felt a bruise, nor any shock either.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Would they not rather have poisoned -me at my meals, or with the fumes of wax, as they did my -ancestress, Jeanne d'Albret?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly, the chill of the dungeons -seemed to fall like a wet cloak upon Louis's shoulders.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have seen," he said, "my -father lying dead upon his funeral couch, in his regal -robes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That pale face, so -calm and worn; those hands, once so skillful, lying nerveless by -his side; those limbs stiffened by the icy grasp of death; -nothing there betokened a sleep that was disturbed by -dreams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet, how -numerous were the dreams which Heaven might have sent that royal -corpse - him whom so many others had preceded, hurried away by -him into eternal death!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -No, that king was still the king: he was enthroned still upon -that funeral couch, as upon a velvet armchair; he had not -abdicated one title of his majesty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God, who had not punished him, -cannot, will not punish me, who have done nothing."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A strange sound attracted the young -man's attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -looked round him, and saw on the mantel-shelf, just below an -enormous crucifix, coarsely painted in fresco on the wall, a rat -of enormous size engaged in nibbling a piece of dry bread, but -fixing all the time, an intelligent and inquiring look upon the -new occupant of the cell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king could not resist a sudden impulse of fear and disgust: -he moved back towards the door, uttering a loud cry; and as if he -but needed this cry, which escaped from his breast almost -unconsciously, to recognize himself, Louis knew that he was alive -and in full possession of his natural senses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A prisoner!" he cried.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I - I, a prisoner!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked round him for a bell to -summon some one to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"There are no bells in the Bastile," he said, "and it is in the -Bastile I am imprisoned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In what way can I have been made a prisoner?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It must have been owing to a -conspiracy of M. Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I have been drawn to Vaux, as to a snare.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet cannot be acting alone in -this affair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His agent - -That voice that I but just now heard was M. d'Herblay's; I -recognized it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert -was right, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But what -is Fouquet's object?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To -reign in my place and stead? - Impossible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yet who knows!" thought the king, -relapsing into gloom again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Perhaps my brother, the Duc -d'Orléans, is doing that which my uncle wished to do -during the whole of his life against my father.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the queen? - My mother, -too?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And La -Vallière?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Vallière, she will -have been abandoned to Madame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dear, dear girl!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, it is - it must be so.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They have shut her up as they -have me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are separated -forever!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And at this -idea of separation the poor lover burst into a flood of tears and -sobs and groans.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is a governor in -this place," the king continued, in a fury of passion; "I will -speak to him, I will summon him to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He called - no voice -replied to his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He seized -hold of his chair, and hurled it against the massive oaken -door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The wood resounded -against the door, and awakened many a mournful echo in the -profound depths of the staircase; but from a human creature, -none.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This was a fresh proof -for the king of the slight regard in which he was held at the -Bastile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, when -his first fit of anger had passed away, having remarked a barred -window through which there passed a stream of light, -lozenge-shaped, which must be, he knew, the bright orb of -approaching day, Louis began to call out, at first gently enough, -then louder and louder still; but no one replied.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Twenty other attempts which he made, -one after another, obtained no other or better success.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His blood began to boil within -him, and mount to his head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His nature was such, that, -accustomed to command, he trembled at the idea of -disobedience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -prisoner broke the chair, which was too heavy for him to lift, -and made use of it as a battering ram to strike against the -door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He struck so -loudly, and so repeatedly, that the perspiration soon began to -pour down his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -sound became tremendous and continuous; certain stifled, -smothered cries replied in different directions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This sound produced a strange effect -upon the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He paused -to listen; it was the voice of the prisoners, formerly his -victims, now his companions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The voices ascended like vapors -through the thick ceilings and the massive walls, and rose in -accusations against the author of this noise, as doubtless their -sighs and tears accused, in whispered tones, the author of their -captivity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After having -deprived so many people of their liberty, the king came among -them to rob them of their rest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This idea almost drove him mad; it -redoubled his strength, or rather his well, bent upon obtaining -some information, or a conclusion to the affair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With a portion of the broken chair -he recommenced the noise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -At the end of an hour, Louis heard something in the corridor, -behind the door of his cell, and a violent blow, which was -returned upon the door itself, made him cease his own.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you mad?" said a -rude, brutal voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What -is the matter with you this morning?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This morning!" thought -the king; but he said aloud, politely, "Monsieur, are you the -governor of the Bastile?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My good fellow, your -head is out of sorts," replied the voice; "but that is no reason -why you should make such a terrible disturbance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be quiet; <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mordioux!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you the governor?" -the king inquired again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He heard a door on the -corridor close; the jailer had just left, not condescending to -reply a single word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When -the king had assured himself of his departure, his fury knew no -longer any bounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As -agile as a tiger, he leaped from the table to the window, and -struck the iron bars with all his might.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He broke a pane of glass, the pieces -of which fell clanking into the courtyard below.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He shouted with increasing -hoarseness, "The governor, the governor!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This excess lasted fully an hour, -during which time he was in a burning fever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With his hair in disorder and matted -on his forehead, his dress torn and covered with dust and -plaster, his linen in shreds, the king never rested until his -strength was utterly exhausted, and it was not until then that he -clearly understood the pitiless thickness of the walls, the -impenetrable nature of the cement, invincible to every influence -but that of time, and that he possessed no other weapon but -despair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He leaned his -forehead against the door, and let the feverish throbbings of his -heart calm by degrees; it had seemed as if one single additional -pulsation would have made it burst.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A moment will come when -the food which is given to the prisoners will be brought to -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall then see some -one, I shall speak to him, and get an answer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the king tried to -remember at what hour the first repast of the prisoners was -served at the Bastile; he was ignorant even of this detail.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The feeling of remorse at this -remembrance smote him like the thrust of a dagger, that he should -have lived for five and twenty years a king, and in the enjoyment -of every happiness, without having bestowed a moment's thought on -the misery of those who had been unjustly deprived of their -liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king blushed -for very shame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt -that Heaven, in permitting this fearful humiliation, did no more -than render to the man the same torture as had been inflicted by -that man upon so many others.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing could be more efficacious -for reawakening his mind to religious influences than the -prostration of his heart and mind and soul beneath the feeling of -such acute wretchedness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But Louis dared not even kneel in prayer to God to entreat him to -terminate his bitter trial.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Heaven is right," he -said; "Heaven acts wisely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would be cowardly to pray to -Heaven for that which I have so often refused my own -fellow-creatures."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He had reached this -stage of his reflections, that is, of his agony of mind, when a -similar noise was again heard behind his door, followed this time -by the sound of the key in the lock, and of the bolts being -withdrawn from their staples.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king bounded forward to be -nearer to the person who was about to enter, but, suddenly -reflecting that it was a movement unworthy of a sovereign, he -paused, assumed a noble and calm expression, which for him was -easy enough, and waited with his back turned towards the window, -in order, to some extent, to conceal his agitation from the eyes -of the person who was about to enter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was only a jailer with a basket -of provisions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -looked at the man with restless anxiety, and waited until he -spoke.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the latter, -"you have broken your chair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I said you had done so!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, you have gone quite mad."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said the -king, "be careful what you say; it will be a very serious affair -for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The jailer placed the -basket on the table, and looked at his prisoner steadily.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do you say?" he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Desire the governor to -come to me," added the king, in accents full of calm and -dignity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, my boy," said the -turnkey, "you have always been very quiet and reasonable, but you -are getting vicious, it seems, and I wish you to know it in -time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have broken -your chair, and made a great disturbance; that is an offense -punishable by imprisonment in one of the lower dungeons.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Promise me not to begin over -again, and I will not say a word about it to the governor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wish to see the -governor," replied the king, still governing his passions.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will send you off to -one of the dungeons, I tell you; so take care."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I insist upon it, do -you hear?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah! your eyes are -becoming wild again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very -good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall take away -your knife."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the jailer did what -he said, quitted the prisoner, and closed the door, leaving the -king more astounded, more wretched, more isolated than ever.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was useless, though he -tried it, to make the same noise again on his door, and equally -useless that he threw the plates and dishes out of the window; -not a single sound was heard in recognition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two hours afterwards he could not be -recognized as a king, a gentleman, a man, a human being; he might -rather be called a madman, tearing the door with his nails, -trying to tear up the flooring of his cell, and uttering such -wild and fearful cries that the old Bastile seemed to tremble to -its very foundations for having revolted against its master.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the governor, the -jailer did not even think of disturbing him; the turnkeys and the -sentinels had reported the occurrence to him, but what was the -good of it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Were not -these madmen common enough in such a prison? and were not the -walls still stronger?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -de Baisemeaux, thoroughly impressed with what Aramis had told -him, and in perfect conformity with the king's order, hoped only -that one thing might happen; namely, that the madman Marchiali -might be mad enough to hang himself to the canopy of his bed, or -to one of the bars of the window.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, the prisoner was anything -but a profitable investment for M. Baisemeaux, and became more -annoying than agreeable to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These complications of Seldon and -Marchiali - the complications first of setting at liberty and -then imprisoning again, the complications arising from the strong -likeness in question - had at last found a very proper <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dénouement</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux even thought he had -remarked that D'Herblay himself was not altogether dissatisfied -with the result.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then, really," said -Baisemeaux to his next in command, "an ordinary prisoner is -already unhappy enough in being a prisoner; he suffers quite -enough, indeed, to induce one to hope, charitably enough, that -his death may not be far distant.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With still greater reason, -accordingly, when the prisoner has gone mad, and might bite and -make a terrible disturbance in the Bastile; why, in such a case, -it is not simply an act of mere charity to wish him dead; it -would be almost a good and even commendable action, quietly to -have him put out of his misery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the good-natured -governor thereupon sat down to his late breakfast.</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'>The -Shadow of M. Fouquet.</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, still confused and oppressed by the -conversation he had just had with the king, could not resist -asking himself if he were really in possession of his senses, if -he were really and truly at Vaux; if he, D'Artagnan, were really -the captain of the musketeers, and M. Fouquet the owner of the -château in which Louis XIV. was at that moment partaking of -his hospitality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These -reflections were not those of a drunken man, although everything -was in prodigal profusion at Vaux, and the surintendant's wines -had met with a distinguished reception at the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Gascon, however, was a man of -calm self-possession; and no sooner did he touch his bright steel -blade, than he knew how to adopt morally the cold, keen weapon as -his guide of action.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," he said, as he -quitted the royal apartment, "I seem now to be mixed up -historically with the destinies of the king and of the minister; -it will be written, that M. d'Artagnan, a younger son of a Gascon -family, placed his hand on the shoulder of M. Nicolas Fouquet, -the surintendant of the finances of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My descendants, if I have any, will -flatter themselves with the distinction which this arrest will -confer, just as the members of the De Luynes family have done -with regard to the estates of the poor Maréchal -d'Ancre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the thing -is, how best to execute the king's directions in a proper -manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Any man would -know how to say to M. Fouquet, 'Your sword, monsieur.'<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it is not every one who -would be able to take care of M. Fouquet without others knowing -anything about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How am -I to manage, then, so that M. le surintendant pass from the -height of favor to the direst disgrace; that Vaux be turned into -a dungeon for him; that after having been steeped to his lips, as -it were, in all the perfumes and incense of Ahasuerus, he is -transferred to the gallows of Haman; in other words, of -Enguerrand de Marigny?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And at this reflection, D'Artagnan's brow became clouded with -perplexity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The musketeer -had certain scruples on the matter, it must be admitted.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To deliver up to death (for -not a doubt existed that Louis hated Fouquet mortally) the man -who had just shown himself so delightful and charming a host in -every way, was a real insult to one's conscience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It almost seems," said D'Artagnan -to himself, "that if I am not a poor, mean, miserable fellow, I -should let M. Fouquet know the opinion the king has about -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yet, if I betray my -master's secret, I shall be a false-hearted, treacherous knave, a -traitor, too, a crime provided for and punishable by military -laws - so much so, indeed, that twenty times, in former days when -wars were rife, I have seen many a miserable fellow strung up to -a tree for doing, in but a small degree, what my scruples counsel -me to undertake upon a great scale now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, I think that a man of true -readiness of wit ought to get out of this difficulty with more -skill than that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, -let us admit that I do possess a little readiness of invention; -it is not at all certain, though, for, after having for forty -years absorbed so large a quantity, I shall be lucky if there -were to be a pistole's-worth left."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan buried his head in his -hands, tore at his mustache in sheer vexation, and added, "What -can be the reason of M. Fouquet's disgrace?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There seem to be three good ones: -the first, because M. Colbert doesn't like him; the second, -because he wished to fall in love with Mademoiselle de la -Vallière; and lastly, because the king likes M. Colbert -and loves Mademoiselle de la Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! he is lost!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But shall I put my foot on his neck, -I, of all men, when he is falling a prey to the intrigues of a -pack of women and clerks?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -For shame!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he be -dangerous, I will lay him low enough; if, however, he be only -persecuted, I will look on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have come to such a decisive -determination, that neither king nor living man shall change my -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If Athos were here, -he would do as I have done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, instead of going, in cold -blood, up to M. Fouquet, and arresting him off-hand and shutting -him up altogether, I will try and conduct myself like a man who -understands what good manners are.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> People will talk about it, of -course; but they shall talk well of it, I am determined."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan, drawing by a -gesture peculiar to himself his shoulder-belt over his shoulder, -went straight off to M. Fouquet, who, after he had taken leave of -his guests, was preparing to retire for the night and to sleep -tranquilly after the triumphs of the day.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The air was still perfumed, or -infected, whichever way it may be considered, with the odors of -the torches and the fireworks.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The wax-lights were dying away in -their sockets, the flowers fell unfastened from the garlands, the -groups of dancers and courtiers were separating in the -salons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Surrounded by his -friends, who complimented him and received his flattering remarks -in return, the surintendant half-closed his wearied eyes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He longed for rest and quiet; -he sank upon the bed of laurels which had been heaped up for him -for so many days past; it might almost have been said that he -seemed bowed beneath the weight of the new debts which he had -incurred for the purpose of giving the greatest possible honor to -this <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet had just retired to -his room, still smiling, but more than half-asleep.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He could listen to nothing more, he -could hardly keep his eyes open; his bed seemed to possess a -fascinating and irresistible attraction for him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The god Morpheus, the presiding -deity of the dome painted by Lebrun, had extended his influence -over the adjoining rooms, and showered down his most -sleep-inducing poppies upon the master of the house.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet, almost entirely alone, was -being assisted by his <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>valet -de chambre</i> to undress, when M. d'Artagnan appeared at the -entrance of the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan had never been able to succeed in making himself -common at the court; and notwithstanding he was seen everywhere -and on all occasions, he never failed to produce an effect -wherever and whenever he made his appearance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such is the happy privilege of -certain natures, which in that respect resemble either thunder or -lightning; every one recognizes them; but their appearance never -fails to arouse surprise and astonishment, and whenever they -occur, the impression is always left that the last was the most -conspicuous or most important.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Artagnan?" said Fouquet, who -had already taken his right arm out of the sleeve of his -doublet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At your service," -replied the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come in, my dear M. -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you come to -criticise the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête?</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are ingenious enough in your -criticisms, I know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By no means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are not your men looked -after properly?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In every way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are not comfortably -lodged, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing could be -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I have to -thank you for being so amiably disposed, and I must not fail to -express my obligations to you for all your flattering -kindness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> These words were as much -as to say, "My dear D'Artagnan, pray go to bed, since you have a -bed to lie down on, and let me do the same."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan did not seem -to understand it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you going to bed -already?" he said to the superintendent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; have you anything -to say to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing, monsieur, -nothing at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You sleep -in this room, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; as you see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have given a most -charming <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> to -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you think so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! beautiful!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is the king -pleased?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enchanted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did he desire you to -say as much to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He would not choose so -unworthy a messenger, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not do yourself -justice, Monsieur d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is that your bed, -there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but why do you -ask?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you not -satisfied with your own?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My I speak frankly to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most assuredly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, I am -not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet started; and -then replied, "Will you take my room, Monsieur d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! deprive you of -it, monseigneur? never!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What am I to do, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Allow me to share yours -with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet looked at the -musketeer fixedly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! -ah!" he said, "you have just left the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the king wishes you -to pass the night in my room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, very well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are the master here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I assure you, -monseigneur, that I do not wish to abuse - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet turned to his -valet, and said, "Leave us."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the man had left, he said to -D'Artagnan, "You have something to say to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man of your superior -intelligence cannot have come to talk with a man like myself, at -such an hour as the present, without grave motives."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not interrogate -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the contrary.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you want with me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing more than the -pleasure of your society."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come into the garden, -then," said the superintendent suddenly, "or into the park."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied the -musketeer, hastily, "no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fresh air - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, admit at once -that you arrest me," said the superintendent to the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never!" said the -latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You intend to look -after me, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur, I do, -upon my honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon your honor - ah! -that is quite another thing!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So I am to be arrested in my own -house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not say such a -thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the contrary, I will -proclaim it aloud."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you do so, I shall -be compelled to request you to be silent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Violence towards me, and in my own -house, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We do not seem to -understand one another at all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay a moment; there is a -chess-board there; we will have a game, if you have no -objections."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, I -am in disgrace, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not at all; but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am prohibited, I -suppose, from withdrawing from your sight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not understand a -word you are saying, monseigneur; and if you wish me to withdraw, -tell me so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Monsieur -d'Artagnan, your mode of action is enough to drive me mad; I was -almost sinking for want of sleep, but you have completely -awakened me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall never forgive -myself, I am sure; and if you wish to reconcile me with myself, -why, go to sleep in your bed in my presence; and I shall be -delighted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am under -surveillance, I see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will leave the room -if you say any such thing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are beyond my -comprehension."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good night, -monseigneur," said D'Artagnan, as he pretended to withdraw.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet ran after -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will not lie -down," he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Seriously, and since you refuse to treat me as a man, and since -you finesse with me, I will try and set you at bay, as a hunter -does a wild boar."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!" cried D'Artagnan, -pretending to smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall order my -horses, and set off for Paris," said Fouquet, sounding the -captain of the musketeers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If that be the case, -monseigneur, it is very difficult."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will arrest me, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, but I shall go -along with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is quite -sufficient, Monsieur d'Artagnan," returned Fouquet, coldly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It was not for nothing you -acquired your reputation as a man of intelligence and resource; -but with me all this is quite superfluous.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us come to the point.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do me a service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why do you arrest me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What have I done?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know nothing about what you may -have done; but I do not arrest you - this evening, at least!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This evening!" said -Fouquet, turning pale, "but to-morrow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not to-morrow -just yet, monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Who can ever answer for the morrow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quick, quick, captain! -let me speak to M. d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! that is quite -impossible, monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I have strict orders to see that you hold no communication with -any one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With M. d'Herblay, -captain - with your friend!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, is M. -d'Herblay the only person with whom you ought to be prevented -holding any communication?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet colored, and -then assuming an air of resignation, he said: "You are right, -monsieur; you have taught me a lesson I ought not to have -evoked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A fallen man -cannot assert his right to anything, even from those whose -fortunes he may have made; for a still stronger reason, he cannot -claim anything from those to whom he may never have had the -happiness of doing a service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is perfectly true, -Monsieur d'Artagnan; you have always acted in the most admirable -manner towards me - in such a manner, indeed, as most becomes the -man who is destined to arrest me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, at least, have never asked me -anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," replied the -Gascon, touched by his eloquent and noble tone of grief, "will -you - I ask it as a favor - pledge me your word as a man of honor -that you will not leave this room?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the use of it, -dear Monsieur d'Artagnan, since you keep watch and ward over -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you suppose I -should contend against the most valiant sword in the -kingdom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not that, at all, -monseigneur; but that I am going to look for M. d'Herblay, and, -consequently, to leave you alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet uttered a cry of -delight and surprise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To look for M. -d'Herblay! to leave me alone!" he exclaimed, clasping his hands -together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Which is M. d'Herblay's -room?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The blue room is it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my friend, -yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your friend! thank you -for that word, monseigneur; you confer it upon me to-day, at -least, if you have never done so before."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you have saved -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It will take a good ten -minutes to go from hence to the blue room, and to return?" said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nearly so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then to wake -Aramis, who sleeps very soundly, when he <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>is</i> asleep, I put that down at -another five minutes; making a total of fifteen minutes' absence. -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, monseigneur, -give me your word that you will not in any way attempt to make -your escape, and that when I return I shall find you here -again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I give it, monsieur," -replied Fouquet, with an expression of the warmest and deepest -gratitude.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan -disappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -looked at him as he quitted the room, waited with a feverish -impatience until the door was closed behind him, and as soon as -it was shut, flew to his keys, opened two or three secret doors -concealed in various articles of furniture in the room, looked -vainly for certain papers, which doubtless he had left at -Saint-Mandé, and which he seemed to regret not having -found in them; then hurriedly seizing hold of letters, contracts, -papers, writings, he heaped them up into a pile, which he burnt -in the extremest haste upon the marble hearth of the fireplace, -not even taking time to draw from the interior of it the vases -and pots of flowers with which it was filled.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he had finished, like a -man who has just escaped an imminent danger, and whose strength -abandons him as soon as the danger is past, he sank down, -completely overcome, on a couch.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When D'Artagnan returned, he found -Fouquet in the same position; the worthy musketeer had not the -slightest doubt that Fouquet, having given his word, would not -even think of failing to keep it, but he had thought it most -likely that Fouquet would turn his (D'Artagnan's) absence to the -best advantage in getting rid of all the papers, memorandums, and -contracts, which might possibly render his position, which was -even now serious enough, more dangerous than ever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so, lifting up his head like a -dog who has regained the scent, he perceived an odor resembling -smoke he had relied on finding in the atmosphere, and having -found it, made a movement of his head in token of -satisfaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As -D'Artagnan entered, Fouquet, on his side, raised his head, and -not one of D'Artagnan's movements escaped him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then the looks of the two men -met, and they both saw that they had understood each other -without exchanging a syllable.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" asked Fouquet, -the first to speak, "and M. d'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my word, -monseigneur," replied D'Artagnan, "M. d'Herblay must be -desperately fond of walking out at night, and composing verses by -moonlight in the park of Vaux, with some of your poets, in all -probability, for he is not in his own room."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! not in his own -room?" cried Fouquet, whose last hope thus escaped him; for -unless he could ascertain in what way the bishop of Vannes could -assist him, he perfectly well knew that he could expect -assistance from no other quarter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Or, indeed," continued -D'Artagnan, "if he is in his own room, he has very good reasons -for not answering."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"But surely you did -not call him in such a manner that he could have heard you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You can hardly suppose, -monseigneur, that having already exceeded my orders, which -forbade me leaving you a single moment - you can hardly suppose, -I say, that I should have been mad enough to rouse the whole -house and allow myself to be seen in the corridor of the bishop -of Vannes, in order that M. Colbert might state with positive -certainty that I gave you time to burn your papers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"My papers?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of course; at least -that is what I should have done in your place.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When any one opens a door for me I -always avail myself of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes, yes, and I -thank you, for I have availed myself of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you have done -perfectly right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every -man has his own peculiar secrets with which others have nothing -to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But let us return -to Aramis, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, then, I tell -you, you could not have called loud enough, or Aramis would have -heard you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "However softly any one -may call Aramis, monseigneur, Aramis always hears when he has an -interest in hearing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -repeat what I said before - Aramis was not in his own room, or -Aramis had certain reasons for not recognizing my voice, of which -I am ignorant, and of which you may be even ignorant yourself, -notwithstanding your liege-man is His Greatness the Lord Bishop -of Vannes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet drew a deep -sigh, rose from his seat, took three or four turns in his room, -and finished by seating himself, with an expression of extreme -dejection, upon his magnificent bed with velvet hangings, and -costliest lace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan looked at Fouquet with feelings of the deepest and -sincerest pity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have seen a good many -men arrested in my life," said the musketeer, sadly; "I have seen -both M. de Cinq-Mars and M. de Chalais arrested, though I was -very young then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -seen M. de Condé arrested with the princes; I have seen M. -de Retz arrested; I have seen M. Broussel arrested.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay a moment, monseigneur, it is -disagreeable to have to say, but the very one of all those whom -you most resemble at this moment was that poor fellow -Broussel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You were very -near doing as he did, putting your dinner napkin in your -portfolio, and wiping your mouth with your papers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monseigneur Fouquet, a man like you -ought not to be dejected in this manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suppose your friends saw you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," -returned the surintendant, with a smile full of gentleness, "you -do not understand me; it is precisely because my friends are not -looking on, that I am as you see me now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not live, exist even, isolated -from others; I am nothing when left to myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Understand that throughout my whole -life I have passed every moment of my time in making friends, -whom I hoped to render my stay and support.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In times of prosperity, all these -cheerful, happy voices - rendered so through and by my means - -formed in my honor a concert of praise and kindly actions.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the least disfavor, these -humbler voices accompanied in harmonious accents the murmur of my -own heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Isolation I -have never yet known.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Poverty (a phantom I have sometimes beheld, clad in rags, -awaiting me at the end of my journey through life) - poverty has -been the specter with which many of my own friends have trifled -for years past, which they poetize and caress, and which has -attracted me towards them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poverty!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I accept it, acknowledge it, receive -it, as a disinherited sister; for poverty is neither solitude, -nor exile, nor imprisonment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it likely I shall ever be poor, -with such friends as Pélisson, as La Fontaine, as -Molière? with such a mistress as - Oh! if you knew how -utterly lonely and desolate I feel at this moment, and how you, -who separate me from all I love, seem to resemble the image of -solitude, of annihilation - death itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I have already told -you, Monsieur Fouquet," replied D'Artagnan, moved to the depths -of his soul, "that you are woefully exaggerating.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king likes you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"No, no," said -Fouquet, shaking his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"M. Colbert hates -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"M. Colbert!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What does that matter to -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"He will ruin -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I defy him to do that, for I am -ruined already."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this singular -confession of the superintendent, D'Artagnan cast his glance all -round the room; and although he did not open his lips, Fouquet -understood him so thoroughly, that he added: "What can be done -with such wealth of substance as surrounds us, when a man can no -longer cultivate his taste for the magnificent?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know what good the greater -part of the wealth and the possessions which we rich enjoy, -confer upon us? merely to disgust us, by their very splendor -even, with everything which does not equal it!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vaux! you will say, and the wonders -of Vaux!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What of it?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What boot these wonders?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I am ruined, how shall I -fill with water the urns which my Naiads bear in their arms, or -force the air into the lungs of my Tritons?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To be rich enough, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, a man must be too rich."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>D'Artagnan shook -his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know very well what you think," -replied Fouquet, quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"If Vaux were yours, you would sell it, and would purchase an -estate in the country; an estate which should have woods, -orchards, and land attached, so that the estate should be made to -support its master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With -forty millions you might - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ten millions," -interrupted D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not a million, my dear -captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one in France -is rich enough to give two millions for Vaux, and to continue to -maintain it as I have done; no one could do it, no one would know -how."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well," said -D'Artagnan, "in any case, a million is not abject misery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not far from it, -my dear monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you -do not understand me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No; -I will not sell my residence at Vaux; I will give it to you, if -you like;" and Fouquet accompanied these words with a movement of -the shoulders to which it would be impossible to do justice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Give it to the -king; you will make a better bargain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king does not -require me to give it to him," said Fouquet; "he will take it -away from me with the most absolute ease and grace, if it pleases -him to do so; and that is the very reason I should prefer to see -it perish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know, -Monsieur d'Artagnan, that if the king did not happen to be under -my roof, I would take this candle, go straight to the dome, and -set fire to a couple of huge chests of fusees and fireworks which -are in reserve there, and would reduce my palace to ashes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!" said the -musketeer, negligently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"At all events, you would not be able to burn the gardens, and -that is the finest feature of the place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And yet," resumed -Fouquet, thoughtfully, "what was I saying?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Great heavens! burn Vaux! destroy my -palace!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Vaux is not -mine; these wonderful creations are, it is true, the property, as -far as sense of enjoyment goes, of the man who has paid for them; -but as far as duration is concerned, they belong to those who -created them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Vaux -belongs to Lebrun, to Lenôtre, to Pélisson, to -Levau, to La Fontaine, to Molière; Vaux belongs to -posterity, in fact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -see, Monsieur d'Artagnan, that my very house has ceased to be my -own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is all well and -good," said D'Artagnan; "the idea is agreeable enough, and I -recognize M. Fouquet himself in it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That idea, indeed, makes me forget -that poor fellow Broussel altogether; and I now fail to recognize -in you the whining complaints of that old Frondeur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you are ruined, monsieur, look at -the affair manfully, for you too, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mordioux!</i> belong to posterity, -and have no right to lessen yourself in any way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stay a moment; look at me, I who -seem to exercise in some degree a kind of superiority over you, -because I am arresting you; fate, which distributes their -different parts to the comedians of this world, accorded me a -less agreeable and less advantageous part to fill than yours has -been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am one of those -who think that the parts which kings and powerful nobles are -called upon to act are infinitely of more worth than the parts of -beggars or lackeys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -far better on the stage - on the stage, I mean, of another -theater than the theater of this world - it is far better to wear -a fine coat and to talk a fine language, than to walk the boards -shod with a pair of old shoes, or to get one's backbone gently -polished by a hearty dressing with a stick.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In one word, you have been a -prodigal with money, you have ordered and been obeyed - have been -steeped to the lips in enjoyment; while I have dragged my tether -after me, have been commanded and have obeyed, and have drudged -my life away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -although I may seem of such trifling importance beside you, -monseigneur, I do declare to you, that the recollection of what I -have done serves me as a spur, and prevents me from bowing my old -head too soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall -remain unto the very end a trooper; and when my turn comes, I -shall fall perfectly straight, all in a heap, still alive, after -having selected my place beforehand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do as I do, Monsieur Fouquet, you -will not find yourself the worse for it; a fall happens only once -in a lifetime to men like yourself, and the chief thing is, to -take it gracefully when the chance presents itself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is a Latin proverb - the words -have escaped me, but I remember the sense of it very well, for I -have thought over it more than once - which says, 'The end crowns -the work!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet rose from his -seat, passed his arm round D'Artagnan's neck, and clasped him in -a close embrace, whilst with the other hand he pressed his -hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "An excellent -homily," he said, after a moment's pause.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"A soldier's, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You have a regard -for me, in telling me all that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Perhaps."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet resumed his -pensive attitude once more, and then, a moment after, he said: -"Where can M. d'Herblay be?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I dare not ask you to send for -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You would not ask me, -because I would not do it, Monsieur Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> People would learn it, and Aramis, -who is not mixed up with the affair, might possibly be -compromised and included in your disgrace."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I will wait here -till daylight," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Yes; that is -best."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What shall we do -when daylight comes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I know nothing at -all about it, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan, will you do me a favor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Most -willingly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You guard me, I -remain; you are acting in the full discharge of your duty, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good, then; remain -as close to me as my shadow if you like; and I infinitely prefer -such a shadow to any one else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>D'Artagnan bowed to -the compliment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, forget that you -are Monsieur d'Artagnan, captain of the musketeers; forget that I -am Monsieur Fouquet, surintendant of the finances; and let us -talk about my affairs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That is rather a -delicate subject."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Indeed?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but, for your -sake, Monsieur Fouquet, I will do what may almost be regarded as -an impossibility."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Thank you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What did the king say to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah! is that the -way you talk?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The deuce!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What do you think -of my situation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I do not -know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"However, unless -you have some ill feeling against me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Your position is a -difficult one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"In what -respect?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Because you are -under your own roof."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"However difficult -it may be, I understand it very well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Do you suppose -that, with any one else but yourself, I should have shown so much -frankness?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What! so much -frankness, do you say? you, who refuse to tell me the slightest -thing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"At all events, -then, so much ceremony and consideration."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have nothing to say in that -respect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One moment, -monseigneur: let me tell you how I should have behaved towards -any one but yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -might be that I happened to arrive at your door just as your -guests or your friends had left you - or, if they had not gone -yet, I should wait until they were leaving, and should then catch -them one after the other, like rabbits; I should lock them up -quietly enough, I should steal softly along the carpet of your -corridor, and with one hand upon you, before you suspected the -slightest thing amiss, I should keep you safely until my master's -breakfast in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In this way, I should just the same have avoided all publicity, -all disturbance, all opposition; but there would also have been -no warning for M. Fouquet, no consideration for his feelings, -none of those delicate concessions which are shown by persons who -are essentially courteous in their natures, whenever the decisive -moment may arrive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are -you satisfied with the plan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"It makes me -shudder."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thought you would not -like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would have -been very disagreeable to have made my appearance to-morrow, -without any preparation, and to have asked you to deliver up your -sword."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Oh! monsieur, I -should have died of shame and anger."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Your gratitude is -too eloquently expressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I have not done enough to deserve it, I assure you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Most certainly, -monsieur, you will never get me to believe that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then, -monseigneur, if you are satisfied with what I have done, and have -somewhat recovered from the shock which I prepared you for as -much as I possibly could, let us allow the few hours that remain -to pass away undisturbed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are harassed, and should arrange your thoughts; I beg you, -therefore, go to sleep, or pretend to go to sleep, either on your -bed, or in your bed; I will sleep in this armchair; and when I -fall asleep, my rest is so sound that a cannon would not wake -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet smiled.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I expect, however," continued -the musketeer, "the case of a door being opened, whether a secret -door, or any other; or the case of any one going out of, or -coming into, the room - for anything like that my ear is as quick -and sensitive as the ear of a mouse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Creaking noises make me start.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It arises, I suppose, from a -natural antipathy to anything of the kind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Move about as much as you like; walk -up and down in any part of the room, write, efface, destroy, -burn, - nothing like that will prevent me from going to sleep or -even prevent me from snoring, but do not touch either the key or -the handle of the door, for I should start up in a moment, and -that would shake my nerves and make me ill."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," -said Fouquet, "you are certainly the most witty and the most -courteous man I ever met with; and you will leave me only one -regret, that of having made your acquaintance so late."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan drew a deep -sigh, which seemed to say, "Alas! you have perhaps made it too -soon."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then settled -himself in his armchair, while Fouquet, half lying on his bed and -leaning on his arm, was meditating on his misadventures.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this way, both of them, -leaving the candles burning, awaited the first dawn of the day; -and when Fouquet happened to sigh too loudly, D'Artagnan only -snored the louder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not a -single visit, not even from Aramis, disturbed their quietude: not -a sound even was heard throughout the whole vast palace.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Outside, however, the guards -of honor on duty, and the patrol of musketeers, paced up and -down; and the sound of their feet could be heard on the gravel -walks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It seemed to act -as an additional soporific for the sleepers, while the murmuring -of the wind through the trees, and the unceasing music of the -fountains whose waters tumbled in the basin, still went on -uninterruptedly, without being disturbed at the slight noises and -items of little moment that constitute the life and death of -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 -XX:</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>The -Morning.</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 vivid contrast to the sad and terrible destiny of the -king imprisoned in the Bastile, and tearing, in sheer despair, -the bolts and bars of his dungeon, the rhetoric of the -chroniclers of old would not fail to present, as a complete -antithesis, the picture of Philippe lying asleep beneath the -royal canopy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We do not -pretend to say that such rhetoric is always bad, and always -scatters, in places where they have no right to grow, the flowers -with which it embellishes and enlivens history.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But we shall, on the present -occasion, carefully avoid polishing the antithesis in question, -but shall proceed to draw another picture as minutely as -possible, to serve as foil and counterfoil to the one in the -preceding chapter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -young prince alighted from Aramis's room, in the same way the -king had descended from the apartment dedicated to Morpheus.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The dome gradually and slowly -sank down under Aramis's pressure, and Philippe stood beside the -royal bed, which had ascended again after having deposited its -prisoner in the secret depths of the subterranean passage.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alone, in the presence of all -the luxury which surrounded him; alone, in the presence of his -power; alone, with the part he was about to be forced to act, -Philippe for the first time felt his heart, and mind, and soul -expand beneath the influence of a thousand mutable emotions, -which are the vital throbs of a king's heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He could not help changing color -when he looked upon the empty bed, still tumbled by his brother's -body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This mute -accomplice had returned, after having completed the work it had -been destined to perform; it returned with the traces of the -crime; it spoke to the guilty author of that crime, with the -frank and unreserved language which an accomplice never fears to -use in the company of his companion in guilt; for it spoke the -truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe bent over -the bed, and perceived a pocket-handkerchief lying on it, which -was still damp from the cold sweat which had poured from Louis -XIV.'s face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -sweat-bestained handkerchief terrified Philippe, as the gore of -Abel frightened Cain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am face to face with -my destiny," said Philippe, his eyes on fire, and his face a -livid white.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is it -likely to be more terrifying than my captivity has been sad and -gloomy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Though I am -compelled to follow out, at every moment, the sovereign power and -authority I have usurped, shall I cease to listen to the scruples -of my heart?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes! the -king has lain on this bed; it is indeed his head that has left -its impression on this pillow; his bitter tears that have stained -this handkerchief: and yet, I hesitate to throw myself on the -bed, or to press in my hand the handkerchief which is embroidered -with my brother's arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Away with such weakness; let me imitate M. d'Herblay, who asserts -that a man's action should be always one degree above his -thoughts; let me imitate M. d'Herblay, whose thoughts are of and -for himself alone, who regards himself as a man of honor, so long -as he injures or betrays his enemies only.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, I alone, should have occupied -this bed, if Louis XIV. had not, owing to my mother's criminal -abandonment, stood in my way; and this handkerchief, embroidered -with the arms of France, would in right and justice belong to me -alone, if, as M. d'Herblay observes, I had been left my royal -cradle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe, son of -France, take your place on that bed; Philippe, sole king of -France, resume the blazonry that is yours!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe, sole heir presumptive to -Louis XIII., your father, show yourself without pity or mercy for -the usurper who, at this moment, has not even to suffer the agony -of the remorse of all that you have had to submit to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> With these words, -Philippe, notwithstanding an instinctive repugnance of feeling, -and in spite of the shudder of terror which mastered his will, -threw himself on the royal bed, and forced his muscles to press -the still warm place where Louis XIV. had lain, while he buried -his burning face in the handkerchief still moistened by his -brother's tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With his -head thrown back and buried in the soft down of his pillow, -Philippe perceived above him the crown of France, suspended, as -we have stated, by angels with outspread golden wings.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A man may be ambitious -of lying in a lion's den, but can hardly hope to sleep there -quietly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe -listened attentively to every sound; his heart panted and -throbbed at the very suspicion of approaching terror and -misfortune; but confident in his own strength, which was -confirmed by the force of an overpoweringly resolute -determination, he waited until some decisive circumstance should -permit him to judge for himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He hoped that imminent danger might -be revealed to him, like those phosphoric lights of the tempest -which show the sailors the altitude of the waves against which -they have to struggle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But nothing approached.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Silence, that mortal enemy of restless hearts, and of ambitious -minds, shrouded in the thickness of its gloom during the -remainder of the night the future king of France, who lay there -sheltered beneath his stolen crown.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards the morning a shadow, rather -than a body, glided into the royal chamber; Philippe expected his -approach and neither expressed nor exhibited any surprise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, M. -d'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, sire, all is -accomplished."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Exactly as we -expected."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did he resist?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Terribly! tears and -entreaties."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A perfect stupor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But at last?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! at last, a complete -victory, and absolute silence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did the governor of the -Bastile suspect anything?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The resemblance, -however - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was the cause of the -success."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the prisoner cannot -fail to explain himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Think well of that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have myself been able to do as much as that, on former -occasion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have already provided -for every chance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a -few days, sooner if necessary, we will take the captive out of -his prison, and will send him out of the country, to a place of -exile so remote - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "People can return from -their exile, Monsieur d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To a place of exile so -distant, I was going to say, that human strength and the duration -of human life would not be enough for his return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Once more a cold look of -intelligence passed between Aramis and the young king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And M. du Vallon?" -asked Philippe in order to change the conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will be presented to -you to-day, and confidentially will congratulate you on the -danger which that conspirator has made you run."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is to be done with -him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With M. du Vallon?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; confer a dukedom -on him, I suppose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A dukedom," replied -Aramis, smiling in a significant manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you laugh, -Monsieur d'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I laugh at the extreme -caution of your idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Cautious, why so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty is -doubtless afraid that poor Porthos may possible become a -troublesome witness, and you wish to get rid of him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! in making him a -duke?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly; you would -assuredly kill him, for he would die from joy, and the secret -would die with him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Aramis, -phlegmatically; "I should lose a very good friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment, and in -the middle of this idle conversation, under the light tone of -which the two conspirators concealed their joy and pride at their -mutual success, Aramis heard something which made him prick up -his ears.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?" said -Philippe.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The dawn, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, before you -retired to bed last night, you probably decided to do something -this morning at break of day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I told my captain -of the musketeers," replied the young man hurriedly, "that I -should expect him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you told him that, -he will certainly be here, for he is a most punctual man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hear a step in the -vestibule."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It must be he."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, let us begin the -attack," said the young king resolutely.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be cautious for -Heaven's sake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To begin -the attack, and with D'Artagnan, would be madness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan knows nothing, he has -seen nothing; he is a hundred miles from suspecting our mystery -in the slightest degree, but if he comes into this room the first -this morning, he will be sure to detect something of what has -taken place, and which he would imagine it his business to occupy -himself about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before we -allow D'Artagnan to penetrate into this room, we must air the -room thoroughly, or introduce so many people into it, that the -keenest scent in the whole kingdom may be deceived by the traces -of twenty different persons."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But how can I send him -away, since I have given him a rendezvous?" observed the prince, -impatient to measure swords with so redoubtable an -antagonist.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will take care of -that," replied the bishop, "and in order to begin, I am going to -strike a blow which will completely stupefy our man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He, too, is striking a -blow, for I hear him at the door," added the prince, -hurriedly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And, in fact, a knock at -the door was heard at that moment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis was not mistaken; for it was -indeed D'Artagnan who adopted that mode of announcing -himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> We have seen how he -passed the night in philosophizing with M. Fouquet, but the -musketeer was very weary even of feigning to fall asleep, and as -soon as earliest dawn illumined with its gloomy gleams of light -the sumptuous cornices of the superintendent's room, D'Artagnan -rose from his armchair, arranged his sword, brushed his coat and -hat with his sleeve, like a private soldier getting ready for -inspection.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you going out?" -said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall remain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You pledge your -word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, my only reason for going -out is to try and get that reply, - you know what I mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"That sentence, you -mean - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stay, I have something -of the old Roman in me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This morning, when I got up, I remarked that my sword had got -caught in one of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>aiguillettes</i>, and that my -shoulder-belt had slipped quite off.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is an infallible sign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Of -prosperity?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, be sure of it; for -every time that that confounded belt of mine stuck fast to my -back, it always signified a punishment from M. de -Tréville, or a refusal of money by M. de Mazarin.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every time my sword hung fast -to my shoulder-belt, it always predicted some disagreeable -commission or another for me to execute, and I have had showers -of them all my life through.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every time, too, my sword danced -about in its sheath, a duel, fortunate in its result, was sure to -follow: whenever it dangled about the calves of my legs, it -signified a slight wound; every time it fell completely out of -the scabbard, I was booked, and made up my mind that I should -have to remain on the field of battle, with two or three months -under surgical bandages into the bargain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I did not know your -sword kept you so well informed," said Fouquet, with a faint -smile, which showed how he was struggling against his own -weakness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is your sword -bewitched, or under the influence of some imperial charm?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, you must know that -my sword may almost be regarded as part of my own body.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have heard that certain men -seem to have warnings given them by feeling something the matter -with their legs, or a throbbing of their temples.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With me, it is my sword that warns -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, it told me of -nothing this morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But, stay a moment - look here, it has just fallen of its own -accord into the last hole of the belt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know what that is a warning -of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"No."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well, that tells -me of an arrest that will have to be made this very day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said the -surintendant, more astonished than annoyed by this frankness, "if -there is nothing disagreeable predicted to you by your sword, I -am to conclude that it is not disagreeable for you to arrest -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You! arrest <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Of course.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The warning - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does not concern you, -since you have been arrested ever since yesterday.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not you I shall have to -arrest, be assured of that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is the reason why I am -delighted, and also the reason why I said that my day will be a -happy one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And with these words, -pronounced with the most affectionate graciousness of manner, the -captain took leave of Fouquet in order to wait upon the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was on the point -of leaving the room, when Fouquet said to him, "One last mark of -kindness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What is it, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"M. d'Herblay; let -me see Monsieur d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I am going to try -and get him to come to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan did not -think himself so good a prophet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was written that the day would -pass away and realize all the predictions that had been made in -the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had -accordingly knocked, as we have seen, at the king's door.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The door opened.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain thought that it was the -king who had just opened it himself; and this supposition was not -altogether inadmissible, considering the state of agitation in -which he had left Louis XIV. the previous evening; but instead of -his royal master, whom he was on the point of saluting with the -greatest respect, he perceived the long, calm features of -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So extreme was -his surprise that he could hardly refrain from uttering a loud -exclamation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Aramis!" he -said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Good morning, dear -D'Artagnan," replied the prelate, coldly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"You here!" -stammered out the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"His majesty -desires you to report that he is still sleeping, after having -been greatly fatigued during the whole night."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said -D'Artagnan, who could not understand how the bishop of Vannes, -who had been so indifferent a favorite the previous evening, had -become in half a dozen hours the most magnificent mushroom of -fortune that had ever sprung up in a sovereign's bedroom.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, to transmit the -orders of the king even to the mere threshold of that monarch's -room, to serve as an intermediary of Louis XIV. so as to be able -to give a single order in his name at a couple paces from him, he -must have become more than Richelieu had ever been to Louis -XIII.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan's -expressive eye, half-opened lips, his curling mustache, said as -much indeed in the plainest language to the chief favorite, who -remained calm and perfectly unmoved.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Moreover," -continued the bishop, "you will be good enough, monsieur le -capitaine des mousquetaires, to allow those only to pass into the -king's room this morning who have special permission.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty does not wish to be -disturbed just yet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But," objected -D'Artagnan, almost on the point of refusing to obey this order, -and particularly of giving unrestrained passage to the suspicions -which the king's silence had aroused - "but, monsieur -l'évêque, his majesty gave me a rendezvous for this -morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Later, later," -said the king's voice, from the bottom of the alcove; a voice -which made a cold shudder pass through the musketeer's -veins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bowed, amazed, -confused, and stupefied by the smile with which Aramis seemed to -overwhelm him, as soon as these words had been pronounced.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And then," -continued the bishop, "as an answer to what you were coming to -ask the king, my dear D'Artagnan, here is an order of his -majesty, which you will be good enough to attend to forthwith, -for it concerns M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan took the -order which was held out to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To be set at liberty!" he -murmured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah!" and he -uttered a second "ah!" still more full of intelligence than the -former; for this order explained Aramis's presence with the king, -and that Aramis, in order to have obtained Fouquet's pardon, must -have made considerable progress in the royal favor, and that this -favor explained, in its tenor, the hardly conceivable assurance -with which M. d'Herblay issued the order in the king's name.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For D'Artagnan it was quite -sufficient to have understood something of the matter in hand to -order to understand the rest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bowed and withdrew a couple of -paces, as though he were about to leave.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"I am going with -you," said the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Where to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"To M. Fouquet; I -wish to be a witness of his delight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, how you puzzled me just -now!" said D'Artagnan again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"But you understand -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>now</i>, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of course I -understand," he said aloud; but added in a low tone to himself, -almost hissing the words between his teeth, "No, no, I do not -understand yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it is -all the same, for here is the order for it."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then he added, "I will lead the -way, monseigneur," and he conducted Aramis to Fouquet's -apartments.</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'>The -King's Friend.</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 was waiting with anxiety; he had already sent away -many of his servants and friends, who, anticipating the usual -hour of his ordinary receptions, had called at his door to -inquire after him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Preserving the utmost silence respecting the danger which hung -suspended by a hair above his head, he only asked them, as he did -every one, indeed, who came to the door, where Aramis was.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he saw D'Artagnan return, -and when he perceived the bishop of Vannes behind him, he could -hardly restrain his delight; it was fully equal to his previous -uneasiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The mere -sight of Aramis was a complete compensation to the surintendant -for the unhappiness he had undergone in his arrest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prelate was silent and grave; -D'Artagnan completely bewildered by such an accumulation of -events.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, captain, so you -have brought M. d'Herblay to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And something better -still, monseigneur."</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> "Liberty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am free!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; by the king's -order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet resumed his -usual serenity, that he might interrogate Aramis with a look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes, you can thank -M. l'évêque de Vannes," pursued D'Artagnan, "for it -is indeed to him that you owe the change that has taken place in -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Fouquet, more -humiliated at the service than grateful at its success.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you," continued -D'Artagnan, addressing Aramis - "you, who have become M. -Fouquet's protector and patron, can you not do something for -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Anything in the wide -world you like, my friend," replied the bishop, in his calmest -tones.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One thing only, then, -and I shall be perfectly satisfied.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How on earth did you manage to -become the favorite of the king, you who have never spoken to him -more than twice in your life?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From a friend such as -you are," said Aramis, "I cannot conceal anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! very good, tell me, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You think that I have seen the king -only twice, whilst the fact is I have seen him more than a -hundred times; only we have kept it very secret, that is -all."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And without trying -to remove the color which at this revelation made D'Artagnan's -face flush scarlet, Aramis turned towards M. Fouquet, who was as -much surprised as the musketeer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monseigneur," he resumed, "the king -desires me to inform you that he is more than ever your friend, -and that your beautiful <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>, so generously -offered by you on his behalf, has touched him to the very -heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And thereupon he saluted -M. Fouquet with so much reverence of manner, that the latter, -incapable of understanding a man whose diplomacy was of so -prodigious a character, remained incapable of uttering a single -syllable, and equally incapable of thought or movement.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan fancied he -perceived that these two men had something to say to each other, -and he was about to yield to that feeling of instinctive -politeness which in such a case hurries a man towards the door, -when he feels his presence is an inconvenience for others; but -his eager curiosity, spurred on by so many mysteries, counseled -him to remain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis thereupon turned -towards him, and said, in a quiet tone, "You will not forget, my -friend, the king's order respecting those whom he intends to -receive this morning on rising."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These words were clear enough, and -the musketeer understood them; he therefore bowed to Fouquet, and -then to Aramis, - to the latter with a slight admixture of -ironical respect, - and disappeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> No sooner had he left, -than Fouquet, whose impatience had hardly been able to wait for -that moment, darted towards the door to close it, and then -returning to the bishop, he said, "My dear D'Herblay, I think it -now high time you should explain all that has passed, for, in -plain and honest truth, I do not understand anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will explain all -that to you," said Aramis, sitting down, and making Fouquet sit -down also.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where shall I -begin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With this first of -all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why does the king -set me at liberty?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You ought rather to ask -me what his reason was for having you arrested."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Since my arrest, I have -had time to think over it, and my idea is that it arises out of -some slight feeling of jealousy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i> put M. Colbert out of -temper, and M. Colbert discovered some cause of complaint against -me; Belle-Isle, for instance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; there is no -question at all just now of Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you remember those -receipts for thirteen millions which M. de Mazarin contrived to -steal from you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, of course!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, you are -pronounced a public robber."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! that is not -all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you also remember -that letter you wrote to La Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas! yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that proclaims you -a traitor and a suborner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why should he have -pardoned me, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We have not yet arrived -at that part of our argument.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish you to be quite convinced of -the fact itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Observe -this well: the king knows you to be guilty of an appropriation of -public funds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! of -course <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> know that you -have done nothing of the kind; but, at all events, the king has -seen the receipts, and he can do no other than believe you are -incriminated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon, I do -not see - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will see presently, -though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, -moreover, having read your love-letter to La Vallière, and -the offers you there made her, cannot retain any doubt of your -intentions with regard to that young lady; you will admit that, I -suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pray conclude."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the fewest -words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, we may -henceforth assume, is your powerful, implacable, and eternal -enemy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Agreed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But am I, then, so powerful, that he -has not dared to sacrifice me, notwithstanding his hatred, with -all the means which my weakness, or my misfortunes, may have -given him as a hold upon me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is clear, beyond all -doubt," pursued Aramis, coldly, "that the king has quarreled with -you - irreconcilably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, since he has -absolved me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you believe it -likely?" asked the bishop, with a searching look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Without believing in -his sincerity, I believe it in the accomplished fact."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis slightly shrugged -his shoulders.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But why, then, should -Louis XIV. have commissioned you to tell me what you have just -stated?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king charged me -with no message for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With nothing!" said the -superintendent, stupefied.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But, that order - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are quite right.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>is</i> an order, certainly;" and -these words were pronounced by Aramis in so strange a tone, that -Fouquet could not resist starting.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are concealing -something from me, I see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis softly rubbed his -white fingers over his chin, but said nothing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does the king exile -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not act as if you -were playing at the game children play at when they have to try -and guess where a thing has been hidden, and are informed, by a -bell being rung, when they are approaching near to it, or going -away from it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Guess."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You alarm me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! that is because -you have not guessed, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did the king say -to you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the name of -our friendship, do not deceive me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king has not said -one word to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are killing me with -impatience, D'Herblay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Am -I still superintendent?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As long as you -like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what extraordinary -empire have you so suddenly acquired over his majesty's -mind?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that's the -point."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He does your -bidding?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is hardly -credible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So any one would -say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Herblay, by our -alliance, by our friendship, by everything you hold dearest in -the world, speak openly, I implore you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By what means have you succeeded in -overcoming Louis XIV.'s prejudices, for he did not like you, I am -certain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king will like me -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>now</i>," said Aramis, -laying stress upon the last word.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have something -particular, then, between you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A secret, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A secret of such a -nature as to change his majesty's interests?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are, indeed, a man -of superior intelligence, monseigneur, and have made a -particularly accurate guess.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have, in fact, discovered a -secret, of a nature to change the interests of the king of -France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Fouquet, with -the reserve of a man who does not wish to ask any more -questions.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you shall judge of -it yourself," pursued Aramis; "and you shall tell me if I am -mistaken with regard to the importance of this secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am listening, since -you are good enough to unbosom yourself to me; only do not forget -that I have asked you about nothing which it may be indiscreet in -you to communicate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis seemed, for a -moment, as if he were collecting himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not speak!" said -Fouquet: "there is still time enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you remember," said -the bishop, casting down his eyes, "the birth of Louis XIV.?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As if it were -yesterday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you ever heard -anything particular respecting his birth?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing; except that -the king was not really the son of Louis XIII."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That does not matter to -us, or the kingdom either; he is the son of his father, says the -French law, whose father is recognized by law."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True; but it is a grave -matter, when the quality of races is called into question."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A merely secondary -question, after all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So -that, in fact, you have never learned or heard anything in -particular?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is where my secret -begins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The queen, you -must know, instead of being delivered of a son, was delivered of -twins."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet looked up -suddenly as he replied:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the second is -dead?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will see.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These twins seemed likely to -be regarded as the pride of their mother, and the hope of France; -but the weak nature of the king, his superstitious feelings, made -him apprehend a series of conflicts between two children whose -rights were equal; so he put out of the way - he suppressed - one -of the twins."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Suppressed, do you -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have patience.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Both the children grew up; the -one on the throne, whose minister you are - the other, who is my -friend, in gloom and isolation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What are you saying, Monsieur -d'Herblay? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And what is -this poor prince doing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask me, rather, what -has he done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He was brought up in -the country, and then thrown into a fortress which goes by the -name of the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it possible?" cried -the surintendant, clasping his hands.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The one was the most -fortunate of men: the other the most unhappy and miserable of all -living beings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does his mother not -know this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Anne of Austria knows -it all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Knows absolutely -nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the better," -said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This remark seemed to -make a great impression on Aramis; he looked at Fouquet with the -most anxious expression of countenance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I beg your pardon; I -interrupted you," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was saying," resumed -Aramis, "that this poor prince was the unhappiest of human -beings, when Heaven, whose thoughts are over all His creatures, -undertook to come to his assistance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! in what way?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will see.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The reigning king - I say the -reigning king - you can guess very well why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>both</i> of them, being legitimate -princes, ought to have been kings.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is not that your opinion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is, certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Unreservedly?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most unreservedly; -twins are one person in two bodies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am pleased that a -legist of your learning and authority should have pronounced such -an opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is agreed, -then, that each of them possessed equal rights, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Incontestably! but, -gracious heavens, what an extraordinary circumstance!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are not at the end -of it yet. - Patience."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall find 'patience' enough."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Heaven wished to raise -up for that oppressed child an avenger, or a supporter, or -vindicator, if you prefer it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It happened that the reigning king, -the usurper - you are quite of my opinion, I believe, that it is -an act of usurpation quietly to enjoy, and selfishly to assume -the right over, an inheritance to which a man has only half a -right?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, usurpation is the -word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that case, I -continue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was Heaven's -will that the usurper should possess, in the person of his first -minister, a man of great talent, of large and generous -nature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well," said -Fouquet, "I understand you; you have relied upon me to repair the -wrong which has been done to this unhappy brother of Louis -XIV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have thought -well; I will help you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -thank you, D'Herblay, I thank you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, no, it is not that -at all; you have not allowed me to finish," said Aramis, -perfectly unmoved.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not say another -word, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet, I was -observing, the minister of the reigning sovereign, was suddenly -taken into the greatest aversion, and menaced with the ruin of -his fortune, loss of liberty, loss of life even, by intrigue and -personal hatred, to which the king gave too readily an attentive -ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Heaven permits -(still, however, out of consideration for the unhappy prince who -had been sacrificed) that M. Fouquet should in his turn have a -devoted friend who knew this state secret, and felt that he -possessed strength and courage enough to divulge this secret, -after having had the strength to carry it locked up in his own -heart for twenty years.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go no farther," said -Fouquet, full of generous feelings.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I understand you, and can guess -everything now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You went -to see the king when the intelligence of my arrest reached you; -you implored him, he refused to listen to you; then you -threatened him with that secret, threatened to reveal it, and -Louis XIV., alarmed at the risk of its betrayal, granted to the -terror of your indiscretion what he refused to your generous -intercession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -understand, I understand; you have the king in your power; I -understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You understand <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>nothing</i> - as yet," replied -Aramis, "and again you interrupt me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, too, allow me to observe that -you pay no attention to logical reasoning, and seem to forget -what you ought most to remember."</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> "You know upon what I -laid the greatest stress at the beginning of our -conversation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, his majesty's -hate, invincible hate for me; yes, but what feeling of hate could -resist the threat of such a revelation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Such a revelation, do -you say? that is the very point where your logic fails you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What! do you suppose that if I -had made such a revelation to the king, I should have been alive -now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not ten minutes -ago that you were with the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That may be.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He might not have had the time -to get me killed outright, but he would have had the time to get -me gagged and thrown in a dungeon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, come, show a little -consistency in your reasoning, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordieu!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And by the mere use of -this word, which was so thoroughly his old musketeer's -expression, forgotten by one who never seemed to forget anything, -Fouquet could not but understand to what a pitch of exaltation -the calm, impenetrable bishop of Vannes had wrought himself.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He shuddered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then," replied the -latter, after having mastered his feelings, "should I be the man -I really am, should I be the true friend you believe me, if I -were to expose you, whom the king already hates so bitterly, to a -feeling more than ever to be dreaded in that young man?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To have robbed him, is -nothing; to have addressed the woman he loves, is not much; but -to hold in your keeping both his crown and his honor, why, he -would pluck out your heart with his own hands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have not allowed -him to penetrate your secret, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I would sooner, far -sooner, have swallowed at one draught all the poisons that -Mithridates drank in twenty years, in order to try and avoid -death, than have betrayed my secret to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What have you done, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! now we are coming -to the point, monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I think I shall not fail to excite -in you a little interest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are listening, I hope."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How can you ask me if I -am listening?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis walked softly all -round the room, satisfied himself that they were alone, and that -all was silent, and then returned and placed himself close to the -armchair in which Fouquet was seated, awaiting with the deepest -anxiety the revelation he had to make.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I forgot to tell you," -resumed Aramis, addressing himself to Fouquet, who listened to -him with the most absorbed attention - "I forgot to mention a -most remarkable circumstance respecting these twins, namely, that -God had formed them so startlingly, so miraculously, like each -other, that it would be utterly impossible to distinguish the one -from the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Their own -mother would not be able to distinguish them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it possible?" -exclaimed Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The same noble -character in their features, the same carriage, the same stature, -the same voice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But their thoughts? -degree of intelligence? their knowledge of human life?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is inequality -there, I admit, monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes; for the prisoner of the Bastile -is, most incontestably, superior in every way to his brother; and -if, from his prison, this unhappy victim were to pass to the -throne, France would not, from the earliest period of its -history, perhaps, have had a master more powerful in genius and -nobility of character."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet buried his face -in his hands, as if he were overwhelmed by the weight of this -immense secret.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -approached him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is a further -inequality," he said, continuing his work of temptation, "an -inequality which concerns yourself, monseigneur, between the -twins, both sons of Louis XIII., namely, the last comer does not -know M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet raised his head -immediately - his features were pale and distorted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bolt had hit its mark - not his -heart, but his mind and comprehension.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand you," he -said to Aramis; "you are proposing a conspiracy to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Something like it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One of those attempts -which, as you said at the beginning of this conversation, alters -the fate of empires?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And of superintendents, -too; yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In a word, you propose -that I should agree to the substitution of the son of Louis -XIII., who is now a prisoner in the Bastile, for the son of Louis -XIII., who is at this moment asleep in the Chamber of -Morpheus?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis smiled with the -sinister expression of the sinister thought which was passing -through his brain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Exactly," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you thought," -continued Fouquet, becoming animated with that strength of talent -which in a few seconds originates, and matures the conception of -a plan, and with that largeness of view which foresees all -consequences, and embraces every result at a glance - "have you -thought that we must assemble the nobility, the clergy, and the -third estate of the realm; that we shall have to depose the -reigning sovereign, to disturb by so frightful a scandal the tomb -of their dead father, to sacrifice the life, the honor of a -woman, Anne of Austria, the life and peace of mind and heart of -another woman, Maria Theresa; and suppose that it were all done, -if we were to succeed in doing it - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not understand -you," continued Aramis, coldly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is not a single syllable of -sense in all you have just said."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!" said the -superintendent, surprised, "a man like you refuse to view the -practical bearing of the case!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you confine yourself to the -childish delight of a political illusion, and neglect the chances -of its being carried into execution; in other words, the reality -itself, is it possible?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend," said -Aramis, emphasizing the word with a kind of disdainful -familiarity, "what does Heaven do in order to substitute one king -for another?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Heaven!" exclaimed -Fouquet - "Heaven gives directions to its agent, who seizes upon -the doomed victim, hurries him away, and seats the triumphant -rival on the empty throne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you forget that this agent is -called death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Herblay, in -Heaven's name, tell me if you have had the idea - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is no question of -that, monseigneur;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> you -are going beyond the object in view.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who spoke of Louis XIV.'s death? who -spoke of adopting the example which Heaven sets in following out -the strict execution of its decrees?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, I wish you to understand that -Heaven effects its purposes without confusion or disturbance, -without exciting comment or remark, without difficulty or -exertion; and that men, inspired by Heaven, succeed like Heaven -itself, in all their undertakings, in all they attempt, in all -they do."</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, my <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>friend</i>," returned Aramis, with -the same intonation on the word friend that he had applied to it -the first time - "I mean that if there has been any confusion, -scandal, and even effort in the substitution of the prisoner for -the king, I defy you to prove it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What!" cried Fouquet, -whiter than the handkerchief with which he wiped his temples, -"what do you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go to the king's -apartment," continued Aramis, tranquilly, "and you who know the -mystery, I defy even you to perceive that the prisoner of the -Bastile is lying in his brother's bed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the king," -stammered Fouquet, seized with horror at the intelligence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What king?" said -Aramis, in his gentlest tone; "the one who hates you, or the one -who likes you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king - of - <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>yesterday</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king of yesterday! -be quite easy on that score; he has gone to take the place in the -Bastile which his victim occupied for so many years."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Great God!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And who took him there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, and in the -simplest way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I carried -him away last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -While he was descending into midnight, the other was ascending -into day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not think -there has been any disturbance whatever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A flash of lightning without thunder -awakens nobody."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet uttered a thick, -smothered cry, as if he had been struck by some invisible blow, -and clasping his head between his clenched hands, he murmured: -"You did that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Cleverly enough, too; -what do you think of it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You dethroned the king? -imprisoned him, too?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, that has been -done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And such an action was -committed <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>here</i>, at -Vaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, here, at Vaux, in -the Chamber of Morpheus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It would almost seem that it had been built in anticipation of -such an act."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And at what time did it -occur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Last night, between -twelve and one o'clock."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet made a movement -as if he were on the point of springing upon Aramis; he -restrained himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "At -Vaux; under my roof!" he said, in a half-strangled voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe so! for it is -still your house, and it is likely to continue so, since M. -Colbert cannot rob you of it now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was under my roof, -then, monsieur, that you committed this crime?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This crime?" said -Aramis, stupefied.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This abominable crime!" -pursued Fouquet, becoming more and more excited; "this crime more -execrable than an assassination! this crime which dishonors my -name forever, and entails upon me the horror of posterity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are not in your -senses, monsieur," replied Aramis, in an irresolute tone of -voice; "you are speaking too loudly; take care!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will call out so -loudly, that the whole world shall hear me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur Fouquet, take -care!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet turned round -towards the prelate, whom he looked at full in the face.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You have dishonored me," he -said, "in committing so foul an act of treason, so heinous a -crime upon my guest, upon one who was peacefully reposing beneath -my roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! woe, woe is -me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Woe to the man, rather, -who beneath your roof meditated the ruin of your fortune, your -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you forget -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He was my guest, my -sovereign."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis rose, his eyes -literally bloodshot, his mouth trembling convulsively.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Have I a man out of his -senses to deal with?" he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have an honorable -man to deal with."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mad."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man who will prevent -you consummating your crime."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mad, I -say."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A man who would sooner, -oh! far sooner, die; who would kill you even, rather than allow -you to complete his dishonor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Fouquet snatched up -his sword, which D'Artagnan had placed at the head of his bed, -and clenched it resolutely in his hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis frowned, and thrust his hand -into his breast as if in search of a weapon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This movement did not escape -Fouquet, who, full of nobleness and pride in his magnanimity, -threw his sword to a distance from him, and approached Aramis so -close as to touch his shoulder with his disarmed hand.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," he said, "I would -sooner die here on the spot than survive this terrible disgrace; -and if you have any pity left for me, I entreat you to take my -life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis remained silent -and motionless.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not reply?" said -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis raised his head -gently, and a glimmer of hope might be seen once more to animate -his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Reflect, -monseigneur," he said, "upon everything we have to expect.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As the matter now stands, the -king is still alive, and his imprisonment saves your life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied Fouquet, -"you may have been acting on my behalf, but I will not, do not, -accept your services.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But, first of all, I do not wish your ruin.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will leave this house."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis stifled the -exclamation which almost escaped his broken heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am hospitable towards -all who are dwellers beneath my roof," continued Fouquet, with an -air of inexpressible majesty; "you will not be more fatally lost -than he whose ruin you have consummated."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will be so," said -Aramis, in a hoarse, prophetic voice, "you will be so, believe -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I accept the augury, -Monsieur d'Herblay; but nothing shall prevent me, nothing shall -stop me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will leave -Vaux - you must leave France; I give you four hours to place -yourself out of the king's reach."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Four hours?" said -Aramis, scornfully and incredulously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon the word of -Fouquet, no one shall follow you before the expiration of that -time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will therefore -have four hours' advance of those whom the king may wish to -dispatch after you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Four hours!" repeated -Aramis, in a thick, smothered voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is more than you -will need to get on board a vessel and flee to Belle-Isle, which -I give you as a place of refuge."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" murmured -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Belle-Isle is as much -mine for you, as Vaux is mine for the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, D'Herblay, go! as long as I -live, not a hair of your head shall be injured."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you," said -Aramis, with a cold irony of manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go at once, then, and -give me your hand, before we both hasten away; you to save your -life, I to save my honor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis withdrew from his -breast the hand he had concealed there; it was stained with his -blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had dug his -nails into his flesh, as if in punishment for having nursed so -many projects, more vain, insensate, and fleeting than the life -of the man himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet was horror-stricken, and then his heart smote him with -pity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He threw open his -arms as if to embrace him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I had no arms," -murmured Aramis, as wild and terrible in his wrath as the shade -of Dido.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, -without touching Fouquet's hand, he turned his head aside, and -stepped back a pace or two.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His last word was an imprecation, -his last gesture a curse, which his blood-stained hand seemed to -invoke, as it sprinkled on Fouquet's face a few drops of blood -which flowed from his breast.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And both of them darted out of the -room by the secret staircase which led down to the inner -courtyard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -ordered his best horses, while Aramis paused at the foot of the -staircase which led to Porthos's apartment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He reflected profoundly and for some -time, while Fouquet's carriage left the courtyard at full -gallop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Shall I go alone?" said -Aramis to himself, "or warn the prince?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! fury!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Warn the prince, and then - do -what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Take him with -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To carry this -accusing witness about with me everywhere?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> War, too, would follow - civil war, -implacable in its nature!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And without any resource save myself - it is impossible!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What could he do without -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! without me he -will be utterly destroyed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yet who knows - let destiny be -fulfilled - condemned he was, let him remain so then!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good or evil Spirit - gloomy and -scornful Power, whom men call the genius of humanity, thou art a -power more restlessly uncertain, more baselessly useless, than -wild mountain wind!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Chance, thou term'st thyself, but thou art nothing; thou -inflamest everything with thy breath, crumblest mountains at thy -approach, and suddenly art thyself destroyed at the presence of -the Cross of dead wood behind which stand another Power invisible -like thyself - whom thou deniest, perhaps, but whose avenging -hand is on thee, and hurls thee in the dust dishonored and -unnamed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lost! - I am -lost!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What can be -done?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Flee to -Belle-Isle?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, and -leave Porthos behind me, to talk and relate the whole affair to -every one!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, too, -who will have to suffer for what he has done.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will not let poor Porthos -suffer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He seems like one -of the members of my own frame; and his grief or misfortune would -be mine as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -shall leave with me, and shall follow my destiny.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It must be so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Aramis, apprehensive -of meeting any one to whom his hurried movements might appear -suspicious, ascended the staircase without being perceived.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, so recently returned -from Paris, was already in a profound sleep; his huge body forgot -its fatigue, as his mind forgot its thoughts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis entered, light as a shadow, -and placed his nervous grasp on the giant's shoulder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, Porthos," he cried, -"come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos obeyed, rose -from his bed, opened his eyes, even before his intelligence -seemed to be aroused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We leave immediately," -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" returned -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We shall go mounted, -and faster than we have ever gone in our lives."</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> "Dress yourself, my -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And he helped the giant -to dress himself, and thrust his gold and diamonds into his -pocket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst he was -thus engaged, a slight noise attracted his attention, and on -looking up, he saw D'Artagnan watching them through the -half-opened door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -started.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What the devil are you -doing there in such an agitated manner?" said the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush!" said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are going off on a -mission of great importance," added the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are very -fortunate," said the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, dear me!" said -Porthos, "I feel so wearied; I would far sooner have been fast -asleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the service -of the king…."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you seen M. -Fouquet?" said Aramis to D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, this very minute, -in a carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did he say to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Adieu;' nothing -more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was that all?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What else do you think -he could say?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Am I worth -anything now, since you have got into such high favor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Listen," said Aramis, -embracing the musketeer; "your good times are returning -again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will have no -occasion to be jealous of any one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! bah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I predict that -something will happen to you to-day which will increase your -importance more than ever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Really?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know that I know -all the news?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, yes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, Porthos, are you -ready?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am quite ready, -Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us embrace -D'Artagnan first."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the horses?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! there is no want of -them here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you have -mine?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; Porthos has his own -stud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So adieu! -adieu!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The fugitives mounted -their horses beneath the very eyes of the captain of the -musketeers, who held Porthos's stirrup for him, and gazed after -them until they were out of sight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On any other occasion," -thought the Gascon, "I should say that those gentlemen were -making their escape; but in these days politics seem so changed -that such an exit is termed going on a mission.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no objection; let me attend -to my own affairs, that is more than enough for <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me</i>," - and he philosophically -entered his apartments.</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'> -Showing How the Countersign Was Respected 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'> -F</span>ouquet tore along as fast as his horses could drag -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On his way he -trembled with horror at the idea of what had just been revealed -to him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What must have been," -he thought, "the youth of those extraordinary men, who, even as -age is stealing fast upon them, are still able to conceive such -gigantic plans, and carry them through without a tremor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At one moment he could -not resist the idea that all Aramis had just been recounting to -him was nothing more than a dream, and whether the fable itself -was not the snare; so that when Fouquet arrived at the Bastile, -he might possibly find an order of arrest, which would send him -to join the dethroned king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Strongly impressed with this idea, -he gave certain sealed orders on his route, while fresh horses -were being harnessed to his carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These orders were addressed to M. -d'Artagnan and to certain others whose fidelity to the king was -far above suspicion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In this way," said -Fouquet to himself, "prisoner or not, I shall have performed the -duty that I owe my honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The orders will not reach them until after my return, if I should -return free, and consequently they will not have been -unsealed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall take -them back again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I am -delayed; it will be because some misfortune will have befallen -me; and in that case assistance will be sent for me as well as -for the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Prepared in this manner, -the superintendent arrived at the Bastile; he had traveled at the -rate of five leagues and a half the hour.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every circumstance of delay which -Aramis had escaped in his visit to the Bastile befell -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was useless -giving his name, equally useless his being recognized; he could -not succeed in obtaining an entrance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By dint of entreaties, threats, -commands, he succeeded in inducing a sentinel to speak to one of -the subalterns, who went and told the major.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for the governor they did not -even dare disturb him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet sat in his carriage, at the outer gate of the fortress, -chafing with rage and impatience, awaiting the return of the -officers, who at last re-appeared with a sufficiently sulky -air.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Fouquet, -impatiently, "what did the major say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur," -replied the soldier, "the major laughed in my face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He told me that M. Fouquet was at -Vaux, and that even were he at Paris, M. Fouquet would not get up -at so early an hour as the present."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordieu!</i> you are an absolute set -of fools," cried the minister, darting out of the carriage; and -before the subaltern had time to shut the gate, Fouquet sprang -through it, and ran forward in spite of the soldier, who cried -out for assistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet gained ground, regardless of the cries of the man, who, -however, having at last come up with Fouquet, called out to the -sentinel of the second gate, "Look out, look out, sentinel!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man crossed his pike -before the minister; but the latter, robust and active, and -hurried away, too, by his passion, wrested the pike from the -soldier and struck him a violent blow on the shoulder with -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The subaltern, who -approached too closely, received a share of the blows as -well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Both of them -uttered loud and furious cries, at the sound of which the whole -of the first body of the advanced guard poured out of the -guardhouse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Among them -there was one, however, who recognized the superintendent, and -who called, "Monseigneur, ah! monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stop, stop, you fellows!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he effectually checked the -soldiers, who were on the point of revenging their -companions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -desired them to open the gate, but they refused to do so without -the countersign; he desired them to inform the governor of his -presence; but the latter had already heard the disturbance at the -gate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He ran forward, -followed by his major, and accompanied by a picket of twenty men, -persuaded that an attack was being made on the Bastile.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Baisemeaux also recognized -Fouquet immediately, and dropped the sword he bravely had been -brandishing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monseigneur," he -stammered, "how can I excuse - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said the -superintendent, flushed with anger, and heated by his exertions, -"I congratulate you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -watch and ward are admirably kept."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux turned pale, -thinking that this remark was made ironically, and portended a -furious burst of anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But Fouquet had recovered his breath, and, beckoning the sentinel -and the subaltern, who were rubbing their shoulders, towards him, -he said, "There are twenty pistoles for the sentinel, and fifty -for the officer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pray -receive my compliments, gentlemen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will not fail to speak to his -majesty about you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -now, M. Baisemeaux, a word with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And he followed the -governor to his official residence, accompanied by a murmur of -general satisfaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Baisemeaux was already trembling with shame and uneasiness.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis's early visit, from -that moment, seemed to possess consequences, which a functionary -such as he (Baisemeaux) was, was perfectly justified in -apprehending.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -quite another thing, however, when Fouquet in a sharp tone of -voice, and with an imperious look, said, "You have seen M. -d'Herblay this morning?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And are you not -horrified at the crime of which you have made yourself an -accomplice?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," thought -Baisemeaux, "good so far;" and then he added, aloud, "But what -crime, monseigneur, do you allude to?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That for which you can -be quartered alive, monsieur - do not forget that!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But this is not a time to show -anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Conduct me -immediately to the prisoner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To what prisoner?" said -Baisemeaux, trembling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You pretend to be -ignorant?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very good - it -is the best plan for you, perhaps; for if, in fact, you were to -admit your participation in such a crime, it would be all over -with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish, -therefore, to seem to believe in your assumption of -ignorance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I entreat you, -monseigneur - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That will do.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lead me to the prisoner."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To Marchiali?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who is Marchiali?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The prisoner who was -brought back this morning by M. d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is called -Marchiali?" said the superintendent, his conviction somewhat -shaken by Baisemeaux's cool manner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur; that -is the name under which he was inscribed here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet looked steadily -at Baisemeaux, as if he would read his very heart; and perceived, -with that clear-sightedness most men possess who are accustomed -to the exercise of power, that the man was speaking with perfect -sincerity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, in -observing his face for a few moments, he could not believe that -Aramis would have chosen such a confidant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the prisoner," -said the superintendent to him, "whom M. d'Herblay carried away -the day before yesterday?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And whom he brought -back this morning?" added Fouquet, quickly: for he understood -immediately the mechanism of Aramis's plan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And his name is -Marchiali, you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, Marchiali.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If monseigneur has come here -to remove him, so much the better, for I was going to write about -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What has he done, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ever since this morning -he has annoyed me extremely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He has had such terrible fits of -passion, as almost to make me believe that he would bring the -Bastile itself down about our ears."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will soon relieve you -of his possession," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! so much the -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Conduct me to his -prison."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will -monseigneur give me the order?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What order?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An order -from the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait until I sign you -one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That will not be -sufficient, monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I must have an order from the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet assumed an -irritated expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "As -you are so scrupulous," he said, "with regard to allowing -prisoners to leave, show me the order by which this one was set -at liberty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Baisemeaux showed him -the order to release Seldon.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good," said -Fouquet; "but Seldon is not Marchiali."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But Marchiali is not at -liberty, monseigneur; he is here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you said that M. -d'Herblay carried him away and brought him back again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I did not say so."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So surely -did you say it, that I almost seem to hear it now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was a slip of my -tongue, then, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take care, M. -Baisemeaux, take care."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have nothing to fear, -monseigneur; I am acting according to the very strictest -regulation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you dare to say -so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I would say so in -the presence of one of the apostles.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Herblay brought me an order to -set Seldon at liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Seldon is free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I tell you that -Marchiali has left the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You must prove -that, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let me see -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You, monseigneur, -who govern this kingdom, know very well that no one can see any -of the prisoners without an express order from the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. d'Herblay has -entered, however."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That remains to be -proved, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. de Baisemeaux, -once more I warn you to pay particular attention to what you are -saying."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"All the documents -are there, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. d'Herblay is -overthrown."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Overthrown? - M. -d'Herblay!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Impossible!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You see that he -has undoubtedly influenced you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, monseigneur; -what does, in fact, influence me, is the king's service.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am doing my duty.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me an order from him, and -you shall enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stay, M. le -gouverneur, I give you my word that if you allow me to see the -prisoner, I will give you an order from the king at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Give it to me now, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And that, if you -refuse me, I will have you and all your officers arrested on the -spot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Before you commit -such an act of violence, monseigneur, you will reflect," said -Baisemeaux, who had turned very pale, "that we will only obey an -order signed by the king; and that it will be just as easy for -you to obtain one to see Marchiali as to obtain one to do me so -much injury; me, too, who am perfectly innocent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"True.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> True!" cried Fouquet, furiously; -"perfectly true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Baisemeaux," he added, in a sonorous voice, drawing the unhappy -governor towards him, "do you know why I am so anxious to speak -to the prisoner?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, monseigneur; -and allow me to observe that you are terrifying me out of my -senses; I am trembling all over - in fact, I feel as though I -were about to faint."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will stand a -better chance of fainting outright, Monsieur Baisemeaux, when I -return here at the head of ten thousand men and thirty pieces of -cannon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good heavens, -monseigneur, you are losing your senses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"When I have roused -the whole population of Paris against you and your accursed -towers, and have battered open the gates of this place, and -hanged you to the topmost tree of yonder pinnacle!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur! -monseigneur! for pity's sake!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I give you ten -minutes to make up your mind," added Fouquet, in a calm -voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will sit down -here, in this armchair, and wait for you; if, in ten minutes' -time, you still persist, I leave this place, and you may think me -as mad as you like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -- you shall <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>see!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux stamped -his foot on the ground like a man in a state of despair, but he -did not reply a single syllable; whereupon Fouquet seized a pen -and ink, and wrote:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Order for M. le -Prévôt des Marchands to assemble the municipal guard -and to march upon the Bastile on the king's immediate -service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux shrugged -his shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -wrote:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Order for the Duc -de Bouillon and M. le Prince de Condé to assume the -command of the Swiss guards, of the king's guards, and to march -upon the Bastile on the king's immediate service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux -reflected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet still -wrote:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Order for every -soldier, citizen, or gentleman to seize and apprehend, wherever -he may be found, le Chevalier d'Herblay, Evêque de Vannes, -and his accomplices, who are: first, M. de Baisemeaux, governor -of the Bastile, suspected of the crimes of high treason and -rebellion - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stop, -monseigneur!" cried Baisemeaux; "I do not understand a single jot -of the whole matter; but so many misfortunes, even were it -madness itself that had set them at their awful work, might -happen here in a couple of hours, that the king, by whom I must -be judged, will see whether I have been wrong in withdrawing the -countersign before this flood of imminent catastrophes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come with me to the keep, -monseigneur, you shall see Marchiali."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet darted out -of the room, followed by Baisemeaux as he wiped the perspiration -from his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What a -terrible morning!" he said; "what a disgrace for <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>me!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Walk faster," -replied Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux made a -sign to the jailer to precede them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was afraid of his companion, -which the latter could not fail to perceive.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A truce to this -child's play," he said, roughly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Let the man remain here; take the -keys yourself, and show me the way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not a single person, do you -understand, must hear what is going to take place here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said -Baisemeaux, undecided.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Again!" cried M. -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah! say 'no' at -once, and I will leave the Bastile and will myself carry my own -dispatches."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Baisemeaux bowed -his head, took the keys, and unaccompanied, except by the -minister, ascended the staircase.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The higher they advanced up the -spiral staircase, the more clearly did certain muffled murmurs -become distinct appeals and fearful imprecations.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is that?" -asked Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is your -Marchiali," said the governor; "this is the way these madmen -scream."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And he accompanied -that reply with a glance more pregnant with injurious allusion, -as far as Fouquet was concerned, than politeness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter trembled; he had just -recognized in one cry more terrible than any that had preceded -it, the king's voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -paused on the staircase, snatching the bunch of keys from -Baisemeaux, who thought this new madman was going to dash out his -brains with one of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Ah!" he cried, "M. d'Herblay did not say a word about that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Give me the keys -at once!" cried Fouquet, tearing them from his hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Which is the key of the door I am -to open?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A fearful cry, -followed by a violent blow against the door, made the whole -staircase resound with the echo.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Leave this place," -said Fouquet to Baisemeaux, in a threatening tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I ask nothing -better," murmured the latter, to himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There will be a couple of madmen -face to face, and the one will kill the other, I am sure."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Go!" repeated -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If you place -your foot on this staircase before I call you, remember that you -shall take the place of the meanest prisoner in the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This job will kill -me, I am sure it will," muttered Baisemeaux, as he withdrew with -tottering steps.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The prisoner's -cries became more and more terrible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Fouquet had satisfied himself -that Baisemeaux had reached the bottom of the staircase, he -inserted the key in the first lock.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was then that he heard the -hoarse, choking voice of the king, crying out, in a frenzy of -rage, "Help, help!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -the king."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The key of the -second door was not the same as the first, and Fouquet was -obliged to look for it on the bunch.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, however, furious and -almost mad with rage and passion, shouted at the top of his -voice, "It was M. Fouquet who brought me here.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Help me against M. Fouquet!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am the king!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Help the king against M. -Fouquet!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These cries -filled the minister's heart with terrible emotions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were followed by a shower of -blows leveled against the door with a part of the broken chair -with which the king had armed himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet at last succeeded in finding -the key.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king was -almost exhausted; he could hardly articulate distinctly as he -shouted, "Death to Fouquet! death to the traitor Fouquet!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The door flew open.</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'>The -King's Gratitude.</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 two men were on the point of darting towards each -other when they suddenly and abruptly stopped, as a mutual -recognition took place, and each uttered a cry of horror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you come to -assassinate me, monsieur?" said the king, when he recognized -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king in this -state!" murmured the minister.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Nothing could be more -terrible indeed than the appearance of the young prince at the -moment Fouquet had surprised him; his clothes were in tatters; -his shirt, open and torn to rags, was stained with sweat and with -the blood which streamed from his lacerated breast and arms.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Haggard, ghastly pale, his -hair in disheveled masses, Louis XIV. presented the most perfect -picture of despair, distress, anger and fear combined that could -possibly be united in one figure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet was so touched, so affected -and disturbed by it, that he ran towards him with his arms -stretched out and his eyes filled with tears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis held up the massive piece of -wood of which he had made such a furious use.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said Fouquet, in -a voice trembling with emotion, "do you not recognize the most -faithful of your friends?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A friend - you!" -repeated Louis, gnashing his teeth in a manner which betrayed his -hate and desire for speedy vengeance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The most respectful of -your servants," added Fouquet, throwing himself on his -knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king let the -rude weapon fall from his grasp.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet approached him, kissed his -knees, and took him in his arms with inconceivable -tenderness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My king, my child," he -said, "how you must have suffered!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis, recalled to -himself by the change of situation, looked at himself, and -ashamed of the disordered state of his apparel, ashamed of his -conduct, and ashamed of the air of pity and protection that was -shown towards him, drew back.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet did not understand this -movement; he did not perceive that the king's feeling of pride -would never forgive him for having been a witness of such an -exhibition of weakness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, sire," he said, -"you are free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Free?" repeated the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! you set me at -liberty, then, after having dared to lift up your hand against -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do not believe -that!" exclaimed Fouquet, indignantly; "you cannot believe me to -be guilty of such an act."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And rapidly, warmly -even, he related the whole particulars of the intrigue, the -details of which are already known to the reader.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While the recital continued, Louis -suffered the most horrible anguish of mind; and when it was -finished, the magnitude of the danger he had run struck him far -more than the importance of the secret relative to his twin -brother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," he said, -suddenly to Fouquet, "this double birth is a falsehood; it is -impossible - you cannot have been the dupe of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is impossible, I -tell you, that the honor, the virtue of my mother can be -suspected, and my first minister has not yet done justice on the -criminals!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Reflect, -sire, before you are hurried away by anger," replied -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The birth of -your brother - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have only one brother -- and that is Monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You know it as well as myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is a plot, I tell you, -beginning with the governor of the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be careful, sire, for -this man has been deceived as every one else has by the prince's -likeness to yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Likeness?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Absurd!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This Marchiali must be -singularly like your majesty, to be able to deceive every one's -eye," Fouquet persisted.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ridiculous!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not say -so, sire; those who had prepared everything in order to face and -deceive your ministers, your mother, your officers of state, the -members of your family, must be quite confident of the -resemblance between you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But where are these -persons, then?" murmured the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At Vaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At Vaux! and you suffer -them to remain there!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My most instant duty -appeared to me to be your majesty's release.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have accomplished that duty; and -now, whatever your majesty may command, shall be done.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I await your orders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis reflected for a -few moments.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Muster all the troops -in Paris," he said.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All the necessary -orders are given for that purpose," replied Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have given orders!" -exclaimed the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For that purpose, yes, -sire; your majesty will be at the head of ten thousand men in -less than an hour."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The only reply the king -made was to take hold of Fouquet's hand with such an expression -of feeling, that it was very easy to perceive how strongly he -had, until that remark, maintained his suspicions of the -minister, notwithstanding the latter's intervention.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And with these troops," -he said, "we shall go at once and besiege in your house the -rebels who by this time will have established and intrenched -themselves therein."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should be surprised -if that were the case," replied Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because their chief - -the very soul of the enterprise - having been unmasked by me, the -whole plan seems to me to have miscarried."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have unmasked this -false prince also?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I have not seen -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whom have you seen, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The leader of the -enterprise, not that unhappy young man; the latter is merely an -instrument, destined through his whole life to wretchedness, I -plainly perceive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Most certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is M. l'Abbé -d'Herblay, Evêque de Vannes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He was my friend, -sire," replied Fouquet, nobly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"An unfortunate -circumstance for you," said the king, in a less generous tone of -voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Such friendships, -sire, had nothing dishonorable in them so long as I was ignorant -of the crime."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You should have -foreseen it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If I am guilty, I -place myself in your majesty's hands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur Fouquet, it was not that I -meant," returned the king, sorry to have shown the bitterness of -his thought in such a manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I assure you that, notwithstanding -the mask with which the villain covered his face, I had something -like a vague suspicion that he was the very man.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But with this chief of the -enterprise there was a man of prodigious strength, the one who -menaced me with a force almost herculean; what is he?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It must be his -friend the Baron du Vallon, formerly one of the musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The friend of -D'Artagnan? the friend of the Comte de la Fère?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!" exclaimed the king, as he -paused at the name of the latter, "we must not forget the -connection that existed between the conspirators and M. de -Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, sire, do not -go too far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de la -Fère is the most honorable man in France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be satisfied with those whom I -deliver up to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With those whom -you deliver up to me, you say?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very good, for you will deliver up -those who are guilty to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What does your -majesty understand by that?" inquired Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I understand," -replied the king, "that we shall soon arrive at Vaux with a large -body of troops, that we will lay violent hands upon that nest of -vipers, and that not a soul shall escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty will -put these men to death!" cried Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To the very -meanest of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us understand -one another, Monsieur Fouquet," said the king, haughtily.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We no longer live in times -when assassination was the only and the last resource kings held -in reservation at extremity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, Heaven be praised!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have parliaments who sit and judge -in my name, and I have scaffolds on which supreme authority is -carried out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet turned -pale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will take the -liberty of observing to your majesty, that any proceedings -instituted respecting these matters would bring down the greatest -scandal upon the dignity of the throne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The august name of Anne of Austria -must never be allowed to pass the lips of the people accompanied -by a smile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Justice must be -done, however, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good, sire; but -royal blood must not be shed upon a scaffold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The royal blood! -you believe that!" cried the king with fury in his voice, -stamping his foot on the ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "This double birth is an invention; -and in that invention, particularly, do I see M. d'Herblay's -crime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is the crime I -wish to punish rather than the violence, or the insult."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And punish it with -death, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With death; yes, -monsieur, I have said it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," said the -surintendant, with firmness, as he raised his head proudly, "your -majesty will take the life, if you please, of your brother -Philippe of France; that concerns you alone, and you will -doubtless consult the queen-mother upon the subject.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whatever she may command will be -perfectly correct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do -not wish to mix myself up in it, not even for the honor of your -crown, but I have a favor to ask of you, and I beg to submit it -to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Speak," said the -king, in no little degree agitated by his minister's last -words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do you -require?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The pardon of M. -d'Herblay and of M. du Vallon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My assassins?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Two rebels, sire, -that is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understand, then, you ask me to -forgive your friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My friends!" said -Fouquet, deeply wounded.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your friends, -certainly; but the safety of the state requires that an exemplary -punishment should be inflicted on the guilty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will not permit -myself to remind your majesty that I have just restored you to -liberty, and have saved your life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will not allow -myself to remind your majesty that had M. d'Herblay wished to -carry out his character of an assassin, he could very easily have -assassinated your majesty this morning in the forest of Senart, -and all would have been over."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king started.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A pistol-bullet -through the head," pursued Fouquet, "and the disfigured features -of Louis XIV., which no one could have recognized, would be M. -d'Herblay's complete and entire justification."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king turned -pale and giddy at the bare idea of the danger he had escaped.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If M. d'Herblay," -continued Fouquet, "had been an assassin, he had no occasion to -inform me of his plan in order to succeed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Freed from the real king, it would -have been impossible in all futurity to guess the false.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And if the usurper had been -recognized by Anne of Austria, he would still have been - her -son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The usurper, as far -as Monsieur d'Herblay's conscience was concerned, was still a -king of the blood of Louis XIII.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Moreover, the conspirator, in that -course, would have had security, secrecy, impunity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A pistol-bullet would have procured -him all that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For the -sake of Heaven, sire, grant me his forgiveness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king, instead -of being touched by the picture, so faithfully drawn in all -details, of Aramis's generosity, felt himself most painfully and -cruelly humiliated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -unconquerable pride revolted at the idea that a man had held -suspended at the end of his finger the thread of his royal -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every word that -fell from Fouquet's lips, and which he thought most efficacious -in procuring his friend's pardon, seemed to pour another drop of -poison into the already ulcerated heart of Louis XIV.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing could bend or soften -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Addressing himself -to Fouquet, he said, "I really don't know, monsieur, why you -should solicit the pardon of these men.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What good is there in asking that -which can be obtained without solicitation?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not -understand you, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is not -difficult, either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where -am I now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In the Bastile, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; in a -dungeon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am looked upon -as a madman, am I not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And no one is -known here but Marchiali?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well; change -nothing in the position of affairs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let the poor madman rot between the -slimy walls of the Bastile, and M. d'Herblay and M. du Vallon -will stand in no need of my forgiveness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Their new king will absolve -them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty does -me a great injustice, sire; and you are wrong," replied Fouquet, -dryly; "I am not child enough, nor is M. d'Herblay silly enough, -to have omitted to make all these reflections; and if I had -wished to make a new king, as you say, I had no occasion to have -come here to force open the gates and doors of the Bastile, to -free you from this place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -That would show a want of even common sense.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your majesty's mind is disturbed by -anger; otherwise you would be far from offending, groundlessly, -the very one of your servants who has rendered you the most -important service of all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Louis perceived -that he had gone too far; that the gates of the Bastile were -still closed upon him, whilst, by degrees, the floodgates were -gradually being opened, behind which the generous-hearted Fouquet -had restrained his anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I did not say that to humiliate you, Heaven knows, monsieur," he -replied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Only you are -addressing yourself to me in order to obtain a pardon, and I -answer according to my conscience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so, judging by my conscience, -the criminals we speak of are not worthy of consideration or -forgiveness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet was -silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What I do is as -generous," added the king, "as what you have done, for I am in -your power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will even -say it is more generous, inasmuch as you place before me certain -conditions upon which my liberty, my life, may depend; and to -reject which is to make a sacrifice of both."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I was wrong, -certainly," replied Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, - I had the appearance of -extorting a favor; I regret it, and entreat your majesty's -forgiveness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you are -forgiven, my dear Monsieur Fouquet," said the king, with a smile, -which restored the serene expression of his features, which so -many circumstances had altered since the preceding evening.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have my own -forgiveness," replied the minister, with some degree of -persistence; "but M. d'Herblay, and M. du Vallon?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They will never -obtain theirs, as long as I live," replied the inflexible -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do me the kindness -not to speak of it again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty shall -be obeyed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you will bear -me no ill-will for it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! no, sire; for -I anticipated the event."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You had -'anticipated' that I should refuse to forgive those -gentlemen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly; and all -my measures were taken in consequence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you mean -to say?" cried the king, surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. d'Herblay came, -as may be said, to deliver himself into my hands.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Herblay left to me the -happiness of saving my king and my country.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could not condemn M. d'Herblay to -death; nor could I, on the other hand, expose him to your -majesty's justifiable wrath; it would have been just the same as -if I had killed him myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! and what -have you done?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire, I gave M. -d'Herblay the best horses in my stables and four hours' start -over all those your majesty might, probably, dispatch after -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Be it so!" -murmured the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But -still, the world is wide enough and large enough for those whom I -may send to overtake your horses, notwithstanding the 'four -hours' start' which you have given to M. d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In giving him -these four hours, sire, I knew I was giving him his life, and he -will save his life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what way?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"After having -galloped as hard as possible, with the four hours' start, before -your musketeers, he will reach my château of Belle-Isle, -where I have given him a safe asylum."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That may be!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you forget that you have -made me a present of Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But not for you to -arrest my friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You take it back -again, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As far as that -goes - yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My musketeers -shall capture it, and the affair will be at an end."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Neither your -musketeers, nor your whole army could take Belle-Isle," said -Fouquet, coldly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Belle-Isle is impregnable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king became -perfectly livid; a lightning flash seemed to dart from his -eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet felt that -he was lost, but he as not one to shrink when the voice of honor -spoke loudly within him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He bore the king's wrathful gaze; the latter swallowed his rage, -and after a few moments' silence, said, "Are we going to return -to Vaux?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am at your -majesty's orders," replied Fouquet, with a low bow; "but I think -that your majesty can hardly dispense with changing your clothes -previous to appearing before your court."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We shall pass by -the Louvre," said the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And they left the prison, passing -before Baisemeaux, who looked completely bewildered as he saw -Marchiali once more leave; and, in his helplessness, tore out the -major portion of his few remaining hairs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was perfectly true, however, that -Fouquet wrote and gave him an authority for the prisoner's -release, and that the king wrote beneath it, "Seen and approved, -Louis"; a piece of madness that Baisemeaux, incapable of putting -two ideas together, acknowledged by giving himself a terrible -blow on the forehead with his own fist.</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 -False King.</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 the meantime, usurped royalty was playing out its part -bravely at Vaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe -gave orders that for his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>petit lever</i> the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>grandes entrées</i>, already -prepared to appear before the king, should be introduced.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He determined to give this -order notwithstanding the absence of M. d'Herblay, who did not -return - our readers know the reason.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the prince, not believing that -absence could be prolonged, wished, as all rash spirits do, to -try his valor and his fortune far from all protection and -instruction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Another -reason urged him to this - Anne of Austria was about to appear; -the guilty mother was about to stand in the presence of her -sacrificed son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe -was not willing, if he had a weakness, to render the man a -witness of it before whom he was bound thenceforth to display so -much strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe -opened his folding doors, and several persons entered -silently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe did -not stir whilst his <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>valets -de chambre</i> dressed him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had watched, the evening before, -all the habits of his brother, and played the king in such a -manner as to awaken no suspicion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was thus completely dressed in -hunting costume when he received his visitors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His own memory and the notes of -Aramis announced everybody to him, first of all Anne of Austria, -to whom Monsieur gave his hand, and then Madame with M. de -Saint-Aignan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He smiled -at seeing these countenances, but trembled on recognizing his -mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That still so -noble and imposing figure, ravaged by pain, pleaded in his heart -the cause of the famous queen who had immolated a child to -reasons of state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -found his mother still handsome.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He knew that Louis XIV. loved her, -and he promised himself to love her likewise, and not to prove a -scourge to her old age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He contemplated his brother with a tenderness easily to be -understood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter -had usurped nothing, had cast no shades athwart his life.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A separate tree, he allowed -the stem to rise without heeding its elevation or majestic -life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe promised -himself to be a kind brother to this prince, who required nothing -but gold to minister to his pleasures.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bowed with a friendly air to -Saint-Aignan, who was all reverences and smiles, and trembling -held out his hand to Henrietta, his sister-in-law, whose beauty -struck him; but he saw in the eyes of that princess an expression -of coldness which would facilitate, as he thought, their future -relations.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How much more easy," -thought he, "it will be to be the brother of that woman than her -gallant, if she evinces towards me a coldness that my brother -could not have for her, but which is imposed upon me as a -duty."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The only visit he -dreaded at this moment was that of the queen; his heart - his -mind - had just been shaken by so violent a trial, that, in spite -of their firm temperament, they would not, perhaps, support -another shock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Happily -the queen did not come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Then commenced, on the part of Anne of Austria, a political -dissertation upon the welcome M. Fouquet had given to the house -of France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She mixed up -hostilities with compliments addressed to the king, and questions -as to his health, with little maternal flatteries and diplomatic -artifices.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, my son," said -she, "are you convinced with regard to M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Saint-Aignan," said -Philippe, "have the goodness to go and inquire after the -queen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At these words, the -first Philippe had pronounced aloud, the slight difference that -there was between his voice and that of the king was sensible to -maternal ears, and Anne of Austria looked earnestly at her -son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saint-Aignan left -the room, and Philippe continued:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, I do not like -to hear M. Fouquet ill-spoken of, you know I do not - and you -have even spoken well of him yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true; therefore -I only question you on the state of your sentiments with respect -to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," said Henrietta, -"I, on my part, have always liked M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is a man of good taste, - a -superior man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A superintendent who is -never sordid or niggardly," added Monsieur; "and who pays in gold -all the orders I have on him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every one in this -thinks too much of himself, and nobody for the state," said the -old queen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. Fouquet, -it is a fact, M. Fouquet is ruining the state."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, mother!" replied -Philippe, in rather a lower key, "do you likewise constitute -yourself the buckler of M. Colbert?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How is that?" replied -the old queen, rather surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, in truth," replied -Philippe, "you speak that just as your old friend Madame de -Chevreuse would speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you mention -Madame de Chevreuse to me?" said she, "and what sort of humor are -you in to-day towards me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Philippe continued: "Is -not Madame de Chevreuse always in league against somebody?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Has not Madame de Chevreuse -been to pay you a visit, mother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, you speak to -me now in such a manner that I can almost fancy I am listening to -your father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My father did not like -Madame de Chevreuse, and had good reason for not liking her," -said the prince.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "For my -part, I like her no better than <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>he</i> did, and if she thinks proper -to come here as she formerly did, to sow divisions and hatreds -under the pretext of begging money - why - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! what?" said Anne -of Austria, proudly, herself provoking the storm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" replied the -young man firmly, "I will drive Madame de Chevreuse out of my -kingdom - and with her all who meddle with its secrets and -mysteries."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He had not calculated -the effect of this terrible speech, or perhaps he wished to judge -the effect of it, like those who, suffering from a chronic pain, -and seeking to break the monotony of that suffering, touch their -wound to procure a sharper pang.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne of Austria was nearly fainting; -her eyes, open but meaningless, ceased to see for several -seconds; she stretched out her arms towards her other son, who -supported and embraced her without fear of irritating the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," murmured she, -"you are treating your mother very cruelly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In what respect, -madame?" replied he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -am only speaking of Madame de Chevreuse; does my mother prefer -Madame de Chevreuse to the security of the state and of my -person?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, -madame, I tell you Madame de Chevreuse has returned to France to -borrow money, and that she addressed herself to M. Fouquet to -sell him a certain secret."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A certain secret!" -cried Anne of Austria.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Concerning pretended -robberies that monsieur le surintendant had committed, which is -false," added Philippe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"M. Fouquet rejected her offers with indignation, preferring the -esteem of the king to complicity with such intriguers.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then Madame de Chevreuse sold -the secret to M. Colbert, and as she is insatiable, and was not -satisfied with having extorted a hundred thousand crowns from a -servant of the state, she has taken a still bolder flight, in -search of surer sources of supply.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that true, madame?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know all, sire," -said the queen, more uneasy than irritated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now," continued -Philippe, "I have good reason to dislike this fury, who comes to -my court to plan the shame of some and the ruin of others.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If Heaven has suffered certain -crimes to be committed, and has concealed them in the shadow of -its clemency, I will not permit Madame de Chevreuse to counteract -the just designs of fate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The latter part of this -speech had so agitated the queen-mother, that her son had pity on -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He took her hand and -kissed it tenderly; she did not feel that in that kiss, given in -spite of repulsion and bitterness of the heart, there was a -pardon for eight years of suffering.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe allowed the silence of a -moment to swallow the emotions that had just developed -themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, with a -cheerful smile:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will not go to-day," -said he, "I have a plan."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And, turning towards the door, he hoped to see Aramis, whose -absence began to alarm him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The queen-mother wished to leave the -room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Remain where you are, -mother," said he, "I wish you to make your peace with M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I bear M. Fouquet no -ill-will; I only dreaded his prodigalities."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will put that to -rights, and will take nothing of the superintendent but his good -qualities."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is your majesty -looking for?" said Henrietta, seeing the king's eyes constantly -turned towards the door, and wishing to let fly a little poisoned -arrow at his heart, supposing he was so anxiously expecting -either La Vallière or a letter from her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My sister," said the -young man, who had divined her thought, thanks to that marvelous -perspicuity of which fortune was from that time about to allow -him the exercise, "my sister, I am expecting a most distinguished -man, a most able counselor, whom I wish to present to you all, -recommending him to your good graces.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! come in, then, D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What does your majesty -wish?" said D'Artagnan, appearing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where is monsieur the -bishop of Vannes, your friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, sire - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am waiting for him, -and he does not come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let -him be sought for."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan remained for -an instant stupefied; but soon, reflecting that Aramis had left -Vaux privately on a mission from the king, he concluded that the -king wished to preserve the secret.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Sire," replied he, "does your -majesty absolutely require M. d'Herblay to be brought to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Absolutely is not the -word," said Philippe; "I do not want him so particularly as that; -but if he can be found - "<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thought -so," said D'Artagnan to himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is this M. d'Herblay -the bishop of Vannes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A friend of M. -Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, madame; an old -musketeer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Anne of Austria -blushed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One of the four braves -who formerly performed such prodigies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The old queen repented -of having wished to bite; she broke off the conversation, in -order to preserve the rest of her teeth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Whatever may be your choice, sire," -said she, "I have no doubt it will be excellent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> All bowed in support of -that sentiment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will find in him," -continued Philippe, "the depth and penetration of M. de -Richelieu, without the avarice of M. de Mazarin!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A prime minister, -sire?" said Monsieur, in a fright.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will tell you all -about that, brother; but it is strange that M. d'Herblay is not -here!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He called out:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let M. Fouquet be -informed that I wish to speak to him - oh! before you, before -you; do not retire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. de Saint-Aignan -returned, bringing satisfactory news of the queen, who only kept -her bed from precaution, and to have strength to carry out the -king's wishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst -everybody was seeking M. Fouquet and Aramis, the new king quietly -continued his experiments, and everybody, family, officers, -servants, had not the least suspicion of his identity, his air, -his voice, and manners were so like the king's.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On his side, Philippe, applying to -all countenances the accurate descriptions and key-notes of -character supplied by his accomplice Aramis, conducted himself so -as not to give birth to a doubt in the minds of those who -surrounded him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing -from that time could disturb the usurper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With what strange facility had -Providence just reversed the loftiest fortune of the world to -substitute the lowliest in its stead!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe admired the goodness of God -with regard to himself, and seconded it with all the resources of -his admirable nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -he felt, at times, something like a specter gliding between him -and the rays of his new glory.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis did not appear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The conversation had languished in -the royal family; Philippe, preoccupied, forgot to dismiss his -brother and Madame Henrietta.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter were astonished, and -began, by degrees, to lose all patience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne of Austria stooped towards her -son's ear and addressed some words to him in Spanish.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe was completely ignorant of -that language, and grew pale at this unexpected obstacle.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as if the spirit of the -imperturbable Aramis had covered him with his infallibility, -instead of appearing disconcerted, Philippe rose.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well! what?" said Anne of -Austria.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is all that -noise?" said Philippe, turning round towards the door of the -second staircase.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And a voice was heard -saying, "This way, this way!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A few steps more, sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The voice of M. -Fouquet," said D'Artagnan, who was standing close to the -queen-mother.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then M. d'Herblay -cannot be far off," added Philippe.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But he then saw what he -little thought to have beheld so near to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All eyes were turned towards the -door at which M. Fouquet was expected to enter; but it was not M. -Fouquet who entered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -terrible cry resounded from all corners of the chamber, a painful -cry uttered by the king and all present.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is given to but few men, even -those whose destiny contains the strangest elements, and -accidents the most wonderful, to contemplate such a spectacle -similar to that which presented itself in the royal chamber at -that moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -half-closed shutters only admitted the entrance of an uncertain -light passing through thick violet velvet curtains lined with -silk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this soft shade, -the eyes were by degrees dilated, and every one present saw -others rather with imagination than with actual sight.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There could not, however, -escape, in these circumstances, one of the surrounding details; -and the new object which presented itself appeared as luminous as -though it shone out in full sunlight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So it happened with Louis XIV., when -he showed himself, pale and frowning, in the doorway of the -secret stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The face -of Fouquet appeared behind him, stamped with sorrow and -determination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -queen-mother, who perceived Louis XIV., and who held the hand of -Philippe, uttered a cry of which we have spoken, as if she beheld -a phantom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur was -bewildered, and kept turning his head in astonishment from one to -the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame made a -step forward, thinking she was looking at the form of her -brother-in-law reflected in a mirror.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, in fact, the illusion was -possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two -princes, both pale as death - for we renounce the hope of being -able to describe the fearful state of Philippe - trembling, -clenching their hands convulsively, measured each other with -looks, and darted their glances, sharp as poniards, at each -other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Silent, panting, -bending forward, they appeared as if about to spring upon an -enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The unheard-of -resemblance of countenance, gesture, shape, height, even to the -resemblance of costume, produced by chance - for Louis XIV. had -been to the Louvre and put on a violet-colored dress - the -perfect analogy of the two princes, completed the consternation -of Anne of Austria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -yet she did not at once guess the truth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There are misfortunes in life so -truly dreadful that no one will at first accept them; people -rather believe in the supernatural and the impossible.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis had not reckoned on -these obstacles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -expected that he had only to appear to be acknowledged.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A living sun, he could not -endure the suspicion of equality with any one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not admit that every torch -should not become darkness at the instant he shone out with his -conquering ray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the -aspect of Philippe, then, he was perhaps more terrified than any -one round him, and his silence, his immobility were, this time, a -concentration and a calm which precede the violent explosions of -concentrated passion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But Fouquet! who shall -paint his emotion and stupor in presence of this living portrait -of his master!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -thought Aramis was right, that this newly-arrived was a king as -pure in his race as the other, and that, for having repudiated -all participation in this <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coup d'état</i>, so -skillfully got up by the General of the Jesuits, he must be a mad -enthusiast, unworthy of ever dipping his hands in political grand -strategy work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then -it was the blood of Louis XIII. which Fouquet was sacrificing to -the blood of Louis XIII.; it was to a selfish ambition he was -sacrificing a noble ambition; to the right of keeping he -sacrificed the right of having.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The whole extent of his fault was -revealed to him at simple sight of the pretender.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All that passed in the mind of -Fouquet was lost upon the persons present.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had five minutes to focus -meditation on this point of conscience; five minutes, that is to -say five ages, during which the two kings and their family -scarcely found energy to breathe after so terrible a shock.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, leaning against -the wall, in front of Fouquet, with his hand to his brow, asked -himself the cause of such a wonderful prodigy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He could not have said at once why -he doubted, but he knew assuredly that he had reason to doubt, -and that in this meeting of the two Louis XIV.s lay all the doubt -and difficulty that during late days had rendered the conduct of -Aramis so suspicious to the musketeer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These ideas were, however, enveloped -in a haze, a veil of mystery.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The actors in this assembly seemed -to swim in the vapors of a confused waking.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly Louis XIV., more impatient -and more accustomed to command, ran to one of the shutters, which -he opened, tearing the curtains in his eagerness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A flood of living light entered the -chamber, and made Philippe draw back to the alcove.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis seized upon this movement with -eagerness, and addressing himself to the queen:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My mother," said he, -"do you not acknowledge your son, since every one here has -forgotten his king!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anne -of Austria started, and raised her arms towards Heaven, without -being able to articulate a single word.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My mother," said -Philippe, with a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> calm -voice, "do you not acknowledge your son?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And this time, in his turn, Louis -drew back.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As to Anne of Austria, -struck suddenly in head and heart with fell remorse, she lost her -equilibrium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one -aiding her, for all were petrified, she sank back in her <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fauteuil</i>, breathing a -weak, trembling sigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Louis could not endure the spectacle and the affront.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bounded towards D'Artagnan, over -whose brain a vertigo was stealing and who staggered as he caught -at the door for support.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>A moi! mousquetaire!</i>" said -he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Look us in the face -and say which is the paler, he or I!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This cry roused -D'Artagnan, and stirred in his heart the fibers of -obedience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He shook his -head, and, without more hesitation, he walked straight up to -Philippe, on whose shoulder he laid his hand, saying, "Monsieur, -you are my prisoner!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Philippe did not raise -his eyes towards Heaven, nor stir from the spot, where he seemed -nailed to the floor, his eye intently fixed upon the king his -brother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He reproached -him with a sublime silence for all misfortunes past, all tortures -to come. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Against this -language of the soul the king felt he had no power; he cast down -his eyes, dragging away precipitately his brother and sister, -forgetting his mother, sitting motionless within three paces of -the son whom she left a second time to be condemned to -death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe -approached Anne of Austria, and said to her, in a soft and nobly -agitated voice:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I were not your son, -I should curse you, my mother, for having rendered me so -unhappy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan felt a -shudder pass through the marrow of his bones.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bowed respectfully to the young -prince, and said as he bent, "Excuse me, monseigneur, I am but a -soldier, and my oaths are his who has just left the chamber."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you, M. -d'Artagnan….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -has become of M. d'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Herblay is in -safety, monseigneur," said a voice behind them; "and no one, -while I live and am free, shall cause a hair to fall from his -head."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur Fouquet!" said -the prince, smiling sadly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me, -monseigneur," said Fouquet, kneeling, "but he who is just gone -out from hence was my guest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here are," murmured -Philippe, with a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> sigh, -"brave friends and good hearts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They make me regret the world.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On, M. d'Artagnan, I follow -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At the moment the -captain of the musketeers was about to leave the room with his -prisoner, Colbert appeared, and, after remitting an order from -the king to D'Artagnan, retired.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan read the paper, and then -crushed it in his hand with rage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?" asked the -prince.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Read, monseigneur," -replied the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Philippe read the -following words, hastily traced by the hand of the king:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Artagnan will -conduct the prisoner to the Île Sainte-Marguerite.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will cover his face with an -iron vizor, which the prisoner shall never raise except at peril -of his life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is just," said -Philippe, with resignation; "I am ready."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis was right," said -Fouquet, in a low voice, to the musketeer, "this one is every -whit as much a king as the other."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "More so!" replied -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He wanted -only you and me."</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'>In -Which Porthos Thinks He Is Pursuing a Duchy.</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 and Porthos, having profited by the time granted -them by Fouquet, did honor to the French cavalry by their -speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos did not -clearly understand on what kind of mission he was forced to -display so much velocity; but as he saw Aramis spurring on -furiously, he, Porthos, spurred on in the same way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They had soon, in this manner, -placed twelve leagues between them and Vaux; they were then -obliged to change horses, and organize a sort of post -arrangement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -during a relay that Porthos ventured to interrogate Aramis -discreetly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush!" replied the -latter, "know only that our fortune depends on our speed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As if Porthos had still -been the musketeer, without a sou or a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>maille</i> of 1626, he pushed -forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That magic word -"fortune" always means something in the human ear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It means <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>enough</i> for those who have -nothing; it means <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>too -much</i> for those who have enough.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall be made a -duke!" said Porthos, aloud.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was speaking to himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is possible," -replied Aramis, smiling after his own fashion, as Porthos's horse -passed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis felt, -notwithstanding, as though his brain were on fire; the activity -of the body had not yet succeeded in subduing that of the -mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All there is of -raging passion, mental toothache or mortal threat, raged, gnawed -and grumbled in the thoughts of the unhappy prelate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His countenance exhibited visible -traces of this rude combat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Free on the highway to abandon -himself to every impression of the moment, Aramis did not fail to -swear at every start of his horse, at every inequality in the -road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pale, at times -inundated with boiling sweats, then again dry and icy, he flogged -his horses till the blood streamed from their sides.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, whose dominant fault was -not sensibility, groaned at this.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus traveled they on for eight long -hours, and then arrived at Orléans.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was four o'clock in the -afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, on -observing this, judged that nothing showed pursuit to be a -possibility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would be -without example that a troop capable of taking him and Porthos -should be furnished with relays sufficient to perform forty -leagues in eight hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Thus, admitting pursuit, which was not at all manifest, the -fugitives were five hours in advance of their pursuers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis thought that -there might be no imprudence in taking a little rest, but that to -continue would make the matter more certain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Twenty leagues more, performed with -the same rapidity, twenty more leagues devoured, and no one, not -even D'Artagnan, could overtake the enemies of the king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis felt obliged, -therefore, to inflict upon Porthos the pain of mounting on -horseback again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -rode on till seven o'clock in the evening, and had only one post -more between them and Blois.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But here a diabolical accident -alarmed Aramis greatly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There were no horses at the post.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prelate asked himself by what -infernal machination his enemies had succeeded in depriving him -of the means of going further, - he who never recognized chance -as a deity, who found a cause for every accident, preferred -believing that the refusal of the postmaster, at such an hour, in -such a country, was the consequence of an order emanating from -above: an order given with a view of stopping short the -king-maker in the midst of his flight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But at the moment he was about to -fly into a passion, so as to procure either a horse or an -explanation, he was struck with the recollection that the Comte -de la Fère lived in the neighborhood.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not traveling," -said he; "I do not want horses for a whole stage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Find me two horses to go and pay a -visit to a nobleman of my acquaintance who resides near this -place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What nobleman?" asked -the postmaster.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. le Comte de la -Fère."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" replied the -postmaster, uncovering with respect, "a very worthy -nobleman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, whatever -may be my desire to make myself agreeable to him, I cannot -furnish you with horses, for all mine are engaged by M. le Duc de -Beaufort."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed!" said Aramis, -much disappointed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only," continued the -postmaster, "if you will put up with a little carriage I have, I -will harness an old blind horse who has still his legs left, and -peradventure will draw you to the house of M. le Comte de la -Fère."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is worth a louis," -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monsieur, such a -ride is worth no more than a crown; that is what M. Grimaud, the -comte's intendant, always pays me when he makes use of that -carriage; and I should not wish the Comte de la Fère to -have to reproach me with having imposed on one of his -friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As you please," said -Aramis, "particularly as regards disobliging the Comte de la -Fère; only I think I have a right to give you a louis for -your idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! doubtless," replied -the postmaster with delight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he himself harnessed the ancient -horse to the creaking carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime Porthos was curious -to behold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He imagined he -had discovered a clew to the secret, and he felt pleased, because -a visit to Athos, in the first place, promised him much -satisfaction, and, in the next, gave him the hope of finding at -the same time a good bed and good supper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The master, having got the carriage -ready, ordered one of his men to drive the strangers to La -Fère.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos took -his seat by the side of Aramis, whispering in his ear, "I -understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aha!" said Aramis, "and -what do you understand, my friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are going, on the -part of the king, to make some great proposal to Athos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pooh!" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You need tell me -nothing about it," added the worthy Porthos, endeavoring to -reseat himself so as to avoid the jolting, "you need tell me -nothing, I shall guess."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! do, my friend; -guess away."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They arrived at Athos's -dwelling about nine o'clock in the evening, favored by a splendid -moon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This cheerful light -rejoiced Porthos beyond expression; but Aramis appeared annoyed -by it in an equal degree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He could not help showing something of this to Porthos, who -replied - "Ay! ay!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -guess how it is! the mission is a secret one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> These were his last -words in the carriage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The driver interrupted him by saying, "Gentlemen, we have -arrived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos and his -companion alighted before the gate of the little château, -where we are about to meet again our old acquaintances Athos and -Bragelonne, the latter of whom had disappeared since the -discovery of the infidelity of La Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If there be one saying truer than -another, it is this: great griefs contain within themselves the -germ of consolation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -painful wound, inflicted upon Raoul, had drawn him nearer to his -father again; and God knows how sweet were the consolations which -flowed from the eloquent mouth and generous heart of Athos.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The wound was not cicatrized, -but Athos, by dint of conversing with his son and mixing a little -more of his life with that of the young man, had brought him to -understand that this pang of a first infidelity is necessary to -every human existence; and that no one has loved without -encountering it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -listened, again and again, but never understood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing replaces in the deeply -afflicted heart the remembrance and thought of the beloved -object.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul then -replied to the reasoning of his father:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, all that you -tell me is true; I believe that no one has suffered in the -affections of the heart so much as you have; but you are a man -too great by reason of intelligence, and too severely tried by -adverse fortune not to allow for the weakness of the soldier who -suffers for the first time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am paying a tribute that will not -be paid a second time; permit me to plunge myself so deeply in my -grief that I may forget myself in it, that I may drown even my -reason in it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Listen, monsieur.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never shall I accustom myself -to the idea that Louise, the chastest and most innocent of women, -has been able to so basely deceive a man so honest and so true a -lover as myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never -can I persuade myself that I see that sweet and noble mask change -into a hypocritical lascivious face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise lost!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise infamous!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! monseigneur, that idea is much -more cruel to me than Raoul abandoned - Raoul unhappy!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos then employed the -heroic remedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -defended Louise against Raoul, and justified her perfidy by her -love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A woman who would -have yielded to a king because he is a king," said he, "would -deserve to be styled infamous; but Louise loves Louis.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Young, both, they have -forgotten, he his rank, she her vows.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Love absolves everything, -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two young -people love each other with sincerity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And when he had dealt -this severe poniard-thrust, Athos, with a sigh, saw Raoul bound -away beneath the rankling wound, and fly to the thickest recesses -of the wood, or the solitude of his chamber, whence, an hour -after, he would return, pale, trembling, but subdued.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, coming up to Athos with a -smile, he would kiss his hand, like the dog who, having been -beaten, caresses a respected master, to redeem his fault.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul redeemed nothing but his -weakness, and only confessed his grief.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus passed away the days that -followed that scene in which Athos had so violently shaken the -indomitable pride of the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never, when conversing with his son, -did he make any allusion to that scene; never did he give him the -details of that vigorous lecture, which might, perhaps, have -consoled the young man, by showing him his rival humbled.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos did not wish that the -offended lover should forget the respect due to his king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And when Bragelonne, ardent, -angry, and melancholy, spoke with contempt of royal words, of the -equivocal faith which certain madmen draw from promises that -emanate from thrones, when, passing over two centuries, with that -rapidity of a bird that traverses a narrow strait to go from one -continent to the other, Raoul ventured to predict the time in -which kings would be esteemed as less than other men, Athos said -to him, in his serene, persuasive voice, "You are right, Raoul; -all that you say will happen; kings will lose their privileges, -as stars which have survived their æons lose their -splendor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But when that -moment comes, Raoul, we shall be dead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And remember well what I say to -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this world, all, -men, women, and kings, must live for the present.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We can only live for the future for -God."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This was the manner in -which Athos and Raoul were, as usual, conversing, and walking -backwards and forwards in the long alley of limes in the park, -when the bell which served to announce to the comte either the -hour of dinner or the arrival of a visitor, was rung; and, -without attaching any importance to it, he turned towards the -house with his son; and at the end of the alley they found -themselves in the presence of Aramis and Porthos.</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 -Last Adieux.</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'> -R</span>aoul uttered a cry, and affectionately embraced -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and Athos -embraced like old men; and this embrace itself being a question -for Aramis, he immediately said, "My friend, we have not long to -remain with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the -comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Only time to tell you -of my good fortune," interrupted Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos looked silently at -Aramis, whose somber air had already appeared to him very little -in harmony with the good news Porthos hinted.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the good -fortune that has happened to you?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us hear it," said Raoul, with a -smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king has made me a -duke," said the worthy Porthos, with an air of mystery, in the -ear of the young man, "a duke by <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>brevet</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>asides</i> of Porthos were always -loud enough to be heard by everybody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His murmurs were in the diapason of -ordinary roaring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos -heard him, and uttered an exclamation which made Aramis -start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter took -Athos by the arm, and, after having asked Porthos's permission to -say a word to his friend in private, "My dear Athos," he began, -"you see me overwhelmed with grief and trouble."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With grief and trouble, -my dear friend?" cried the comte; "oh, what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In two words.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have conspired against the -king; that conspiracy has failed, and, at this moment, I am -doubtless pursued."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are pursued! - a -conspiracy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Eh! my -friend, what do you tell me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The saddest truth.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am entirely ruined."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, but Porthos - -this title of duke - what does all that mean?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is the subject of -my severest pain; that is the deepest of my wounds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have, believing in infallible -success, drawn Porthos into my conspiracy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He threw himself into it, as you -know he would do, with all his strength, without knowing what he -was about; and now he is as much compromised as myself - as -completely ruined as I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good God!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Athos turned towards Porthos, -who was smiling complacently.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I must make you -acquainted with the whole.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Listen to me," continued Aramis; and -he related the history as we know it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, during the recital, several -times felt the sweat break from his forehead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It was a great idea," said he, "but -a great error."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For which I am -punished, Athos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Therefore, I will not -tell you my entire thought."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell it, -nevertheless."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a crime."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A capital crime; I know -it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Lése majesté</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos! poor -Porthos!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What would you advise -me to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Success, as I -have told you, was certain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet is an honest -man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I a fool for having -so ill-judged him," said Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, the wisdom of man!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, millstone that grinds the world! -and which is one day stopped by a grain of sand which has fallen, -no one knows how, between its wheels."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Say by a diamond, -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the thing is -done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How do you think of -acting?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am taking away -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king will -never believe that that worthy man has acted innocently.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He never can believe that -Porthos has thought he was serving the king, whilst acting as he -has done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His head would -pay my fault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It shall -not, must not, be so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are taking him -away, whither?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To Belle-Isle, at -first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is an -impregnable place of refuge.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, I have the sea, and a vessel -to pass over into England, where I have many relations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You? in England?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, or else in Spain, -where I have still more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, our excellent -Porthos! you ruin him, for the king will confiscate all his -property."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All is provided -for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know how, when -once in Spain, to reconcile myself with Louis XIV., and restore -Porthos to favor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have credit, -seemingly, Aramis!" said Athos, with a discreet air.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Much; and at the -service of my friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> These words were -accompanied by a warm pressure of the hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you," replied the -comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And while we are on -this head," said Aramis, "you also are a malcontent; you also, -Raoul, have griefs to lay to the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Follow our example; pass over into -Belle-Isle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then we shall -see, I guarantee upon my honor, that in a month there will be war -between France and Spain on the subject of this son of Louis -XIII., who is an Infante likewise, and whom France detains -inhumanly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, as Louis -XIV. would have no inclination for a war on that subject, I will -answer for an arrangement, the result of which must bring -greatness to Porthos and to me, and a duchy in France to you, who -are already a grandee of Spain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you join us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; for my part I -prefer having something to reproach the king with; it is a pride -natural to my race to pretend to a superiority over royal -races.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Doing what you -propose, I should become the obliged of the king; I should -certainly be the gainer on that ground, but I should be a loser -in my conscience. - No, thank you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then give me two -things, Athos, - your absolution."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I give it you if you really wished -to avenge the weak and oppressed against the oppressor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is sufficient for -me," said Aramis, with a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -blush which was lost in the obscurity of the night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And now, give me your two best -horses to gain the second post, as I have been refused any under -the pretext of the Duc de Beaufort being traveling in this -country."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You shall have the two -best horses, Aramis; and again I recommend poor Porthos strongly -to your care."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no fear on that score.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One word more: do you think I -am maneuvering for him as I ought?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The evil being -committed, yes; for the king would not pardon him, and you have, -whatever may be said, always a supporter in M. Fouquet, who will -not abandon you, he being himself compromised, notwithstanding -his heroic action."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And that is why, instead of -gaining the sea at once, which would proclaim my fear and guilt, -that is why I remain upon French ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Belle-Isle will be for me -whatever ground I wish it to be, English, Spanish, or Roman; all -will depend, with me, on the standard I shall think proper to -unfurl."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was I who fortified -Belle-Isle; and, so long as I defend it, nobody can take -Belle-Isle from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -then, as you have said just now, M. Fouquet is there.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Belle-Isle will not be attacked -without the signature of M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nevertheless, be prudent.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is both cunning and -strong."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -smiled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I again recommend -Porthos to you," repeated the count, with a sort of cold -persistence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whatever becomes of me, -count," replied Aramis, in the same tone, "our brother Porthos -will fare as I do - or <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>better</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos bowed whilst -pressing the hand of Aramis, and turned to embrace Porthos with -emotion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I was born lucky, was I -not?" murmured the latter, transported with happiness, as he -folded his cloak round him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, my dear friend," -said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul had gone out to -give orders for the saddling of the horses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The group was already divided.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos saw his two friends on -the point of departure, and something like a mist passed before -his eyes and weighed upon his heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is strange," thought -he, "whence comes the inclination I feel to embrace Porthos once -more?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At that moment -Porthos turned round, and he came towards his old friend with -open arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This last -endearment was tender as in youth, as in times when hearts were -warm - life happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -then Porthos mounted his horse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis came back once more to throw -his arms round the neck of Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter watched them along the -high-road, elongated by the shade, in their white cloaks.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Like phantoms they seemed to -enlarge on their departure from the earth, and it was not in the -mist, but in the declivity of the ground that they -disappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the end -of the perspective, both seemed to have given a spring with their -feet, which made them vanish as if evaporated into -cloud-land.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then Athos, with a very -heavy heart, returned towards the house, saying to Bragelonne, -"Raoul, I don’t know what it is that has just told me that -I have seen those two for the last time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It does not astonish -me, monsieur, that you should have such a thought," replied the -young man, "for I have at this moment the same, and think also -that I shall never see Messieurs du Vallon and d'Herblay -again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you," replied the -count, "you speak like a man rendered sad by a different cause; -you see everything in black; you are young, and if you chance -never to see those old friends again, it will because they no -longer exist in the world in which you have yet many years to -pass. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul shook his head -sadly, and leaned upon the shoulder of the count, without either -of them finding another word in their hearts, which were ready to -overflow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> All at once a noise of -horses and voices, from the extremity of the road to Blois, -attracted their attention that way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Flambeaux-bearers shook their -torches merrily among the trees of their route, and turned round, -from time to time, to avoid distancing the horsemen who followed -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These flames, this -noise, this dust of a dozen richly caparisoned horses, formed a -strange contrast in the middle of the night with the melancholy -and almost funereal disappearance of the two shadows of Aramis -and Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos went -towards the house; but he had hardly reached the parterre, when -the entrance gate appeared in a blaze; all the flambeaux stopped -and appeared to enflame the road.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A cry was heard of "M. le Duc de -Beaufort" - and Athos sprang towards the door of his house.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the duke had already -alighted from his horse, and was looking around him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am here, -monseigneur," said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! good evening, dear -count," said the prince, with that frank cordiality which won him -so many hearts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is it -too late for a friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! my dear prince, -come in!" said the count.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And, M. de Beaufort -leaning on the arm of Athos, they entered the house, followed by -Raoul, who walked respectfully and modestly among the officers of -the prince, with several of whom he was acquainted.</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'> -Monsieur de Beaufort.</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 prince turned round at the moment when Raoul, in order -to leave him alone with Athos, was shutting the door, and -preparing to go with the other officers into an adjoining -apartment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is that the young man I -have heard M. le Prince speak so highly of?" asked M. de -Beaufort.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is quite the -soldier; let him stay, count, we cannot spare him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Remain, Raoul, since -monseigneur permits it," said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i> he is tall and -handsome!" continued the duke.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you give him to me, -monseigneur, if I ask him of you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How am I to understand -you, monseigneur?" said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, I call upon you to -bid you farewell."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Farewell!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, in good -truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have you no idea -of what I am about to become?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, I suppose, what -you have always been, monseigneur, - a valiant prince, and an -excellent gentleman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am going to become an -African prince, - a Bedouin gentleman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is sending me to make -conquests among the Arabs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is this you tell -me, monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Strange, is it -not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, the Parisian <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>par essence</i>, I who have -reigned in the faubourgs, and have been called King of the -Halles, - I am going to pass from the Place Maubert to the -minarets of Gigelli; from a Frondeur I am becoming an -adventurer!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, monseigneur, if you -did not yourself tell me that - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would not be -credible, would it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Believe me, nevertheless, and we have but to bid each other -farewell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is what -comes of getting into favor again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Into favor?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You smile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah, my dear count, do you know why I -have accepted this enterprise, can you guess?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because your highness -loves glory above - everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no; there is no -glory in firing muskets at savages.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I see no glory in that, for my part, -and it is more probable that I shall there meet with something -else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I have wished, -and still wish earnestly, my dear count, that my life should have -that last <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>facet</i>, after -all the whimsical exhibitions I have seen myself make during -fifty years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For, in -short, you must admit that it is sufficiently strange to be born -the grandson of a king, to have made war against kings, to have -been reckoned among the powers of the age, to have maintained my -rank, to feel Henry IV. within me, to be great admiral of France -- and then to go and get killed at Gigelli, among all those -Turks, Saracens, and Moors."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, you harp -with strange persistence on that theme," said Athos, in an -agitated voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How can -you suppose that so brilliant a destiny will be extinguished in -that remote and miserable scene?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And can you believe, -upright and simple as you are, that if I go into Africa for this -ridiculous motive, I will not endeavor to come out of it without -ridicule?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shall I not -give the world cause to speak of me?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And to be spoken of, nowadays, when -there are Monsieur le Prince, M. de Turenne, and many others, my -contemporaries, I, admiral of France, grandson of Henry IV., king -of Paris, have I anything left but to get myself killed?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Cordieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will be talked of, I tell you; I -shall be killed whether or not; if no there, somewhere else."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, monseigneur, this -is mere exaggeration; and hitherto you have shown nothing -exaggerated save in bravery."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Peste!</i> my dear friend, there is -bravery in facing scurvy, dysentery, locusts, poisoned arrows, as -my ancestor St. Louis did.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know those fellows still use -poisoned arrows?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -then, you know me of old, I fancy, and you know that when I once -make up my mind to a thing, I perform it in grim earnest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, you made up your -mind to escape from Vincennes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ay, but you aided me in -that, my master; and, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>à propos</i>, I turn this way -and that, without seeing my old friend, M. Vaugrimaud.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How is he?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Vaugrimaud is still -your highness's most respectful servant," said Athos, -smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have a hundred -pistoles here for him, which I bring as a legacy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My will is made, count."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monseigneur! -monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you may understand -that if Grimaud's name were to appear in my will - "<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke began to laugh; then -addressing Raoul, who, from the commencement of this -conversation, had sunk into a profound reverie, "Young man," said -he, "I know there is to be found here a certain De Vouvray wine, -and I believe - "<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -left the room precipitately to order the wine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime M. de Beaufort took -the hand of Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you mean to do -with him?" asked he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing at present, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! yes, I know; since -the passion of the king for La Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is all true, then, -is it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I think I know -her, that little La Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She is not particularly handsome, if -I remember right?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monseigneur," said -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know whom she -reminds me of?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Does she remind your -highness of any one?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She reminds -me of a very agreeable girl, whose mother lived in the -Halles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah!" said Athos, -smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! the good old -times," added M. de Beaufort.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, La Vallière reminds me -of that girl."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who had a son, had she -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style= -'font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"'> -Transcriber's note: It is possible that the preceding -conversation is an obscure allegorical allusion to the Fronde, or -perhaps an intimation that the Duc was the father of Mordaunt, -from <u>Twenty Years After</u>, but a definite interpretation -still eludes modern scholars. - JB</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe she had," -replied the duke, with careless <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>naïveté</i> and a -complaisant forgetfulness, of which no words could translate the -tone and the vocal expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Now, here is poor Raoul, who is -your son, I believe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, he is my son, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the poor lad has -been cut out by the king, and he frets."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Still better, -monseigneur, he abstains."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are going to let -the boy rust in idleness; it is a mistake.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, give him to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My wish is to keep him -at home, monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have no longer anything in the world but him, and as long as he -likes to remain - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well," replied -the duke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I could, -nevertheless, have soon put matters to rights again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I assure you, I think he has in him -the stuff of which maréchals of France are made; I have -seen more than one produced from less likely rough material."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is very possible, -monseigneur; but it is the king who makes maréchals of -France, and Raoul will never accept anything of the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul interrupted this -conversation by his return.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He preceded Grimaud, whose still -steady hands carried the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>plateau</i> with one glass and a -bottle of the duke's favorite wine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On seeing his old <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>protégé</i>, the duke -uttered an exclamation of pleasure.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Grimaud!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good evening, Grimaud!" said he; -"how goes it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The servant bowed -profoundly, as much gratified as his noble interlocutor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Two old friends!" said -the duke, shaking honest Grimaud's shoulder after a vigorous -fashion; which was followed by another still more profound and -delighted bow from Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what is this, -count, only one glass?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should not think of -drinking with your highness, unless your highness permitted me," -replied Athos, with noble humility.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Cordieu!</i> you were right to bring -only one glass, we will both drink out of it, like two brothers -in arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Begin, -count."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do me the honor," said -Athos, gently putting back the glass.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are a charming -friend," replied the Duc de Beaufort, who drank, and passed the -goblet to his companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"But that is not all," continued he, "I am still thirsty, and I -wish to do honor to this handsome young man who stands here.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I carry good luck with me, -vicomte," said he to Raoul; "wish for something while drinking -out of my glass, and may the black plague grab me if what you -wish does not come to pass!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He held the goblet to Raoul, who -hastily moistened his lips, and replied with the same -promptitude:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have wished for -something, monseigneur."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His eyes sparkled with a gloomy fire, and the blood mounted to -his cheeks; he terrified Athos, if only with his smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what have you -wished for?" replied the duke, sinking back into his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fauteuil</i>, whilst with one hand -he returned the bottle to Grimaud, and with the other gave him a -purse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you promise me, -monseigneur, to grant me what I wish for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is agreed upon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wished, monsieur le -duc, to go with you to Gigelli."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos became pale, -and was unable to conceal his agitation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke looked at his friend, as if -desirous to assist him to parry this unexpected blow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is difficult, -my dear vicomte, very difficult," added he, in a lower tone of -voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Pardon me, -monseigneur, I have been indiscreet," replied Raoul, in a firm -voice; "but as you yourself invited me to wish - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To wish to leave -me?" said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! monsieur - can -you imagine - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mordieu!</i>" cried the duke, "the -young vicomte is right!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What can he do here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -will go moldy with grief."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul blushed, and -the excitable prince continued: "War is a distraction: we gain -everything by it; we can only lose one thing by it - life - then -so much the worse!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is to say, -memory," said Raoul, eagerly; "and that is to say, so much the -better!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>He repented of -having spoken so warmly when he saw Athos rise and open the -window; which was, doubtless, to conceal his emotion. <span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul sprang towards the -comte, but the latter had already overcome his emotion, and -turned to the lights with a serene and impassible -countenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, -come," said the duke, "let us see!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shall he go, or shall he not?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he goes, comte, he shall be -my aide-de-camp, my son."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur!" -cried Raoul, bending his knee.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur!" -cried Athos, taking the hand of the duke; "Raoul shall do just as -he likes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! no, monsieur, -just as you like," interrupted the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Par la corbleu!</i>" said the -prince in his turn, "it is neither the comte nor the vicomte that -shall have his way, it is I.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will take him away.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The marine offers a superb fortune, -my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul smiled again -so sadly, that this time Athos felt his heart penetrated by it, -and replied to him by a severe look.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul comprehended it all; he -recovered his calmness, and was so guarded, that not another word -escaped him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke at -length rose, on observing the advanced hour, and said, with -animation, "I am in great haste, but if I am told I have lost -time in talking with a friend, I will reply I have gained - on -the balance - a most excellent recruit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Pardon me, -monsieur le duc," interrupted Raoul, "do not tell the king so, -for it is not the king I wish to serve."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh! my friend, -whom, then, will you serve?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The times are past when you might -have said, 'I belong to M. de Beaufort.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, nowadays, we all belong to the -king, great or small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Therefore, if you serve on board my vessels, there can be nothing -equivocal about it, my dear vicomte; it will be the king you will -serve."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos waited with a -kind of impatient joy for the reply about to be made to this -embarrassing question by Raoul, the intractable enemy of the -king, his rival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -father hoped that the obstacle would overcome the desire.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was thankful to M. de -Beaufort, whose lightness or generous reflection had thrown an -impediment in the way of the departure of a son, now his only -joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Raoul, still -firm and tranquil, replied: "Monsieur le duc, the objection you -make I have already considered in my mind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will serve on board your vessels, -because you do me the honor to take me with you; but I shall -there serve a more powerful master than the king: I shall serve -God!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"God! how so?" said -the duke and Athos together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My intention is to -make profession, and become a knight of Malta," added Bragelonne, -letting fall, one by one, words more icy than the drops which -fall from the bare trees after the tempests of winter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: The dictates of such a -service would require Raoul to spend the rest of his life outside -of France, hence Athos's and Grimaud's extreme reactions. - -JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Under this blow -Athos staggered and the prince himself was moved.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud uttered a heavy groan, and -let fall the bottle, which was broken without anybody paying -attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Beaufort -looked the young man in the face, and read plainly, though his -eyes were cast down, the fire of resolution before which -everything must give way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -As to Athos, he was too well acquainted with that tender, but -inflexible soul; he could not hope to make it deviate from the -fatal road it had just chosen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He could only press the hand the -duke held out to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Comte, I shall set off in two days for Toulon," said M. de -Beaufort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you meet -me at Paris, in order that I may know your determination?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will have the -honor of thanking you there, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mon prince</i>, for all your -kindness," replied the comte.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And be sure to -bring the vicomte with you, whether he follows me or does not -follow me," added the duke; "he has my word, and I only ask -yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Having thrown a -little balm upon the wound of the paternal heart, he pulled the -ear of Grimaud, whose eyes sparkled more than usual, and regained -his escort in the parterre.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horses, rested and refreshed, -set off with spirit through the lovely night, and soon placed a -considerable distance between their master and the -château.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos and -Bragelonne were again face to face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Eleven o'clock was striking.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The father and son preserved a -profound silence towards each other, where an intelligent -observer would have expected cries and tears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But these two men were of such a -nature that all emotion following their final resolutions plunged -itself so deep into their hearts that it was lost forever.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They passed, then, silently -and almost breathlessly, the hour that preceded midnight.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The clock, by striking, alone -pointed out to them how many minutes had lasted the painful -journey made by their souls in the immensity of their -remembrances of the past and fear of the future.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos rose first, saying, "it is -late, then….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Till -to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul rose, and in -his turn embraced his father.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter held him clasped to his -breast, and said, in a tremulous voice, "In two days, you will -have left me, my son - left me forever, Raoul!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," replied -the young man, "I had formed a determination, that of piercing my -heart with my sword; but you would have thought that -cowardly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -renounced that determination, and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>therefore</i> we must part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You leave me -desolate by going, Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen to me -again, monsieur, I implore you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I do not go, I shall die here of -grief and love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know -how long a time I have to live thus.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Send me away quickly, monsieur, or -you will see me basely die before your eyes - in your house - -this is stronger than my will - stronger than my strength - you -may plainly see that within one month I have lived thirty years, -and that I approach the end of my life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then," said Athos, -coldly, "you go with the intention of getting killed in -Africa?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, tell me! do -not lie!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Raoul grew deadly -pale, and remained silent for two seconds, which were to his -father two hours of agony.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, all at once: "Monsieur," said -he, "I have promised to devote myself to God.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In exchange for the sacrifice I make -of my youth and liberty, I will only ask of Him one thing, and -that is, to preserve me for you, because you are the only tie -which attaches me to this world.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God alone can give me the strength -not to forget that I owe you everything, and that nothing ought -to stand in my esteem before you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Athos embraced his -son tenderly, and said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have just -replied to me on the word of honor of an honest man; in two days -we shall be with M. de Beaufort at Paris, and you will then do -what will be proper for you to do.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are free, Raoul; adieu."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And he slowly -gained his bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -went down into the garden, and passed the night in the alley of -limes.</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'> -Preparations for Departure.</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>thos lost no more time in combating this immutable -resolution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gave all -his attention to preparing, during the two days the duke had -granted him, the proper appointments for Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This labor chiefly concerned -Grimaud, who immediately applied himself to it with the good-will -and intelligence we know he possessed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos gave this worthy servant -orders to take the route to Paris when the equipments should be -ready; and, not to expose himself to the danger of keeping the -duke waiting, or delaying Raoul, so that the duke should perceive -his absence, he himself, the day after the visit of M. de -Beaufort, set off for Paris with his son.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> For the poor young man -it was an emotion easily to be understood, thus to return to -Paris amongst all the people who had known and loved him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every face recalled a pang to -him who had suffered so much; to him who had loved so much, some -circumstance of his unhappy love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, on approaching Paris, felt as -if he were dying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once in -Paris, he really existed no longer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he reached Guiche's residence, -he was informed that Guiche was with Monsieur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul took the road to the -Luxembourg, and when arrived, without suspecting that he was -going to the place where La Vallière had lived, he heard -so much music and respired so many perfumes, he heard so much -joyous laughter, and saw so many dancing shadows, that if it had -not been for a charitable woman, who perceived him so dejected -and pale beneath a doorway, he would have remained there a few -minutes, and then would have gone away, never to return.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as we have said, in the -first ante-chamber he had stopped, solely for the sake of not -mixing himself with all those happy beings he felt were moving -around him in the adjacent salons.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as one of Monsieur's servants, -recognizing him, had asked him if he wished to see Monsieur or -Madame, Raoul had scarcely answered him, but had sunk down upon a -bench near the velvet doorway, looking at a clock, which had -stopped for nearly an hour.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The servant had passed on, and -another, better acquainted with him, had come up, and -interrogated Raoul whether he should inform M. de Guiche of his -being there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This name -did not even arouse the recollections of Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The persistent servant went on to -relate that De Guiche had just invented a new game of lottery, -and was teaching it to the ladies.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, opening his large eyes, like -the absent man in Theophrastus, made no answer, but his sadness -increased two shades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -With his head hanging down, his limbs relaxed, his mouth half -open for the escape of his sighs, Raoul remained, thus forgotten, -in the ante-chamber, when all at once a lady's robe passed, -rubbing against the doors of a side salon, which opened on the -gallery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A lady, young, -pretty, and gay, scolding an officer of the household, entered by -that way, and expressed herself with much vivacity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officer replied in calm but firm -sentences; it was rather a little love pet than a quarrel of -courtiers, and was terminated by a kiss on the fingers of the -lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly, on -perceiving Raoul, the lady became silent, and pushing away the -officer:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Make your escape, -Malicorne," said she; "I did not think there was any one -here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall curse you, -if they have either heard or seen us!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Malicorne hastened -away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young lady -advanced behind Raoul, and stretching her joyous face over him as -he lay:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur is a gallant -man," said she, "and no doubt - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She here interrupted -herself by uttering a cry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Raoul!" said she, blushing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle de -Montalais!" said Raoul, paler than death.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He rose unsteadily, and -tried to make his way across the slippery mosaic of the floor; -but she had comprehended that savage and cruel grief; she felt -that in the flight of Raoul there was an accusation of -herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A woman, ever -vigilant, she did not think she ought to let the opportunity slip -of making good her justification; but Raoul, though stopped by -her in the middle of the gallery, did not seem disposed to -surrender without a combat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He took it up in a tone so cold and -embarrassed, that if they had been thus surprised, the whole -court would have no doubt about the proceedings of Mademoiselle -de Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monsieur," said she -with disdain, "what you are doing is very unworthy of a -gentleman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My heart -inclines me to speak to you; you compromise me by a reception -almost uncivil; you are wrong, monsieur; and you confound your -friends with enemies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Farewell!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul had sworn never to -speak of Louise, never even to look at those who might have seen -Louise; he was going into another world, that he might never meet -with anything Louise had seen, or even touched.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But after the first shock of his -pride, after having had a glimpse of Montalais, the companion of -Louise - Montalais, who reminded him of the turret of Blois and -the joys of youth - all his reason faded away.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me, -mademoiselle; it enters not, it cannot enter into my thoughts to -be uncivil."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you wish to speak to -me?" said she, with the smile of former days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well! come somewhere else; for we -may be surprised."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!' said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She looked at the clock, -doubtingly, then, having reflected:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In my apartment," said -she, "we shall have an hour to ourselves."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And taking her course, lighter than -a fairy, she ran up to her chamber, followed by Raoul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shutting the door, and placing -in the hands of her <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>camériste</i> the mantle she -had held upon her arm:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were seeking M. de -Guiche, were you not?" said she to Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, mademoiselle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will go and ask him -to come up here, presently, after I have spoken to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do so, -mademoiselle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you angry with -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul looked at her for -a moment, then, casting down his eyes, "Yes," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You think I was -concerned in the plot which brought about the rupture, do you -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Rupture!" said he, with -bitterness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! -mademoiselle, there can be no rupture where there has been no -love."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are in error," -replied Montalais; "Louise did love you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul started.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not with love, I know; -but she liked you, and you ought to have married her before you -set out for London."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul broke into a -sinister laugh, which made Montalais shudder.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You tell me that very -much at your ease, mademoiselle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do people marry whom they like?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You forget that the king then -kept for himself as his mistress her of whom we are -speaking."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Listen," said the young -woman, pressing the hands of Raoul in her own, "you were wrong in -every way; a man of your age ought never to leave a woman of hers -alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is no longer any -faith in the world, then," said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, vicomte," said -Montalais, quietly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Nevertheless, let me tell you that, if, instead of loving Louise -coldly and philosophically, you had endeavored to awaken her to -love - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enough, I pray you, -mademoiselle," said Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I feel as though you are all, of -both sexes, of a different age from me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can laugh, and you can banter -agreeably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, -mademoiselle, I loved Mademoiselle de - "<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul could not pronounce her name, -- "I loved her well!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -put my faith in her - now I am quits by loving her no -longer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, vicomte!" said -Montalais, pointing to his reflection in a looking-glass.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know what you mean, -mademoiselle; I am much altered, am I not?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know why?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Because my face is the mirror of my -heart, the outer surface changed to match the mind within."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are consoled, -then?" said Montalais, sharply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I shall never be -consoled."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't understand you, -M. de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I care but little for -that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not quite -understand myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have not even tried -to speak to Louise?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I?" exclaimed the young man, with -eyes flashing fire; "I! - Why do you not advise me to marry -her?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps the king -would consent now."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -he rose from his chair full of anger.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see," said Montalais, -"that you are not cured, and that Louise has one enemy the -more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One enemy the -more!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; favorites are but -little beloved at the court of France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! while she has her -lover to protect her, is not that enough?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She has chosen him of such a quality -that her enemies cannot prevail against her."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, stopping all at once, "And then -she has you for a friend, mademoiselle," added he, with a shade -of irony which did not glide off the cuirass.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I? - Oh, no!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am no longer one of those whom -Mademoiselle de la Vallière condescends to look upon; but -- "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>but</i>, so big with menace and with -storm; this <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>but</i>, which -made the heart of Raoul beat, such griefs did it presage for her -whom lately he loved so dearly; this terrible <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>but</i>, so significant in a woman -like Montalais, was interrupted by a moderately loud noise heard -by the speakers proceeding from the alcove behind the -wainscoting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Montalais -turned to listen, and Raoul was already rising, when a lady -entered the room quietly by the secret door, which she closed -after her.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame!" exclaimed -Raoul, on recognizing the sister-in-law of the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stupid wretch!" -murmured Montalais, throwing herself, but too late, before the -princess, "I have been mistaken in an hour!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She had, however, time to warn the -princess, who was walking towards Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Bragelonne, -Madame," and at these words the princess drew back, uttering a -cry in her turn.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your royal highness," -said Montalais, with volubility, "is kind enough to think of this -lottery, and - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The princess began to -lose countenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -hastened his departure, without divining all, but he felt that he -was in the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame -was preparing a word of transition to recover herself, when a -closet opened in front of the alcove, and M. de Guiche issued, -all radiant, also from that closet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The palest of the four, we must -admit, was still Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The princess, however, was near fainting, and was obliged to lean -upon the foot of the bed for support.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one ventured to support her.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This scene occupied several -minutes of terrible suspense.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Raoul broke it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He went up to the count, whose -inexpressible emotion made his knees tremble, and taking his -hand, "Dear count," said he, "tell Madame I am too unhappy not to -merit pardon; tell her also that I have loved in the course of my -life, and that the horror of the treachery that has been -practiced on me renders me inexorable towards all other treachery -that may be committed around me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is why, mademoiselle," said he, -smiling to Montalais, "I never would divulge the secret of the -visits of my friend to your apartment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Obtain from Madame - from Madame, -who is so clement and so generous, - obtain her pardon for you -whom she has just surprised also.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are both free, love each other, -be happy!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The princess felt for a -moment a despair that cannot be described; it was repugnant to -her, notwithstanding the exquisite delicacy which Raoul had -exhibited, to feel herself at the mercy of one who had discovered -such an indiscretion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was equally repugnant to her to accept the evasion offered by -this delicate deception.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Agitated, nervous, she struggled against the double stings of -these two troubles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -comprehended her position, and came once more to her aid.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Bending his knee before her: -"Madame!" said he, in a low voice, "in two days I shall be far -from Paris; in a fortnight I shall be far from France, where I -shall never be seen again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you going away, -then?" said she, with great delight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With M. de -Beaufort."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Into Africa!" cried De -Guiche, in his turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You, Raoul - oh! my friend - into Africa, where everybody -dies!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And forgetting -everything, forgetting that that forgetfulness itself compromised -the princess more eloquently than his presence, "Ingrate!" said -he, "and you have not even consulted me!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he embraced him; during which -time Montalais had led away Madame, and disappeared herself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul passed his hand -over his brow, and said, with a smile, "I have been -dreaming!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then warmly to -Guiche, who by degrees absorbed him, "My friend," said he, "I -conceal nothing from you, who are the elected of my heart.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am going to seek death in -yonder country; your secret will not remain in my breast more -than a year."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, Raoul! a man!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know what is my -thought, count?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is -it - I shall live more vividly, being buried beneath the earth, -than I have lived for this month past.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are Christians, my friend, and if -such sufferings were to continue, I would not be answerable for -the safety of my soul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche was anxious to -raise objections.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not one word more on my -account," said Raoul; "but advice to you, dear friend; what I am -going to say to you is of much greater importance."</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> "Without doubt you risk -much more than I do, because you love."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a joy so sweet to -me to be able to speak to you thus!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, then, De Guiche, beware of -Montalais."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! of that kind -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She was the friend of - -her you know of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -ruined her by pride."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are mistaken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now, when she has -ruined her, she would ravish from her the only thing that renders -that woman excusable in my eyes."</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> "Her love."</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 that there is a -plot formed against her who is the mistress of the king - a plot -formed in the very house of Madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Can you think so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am certain of -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By Montalais?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take her as the least -dangerous of the enemies I dread for - the other!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Explain yourself -clearly, my friend; and if I can understand you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In two words.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame has been long jealous -of the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know she has - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! fear nothing - you -are beloved - you are beloved, count; do you feel the value of -these three words?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -signify that you can raise your head, that you can sleep -tranquilly, that you can thank God every minute of you life.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are beloved; that -signifies that you may hear everything, even the counsel of a -friend who wishes to preserve your happiness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are beloved, De Guiche, you are -beloved!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do not -endure those atrocious nights, those nights without end, which, -with arid eye and fainting heart, others pass through who are -destined to die.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will -live long, if you act like the miser who, bit by bit, crumb by -crumb, collects and heaps up diamonds and gold.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are beloved! - allow me to tell -you what you must do that you may be beloved forever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> De Guiche contemplated -for some time this unfortunate young man, half mad with despair, -till there passed through his heart something like remorse at his -own happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -suppressed his feverish excitement, to assume the voice and -countenance of an impassible man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They will make her, -whose name I should wish still to be able to pronounce - they -will make her suffer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Swear to me that you will not second them in anything - but that -you will defend her when possible, as I would have done -myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I swear I will," -replied De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And," continued Raoul, -"some day, when you shall have rendered her a great service - -some day when she shall thank you, promise me to say these words -to her - 'I have done you this kindness, madame, at the warm -request of M. de Bragelonne, whom you so deeply injured.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I swear I will," -murmured De Guiche.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I set out to-morrow, or the day -after, for Toulon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you -have a few hours to spare, give them to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "All! all!" cried the -young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what are you going -to do now?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am going to meet M. -le comte at Planchet's residence, where we hope to find M. -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I wish to embrace -him before my departure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He is a brave man, who loves me dearly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Farewell, my friend; you are -expected, no doubt; you will find me, when you wish, at the -lodgings of the comte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Farewell!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The two young men -embraced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those who -chanced to see them both thus, would not have hesitated to say, -pointing to Raoul, "That is the happy man!"</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'> -Planchet's Inventory.</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>thos, during the visit made to the Luxembourg by Raoul, -had gone to Planchet's residence to inquire after -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte, on -arriving at the Rue des Lombards, found the shop of the grocer in -great confusion; but it was not the encumberment of a lucky sale, -or that of an arrival of goods.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet was not enthroned, as -usual, on sacks and barrels.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A young man with a pen behind his -ear, and another with an account-book in his hand, were setting -down a number of figures, whilst a third counted and -weighed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An inventory was -being taken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, who -had no knowledge of commercial matters, felt himself a little -embarrassed by material obstacles and the majesty of those who -were thus employed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -saw several customers sent away, and asked himself whether he, -who came to buy nothing, would not be more properly deemed -importunate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He therefore -asked very politely if he could see M. Planchet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The reply, quite carelessly given, -was that M. Planchet was packing his trunks.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These words surprised Athos.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What! his trunks?" said he; -"is M. Planchet going away?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur, -directly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, if you please, -inform him that M. le Comte de la Fère desires to speak to -him for a moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At the mention of the -comte's name, one of the young men, no doubt accustomed to hear -it pronounced with respect, immediately went to inform -Planchet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was at this -moment that Raoul, after his painful scene with Montalais and De -Guiche, arrived at the grocer's house.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet left his job directly he -received the comte's message.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monsieur le comte!" -exclaimed he, "how glad I am to see you!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What good star brings you here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Planchet," said -Athos, pressing the hand of his son, whose sad look he silently -observed, - "we are come to learn of you - But in what confusion -do I find you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are as -white as a miller; where have you been rummaging?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>diable!</i> take care, monsieur; -don't come near me till I have well shaken myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What for?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Flour or dust only whiten."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; what you see on -my arms is arsenic."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Arsenic?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; I am taking my -precautions against rats."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ay, I suppose in an -establishment like this, rats play a conspicuous part."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not with this -establishment I concern myself, monsieur le comte.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The rats have robbed me of more here -than they will ever rob me of again."</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> "Why, you may have -observed, monsieur, my inventory is being taken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you leaving trade, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mon Dieu!</i> yes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have disposed of my business to -one of my young men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! you are rich, -then, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, I have taken -a dislike to the city; I don't know whether it is because I am -growing old, and as M. d'Artagnan one day said, when we grow old -we more often think of the adventures of our youth; but for some -time past I have felt myself attracted towards the country and -gardening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was a -countryman formerly."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -Planchet marked this confession with a rather pretentious laugh -for a man making profession of humility.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos made a gesture of -approval, and then added: "You are going to buy an estate, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have bought one, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that is still -better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A little house at -Fontainebleau, with something like twenty acres of land round -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well, -Planchet!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Accept my -compliments on your acquisition."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, monsieur, we are -not comfortable here; the cursed dust makes you cough.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Corbleu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not wish to poison the most -worthy gentleman in the kingdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos did not smile at -this little pleasantry which Planchet had aimed at him, in order -to try his strength in mundane facetiousness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Athos, "let -us have a little talk by ourselves - in your own room, for -example.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have a room, -have you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly, monsieur le -comte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upstairs, -perhaps?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Athos, -seeing Planchet a little embarrassed, wished to relieve him by -going first.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is - but - " said -Planchet, hesitating.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos was mistaken in -the cause of this hesitation, and, attributing it to a fear the -grocer might have of offering humble hospitality, "Never mind, -never mind," said he, still going up, "the dwelling of a -tradesman in this quarter is not expected to be a palace.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul nimbly preceded -him, and entered first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Two cries were heard simultaneously - we may say three.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of these cries dominated -the others; it emanated from a woman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Another proceeded from the mouth of -Raoul; it was an exclamation of surprise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had no sooner uttered it than he -shut the door sharply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The third was from fright; it came from Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I ask your pardon!" -added he; "madame is dressing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul had, no doubt, -seen that what Planchet said was true, for he turned round to go -downstairs again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame - " said -Athos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! pardon me, -Planchet, I did not know that you had upstairs - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is Trüchen," -added Planchet, blushing a little.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is whoever you -please, my good Planchet; but pardon my rudeness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; go up now, -gentlemen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will do no such -thing," said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! madame, having -notice, has had time - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, Planchet; -farewell!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh, gentlemen! you -would not disoblige me by thus standing on the staircase, or by -going away without having sat down."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If we had known you had -a lady upstairs," replied Athos, with his customary coolness, "we -would have asked permission to pay our respects to her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Planchet was so -disconcerted by this little extravagance, that he forced the -passage, and himself opened the door to admit the comte and his -son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trüchen was -quite dressed: in the costume of the shopkeeper's wife, rich yet -coquettish; German eyes attacking French eyes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She left the apartment after two -courtesies, and went down into the shop - but not without having -listened at the door, to know what Planchet's gentlemen visitors -would say of her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos -suspected that, and therefore turned the conversation -accordingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Planchet, on -his part, was burning to give explanations, which Athos -avoided.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, as certain -tenacities are stronger than others, Athos was forced to hear -Planchet recite his idyls of felicity, translated into a language -more chaste than that of Longus.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So Planchet related how Trüchen -had charmed the years of his advancing age, and brought good luck -to his business, as Ruth did to Boaz.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You want nothing now, -then, but heirs to your property."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I had one he would -have three hundred thousand livres," said Planchet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Humph! you must have -one, then," said Athos, phlegmatically, "if only to prevent your -little fortune being lost."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This word <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>little fortune</i> placed Planchet -in his rank, like the voice of the sergeant when Planchet was but -a <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>piqueur</i> in the -regiment of Piedmont, in which Rochefort had placed him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos perceived that the -grocer would marry Trüchen, and, in spite of fate, establish -a family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This appeared -the more evident to him when he learned that the young man to -whom Planchet was selling the business was her cousin.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having heard all that was -necessary of the happy prospects of the retiring grocer, "What is -M. d'Artagnan about?" said he; "he is not at the Louvre."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monsieur le comte, -Monsieur d'Artagnan has disappeared."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Disappeared!" said -Athos, in surprise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! monsieur, we know -what that means."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> do not know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whenever M. d'Artagnan -disappears it is always for some mission or some great -affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Has he said anything to -you about it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were acquainted -with his departure for England formerly, were you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On account of the -speculation." said Planchet, heedlessly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The speculation!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I mean - " interrupted -Planchet, quite confused.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, well; neither -your affairs nor those of your master are in question; the -interest we take in him alone has induced me to apply to -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Since the captain of -the musketeers is not here, and as we cannot learn from you where -we are likely to find M. d'Artagnan, we will take our leave of -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Au revoir</i>, Planchet, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>au revoir</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us be gone, Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le comte, I -wish I were able to tell you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, not at all; I am -not the man to reproach a servant with discretion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This word "servant" -struck rudely on the ears of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>demi-millionnaire</i> Planchet, but -natural respect and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bonhomie</i> prevailed over -pride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There is nothing -indiscreet in telling you, monsieur le comte, M. d'Artagnan came -here the other day - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aha?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And remained several -hours consulting a geographical chart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right, then, my -friend; say no more about it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the chart is there -as a proof," added Planchet, who went to fetch from the -neighboring wall, where it was suspended by a twist, forming a -triangle with the bar of the window to which it was fastened, the -plan consulted by the captain on his last visit to Planchet.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This plan, which he brought to -the comte, was a map of France, upon which the practiced eye of -that gentleman discovered an itinerary, marked out with small -pins; wherever a pin was missing, a hole denoted its having been -there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, by -following with his eye the pins and holes, saw that D'Artagnan -had taken the direction of the south, and gone as far as the -Mediterranean, towards Toulon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was near Cannes that the marks -and the punctured places ceased.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Comte de la Fère puzzled -his brains for some time, to divine what the musketeer could be -going to do at Cannes, and what motive could have led him to -examine the banks of the Var.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The reflections of Athos suggested -nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His accustomed -perspicacity was at fault.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul's researches were not more -successful than his father's.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never mind," said the -young man to the comte, who silently, and with his finger, had -made him understand the route of D'Artagnan; "we must confess -that there is a Providence always occupied in connecting our -destiny with that of M. d'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There he is on the coast of Cannes, -and you, monsieur, will, at least, conduct me as far as -Toulon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be assured that -we shall meet with him more easily upon our route than on this -map."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then, taking leave of -Planchet, who was scolding his shopmen, even the cousin of -Trüchen, his successor, the gentlemen set out to pay a visit -to M. de Beaufort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On -leaving the grocer's shop, they saw a coach, the future -depository of the charms of Mademoiselle Trüchen and -Planchet's bags of crowns.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every one journeys -towards happiness by the route he chooses," said Raoul, in a -melancholy tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Road to Fontainebleau!" -cried Planchet to his coachman.</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'>The -Inventory of M. de Beaufort.</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>o have talked of D'Artagnan with Planchet, to have seen -Planchet quit Paris to bury himself in his country retreat, had -been for Athos and his son like a last farewell to the noise of -the capital - to their life of former days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What, in fact, did these men leave -behind them - one of whom had exhausted the past age in glory, -and the other, the present age in misfortune?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Evidently neither of them had -anything to ask of his contemporaries.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They had only to pay a visit to M. -de Beaufort, and arrange with him the particulars of -departure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke was -lodged magnificently in Paris.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had one of those superb -establishments pertaining to great fortunes, the like of which -certain old men remembered to have seen in all their glory in the -times of wasteful liberality of Henry III.'s reign.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, really, several great nobles -were richer than the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They knew it, used it, and never -deprived themselves of the pleasure of humiliating his royal -majesty when they had an opportunity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was this egotistical aristocracy -Richelieu had constrained to contribute, with its blood, its -purse, and its duties, to what was from his time styled the -king's service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From -Louis XI. - that terrible mower-down of the great - to Richelieu, -how many families had raised their heads!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How many, from Richelieu to Louis -XIV., had bowed their heads, never to raise them again!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But M. de Beaufort was born a -prince, and of a blood which is not shed upon scaffolds, unless -by the decree of peoples, - a prince who had kept up a grand -style of living.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How did -he maintain his horses, his people, and his table?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nobody knew; himself less than -others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only there were -then privileges for the sons of kings, to whom nobody refused to -become a creditor, whether from respect or the persuasion that -they would some day be paid.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos and Raoul found -the mansion of the duke in as much confusion as that of -Planchet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke, -likewise, was making his inventory; that is to say, he was -distributing to his friends everything of value he had in his -house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Owing nearly two -millions - an enormous amount in those days - M. de Beaufort had -calculated that he could not set out for Africa without a good -round sum, and, in order to find that sum, he was distributing to -his old creditors plate, arms, jewels, and furniture, which was -more magnificent in selling it, and brought him back double.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, how could a man to -whom ten thousand livres were owing, refuse to carry away a -present worth six thousand, enhanced in estimation from having -belonged to a descendant of Henry IV.?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And how, after having carried away -that present, could he refuse ten thousand livres more to this -generous noble?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This, -then, was what had happened.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke had no longer a -dwelling-house - that had become useless to an admiral whose -place of residence is his ship; he had no longer need of -superfluous arms, when he was placed amidst his cannons; no more -jewels, which the sea might rob him of; but he had three or four -hundred thousand crowns fresh in his coffers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And throughout the house there was a -joyous movement of people who believed they were plundering -monseigneur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prince -had, in a supreme degree, the art of making happy the creditors -most to be pitied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every -distressed man, every empty purse, found in him patience and -sympathy for his position.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To some he said, "I wish I had what -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> have; I would give -it you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And to others, -"I have but this silver ewer; it is worth at least five hundred -livres, - take it."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -effect of which was - so truly is courtesy a current payment - -that the prince constantly found means to renew his -creditors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This time he -used no ceremony; it might be called a general pillage.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He gave up everything.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Oriental fable of the poor -Arab who carried away from the pillage of palace a kettle at the -bottom of which was concealed a bag of gold, and whom everybody -allowed to pass without jealousy, - this fable had become a truth -in the prince's mansion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Many contractors paid themselves upon the offices of the -duke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus, the provision -department, who plundered the clothes-presses and the -harness-rooms, attached very little value to things which tailors -and saddlers set great store by.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Anxious to carry home to their wives -presents given them by monseigneur, many were seen bounding -joyously along, under the weight of earthen jars and bottles, -gloriously stamped with the arms of the prince.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Beaufort finished by giving -away his horses and the hay from his lofts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He made more than thirty happy with -kitchen utensils; and thirty more with the contents of his -cellar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still further; -all these people went away with the conviction that M. de -Beaufort only acted in this manner to prepare for a new fortune -concealed beneath the Arabs' tents.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They repeated to each other, while -pillaging his hotel, that he was sent to Gigelli by the king to -reconstruct his lost fortunes; that the treasures of Africa would -be equally divided between the admiral and the king of France; -that these treasures consisted in mines of diamonds, or other -fabulous stones; the gold and silver mines of Mount Atlas did not -even obtain the honor of being named.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In addition to the mines to be -worked - which could not be begun till after the campaign - there -would be the booty made by the army.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Beaufort would lay his hands -on all the riches pirates had robbed Christendom of since the -battle of Lepanto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -number of millions from these sources defied calculation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, then, should he, who was -going in quest of such treasure, set any store by the poor -utensils of his past life?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And reciprocally, why should they -spare the property of him who spared it so little himself?</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Such was the position of -affairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, with his -piercing practiced glance, saw what was going on at once.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He found the admiral of France -a little exalted, for he was rising from a table of fifty covers, -at which the guests had drunk long and deeply to the prosperity -of the expedition; at the conclusion of which repast, the -remains, with the dessert, had been given to the servants, and -the empty dishes and plates to the curious.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prince was intoxicated with his -ruin and his popularity at one and the same time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had drunk his old wine to the -health of his wine of the future.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he saw Athos and Raoul:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is my -aide-de-camp being brought to me!" he cried.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come hither, comte; come hither, -vicomte."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos tried to find a -passage through the heaps of linen and plate.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! step over, step -over!" said the duke, offering a full glass to Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter drank it; Raoul scarcely -moistened his lips.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here is your -commission," said the prince to Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I had prepared it, reckoning upon -you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will go before -me as far as Antibes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here is the -order."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And De Beaufort -gave Raoul the order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do -you know anything of the sea?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur; I -have traveled with M. le Prince."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is well.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these barges and lighters -must be in attendance to form an escort and carry my -provisions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The army must -be prepared to embark in a fortnight at the very latest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That shall be done, -monseigneur."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The present -order gives you the right to visit and search all the isles along -the coast; you will there make the enrolments and levies you may -want for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur le -duc."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you are an active -man, and will work freely, you will spend much money."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hope not, -monseigneur."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I am -sure you will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My -intendant has prepared the orders of a thousand livres, drawn -upon the cities of the south; he will give you a hundred of -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, dear vicomte, -be gone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos interrupted the -prince.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Keep your money, -monseigneur; war is to be waged among the Arabs with gold as well -as lead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I wish to try the -contrary," replied the duke; "and then you are acquainted with my -ideas upon the expedition - plenty of noise, plenty of fire, and, -if so it must be, I shall disappear in the smoke."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having spoken thus, M. de Beaufort -began to laugh; but his mirth was not reciprocated by Athos and -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He perceived this -at once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah," said he, -with the courteous egotism of his rank and age, "you are such -people as a man should not see after dinner; you are cold, stiff, -and dry when I am all fire, suppleness, and wine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, devil take me!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I should always see you fasting, -vicomte, and you, comte, if you wear such a face as that, you -shall see me no more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He said this, pressing -the hand of Athos, who replied with a smile, "Monseigneur, do not -talk so grandly because you happen to have plenty of money.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I predict that within a month -you will be dry, stiff, and cold, in presence of your strong-box, -and that then, having Raoul at your elbow, fasting, you will be -surprised to see him gay, animated, and generous, because he will -have some new crowns to offer you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "God grant it may be -so!" cried the delighted duke.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Comte, stay with me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I shall go with -Raoul; the mission with which you charge him is a troublesome and -difficult one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alone it -would be too much for him to execute.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do not observe, monseigneur, you -have given him command of the first order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And in your naval -arrangements, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That may be -true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But one finds that -such fine young fellows as your son generally do all that is -required of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, I -believe you will find nowhere so much zeal and intelligence, so -much real bravery, as in Raoul; but if he failed to arrange your -embarkation, you would only meet the fate that you deserve."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Humph! you are -scolding me, then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, to -provision a fleet, to assemble a flotilla, to enroll your -maritime force, would take an admiral a year.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul is a cavalry officer, and you -allow him a fortnight!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I tell you he will -do it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He may; but I will -go and help him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To be sure you -will; I reckoned upon you, and still further believe that when we -are once at Toulon you will not let him depart alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" said Athos, -shaking his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Patience! -patience!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, -permit us to take our leave."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Begone, then, and -may my good luck attend you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Adieu! -monseigneur; and may your own good luck attend you likewise."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here is an -expedition admirably commenced!" said Athos to his son.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No provisions - no store -flotilla!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What can be -done, thus?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Humph!" murmured -Raoul; "if all are going to do as I am, provisions will not be -wanted."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," replied -Athos, sternly, "do not be unjust and senseless in your egotism, -or your grief, whichever you please to call it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you set out for this war solely -with the intention of getting killed therein, you stand in need -of nobody, and it was scarcely worth while to recommend you to M. -de Beaufort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But when you -have been introduced to the prime commandant - when you have -accepted the responsibility of a post in his army, the question -is no longer about <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i>, -but about all those poor soldiers, who, as well as you, have -hearts and bodies, who will weep for their country and endure all -the necessities of their condition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Remember, Raoul, that officers are -ministers as useful to the world as priests, and that they ought -to have more charity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur, I know -it and have practiced it; I would have continued to do so still, -but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You forget also -that you are of a country that is proud of its military glory; go -and die if you like, but do not die without honor and without -advantage to France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Cheer up, Raoul! do not let my words grieve you; I love you, and -wish to see you perfect."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I love your -reproaches, monsieur," said the young man, mildly; "they alone -may cure me, because they prove to me that some one loves me -still."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And now, Raoul, -let us be off; the weather is so fine, the heavens so clear, -those heavens which we always find above our heads, which you -will see more clear still at Gigelli, and which will speak to you -of me there, as they speak to me here of God."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The two gentlemen, -after having agreed on this point, talked over the wild freaks of -the duke, convinced that France would be served in a very -incomplete manner, as regarded both spirit and practice, in the -ensuing expedition; and having summed up the ducal policy under -the one word vanity, they set forward, in obedience rather to -their will than destiny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The sacrifice was half accomplished.</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'>The -Silver Dish.</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 journey passed off pretty well.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and his son traversed France -at the rate of fifteen leagues per day; sometimes more, sometimes -less, according to the intensity of Raoul's grief.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It took them a fortnight to reach -Toulon, and they lost all traces of D'Artagnan at Antibes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were forced to believe -that the captain of the musketeers was desirous of preserving an -incognito on his route, for Athos derived from his inquiries an -assurance that such a cavalier as he described had exchanged his -horse for a well-closed carriage on quitting Avignon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul was much affected at not -meeting with D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His affectionate heart longed to take a farewell and received -consolation from that heart of steel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos knew from experience that -D'Artagnan became impenetrable when engaged in any serious -affair, whether on his own account or on the service of the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He even feared to -offend his friend, or thwart him by too pressing inquiries.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet when Raoul commenced -his labor of classing the flotilla, and got together the <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>chalands</i> and lighters to -send them to Toulon, one of the fishermen told the comte that his -boat had been laid up to refit since a trip he had made on -account of a gentleman who was in great haste to embark.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, believing that this man -was telling a falsehood in order to be left at liberty to fish, -and so gain more money when all his companions were gone, -insisted upon having the details.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fisherman informed him that six -days previously, a man had come in the night to hire his boat, -for the purpose of visiting the island of St. Honnorat.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The price was agreed upon, but -the gentleman had arrived with an immense carriage case, which he -insisted upon embarking, in spite of the many difficulties that -opposed the operation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The fisherman wished to retract.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had even threatened, but his -threats had procured him nothing but a shower of blows from the -gentleman's cane, which fell upon his shoulders sharp and -long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Swearing and -grumbling, he had recourse to the syndic of his brotherhood at -Antibes, who administer justice among themselves and protect each -other; but the gentleman had exhibited a certain paper, at sight -of which the syndic, bowing to the very ground, enjoined -obedience from the fisherman, and abused him for having been -refractory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They then -departed with the freight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But all this does not -tell us," said Athos, "how you injured your boat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is the way.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was steering towards St. -Honnorat as the gentleman desired me; but he changed his mind, -and pretended that I could not pass to the south of the -abbey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because, monsieur, -there is in front of the square tower of the Benedictines, -towards the southern point, the bank of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Moines</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A rock?" asked -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Level with the water, -but below water; a dangerous passage, yet one I have cleared a -thousand times; the gentleman required me to land him at -Sainte-Marguerite's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur!" cried -the fisherman, with his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Provençal</i> accent, "a man -is a sailor, or he is not; he knows his course, or he is nothing -but a fresh-water lubber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I was obstinate, and wished to try the channel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The gentleman took me by the collar, -and told me quietly he would strangle me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My mate armed himself with a -hatchet, and so did I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -had the affront of the night before to pay him out for.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the gentleman drew his -sword, and used it in such an astonishingly rapid manner, that we -neither of us could get near him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was about to hurl my hatchet at -his head, and I had a right to do so, hadn't I, monsieur? for a -sailor aboard is master, as a citizen is in his chamber; I was -going, then, in self-defense, to cut the gentleman in two, when, -all at once - believe me or not, monsieur - the great carriage -case opened of itself, I don't know how, and there came out of it -a sort of a phantom, his head covered with a black helmet and a -black mask, something terrible to look upon, which came towards -me threatening with its fist."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that was - " said -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That was the devil, -monsieur; for the gentleman, with great glee, cried out, on -seeing him: 'Ah! thank you, monseigneur!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A most strange story!" -murmured the comte, looking at Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what did you do?" -asked the latter of the fisherman.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You must know, -monsieur, that two poor men, such as we are, could be no match -for two gentlemen; but when one of them turned out to be the -devil, we had no earthly chance!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My companion and I did not stop to -consult one another; we made but one jump into the sea, for we -were within seven or eight hundred feet of the shore."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, and then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, and then, -monseigneur, as there was a little wind from the southwest, the -boat drifted into the sands of Sainte-Marguerite's."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! - but the -travelers?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! you -need not be uneasy about them!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was pretty plain that one was the -devil, and protected the other; for when we recovered the boat, -after she got afloat again, instead of finding these two -creatures injured by the shock, we found nothing, not even the -carriage or the case."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very strange! very -strange!" repeated the comte.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But after that, what did you do, my -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I made my complaint to -the governor of Sainte-Marguerite's, who brought my finger under -my nose by telling me if I plagued him with such silly stories he -would have me flogged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! did the governor -himself say so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur; and yet -my boat was injured, seriously injured, for the prow is left upon -the point of Sainte-Marguerite's, and the carpenter asks a -hundred and twenty livres to repair it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well," replied -Raoul; "you will be exempted from the service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will go -to Sainte-Marguerite's, shall we?" said the comte to Bragelonne, -as the man walked away.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur, for -there is something to be cleared up; that man does not seem to me -to have told the truth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nor to me either, -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The story of the -masked man and the carriage having disappeared, may be told to -conceal some violence these fellows have committed upon their -passengers in the open sea, to punish him for his persistence in -embarking."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I formed the same -suspicion; the carriage was more likely to contain property than -a man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We shall see to that, -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The gentleman very -much resembles D'Artagnan; I recognize his methods of -proceeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alas! we are -no longer the young invincibles of former days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who knows whether the hatchet or the -iron bar of this miserable coaster has not succeeded in doing -that which the best blades of Europe, balls, and bullets have not -been able to do in forty years?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> That same day they set -out for Sainte-Marguerite's, on board a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>chasse-marée</i> come from -Toulon under orders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -impression they experienced on landing was a singularly pleasing -one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The island seemed -loaded with flowers and fruits.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In its cultivated part it served as -a garden for the governor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Orange, pomegranate, and fig trees -bent beneath the weight of their golden or purple fruits.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All round this garden, in the -uncultivated parts, red partridges ran about in conveys among the -brambles and tufts of junipers, and at every step of the comte -and Raoul a terrified rabbit quitted his thyme and heath to -scuttle away to the burrow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, this fortunate isle was -uninhabited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Flat, -offering nothing but a tiny bay for the convenience of -embarkation, and under the protection of the governor, who went -shares with them, smugglers made use of it as a provisional <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>entrepôt</i>, at the -expense of not killing the game or devastating the garden.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With this compromise, the -governor was in a situation to be satisfied with a garrison of -eight men to guard his fortress, in which twelve cannons -accumulated coats of moldy green.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The governor was a sort of happy -farmer, harvesting wines, figs, oil, and oranges, preserving his -citrons and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>cédrates</i> in the sun of -his casemates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -fortress, encircled by a deep ditch, its only guardian, arose -like three heads upon turrets connected with each other by -terraces covered with moss.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos and Raoul wandered -for some time round the fences of the garden without finding any -one to introduce them to the governor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They ended by making their own way -into the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -at the hottest time of the day.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Each living thing sought its shelter -under grass or stone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -heavens spread their fiery veils as if to stifle all noises, to -envelop all existences; the rabbit under the broom, the fly under -the leaf, slept as the wave did beneath the heavens.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos saw nothing living but a -soldier, upon the terrace beneath the second and third court, who -was carrying a basket of provisions on his head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This man returned almost immediately -without his basket, and disappeared in the shade of his -sentry-box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos -supposed he must have been carrying dinner to some one, and, -after having done so, returned to dine himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All at once they heard some one call -out, and raising their heads, perceived in the frame of the bars -of the window something of a white color, like a hand that was -waved backwards and forwards - something shining, like a polished -weapon struck by the rays of the sun.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And before they were able to -ascertain what it was, a luminous train, accompanied by a hissing -sound in the air, called their attention from the donjon to the -ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A second dull -noise was heard from the ditch, and Raoul ran to pick up a silver -plate which was rolling along the dry sand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The hand that had thrown this plate -made a sign to the two gentlemen, and then disappeared.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and Raoul, approaching -each other, commenced an attentive examination of the dusty -plate, and they discovered, in characters traced upon the bottom -of it with the point of a knife, this inscription:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I am the brother of the king of -France - a prisoner to-day - a madman to-morrow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> French gentlemen and Christians, -pray to God for the soul and the reason of the son of your old -rulers</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The plate fell from the -hands of Athos whilst Raoul was endeavoring to make out the -meaning of these dismal words.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the same moment they heard a cry -from the top of the donjon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Quick as lightning Raoul bent down -his head, and forced down that of his father likewise.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A musket-barrel glittered from -the crest of the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -white smoke floated like a plume from the mouth of the musket, -and a ball was flattened against a stone within six inches of the -two gentlemen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Cordieu!</i>" cried Athos.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What, are people assassinated -here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come down, cowards -as you are!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, come down!" cried -Raoul, furiously shaking his fist at the castle.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> One of the assailants - -he who was about to fire - replied to these cries by an -exclamation of surprise; and, as his companion, who wished to -continue the attack, had re-seized his loaded musket, he who had -cried out threw up the weapon, and the ball flew into the -air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and Raoul, -seeing them disappear from the platform, expected they would come -down to them, and waited with a firm demeanor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Five minutes had not elapsed, when a -stroke upon a drum called the eight soldiers of the garrison to -arms, and they showed themselves on the other side of the ditch -with their muskets in hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the head of these men was an -officer, whom Athos and Raoul recognized as the one who had fired -the first musket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man -ordered the soldiers to "make ready."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are going to be -shot!" cried Raoul; "but, sword in hand, at least, let us leap -the ditch!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall kill -at least two of these scoundrels, when their muskets are -empty."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, suiting the -action to the word, Raoul was springing forward, followed by -Athos, when a well-known voice resounded behind them, -"Athos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan!" replied -the two gentlemen.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Recover arms!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Mordioux!</i>" cried the captain to -the soldiers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I was sure -I could not be mistaken!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the meaning of -this?" asked Athos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"What! were we to be shot without warning?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was I who was going -to shoot you, and if the governor missed you, I should not have -missed you, my dear friends.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How fortunate it is that I am -accustomed to take a long aim, instead of firing at the instant I -raise my weapon!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -thought I recognized you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Ah! my dear friends, how fortunate!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan wiped his brow, for -he had run fast, and emotion with him was not feigned.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How!" said Athos.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And is the gentleman who -fired at us the governor of the fortress?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In -person."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why did -he fire at us?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What have -we done to him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You received what the prisoner threw -to you?"</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> "That plate - the -prisoner has written something on it, has he not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was afraid he had."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And -D'Artagnan, with all the marks of mortal disquietude, seized the -plate, to read the inscription.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he had read it, a fearful -pallor spread across his countenance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! good heavens!" repeated -he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Silence! - Here is -the governor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And what will he do to -us?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it our fault?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is true, then?" said -Athos, in a subdued voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is true?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> -"Silence!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I tell you - -silence!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he only -believes you can read; if he only suspects you have understood; I -love you, my dear friends, I would willingly be killed for you, -but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But - " said Athos and -Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I could not save -you from perpetual imprisonment if I saved you from death.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Silence, then!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Silence again!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The governor came up, -having crossed the ditch upon a plank bridge.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" said he to -D'Artagnan, "what stops us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are Spaniards - you -do not understand a word of French," said the captain, eagerly, -to his friends in a low voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" replied he, -addressing the governor, "I was right; these gentlemen are two -Spanish captains with whom I was acquainted at Ypres, last year; -they don't know a word of French."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the governor, -sharply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And yet they -were trying to read the inscription on the plate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan took it out -of his hands, effacing the characters with the point of his -sword.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How!" cried the -governor, "what are you doing?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I cannot read them now!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a state secret," -replied D'Artagnan, bluntly; "and as you know that, according to -the king's orders, it is under the penalty of death any one -should penetrate it, I will, if you like, allow you to read it, -and have you shot immediately afterwards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> During this apostrophe - -half serious, half ironical - Athos and Raoul preserved the -coolest, most unconcerned silence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, is it possible," -said the governor, "that these gentlemen do not comprehend at -least some words?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Suppose -they do!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If they do -understand a few spoken words, it does not follow that they -should understand what is written.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They cannot even read Spanish.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A noble Spaniard, remember, -ought never to know how to read."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The governor was obliged -to be satisfied with these explanations, but he was still -tenacious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Invite these -gentlemen to come to the fortress," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That I will willingly -do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was about to -propose it to you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -fact is, the captain had quite another idea, and would have -wished his friends a hundred leagues off.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he was obliged to make the best -of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He addressed the -two gentlemen in Spanish, giving them a polite invitation, which -they accepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They all -turned towards the entrance of the fort, and, the incident being -at an end, the eight soldiers returned to their delightful -leisure, for a moment disturbed by this unexpected adventure.</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'> -Captive and Jailers.</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 they had entered the fort, and whilst the governor -was making some preparations for the reception of his guests, -"Come," said Athos, "let us have a word of explanation whilst we -are alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is simply this," -replied the musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -have conducted hither a prisoner, who the king commands shall not -be seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You came here, -he has thrown something to you through the lattice of his window; -I was at dinner with the governor, I saw the object thrown, and I -saw Raoul pick it up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -does not take long to understand this.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understood it, and I thought you -in intelligence with my prisoner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then - you -commanded us to be shot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I admit it; but, if I was the first -to seize a musket, fortunately, I was the last to take aim at -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you had killed me, -D'Artagnan, I should have had the good fortune to die for the -royal house of France, and it would be an honor to die by your -hand - you, its noblest and most loyal defender."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What the devil, Athos, -do you mean by the royal house?" stammered D'Artagnan.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You don't mean that you, a -well-informed and sensible man, can place any faith in the -nonsense written by an idiot?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do believe in -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With so much the more -reason, my dear chevalier, from your having orders to kill all -those who do believe in it," said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is because," -replied the captain of the musketeers - "because every calumny, -however absurd it may be, has the almost certain chance of -becoming popular."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, D'Artagnan," -replied Athos, promptly; "but because the king is not willing -that the secret of his family should transpire among the people, -and cover with shame the executioners of the son of Louis -XIII."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not talk in such a -childish manner, Athos, or I shall begin to think you have lost -your senses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, -explain to me how it is possible Louis XIII. should have a son in -the Isle of Sainte-Marguerite."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A son whom you have -brought hither masked, in a fishing-boat," said Athos.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was brought -to a pause.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said he; "whence -do you know that a fishing-boat - ?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Brought you to -Sainte-Marguerite's with the carriage containing the prisoner - -with a prisoner whom you styled monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am acquainted with all that," -resumed the comte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan bit his mustache.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it were true," said -he, "that I had brought hither in a boat and with a carriage a -masked prisoner, nothing proves that this prisoner must be a -prince - a prince of the house of France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask Aramis such -riddles," replied Athos, coolly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis," cried the -musketeer, quite at a stand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Have you seen Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "After his discomfiture -at Vaux, yes; I have seen Aramis, a fugitive, pursued, -bewildered, ruined; and Aramis has told me enough to make me -believe in the complaints this unfortunate young prince cut upon -the bottom of the plate."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan's head sunk -on his breast in some confusion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "This is the way," said he, "in -which God turns to nothing that which men call wisdom!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A fine secret must that be of -which twelve or fifteen persons hold the tattered fragments!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, cursed be the chance -which has brought you face to face with me in this affair! for -now - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said Athos, with -his customary mild severity, "is your secret lost because I know -it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Consult your memory, -my friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have I not -borne secrets heavier than this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have never borne -one so dangerous," replied D'Artagnan, in a tone of sadness.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have something like a -sinister idea that all who are concerned with this secret will -die, and die unhappily."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The will of God be -done!" said Athos, "but here is your governor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan and his -friends immediately resumed their parts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The governor, suspicious and hard, -behaved towards D'Artagnan with a politeness almost amounting to -obsequiousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With -respect to the travelers, he contented himself with offering good -cheer, and never taking his eye from them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and Raoul observed that he -often tried to embarrass them by sudden attacks, or to catch them -off their guard; but neither the one nor the other gave him the -least advantage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -D'Artagnan had said was probable, if the governor did not believe -it to be quite true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -rose from the table to repose awhile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is this man's -name?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't like the -looks of him," said Athos to D'Artagnan in Spanish.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "De Saint-Mars," replied -the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is, then, I suppose, -the prince's jailer?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! how can I -tell?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I may be kept at -Sainte-Marguerite forever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no, not you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend, I am in the -situation of a man who finds a treasure in the midst of a -desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He would like to -carry it away, but he cannot; he would like to leave it, but he -dares not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king will -not dare to recall me, for no one else would serve him as -faithfully as I do; he regrets not having me near him, from being -aware that no one would be of so much service near his person as -myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it will -happen as it may please God."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," observed Raoul, -"your not being certain proves that your situation here is -provisional, and you will return to Paris?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask these gentlemen," -interrupted the governor, "what was their purpose in coming to -Saint-Marguerite?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They came from learning -there was a convent of Benedictines at Sainte-Honnorat which is -considered curious; and from being told there was excellent -shooting in the island."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is quite at their -service, as well as yours," replied Saint-Mars.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan politely -thanked him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When will they depart?" -added the governor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To-morrow," replied -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. de Saint-Mars went to -make his rounds, and left D'Artagnan alone with the pretended -Spaniards.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" exclaimed the -musketeer, "here is a life and a society that suits me very -little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I command this -man, and he bores me, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, let us have a shot or two at -the rabbits; the walk will be beautiful, and not fatiguing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The whole island is but a -league and a half in length, with the breadth of a league; a real -park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us try to amuse -ourselves."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As you please, -D'Artagnan; not for the sake of amusing ourselves, but to gain an -opportunity for talking freely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan made a sign -to a soldier, who brought the gentlemen some guns, and then -returned to the fort.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And now," said the -musketeer, "answer me the question put to you by that -black-looking Saint-Mars: what did you come to do at the Lerin -Isles?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To bid you -farewell."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bid me farewell!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What do you mean by that?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is Raoul going anywhere?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then I will lay a wager -it is with M. de Beaufort."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With M. de Beaufort it -is, my dear friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -always guess correctly."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From -habit."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Whilst the two friends -were commencing their conversation, Raoul, with his head hanging -down and his heart oppressed, seated himself on a mossy rock, his -gun across his knees, looking at the sea - looking at the -heavens, and listening to the voice of his soul; he allowed the -sportsmen to attain a considerable distance from him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan remarked his absence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He has not recovered -the blow?" said he to Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is struck to -death."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! your fears -exaggerate, I hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul -is of a tempered nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Around all hearts as noble as his, there is a second envelope -that forms a cuirass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -first bleeds, the second resists."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied Athos, -"Raoul will die of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i>" said D'Artagnan, in a -melancholy tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -did not add a word to this exclamation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, a minute after, "Why do you -let him go?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because he -insists on going."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why do you not go -with him?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I -could not bear to see him die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan looked his -friend earnestly in the face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You know one thing," continued the -comte, leaning upon the arm of the captain; "you know that in the -course of my life I have been afraid of but few things.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have an incessant gnawing, -insurmountable fear that an hour will come in which I shall hold -the dead body of that boy in my arms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" murmured -D'Artagnan; "oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will die, I know, I -have a perfect conviction of that; but I would not see him -die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How is this, Athos? you -come and place yourself in the presence of the bravest man, you -say you have ever seen, of your own D'Artagnan, of that man -without an equal, as you formerly called him, and you come and -tell him, with your arms folded, that you are afraid of -witnessing the death of your son, you who have seen all that can -be seen in this world!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Why have you this fear, Athos?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Man upon this earth must expect -everything, and ought to face everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Listen to me, my -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After having worn -myself out upon this earth of which you speak, I have preserved -but two religions: that of life, friendship, my duty as a father -- that of eternity, love, and respect for God.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, I have within me the revelation -that if God should decree that my friend or my son should render -up his last sigh in my presence - oh! no, I cannot even tell you, -D'Artagnan!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak, speak, tell -me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am strong against -everything, except against the death of those I love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For that only there is no -remedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He who dies, -gains; he who sees others die, loses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, this is it - to know that I -should no more meet on earth him whom I now behold with joy; to -know that there would nowhere be a<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan any more, nowhere again -be a Raoul, oh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am old, -look you, I have no longer courage; I pray God to spare me in my -weakness; but if he struck me so plainly and in that fashion, I -should curse him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -Christian gentleman ought not to curse his God, D'Artagnan; it is -enough to once have cursed a king!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Humph!" sighed -D'Artagnan, a little confused by this violent tempest of -grief.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let me speak to him, -Athos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who knows?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Try, if you please, but -I am convinced you will not succeed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not attempt to -console him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will serve -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Doubtless, I will.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you think this would be the -first time a woman had repented of an infidelity?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will go to him, I tell you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos shook his head, -and continued his walk alone, D'Artagnan, cutting across the -brambles, rejoined Raoul and held out his hand to him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, Raoul!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have something to say to -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have a kindness to -ask of you," replied Bragelonne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask it, then."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will -some day return to France?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hope -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ought I to write to -Mademoiselle de la Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, you must not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I have many things -to say to her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go and say them to her, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pray, what virtue do -you attribute to a letter, which your speech might not -possess?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Perhaps you -are right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "She loves the king," -said D'Artagnan, bluntly; "and she is an honest girl."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul started.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And you, you whom she abandons, -she, perhaps, loves better than she does the king, but after -another fashion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan, do you -believe she loves the king?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To -idolatry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Her heart is -inaccessible to any other feeling.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You might continue to live near her, -and would be her best friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" exclaimed Raoul, -with a passionate burst of repugnance at such a hideous hope.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you do so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be base."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a very absurd -word, which would lead me to think slightly of your -understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Please to -understand, Raoul, that it is never base to do that which is -imposed upon us by a superior force.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If your heart says to you, 'Go -there, or die,' why go, Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was she base or brave, she whom you -loved, in preferring the king to you, the king whom her heart -commanded her imperiously to prefer to you?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, she was the bravest of -women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do, then, as she -has done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oblige -yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know one -thing of which I am sure, Raoul?"</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> "Why, that by seeing her -closely with the eyes of a jealous man - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! you would cease -to love her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then I am decided, my -dear D'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To set off to see her -again?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; to set -off that I may <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>never</i> -see her again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wish to -love her forever."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ha!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I must confess," replied the -musketeer, "that is a conclusion which I was far from -expecting."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is what I wish, my -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will see her -again, and you will give her a letter which, if you think proper, -will explain to her, as to yourself, what is passing in my -heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Read it; I drew it -up last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Something -told me I should see you to-day."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He held the letter out, and -D'Artagnan read:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MADEMOISELLE, - You are -not wrong in my eyes in not loving me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have only been guilty of one -fault towards me, that of having left me to believe you loved -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This error will cost -me my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I pardon you, -but I cannot pardon myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is said that happy lovers are -deaf to the sorrows of rejected lovers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It will not be so with you, who did -not love me, save with anxiety.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am sure that if I had persisted in -endeavoring to change that friendship into love, you would have -yielded out of a fear of bringing about my death, or lessening -the esteem I had for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It is much more delightful to me to die, knowing that <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>you</i> are free and satisfied.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How much, then, will you love -me, when you will no longer fear either my presence or -reproaches?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will love -me, because, however charming a new love may appear to you, God -has not made me in anything inferior to him you have chosen, and -because my devotedness, my sacrifice, and my painful end will -assure me, in your eyes, a certain superiority over him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have allowed to escape, in -the candid credulity of my heart, the treasure I possessed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Many people tell me that you -loved me enough to lead me to hope you would have loved me -much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That idea takes -from my mind all bitterness, and leads me only to blame -myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will accept -this last farewell, and you will bless me for having taken refuge -in the inviolable asylum where hatred is extinguished, and where -all love endures forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Adieu, mademoiselle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If -your happiness could be purchased by the last drop of my blood, I -would shed that drop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -willingly make the sacrifice of it to my misery!</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -"RAOUL, VICOTME DE BRAGELONNE."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The letter reads very -well," said the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I have only one fault to find with it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me what that is!" -said Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, it is that it -tells everything, except the thing which exhales, like a mortal -poison from your eyes and from your heart; except the senseless -love which still consumes you."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul grew paler, but remained -silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why did you not write -simply these words:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'MADEMOISELLE, - -Instead of cursing you, I love you and I die.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true," -exclaimed Raoul, with a sinister kind of joy.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And tearing the letter -he had just taken back, he wrote the following words upon a leaf -of his tablets:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To procure the -happiness of once more telling you I love you, I commit the -baseness of writing to you; and to punish myself for that -baseness, I die."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -signed it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will give her these -tablets, captain, will you not?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When?" -asked the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the day," said -Bragelonne, pointing to the last sentence, "on the day when you -can place a date under these words."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he sprang away quickly to join -Athos, who was returning with slow steps.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As they re-entered the -fort, the sea rose with that rapid, gusty vehemence which -characterizes the Mediterranean; the ill-humor of the element -became a tempest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Something shapeless, and tossed about violently by the waves, -appeared just off the coast.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?" said -Athos, - "a wrecked boat?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, it is not a boat," -said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me," said Raoul, -"there is a bark gaining the port rapidly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, there is a bark in -the creek, which is prudently seeking shelter here; but that -which Athos points to in the sand is not a boat at all - it has -run aground."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes, I see -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the carriage, -which I threw into the sea after landing the prisoner."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" said -Athos, "if you take my advice, D'Artagnan, you will burn that -carriage, in order that no vestige of it may remain, without -which the fishermen of Antibes, who have believed they had to do -with the devil, will endeavor to prove that your prisoner was but -a man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your advice is good, -Athos, and I will this night have it carried out, or rather, I -will carry it out myself; but let us go in, for the rain falls -heavily, and the lightning is terrific."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As they were passing -over the ramparts to a gallery of which D'Artagnan had the key, -they saw M. de Saint-Mars directing his steps towards the chamber -inhabited by the prisoner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon a sign from D'Artagnan, they -concealed themselves in an angle of the staircase.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?" said -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will see.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prisoner is returning from -chapel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And they saw, by the red -flashes of lightning against the violet fog which the wind -stamped upon the bank-ward sky, they saw pass gravely, at six -paces behind the governor, a man clothed in black and masked by a -vizor of polished steel, soldered to a helmet of the same nature, -which altogether enveloped the whole of his head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fire of the heavens cast red -reflections on the polished surface, and these reflections, -flying off capriciously, seemed to be angry looks launched by the -unfortunate, instead of imprecations.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the middle of the gallery, the -prisoner stopped for a moment, to contemplate the infinite -horizon, to respire the sulphurous perfumes of the tempest, to -drink in thirstily the hot rain, and to breathe a sigh resembling -a smothered groan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come on, monsieur," -said Saint-Mars, sharply, to the prisoner, for he already became -uneasy at seeing him look so long beyond the walls.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur, come on!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Say monseigneur!" cried -Athos, from his corner, with a voice so solemn and terrible, that -the governor trembled from head to foot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos insisted upon respect being -paid to fallen majesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The prisoner turned round.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who spoke?" asked -Saint-Mars.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was I," replied -D'Artagnan, showing himself promptly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You know that is the order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Call me neither -monsieur nor monseigneur," said the prisoner in his turn, in a -voice that penetrated to the very soul of Raoul; "call me -ACCURSED!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He passed on, -and the iron door croaked after him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There goes a truly -unfortunate man!" murmured the musketeer in a hollow whisper, -pointing out to Raoul the chamber inhabited by the prince.</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'> -Promises.</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>carcely had D'Artagnan re-entered his apartment with his -two friends, when one of the soldiers of the fort came to inform -him that the governor was seeking him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bark which Raoul had perceived -at sea, and which appeared so eager to gain the port, came to -Sainte-Marguerite with an important dispatch for the captain of -the musketeers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On -opening it, D'Artagnan recognized the writing of the king: "I -should think," said Louis XIV., "you will have completed the -execution of my orders, Monsieur d'Artagnan; return, then, -immediately to Paris, and join me at the Louvre."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is the end of my -exile!" cried the musketeer with joy; "God be praised, I am no -longer a jailer!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -showed the letter to Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So, then, you must -leave us?" replied the latter, in a melancholy tone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, but to meet again, -dear friend, seeing that Raoul is old enough now to go alone with -M. de Beaufort, and will prefer his father going back in company -with M. d'Artagnan, to forcing him to travel two hundred leagues -solitarily to reach home at La Fère; will you not, -Raoul?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly," stammered -the latter, with an expression of tender regret.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, my friend," -interrupted Athos, "I will never quit Raoul till the day his -vessel disappears on the horizon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As long as he remains in France he -shall not be separated from me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As you please, dear -friend; but we will, at least, leave Sainte-Marguerite together; -take advantage of the bark that will convey me back to -Antibes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With all my heart; we -cannot too soon be at a distance from this fort, and from the -spectacle that shocked us so just now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The three friends -quitted the little isle, after paying their respects to the -governor, and by the last flashes of the departing tempest they -took their farewell of the white walls of the fort.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan parted from his friend -that same night, after having seen fire set to the carriage upon -the shore by the orders of Saint-Mars, according to the advice -the captain had given him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before getting on horseback, and -after leaving the arms of Athos: "My friends," said he, "you bear -too much resemblance to two soldiers who are abandoning their -post.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Something warns me -that Raoul will require being supported by you in his rank.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you allow me to ask -permission to go over into Africa with a hundred good -muskets?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king will -not refuse me, and I will take you with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," -replied Raoul, pressing his hand with emotion, "thanks for that -offer, which would give us more than we wish, either monsieur le -comte or I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, who am -young, stand in need of labor of mind and fatigue of body; -monsieur le comte wants the profoundest repose.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are his best friend.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I recommend him to your care.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In watching over him, you are -holding both our souls in your hands."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I must go; my horse is -all in a fret," said D'Artagnan, with whom the most manifest sign -of a lively emotion was the change of ideas in conversation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, comte, how many days -longer has Raoul to stay here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Three days at -most."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And how long will it -take you to reach home?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! a considerable -time," replied Athos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -shall not like the idea of being separated too quickly from -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Time will travel -too fast of itself to require me to aid it by distance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall only make -half-stages."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why so, my -friend?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing is more -dull than traveling slowly; and hostelry life does not become a -man like you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend, I came -hither on post-horses; but I wish to purchase two animals of a -superior kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, to -take them home fresh, it would not be prudent to make them travel -more than seven or eight leagues a day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where is Grimaud?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He arrived yesterday -morning with Raoul's appointments; and I have left him to -sleep."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is, never to come -back again," D'Artagnan suffered to escape him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Till we meet again, then, dear -Athos - and if you are diligent, I shall embrace you the -sooner."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So saying, he -put his foot in the stirrup, which Raoul held.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Farewell!" said the -young man, embracing him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Farewell!" said -D'Artagnan, as he got into his saddle.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> His horse made a -movement which divided the cavalier from his friends.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This scene had taken place in front -of the house chosen by Athos, near the gates of Antibes, whither -D'Artagnan, after his supper, had ordered his horses to be -brought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The road began -to branch off there, white and undulating in the vapors of the -night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horse eagerly -respired the salt, sharp perfume of the marshes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan put him to a trot; and -Athos and Raoul sadly turned towards the house.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All at once they heard the rapid -approach of a horse's steps, and first believed<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> it to be one of those singular -repercussions which deceive the ear at every turn in a road.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it was really the return -of the horseman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -uttered a cry of joyous surprise; and the captain, springing to -the ground like a young man, seized within his arms the two -beloved heads of Athos and Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He held them long embraced thus, -without speaking a word, or suffering the sigh which was bursting -his breast to escape him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Then, as rapidly as he had come back, he set off again, with a -sharp application of his spurs to the sides of his fiery -horse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!" said the comte, -in a low voice, "alas! alas!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An evil omen!" on his -side, said D'Artagnan to himself, making up for lost time.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I could not smile upon -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An evil omen!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The next day Grimaud was -on foot again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -service commanded by M. de Beaufort was happily -accomplished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -flotilla, sent to Toulon by the exertions of Raoul, had set out, -dragging after it in little nutshells, almost invisible, the -wives and friends of the fishermen and smugglers put in -requisition for the service of the fleet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The time, so short, which remained -for father and son to live together, appeared to go by with -double rapidity, like some swift stream that flows towards -eternity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos and Raoul -returned to Toulon, which began to be filled with the noise of -carriages, with the noise of arms, the noise of neighing -horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The trumpeters -sounded their spirited marches; the drummers signalized their -strength; the streets were overflowing with soldiers, servants, -and tradespeople.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Duc -de Beaufort was everywhere, superintending the embarkation with -the zeal and interest of a good captain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He encouraged the humblest of his -companions; he scolded his lieutenants, even those of the highest -rank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Artillery, -provisions, baggage, he insisted upon seeing all himself.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He examined the equipment of -every soldier; assured himself of the health and soundness of -every horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was plain -that, light, boastful, egotistical, in his hotel, the gentleman -became the soldier again - the high noble, a captain - in face of -the responsibility he had accepted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet, it must be admitted that, -whatever was the care with which he presided over the -preparations for departure, it was easy to perceive careless -precipitation, and the absence of all the precaution that make -the French solider the first soldier in the world, because, in -that world, he is the one most abandoned to his own physical and -moral resources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All -things having satisfied, or appearing to have satisfied, the -admiral, he paid his compliments to Raoul, and gave the last -orders for sailing, which was ordered the next morning at -daybreak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He invited the -comte had his son to dine with him; but they, under a pretext of -service, kept themselves apart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gaining their hostelry, situated -under the trees of the great Place, they took their repast in -haste, and Athos led Raoul to the rocks which dominate the city, -vast gray mountains, whence the view is infinite and embraces a -liquid horizon which appears, so remote is it, on a level with -the rocks themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -night was fine, as it always is in these happy climes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moon, rising behind the -rocks, unrolled a silver sheet on the cerulean carpet of the -sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the roadsteads -maneuvered silently the vessels which had just taken their rank -to facilitate the embarkation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sea, loaded with phosphoric -light, opened beneath the hulls of the barks that transported the -baggage and munitions; every dip of the prow plowed up this gulf -of white flames; from every oar dropped liquid diamonds.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sailors, rejoicing in the -largesses of the admiral, were heard murmuring their slow and -artless songs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sometimes -the grinding of the chains was mixed with the dull noise of shot -falling into the holds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Such harmonies, such a spectacle, oppress the heart like fear, -and dilate it like hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -All this life speaks of death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos had seated himself with his -son, upon the moss, among the brambles of the promontory.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Around their heads passed and -repassed large bats, carried along by the fearful whirl of their -blind chase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The feet of -Raoul were over the edge of the cliff, bathed in that void which -is peopled by vertigo, and provokes to self-annihilation.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the moon had risen to its -fullest height, caressing with light the neighboring peaks, when -the watery mirror was illumined in its full extent, and the -little red fires had made their openings in the black masses of -every ship, Athos, collecting all his ideas and all his courage, -said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "God has made all these -things that we see, Raoul; He has made us also, - poor atoms -mixed up with this monstrous universe.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shine like those fires and those -stars; we sigh like those waves; we suffer like those great -ships, which are worn out in plowing the waves, in obeying the -wind that urges them towards an end, as the breath of God blows -us towards a port.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Everything likes to live, Raoul; and everything seems beautiful -to living things."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said Raoul, -"we have before us a beautiful spectacle!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How good D'Artagnan -is!" interrupted Athos, suddenly, "and what a rare good fortune -it is to be supported during a whole life by such a friend as he -is!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is what you have -missed, Raoul."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A friend!" cried Raoul, -"I have wanted a friend!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Guiche is an -agreeable companion," resumed the comte, coldly, "but I believe, -in the times in which you live, men are more engaged in their own -interests and their own pleasures than they were in ours.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have sought a secluded -life; that is a great happiness, but you have lost your strength -thereby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We four, more -weaned from those delicate abstractions that constitute your joy, -furnished much more resistance when misfortune presented -itself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have not interrupted -you, monsieur, to tell you that I had a friend, and that that -friend is M. de Guiche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Certes</i>, he is good and -generous, and moreover he loves me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I have lived under the -guardianship of another friendship, monsieur, as precious and as -strong as that of which you speak, since it is yours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have not been a -friend for you, Raoul," said Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! monsieur, and in -what respect not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because I have given -you reason to think that life has but one face, because, sad and -severe, alas!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -always cut off for you, without, God knows, wishing to do so, the -joyous buds that spring incessantly from the fair tree of youth; -so that at this moment I repent of not having made of you a more -expansive, dissipated, animated man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know why you say -that, monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, it is -not you who have made me what I am; it was love, which took me at -the time when children only have inclinations; it is the -constancy natural to my character, which with other creatures is -but habit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I believed -that I should always be as I was; I thought God had cast me in a -path quite clear, quite straight, bordered with fruits and -flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I had ever -watching over me your vigilance and strength.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I believed myself to be vigilant and -strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing prepared -me; I fell once, and that once deprived me of courage for the -whole of my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -quite true that I wrecked myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, no, monsieur! you are nothing in -my past but happiness - in my future but hope!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, I have no reproach to make -against life such as you made it for me; I bless you, and I love -you ardently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear Raoul, your -words do me good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -prove to me that you will act a little for me in the time to -come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall only act for -you, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul, what I have -never hitherto done with respect to you, I will henceforward -do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will be your -friend, not your father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -We will live in expanding ourselves, instead of living and -holding ourselves prisoners, when you come back.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And that will be soon, will it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly, monsieur, -for such an expedition cannot last long."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Soon, then, Raoul, -soon, instead of living moderately on my income, I will give you -the capital of my estates.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It will suffice for launching you -into the world till my death; and you will give me, I hope, -before that time, the consolation of not seeing my race -extinct."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will do all you may -command," said Raoul, much agitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not necessary, -Raoul, that your duty as aide-de-camp should lead you into too -hazardous enterprises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You have gone through your ordeal; you are known to be a true man -under fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Remember that -war with Arabs is a war of snares, ambuscades, and -assassinations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So it is said, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is never much -glory in falling in an ambuscade.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a death which always implies a -little rashness or want of foresight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Often, indeed, he who falls in one -meets with but little pity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those who are not pitied, Raoul, -have died to little purpose.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still further, the conqueror laughs, -and we Frenchmen ought not to allow stupid infidels to triumph -over our faults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -clearly understand what I am saying to you, Raoul?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God forbid I should encourage you to -avoid encounters."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am naturally prudent, -monsieur, and I have very good fortune," said Raoul, with a<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> smile which chilled the heart -of his poor father; "for," the young man hastened to add, "in -twenty combats through which I have been, I have only received -one scratch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is in addition," -said Athos, "the climate to be dreaded: that is an ugly end, to -die of fever!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> King -Saint-Louis prayed God to send him an arrow or the plague, rather -than the fever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, monsieur! with -sobriety, with reasonable exercise - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have already obtained -from M. de Beaufort a promise that his dispatches shall be sent -off every fortnight to France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, as his aide-de-camp, will be -charged with expediting them, and will be sure not to forget -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monsieur," said -Raoul, almost choked with emotion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Besides, Raoul, as you -are a good Christian, and I am one also, we ought to reckon upon -a more special protection of God and His guardian angels.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Promise me that if anything -evil should happen to you, on any occasion, you will think of me -at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "First and at once!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! yes, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And will call upon -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Instantly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You dream of me -sometimes, do you not, Raoul?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Every night, -monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> During my early -youth I saw you in my dreams, calm and mild, with one hand -stretched out over my head, and that it was which made me sleep -so soundly - <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>formerly.</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We love each other too -dearly," said the comte, "that from this moment, in which we -separate, a portion of both our souls should not travel with one -and the other of us, and should not dwell wherever we may -dwell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whenever you may -be sad, Raoul, I feel that my heart will be dissolved in sadness; -and when you smile on thinking of me, be assured you will send -me, from however remote a distance, a vital scintillation of your -joy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not promise you -to be joyous," replied the young man; "but you may be certain -that I will never pass an hour without thinking of you, not one -hour, I swear, unless I shall be dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos could contain -himself no longer; he threw his arm round the neck of his son, -and held him embraced with all the power of his heart.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moon began to be now -eclipsed by twilight; a golden band surrounded the horizon, -announcing the approach of the day. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos threw his cloak over the -shoulders of Raoul, and led him back to the city, where burdens -and porters were already in motion, like a vast ant-hill.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the extremity of the -plateau which Athos and Bragelonne were quitting, they saw a dark -shadow moving uneasily backwards and forwards, as if in -indecision or ashamed to be seen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was Grimaud, who in his anxiety -had tracked his master, and was there awaiting him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! my good Grimaud," -cried Raoul, "what do you want?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are come to tell us it is time -to be gone, have you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alone?" said Grimaud, -addressing Athos and pointing to Raoul in a tone of reproach, -which showed to what an extent the old man was troubled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you are right!" -cried the comte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "No, -Raoul shall not go alone; no, he shall not be left alone in a -strange land without some friendly hand to support him, some -friendly heart to recall to him all he loved!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I?" said Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You, yes, you!" cried -Raoul, touched to the inmost heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alas!" said Athos, "you -are very old, my good Grimaud."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So much the better," -replied the latter, with an inexpressible depth of feeling and -intelligence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the embarkation is -begun," said Raoul, "and you are not prepared."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Grimaud, -showing the keys of his trunks, mixed with those of his young -master.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," again objected -Raoul, "you cannot leave monsieur le comte thus alone; monsieur -le comte, whom you have never quitted?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Grimaud -turned his diamond eyes upon Athos and Raoul, as if to measure -the strength of both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -comte uttered not a word.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le comte -prefers my going," said Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do," said Athos, by -an inclination of the head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At that moment the drums -suddenly rolled, and the clarions filled the air with their -inspiring notes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -regiments destined for the expedition began to debouch from the -city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They advanced to -the number of five, each composed of forty companies.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Royals marched first, distinguished -by their white uniform, faced with blue.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ordonnance</i> colors, quartered -cross-wise, violet and dead leaf, with a sprinkling of golden <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fleurs-de-lis</i>, left the -white-colored flag, with its <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fleur-de-lised</i> cross, to -dominate the whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Musketeers at the wings, with their forked sticks and their -muskets on their shoulders; pikemen in the center, with their -lances, fourteen feet in length, marched gayly towards the -transports, which carried them in detail to the ships.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The regiments of Picardy, -Navarre, Normandy, and Royal Vaisseau, followed after.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Beaufort had known well -how to select his troops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He himself was seen closing the march with his staff - it would -take a full hour before he could reach the sea.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul with Athos turned his steps -slowly towards the beach, in order to take his place when the -prince embarked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud, -boiling with the ardor of a young man, superintended the -embarkation of Raoul's baggage in the admiral's vessel.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, with his arm passed -through that of the son he was about to lose, absorbed in -melancholy meditation, was deaf to every noise around him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An officer came quickly -towards them to inform Raoul that M. de Beaufort was anxious to -have him by his side.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have the kindness to -tell the prince," said Raoul, "that I request he will allow me -this hour to enjoy the company of my father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no," said Athos, -"an aide-de-camp ought not thus to quit his general.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Please to tell the prince, monsieur, -that the vicomte will join him immediately."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officer set off at a gallop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whether we part here or -part there," added the comte, "it is no less a separation."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He carefully brushed the dust -from his son's coat, and passed his hand over his hair as they -walked along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But, -Raoul," said he, "you want money.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Beaufort's train will be -splendid, and I am certain it will be agreeable to you to -purchase horses and arms, which are very dear things in -Africa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, as you are -not actually in the service of the king or M. de Beaufort, and -are simply a volunteer, you must not reckon upon either pay or -largesse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I should -not like you to want for anything at Gigelli.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here are two hundred pistoles; if -you would please me, Raoul, spend them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Raoul pressed the hand -of his father, and, at the turning of a street, they saw M. de -Beaufort, mounted on a magnificent white <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>genet</i>, which responded by -graceful curvets to the applause of the women of the city.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke called Raoul, and -held out his hand to the comte.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He spoke to him for some time, with -such a kindly expression that the heart of the poor father even -felt a little comforted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was, however, evident to both father and son that their walk -amounted to nothing less than a punishment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was a terrible moment - that -at which, on quitting the sands of the shore, the soldiers and -sailors exchanged the last kisses with their families and -friends; a supreme moment, in which, notwithstanding the -clearness of the heavens, the warmth of the sun, of the perfumes -of the air, and the rich life that was circulating in their -veins, everything appeared black, everything bitter, everything -created doubts of Providence, nay, at the most, of God.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was customary for the -admiral and his suite to embark last; the cannon waited to -announce, with its formidable voice, that the leader had placed -his foot on board his vessel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos, forgetful of both the admiral -and the fleet, and of his own dignity as a strong man, opened his -arms to his son, and pressed him convulsively to his heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Accompany us on board," -said the duke, very much affected; "you will gain a good -half-hour."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," said Athos, "my -farewell has been spoken, I do not wish to voice a second."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, vicomte, embark - -embark quickly!" added the prince, wishing to spare the tears of -these two men, whose hearts were bursting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And paternally, tenderly, very much -as Porthos might have done, he took Raoul in his arms and placed -him in the boat, the oars of which, at a signal, immediately were -dipped in the waves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -himself, forgetful of ceremony, jumped into his boat, and pushed -it off with a vigorous foot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Adieu!" cried Raoul.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos replied only by a -sign, but he felt something burning on his hand: it was the -respectful kiss of Grimaud - the last farewell of the faithful -dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This kiss given, -Grimaud jumped from the step of the mole upon the stem of a -two-oared yawl, which had just been taken in tow by a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>chaland</i> served by twelve -galley-oars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos seated -himself on the mole, stunned, deaf, abandoned.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every instant took from him one of -the features, one of the shades of the pale face of his son.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With his arms hanging down, -his eyes fixed, his mouth open, he remained confounded with Raoul -- in one same look, in one same thought, in one same stupor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sea, by degrees, carried -away boats and faces to that distance at which men become nothing -but points, - loves, nothing but remembrances.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos saw his son ascend the ladder -of the admiral's ship, he saw him lean upon the rail of the deck, -and place himself in such a manner as to be always an object in -the eye of his father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -vain the cannon thundered, in vain from the ship sounded the long -and lordly tumult, responded to by immense acclamations from the -shore; in vain did the noise deafen the ear of the father, the -smoke obscured the cherished object of his aspirations.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul appeared to him to the -last moment; and the imperceptible atom, passing from black to -pale, from pale to white, from white to nothing, disappeared for -Athos - disappeared very long after, to all the eyes of the -spectators, had disappeared both gallant ships and swelling -sails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards midday, -when the sun devoured space, and scarcely the tops of the masts -dominated the incandescent limit of the sea, Athos perceived a -soft aerial shadow rise, and vanish as soon as seen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was the smoke of a cannon, -which M. de Beaufort ordered to be fired as a last salute to the -coast of France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -point was buried in its turn beneath the sky, and Athos returned -with slow and painful step to his deserted hostelry.</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'> -Among Women.</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 not been able to hide his feelings from his -friends so much as he would have wished.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The stoical soldier, the impassive -man-at-arms, overcome by fear and sad presentiments, had yielded, -for a few moments, to human weakness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When, therefore, he had silenced his -heart and calmed the agitation of his nerves, turning towards his -lackey, a silent servant, always listening, in order to obey the -more promptly:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Rabaud," said he, -"mind, we must travel thirty leagues a day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At your pleasure, -captain," replied Rabaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And from that moment, -D'Artagnan, accommodating his action to the pace of the horse, -like a true centaur, gave up his thoughts to nothing - that is to -say, to everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -asked himself why the king had sent for him back; why the Iron -Mask had thrown the silver plate at the feet of Raoul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to the first subject, the -reply was negative; he knew right well that the king's calling -him was from necessity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He still further knew that Louis XIV. must experience an -imperious desire for a private conversation with one whom the -possession of such a secret placed on a level with the highest -powers of the kingdom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But as to saying exactly what the king's wish was, D'Artagnan -found himself completely at a loss.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The musketeer had no doubts, either, -upon the reason which had urged the unfortunate Philippe to -reveal his character and birth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Philippe, buried forever beneath a -mask of steel, exiled to a country where the men seemed little -more than slaves of the elements; Philippe, deprived even of the -society of D'Artagnan, who had loaded him with honors and -delicate attentions, had nothing more to see than odious specters -in this world, and, despair beginning to devour him, he poured -himself forth in complaints, in the belief that his revelations -would raise up some avenger for him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The manner in which the musketeer -had been near killing his two best friends, the destiny which had -so strangely brought Athos to participate in the great state -secret, the farewell of Raoul, the obscurity of the future which -threatened to end in a melancholy death; all this threw -D'Artagnan incessantly back on lamentable predictions and -forebodings, which the rapidity of his pace did not dissipate, as -it used formerly to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan passed from these considerations to the remembrance of -the proscribed Porthos and Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw them both, fugitives, -tracked, ruined - laborious architects of fortunes they had lost; -and as the king called for his man of execution in hours of -vengeance and malice, D'Artagnan trembled at the very idea of -receiving some commission that would make his very soul -bleed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sometimes, -ascending hills, when the winded horse breathed hard from his red -nostrils, and heaved his flanks, the captain, left to more -freedom of thought, reflected on the prodigious genius of Aramis, -a genius of acumen and intrigue, a match to which the Fronde and -the civil war had produced but twice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Soldier, priest, diplomatist; -gallant, avaricious, cunning; Aramis had never taken the good -things of this life except as stepping-stones to rise to giddier -ends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Generous in spirit, -if not lofty in heart, he never did ill but for the sake of -shining even yet more brilliantly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards the end of his career, at -the moment of reaching the goal, like the patrician Fuscus, he -had made a false step upon a plank, and had fallen into the -sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Porthos, good, -harmless Porthos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To see -Porthos hungry, to see Mousqueton without gold lace, imprisoned, -perhaps; to see Pierrefonds, Bracieux, razed to the very stones, -dishonored even to the timber, - these were so many poignant -griefs for D'Artagnan, and every time that one of these griefs -struck him, he bounded like a horse at the sting of a gadfly -beneath the vaults of foliage where he has sought shady shelter -from the burning sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Never was the man of spirit subjected to <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ennui</i>, if his body was exposed -to fatigue; never did the man of healthy body fail to find life -light, if he had something to engage his mind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, riding fast, thinking as -constantly, alighted from his horse in Pairs, fresh and tender in -his muscles as the athlete preparing for the gymnasium.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king did not expect him so -soon, and had just departed for the chase towards Meudon.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, instead of riding -after the king, as he would formerly have done, took off his -boots, had a bath, and waited till his majesty should return -dusty and tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -occupied the interval of five hours in taking, as people say, the -air of the house, and in arming himself against all ill -chances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He learned that -the king, during the last fortnight, had been gloomy; that the -queen-mother was ill and much depressed; that Monsieur, the -king's brother, was exhibiting a devotional turn; that Madame had -the vapors; and that M. de Guiche was gone to one of his -estates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He learned that -M. Colbert was radiant; that M. Fouquet consulted a fresh -physician every day, who still did not cure him, and that his -principal complaint was one which physicians do not usually cure, -unless they are political physicians.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, D'Artagnan was told, -behaved in the kindest manner to M. Fouquet, and did not allow -him to be ever out of his sight; but the surintendant, touched to -the heart, like one of those fine trees a worm has punctured, was -declining daily, in spite of the royal smile, that sun of court -trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan learned -that Mademoiselle de la Vallière had become indispensable -to the king; that the king, during his sporting excursions, if he -did not take her with him, wrote to her frequently, no longer -verses, but, which was much worse, prose, and that whole pages at -a time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus, as the -political Pleiad of the day said, the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>first king in the world</i> was seen -descending from his horse <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>with an ardor beyond compare</i>, -and on the crown of his hat scrawling bombastic phrases, which M. -de Saint-Aignan, aide-de-camp in perpetuity, carried to La -Vallière at the risk of foundering his horses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> During this time, deer and pheasants -were left to the free enjoyment of their nature, hunted so lazily -that, it was said, the art of venery ran great risk of -degenerating at the court of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan then thought of the -wishes of poor Raoul, of that desponding letter destined for a -woman who passed her life in hoping, and as D'Artagnan loved to -philosophize a little occasionally, he resolved to profit by the -absence of the king to have a minute's talk with Mademoiselle de -la Vallière.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -was a very easy affair; while the king was hunting, Louise was -walking with some other ladies in one of the galleries of the -Palais Royal, exactly where the captain of the musketeers had -some guards to inspect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan did not doubt that, if he could but open the -conversation on Raoul, Louise might give him grounds for writing -a consolatory letter to the poor exile; and hope, or at least -consolation for Raoul, in the state of heart in which he had left -him, was the sun, was life to two men, who were very dear to our -captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He directed his -course, therefore, to the spot where he knew he should find -Mademoiselle de la Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan found La Vallière -the center of the circle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In her apparent solitude, the king's favorite received, like a -queen, more, perhaps, than the queen, a homage of which Madame -had been so proud, when all the king's looks were directed to her -and commanded the looks of the courtiers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, although no squire of -dames, received, nevertheless, civilities and attentions from the -ladies; he was polite, as a brave man always is, and his terrible -reputation had conciliated as much friendship among the men as -admiration among the women.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On seeing him enter, therefore, they -immediately accosted him; and, as is not unfrequently the case -with fair ladies, opened the attack by questions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>had</i> he been?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>had</i> become of him so long?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why had they not seen him as -usual make his fine horse curvet in such beautiful style, to the -delight and astonishment of the curious from the king's -balcony?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He replied that he had -just come from the land of oranges.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This set all the ladies -laughing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those were -times in which everybody traveled, but in which, notwithstanding, -a journey of a hundred leagues was a problem often solved by -death.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From the land of -oranges?" cried Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "From Spain?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! eh!" said the -musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From Malta?" echoed -Montalais.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are coming very near, -ladies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it an island?" asked -La Vallière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mademoiselle," said -D'Artagnan; "I will not give you the trouble of seeking any -further; I come from the country where M. de Beaufort is, at this -moment, embarking for Algiers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you seen the -army?" asked several warlike fair ones.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As plainly as I see -you," replied D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And the -fleet?"<br> -"Yes, I saw everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have we any of us -any friends there?" said Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, coldly, -but in a manner to attract attention to a question that was not -without its calculated aim.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why," replied -D'Artagnan, "yes; there were M. de la Guillotière, M. de -Manchy, M. de Bragelonne - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>La Vallière -became pale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "M. de -Bragelonne!" cried the perfidious Athenaïs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Eh, what! - is he gone to the wars? -- he!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Montalais trod on -her toe, but all in vain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know what -my opinion is?" continued she, addressing D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, mademoiselle; -but I should like very much to know it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My opinion is, -then, that all the men who go to this war are desperate, -desponding men, whom love has treated ill; and who go to try if -they cannot find jet-complexioned women more kind than fair ones -have been."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Some of the ladies -laughed; La Vallière was evidently confused; Montalais -coughed loud enough to waken the dead.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Mademoiselle," -interrupted D'Artagnan, "you are in error when you speak of black -women at Gigelli; the women there have not jet faces; it is true -they are not white - they are yellow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yellow!" exclaimed -the bevy of fair beauties.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh! do not -disparage it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -never seen a finer color to match with black eyes and a coral -mouth."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So much the better -for M. de Bragelonne," said Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, with -persistent malice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He -will make amends for his loss.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor fellow!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A profound silence -followed these words; and D'Artagnan had time to observe and -reflect that women - mild doves - treat each other more cruelly -than tigers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But making -La Vallière pale did not satisfy Athenaïs; she -determined to make her blush likewise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Resuming the conversation without -pause, "Do you know, Louise," said she, "that there is a great -sin on your conscience?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What sin, -mademoiselle?" stammered the unfortunate girl, looking round her -for support, without finding it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh! - why," -continued Athenaïs, "the poor young man was affianced to -you; he loved you; you cast him off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, that is a -right which every honest woman has," said Montalais, in an -affected tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "When we -know we cannot constitute the happiness of a man, it is much -better to cast him off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Cast him off! or -refuse him! - that's all very well," said Athenaïs, "but -that is not the sin Mademoiselle de la Vallière has to -reproach herself with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The actual sin is sending poor Bragelonne to the wars; and to -wars in which death is so very likely to be met with."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise pressed her hand over -her icy brow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And if he -dies," continued her pitiless tormentor, "you will have killed -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is the -sin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Louise, half-dead, -caught at the arm of the captain of the musketeers, whose face -betrayed unusual emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You wished to speak with me, Monsieur d'Artagnan," said she, in -a voice broken by anger and pain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What had you to say to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan made -several steps along the gallery, holding Louise on his arm; then, -when they were far enough removed from the others - "What I had -to say to you, mademoiselle," replied he, "Mademoiselle de -Tonnay-Charente has just expressed; roughly and unkindly, it is -true but still in its entirety."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>She uttered a faint -cry; pierced to the heart by this new wound, she went her way, -like one of those poor birds which, struck unto death, seek the -shade of the thicket in which to die.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She disappeared at one door, at the -moment the king was entering by another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The first glance of the king was -directed towards the empty seat of his mistress.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not perceiving La Vallière, a -frown came over his brow; but as soon as he saw D'Artagnan, who -bowed to him - "Ah! monsieur!" cried he, "you <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>have</i> been diligent!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am much pleased with you."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was the superlative -expression of royal satisfaction.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Many men would have been ready to -lay down their lives for such a speech from the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The maids of honor and the -courtiers, who had formed a respectful circle round the king on -his entrance, drew back, on observing he wished to speak -privately with his captain of the musketeers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king led the way out of the -gallery, after having again, with his eyes, sought everywhere for -La Vallière, whose absence he could not account for.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moment they were out of -the reach of curious ears, "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur d'Artagnan," said he, "the -prisoner?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is in his prison, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What did he say on -the road?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What did he -do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There was a moment -at which the fisherman - who took me in his boat to -Sainte-Marguerite - revolted, and did his best to kill me.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The - the prisoner defended me -instead of attempting to fly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king became -pale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Enough!" said he; -and D'Artagnan bowed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Louis walked about his cabinet with hasty steps.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Were you at Antibes," said he, -"when Monsieur de Beaufort came there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, sire; I was -setting off when monsieur le duc arrived."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" which was -followed by a fresh silence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Whom did you see there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A great many -persons," said D'Artagnan, coolly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king perceived -he was unwilling to speak.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have sent for you, monsieur le -capitaine, to desire you to go and prepare my lodgings at -Nantes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At Nantes!" cried -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In Bretagne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire, it is -in Bretagne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you -majesty make so long a journey as to Nantes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The States are -assembled there," replied the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have two demands to make of them: -I wish to be there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"When shall I set -out?" said the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This evening - -to-morrow - to-morrow evening; for you must stand in need of -rest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have rested, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is well.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then between this and -to-morrow evening, when you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan bowed as -if to take his leave; but, perceiving the king very much -embarrassed, "Will you majesty," said he, stepping two paces -forward, "take the court with you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly I -shall."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then you majesty -will, doubtless, want the musketeers?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the eye of the king sank beneath -the penetrating glance of the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take a brigade of -them," replied Louis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is that all?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Has your majesty no other -orders to give me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No - ah - -yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am all -attention, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the castle of -Nantes, which I hear is very ill arranged, you will adopt the -practice of placing musketeers at the door of each of the -principal dignitaries I shall take with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of the -principal?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"For instance, at -the door of M. de Lyonne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And that of M. -Letellier?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of M. de -Brienne?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And of monsieur le -surintendant?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without -doubt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, -sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By to-morrow I -shall have set out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, yes; but one -more word, Monsieur d'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At Nantes you will meet with M. le -Duc de Gesvres, captain of the guards.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Be sure that your musketeers are -placed before his guards arrive.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Precedence always belongs to the -first comer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And if M. de -Gesvres should question you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Question me, -sire!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it likely that -M. de Gesvres should question me?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the musketeer, turning -cavalierly on his heel, disappeared.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To Nantes!" said he to himself, as -he descended from the stairs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why did he not dare to say, from -thence to Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>As he reached the -great gates, one of M. Brienne's clerks came running after him, -exclaiming, "Monsieur d'Artagnan!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg your pardon - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is the -matter, Monsieur Ariste?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king has -desired me to give you this order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon your -cash-box?" asked the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, monsieur; on -that of M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan was -surprised, but he took the order, which was in the king's own -writing, and was for two hundred pistoles.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What!" thought he, after having -politely thanked M. Brienne's clerk, "M. Fouquet is to pay for -the journey, then!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i> that is a bit of -pure Louis XI.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why was -not this order on the chest of M. Colbert?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He would have paid it with such -joy."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan, -faithful to his principle of never letting an order at sight get -cold, went straight to the house of M. Fouquet, to receive his -two hundred pistoles.</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 -Last 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 superintendent had no doubt received advice of the -approaching departure, for he was giving a farewell dinner to his -friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From the bottom -to the top of the house, the hurry of the servants bearing -dishes, and the diligence of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>registres</i>, denoted an -approaching change in offices and kitchen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, with his order in his -hand, presented himself at the offices, when he was told it was -too late to pay cash, the chest was closed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He only replied: "On the king's -service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The clerk, a little put -out by the serious air of the captain, replied, that "that was a -very respectable reason, but that the customs of the house were -respectable likewise; and that, in consequence, he begged the -bearer to call again next day."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan asked if he could not see -M. Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The clerk -replied that M. le surintendant did not interfere with such -details, and rudely closed the outer door in the captain's -face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the latter had -foreseen this stroke, and placed his boot between the door and -the door-case, so that the lock did not catch, and the clerk was -still nose to nose with his interlocutor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This made him change his tone, and -say, with terrified politeness, "If monsieur wishes to speak to -M. le surintendant, he must go to the ante-chambers; these are -the offices, where monseigneur never comes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! very well!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where are they?" replied -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the other side of -the court," said the clerk, delighted to be free.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan crossed the court, and -fell in with a crowd of servants.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur sees nobody -at this hour," he was answered by a fellow carrying a vermeil -dish, in which were three pheasants and twelve quails.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell him," said the -captain, laying hold of the servant by the end of his dish, "that -I am M. d'Artagnan, captain of his majesty's musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The fellow uttered a cry -of surprise, and disappeared; D'Artagnan following him -slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He arrived just -in time to meet M. Pélisson in the ante-chamber: the -latter, a little pale, came hastily out of the dining-room to -learn what was the matter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan smiled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is nothing -unpleasant, Monsieur Pélisson; only a little order to -receive the money for."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Fouquet's -friend, breathing more freely; and he took the captain by the -hand, and, dragging him behind him, led him into the dining-room, -where a number of friends surrounded the surintendant, placed in -the center, and buried in the cushions of a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fauteuil</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There were assembled all the -Epicureans who so lately at Vaux had done the honors of the -mansion of wit and money in aid of M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Joyous friends, for the most part -faithful, they had not fled their protector at the approach of -the storm, and, in spite of the threatening heavens, in spite of -the trembling earth, they remained there, smiling, cheerful, as -devoted in misfortune as they had been in prosperity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the left of the surintendant sat -Madame de Bellière; on his right was Madame Fouquet; as if -braving the laws of the world, and putting all vulgar reasons of -propriety to silence, the two protecting angels of this man -united to offer, at the moment of the crisis, the support of -their twined arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame -de Bellière was pale, trembling, and full of respectful -attentions for madame la surintendante, who, with one hand on her -husband's, was looking anxiously towards the door by which -Pélisson had gone out to bring D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain entered at first full of -courtesy, and afterwards of admiration, when, with his infallible -glance, he had divined as well as taken in the expression of -every face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -raised himself up in his chair.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me, Monsieur -d'Artagnan," said he, "if I did not myself receive you when -coming in the king's name."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he pronounced the last words -with a sort of melancholy firmness, which filled the hearts of -all his friends with terror.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur," replied -D'Artagnan, "I only come to you in the king's name to demand -payment of an order for two hundred pistoles."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The clouds passed from -every brow but that of Fouquet, which still remained -overcast.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! then," said he, -"perhaps you also are setting out for Nantes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not know whither I -am setting out, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," said Madame -Fouquet, recovered from her fright, "you are not going so soon, -monsieur le capitaine, as not to do us the honor to take a seat -with us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, I should esteem -that a great honor done me, but I am so pressed for time, that, -you see, I have been obliged to permit myself to interrupt your -repast to procure payment of my note."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The reply to which -shall be gold," said Fouquet, making a sign to his intendant, who -went out with the order D'Artagnan handed him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said the latter, -"I was not uneasy about the payment; the house is good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A painful smile passed -over the pale features of Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you in pain?" asked -Madame de Bellière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you feel your attack -coming on?" asked Madame Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Neither, thank you -both," said Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your attack?" said -D'Artagnan, in his turn; "are you unwell, monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have a tertian fever, -which seized me after the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fête</i> at Vaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Caught cold in the -grottos, at night, perhaps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no; nothing but -agitation, that was all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The too much heart you -displayed in your reception of the king," said La Fontaine, -quietly, without suspicion that he was uttering a sacrilege.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We cannot devote too -much heart to the reception of our king," said Fouquet, mildly, -to his poet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur meant to say -the too great ardor," interrupted D'Artagnan, with perfect -frankness and much amenity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The fact is, monseigneur, that -hospitality was never practiced as at Vaux."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame Fouquet permitted -her countenance to show clearly that if Fouquet had conducted -himself well towards the king, the king had hardly done the like -to the minister.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -D'Artagnan knew the terrible secret.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He alone with Fouquet knew it; those -two men had not, the one the courage to complain, the other the -right to accuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -captain, to whom the two hundred pistoles were brought, was about -to take his leave, when Fouquet, rising, took a glass of wine, -and ordered one to be given to D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, "to -the health of the king, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>whatever may happen</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And to your health, -monseigneur, <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>whatever may -happen</i>," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He bowed, with these -words of evil omen, to all the company, who rose as soon as they -heard the sound of his spurs and boots at the bottom of the -stairs.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, for a moment, -thought it was I and not my money he wanted," said Fouquet, -endeavoring to laugh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You!" cried his -friends; "and what for, in the name of Heaven!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! do not deceive -yourselves, my dear brothers in Epicurus," said the -superintendent; "I do not wish to make a comparison between the -most humble sinner on the earth, and the God we adore, but -remember, he gave one day to his friends a repast which is called -the Last Supper, and which was nothing but a farewell dinner, -like that which we are making at this moment."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A painful cry of denial -arose from all parts of the table.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Shut the doors," said Fouquet, and -the servants disappeared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"My friends," continued Fouquet, lowering his voice, "what was I -formerly?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What am I -now?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Consult among -yourselves and reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -man like me sinks when he does not continue to rise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What shall we say, then, when he -really sinks?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no -more money, no more credit; I have no longer anything but -powerful enemies, and powerless friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quick!" cried -Pélisson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Since -you explain yourself with such frankness, it is our duty to be -frank, likewise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, you -are ruined - yes, you are hastening to your ruin - stop.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, in the first place, what -money have we left?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Seven hundred thousand -livres," said the intendant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bread," murmured Madame -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Relays," said -Pélisson, "relays, and fly!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Whither?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To Switzerland - to -Savoy - but fly!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If monseigneur flies," -said Madame Bellière, "it will be said that he was guilty -- was afraid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "More than that, it will -be said that I have carried away twenty millions with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will draw up memoirs -to justify you," said La Fontaine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Fly!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will remain," said -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And, besides, -does not everything serve me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have Belle-Isle," -cried the Abbé Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I am naturally -going there, when going to Nantes," replied the -superintendent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Patience, then, patience!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Before arriving at -Nantes, what a distance!" said Madame Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I know that well," -replied Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But -what is to be done there?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king summons me to the States.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know well it is for the purpose of -ruining me; but to refuse to go would be to evince -uneasiness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I have discovered -the means of reconciling everything," cried Pélisson.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are going to set out for -Nantes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet looked at him -with an air of surprise.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But with friends; but -in your own carriage as far as Orléans; in your own barge -as far as Nantes; always ready to defend yourself, if you are -attacked; to escape, if you are threatened.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, you will carry your money -against all chances; and, whilst flying, you will only have -obeyed the king; then, reaching the sea, when you like, you will -embark for Belle-Isle, and from Belle-Isle you will shoot out -wherever it may please you, like the eagle that leaps into space -when it has been driven from its eyrie."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A general assent -followed Pélisson's words.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, do so," said Madame Fouquet to -her husband.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do so," said Madame de -Bellière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do it! do it!" cried -all his friends.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will do so," replied -Fouquet.</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> "In an hour?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Instantly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With seven hundred -thousand livres you can lay the foundation of another fortune," -said the Abbé Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is there to -prevent our arming corsairs at Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And, if necessary, we -will go and discover a new world," added La Fontaine, intoxicated -with fresh projects and enthusiasm.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A knock at the door -interrupted this concert of joy and hope.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A courier from the king," said the -master of the ceremonies.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A profound silence -immediately ensued, as if the message brought by this courier was -nothing but a reply to all the projects given birth to a moment -before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one waited -to see what the master would do.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His brow was streaming with -perspiration, and he was really suffering from his fever at that -instant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He passed into -his cabinet, to receive the king's message.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There prevailed, as we have said, -such a silence in the chambers, and throughout the attendance, -that from the dining-room could be heard the voice of Fouquet, -saying, "That is well, monsieur."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This voice was, however, broken by -fatigue, and trembled with emotion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An instant after, Fouquet called -Gourville, who crossed the gallery amidst the universal -expectation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At length, -he himself re-appeared among his guests; but it was no longer the -same pale, spiritless countenance they had beheld when he left -them; from pale he had become livid; and from spiritless, -annihilated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A breathing, -living specter, he advanced with his arms stretched out, his -mouth parched, like a shade that comes to salute the friends of -former days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On seeing -him thus, every one cried out, and every one rushed towards -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter, -looking at Pélisson, leaned upon his wife, and pressed the -icy hand of the Marquise de Bellière.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said he, in a -voice which had nothing human in it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What has happened, my -God!" said some one to him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet opened his right -hand, which was clenched, but glistening with perspiration, and -displayed a paper, upon which Pélisson cast a terrified -glance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He read the -following lines, written by the king's hand:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'DEAR AND WELL-BELOVED -MONSIEUR FOUQUET, - Give us, upon that which you have left of -ours, the sum of seven hundred thousand livres, of which we stand -in need to prepare for our departure.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'And, as we know your -health is not good, we pray God to restore you, and to have you -in His holy keeping.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -"'LOUIS.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'The present letter is -to serve as a receipt.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A murmur of terror -circulated through the apartment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," cried -Pélisson, in his turn, "you have received that -letter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Received it, yes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What will you do, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing, since I have -received it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I have received it, -Pélisson, I have paid it," said the surintendant, with a -simplicity that went to the heart of all present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have paid it!" -cried Madame Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Then we are ruined!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, no useless -words," interrupted Pélisson.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Next to money, life.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monseigneur, to horse! to -horse!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, leave us!" at -once cried both the women, wild with grief.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! monseigneur, in -saving yourself, you save us all. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To horse!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But he cannot hold -himself on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look at -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! if he takes time to -reflect - " said the intrepid Pélisson.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is right," murmured -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monseigneur!" cried Gourville, -rushing up the stairs, four steps at once.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I escorted, as you -desired, the king's courier with the money."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! when I arrived at -the Palais Royal, I saw - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Take breath, my poor -friend, take breath; you are suffocating."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did you see?" -cried the impatient friends.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I saw the musketeers -mounting on horseback," said Gourville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There, then!" cried -every voice at once; "there, then! is there an instant to be -lost?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Madame Fouquet rushed -downstairs, calling for her horses; Madame de Bellière -flew after her, catching her in her arms, and saying: "Madame, in -the name of his safety, do not betray anything, do not manifest -alarm."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Pélisson ran to -have the horses put to the carriages.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, in the meantime, Gourville -gathered in his hat all that the weeping friends were able to -throw into it of gold and silver - the last offering, the pious -alms made to misery by poverty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The surintendant, dragged along by -some, carried by others, was shut up in his carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville took the reins, and -mounted the box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Pélisson supported Madame Fouquet, who had fainted.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Bellière had -more strength, and was well paid for it; she received Fouquet's -last kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Pélisson easily explained this precipitate departure by -saying that an order from the king had summoned the minister to -Nantes.</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'>In -M. Colbert's Carriage.</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 Gourville had seen, the king's musketeers were mounting -and following their captain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter, who did not like to be -confined in his proceedings, left his brigade under the orders of -a lieutenant, and set off on post horses, recommending his men to -use all diligence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -However rapidly they might travel, they could not arrive before -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had time, in -passing along the Rue des Petits-Champs, to see something which -afforded him plenty of food for thought and conjecture.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw M. Colbert coming out -from his house to get into his carriage, which was stationed -before the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In this -carriage D'Artagnan perceived the hoods of two women, and being -rather curious, he wished to know the names of the ladies hid -beneath these hoods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To -get a glimpse at them, for they kept themselves closely covered -up, he urged his horse so near the carriage, that he drove him -against the step with such force as to shake everything -containing and contained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The terrified women uttered, the one a faint cry, by which -D'Artagnan recognized a young woman, the other an imprecation, in -which he recognized the vigor and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>àplomb</i> that half a -century bestows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -hoods were thrown back: one of the women was Madame Vanel, the -other the Duchesse de Chevreuse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan's eyes were quicker than -those of the ladies; he had seen and known them, whilst they did -not recognize him; and as they laughed at their fright, pressing -each other's hands, -</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Humph!" said -D'Artagnan, "the old duchesse is no more inaccessible to -friendship than formerly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>She</i> paying her court -to the mistress of M. Colbert!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor M. Fouquet! that presages you -nothing good!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He rode on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Colbert got into his carriage and -the distinguished trio commenced a sufficiently slow pilgrimage -toward the wood of Vincennes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Chevreuse set down Madame -Vanel at her husband's house, and, left alone with M. Colbert, -chatted upon affairs whilst continuing her ride.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She had an inexhaustible fund of -conversation, that dear duchesse, and as she always talked for -the ill of others, though ever with a view to her own good, her -conversation amused her interlocutor, and did not fail to leave a -favorable impression.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She taught Colbert, who, -poor man! was ignorant of the fact, how great a minister he was, -and how Fouquet would soon become a cipher.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She promised to rally around him, -when he should become surintendant, all the old nobility of the -kingdom, and questioned him as to the preponderance it would be -proper to allow La Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She praised him, she blamed him, she -bewildered him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She -showed him the secret of so many secrets that, for a moment, -Colbert thought he was doing business with the devil.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She proved to him that she held in -her hand the Colbert of to-day, as she had held the Fouquet of -yesterday; and as he asked her very simply the reason of her -hatred for the surintendant: "Why do you yourself hate him?" said -she.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, in politics," -replied he, "the differences of system oft bring about -dissentions between men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -M. Fouquet always appeared to me to practice a system opposed to -the true interests of the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She interrupted him. - -"I will say no more to you about M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The journey the king is about to -take to Nantes will give a good account of him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet, for me, is a man gone by -- and for you also."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert made no -reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "On his return -from Nantes," continued the duchesse, "the king, who is only -anxious for a pretext, will find that the States have not behaved -well - that they have made too few sacrifices.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The States will say that the imposts -are too heavy, and that the surintendant has ruined them.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king will lay all the -blame on M. Fouquet, and then - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then?" said -Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! he will be -disgraced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is not that -your opinion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert darted a glance -at the duchesse, which plainly said: "If M. Fouquet be only -disgraced, you will not be the cause of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your place, M. -Colbert," the duchesse hastened to say, "must be a high -place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you perceive -any one between the king and yourself, after the fall of M. -Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I do not understand," -said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>will</i> understand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To what does your ambition -aspire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have none."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was useless, then, -to overthrow the superintendent, Monsieur Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was idle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I had the honor to tell -you, madame - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! yes, I know, all -about the interest of the king - but, if you please, we will -speak of your own."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mine! that is to say, -the affairs of his majesty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In short, are you, or -are you not endeavoring to ruin M. Fouquet?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Answer without evasion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame, I ruin -nobody."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am endeavoring to -comprehend, then, why you purchased from me the letters of M. -Mazarin concerning M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Neither can I conceive why you have -laid those letters before the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert, half stupefied, -looked at the duchesse with an air of constraint.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Madame," said he, "I -can less easily conceive how you, who received the money, can -reproach me on that head - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is," said the old -duchesse, "because we must will that which we wish for, unless we -are not able to obtain what we wish."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Will!</i>" said Colbert, quite -confounded by such coarse logic.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are not able, <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>hein!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Speak."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not able, I allow, -to destroy certain influences near the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That fight in favor of -M. Fouquet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What are -they?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stop, let me help -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "La -Vallière?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! very little -influence; no knowledge of business, and small means.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Fouquet has paid his court to -her."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To defend him would be -to accuse herself, would it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think it would."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is still another -influence, what do you say to that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it -considerable?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"The queen-mother, -perhaps?"<br> -"Her majesty,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> the -queen-mother, has a weakness for M. Fouquet very prejudicial to -her son."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Never believe -that," said the old duchesse, smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Oh!" said Colbert, -with incredulity, "I have often experienced it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Formerly?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very recently, -madame, at Vaux.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was -she who prevented the king from having M. Fouquet arrested."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"People do not -forever entertain the same opinions, my dear monsieur.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That which the queen may have -wished recently, she would not wish, perhaps, to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why not?" said -Colbert, astonished.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! the reason is -of very little consequence."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"On the contrary, I -think it is of great consequence; for, if I were certain of not -displeasing her majesty, the queen-mother, my scruples would be -all removed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! have you -never heard talk of a certain secret?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A secret?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Call it what you -like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In short, the -queen-mother has conceived a bitter hatred for all those who have -participated, in one fashion or another, in the discovery of this -secret, and M. Fouquet I believe is one of these."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then," said -Colbert, "we may be sure of the assent of the queen-mother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have just left -her majesty, and she assures me so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So be it, then, -madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But there is -something further; do you happen to know a man who was the -intimate friend of M. Fouquet, M. d'Herblay, a bishop, I -believe?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bishop of -Vannes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! this M. -d'Herblay, who also knew the secret, the queen-mother is pursuing -with the utmost rancor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So hotly pursued, -that if he were dead, she would not be satisfied with anything -less than his head, to satisfy her he would never speak -again."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And is that the -desire of the queen-mother?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"An order is given -for it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This Monsieur -d'Herblay shall be sought for, madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! it is well -known where he is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert looked at -the duchesse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Say where, -madame."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is at -Belle-Île-en-Mer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the residence -of M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At the residence -of M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He shall be -taken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>It was now the -duchesse's turn to smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Do not fancy the capture so easy," said she; "do not promise it -so lightly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why not, -madame?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because M. -d'Herblay is not one of those people who can be taken when and -where you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is a rebel, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur Colbert, we have passed all -our lives in making rebels, and yet you see plainly, that so far -from being taken, we take others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert fixed upon -the old duchesse one of those fierce looks of which no words can -convey the expression, accompanied by a firmness not altogether -wanting in grandeur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The -times are gone," said he, "in which subjects gained duchies by -making war against the king of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If M. d'Herblay conspires, he will -perish on the scaffold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -That will give, or will not give, pleasure to his enemies, - a -matter, by the way, of little importance to <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>us</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And this <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>us</i>, a strange word in the mouth -of Colbert, made the duchesse thoughtful for a moment.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She caught herself reckoning -inwardly with this man - Colbert had regained his superiority in -the conversation, and he meant to keep it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You ask me, -madame," he said, "to have this M. d'Herblay arrested?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I? - I ask you -nothing of the kind!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I thought you did, -madame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But as I have -been mistaken, we will leave him alone; the king has said nothing -about him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The duchesse bit -her nails.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Besides," -continued Colbert, "what a poor capture would this bishop -be!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A bishop game for a -king!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! no, no; I will -not even take the slightest notice of him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The hatred of the -duchesse now discovered itself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Game for a woman!" -said she.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is not the -queen a woman?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If she -wishes M. d'Herblay arrested, she has her reasons.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, is not M. d'Herblay the -friend of him who is doomed to fall?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! never mind -that," said Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"This man shall be spared, if he is not the enemy of the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is that displeasing -to you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I say -nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes - you wish to -see him in prison, in the Bastile, for instance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I believe a secret -better concealed behind the walls of the Bastile than behind -those of Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will speak to -the king about it; he will clear up the point."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And whilst waiting -for that enlightenment, Monsieur l'Evêque de Vannes will -have escaped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I would do -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Escaped! he! and -whither should he escape?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Europe is ours, in will, if not in fact."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He will always -find an asylum, monsieur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It is evident you know nothing of the man you have to do -with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do not know -D'Herblay; you do not know Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was one of those four musketeers -who, under the late king, made Cardinal de Richelieu tremble, and -who, during the regency, gave so much trouble to Monseigneur -Mazarin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But, madame, what -can he do, unless he has a kingdom to back him?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He has one, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A kingdom, he! -what, Monsieur d'Herblay?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I repeat to you, -monsieur, that if he wants a kingdom, he either has it or will -have it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, as you are -so earnest that this rebel should not escape, madame, I promise -you he shall not escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Belle-Isle is -fortified, M. Colbert, and fortified by him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If Belle-Isle were -also defended by him, Belle-Isle is not impregnable; and if -Monsieur l'Evêque de Vannes is shut up in Belle-Isle, well, -madame, the place shall be besieged, and he will be taken."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You may be very -certain, monsieur, that the zeal you display in the interest of -the queen-mother will please her majesty mightily, and you will -be magnificently rewarded; but what shall I tell her of your -projects respecting this man?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That when once -taken, he shall be shut up in a fortress from which her secret -shall never escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, -Monsieur Colbert, and we may say, that, dating from this instant, -we have formed a solid alliance, that is, you and I, and that I -am absolutely at your service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is I, madame, -who place myself at yours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This Chevalier d'Herblay is a kind -of Spanish spy, is he not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Much more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A secret -ambassador?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Higher still."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Stop - King -Phillip III. of Spain is a bigot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is, perhaps, the confessor of -Phillip III."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You must go higher -even than that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Mordieu!</i>" cried Colbert, who -forgot himself so far as to swear in the presence of this great -lady, of this old friend of the queen-mother.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He must then be the general of the -Jesuits."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I believe you have -guessed it at last," replied the duchesse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! then, madame, -this man will ruin us all if we do not ruin him; and we must make -haste, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Such was my -opinion, monsieur, but I did not dare to give it you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And it was lucky -for us he has attacked the throne, and not us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But, mark this -well, M. Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -d'Herblay is never discouraged; if he has missed one blow, he -will be sure to make another; he will begin again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If he has allowed an opportunity to -escape of making a king for himself, sooner or later, he will -make another, of whom, to a certainty, you will not be prime -minister."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert knitted his -brow with a menacing expression.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I feel assured that a prison will -settle this affair for us, madame, in a manner satisfactory for -both."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The duchesse smiled -again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! if you knew," -said she, "how many times Aramis has got out of prison!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!" replied -Colbert, "we will take care that he shall not get out <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>this</i> time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you were not -attending to what I said to you just now.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you remember that Aramis was one -of the four invincibles whom Richelieu so dreaded?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And at that period the four -musketeers were not in possession of that which they have now - -money and experience."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert bit his -lips.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We will renounce -the idea of the prison," said he, in a lower tone: "we will find -a little retreat from which the invincible cannot possibly -escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That was well -spoken, our ally!" replied the duchesse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But it is getting late; had we not -better return?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The more -willingly, madame, from my having my preparations to make for -setting out with the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To Paris!" cried -the duchesse to the coachman.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And the carriage -returned towards the Faubourg Saint Antoine, after the conclusion -of the treaty that gave to death the last friend of Fouquet, the -last defender of Belle-Isle, the former friend of Marie Michon, -the new foe of the old duchesse.</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'>The -Two Lighters.</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 set off; Fouquet likewise was gone, and -with a rapidity which doubled the tender interest of his -friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The first -moments of this journey, or better say, this flight, were -troubled by a ceaseless dread of every horse and carriage to be -seen behind the fugitive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was not natural, in fact, if Louis XIV. was determined to -seize this prey, that he should allow it to escape; the young -lion was already accustomed to the chase, and he had bloodhounds -sufficiently clever to be trusted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But insensibly all fears were -dispersed; the surintendant, by hard traveling, placed such a -distance between himself and his persecutors, that no one of them -could reasonably be expected to overtake him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to his position, his friends had -made it excellent for him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was he not traveling to join the -king at Nantes, and what did the rapidity prove but his zeal to -obey?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He arrived, -fatigued, but reassured, at Orléans, where he found, -thanks to the care of a courier who had preceded him, a handsome -lighter of eight oars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -These lighters, in the shape of gondolas, somewhat wide and -heavy, containing a small chamber, covered by the deck, and a -chamber in the poop, formed by a tent, then acted as -passage-boats from Orléans to Nantes, by the Loire, and -this passage, a long one in our days, appeared then more easy and -convenient than the high-road, with its post-hacks and its -ill-hung carriages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet went on board this lighter, which set out -immediately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The rowers, -knowing they had the honor of conveying the surintendant of the -finances, pulled with all their strength, and that magic word, -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>finances</i>, promised -them a liberal gratification, of which they wished to prove -themselves worthy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -lighter seemed to leap the mimic waves of the Loire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Magnificent weather, a sunrise that -empurpled all the landscape, displayed the river in all its -limpid serenity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -current and the rowers carried Fouquet along as wings carry a -bird, and he arrived before Beaugency without the slightest -accident having signalized the voyage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet hoped to be the first to -arrive at Nantes; there he would see the notables and gain -support among the principal members of the States; he would make -himself a necessity, a thing very easy for a man of his merit, -and would delay the catastrophe, if he did not succeed in -avoiding it entirely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Besides," said Gourville to him, "at Nantes, you will make out, -or we will make out, the intentions of your enemies; we will have -horses always ready to convey you to Poitou, a bark in which to -gain the sea, and when once upon the open sea, Belle-Isle is your -inviolable port.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You see, -besides, that no one is watching you, no one is following."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had scarcely finished when -they discovered at a distance, behind an elbow formed by the -river, the masts of a huge lighter coming down.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The rowers of Fouquet's boat uttered -a cry of surprise on seeing this galley.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter?" -asked Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The matter is, -monseigneur," replied the patron of the bark, "that it is a truly -remarkable thing - that lighter comes along like a -hurricane."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Gourville started, and -mounted to the deck, in order to obtain a better view.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet did not go up -with him, but said to Gourville, with restrained mistrust: "See -what it is, dear friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The lighter had just -passed the elbow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It came -on so fast, that behind it might be plainly seen the white wake -illumined with the fires of the day.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How they go," repeated -the skipper, "how they go!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They must be well paid!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I did not think," he added, "that -oars of wood could behave better than ours, but yonder oarsmen -prove the contrary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well they may," said -one of the rowers, "they are twelve, and we but eight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Twelve rowers!" replied -Gourville, "twelve! impossible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The number of eight -rowers for a lighter had never been exceeded, even for the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This honor had been -paid to monsieur le surintendant, more for the sake of haste than -of respect.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What does it mean?" -said Gourville, endeavoring to distinguish beneath the tent, -which was already apparent, travelers which the most piercing eye -could not yet have succeeded in discovering.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They must be in a -hurry, for it is not the king," said the patron.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet shuddered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By what sign do you -know that it is not the king?" said Gourville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place, -because there is no white flag with fleurs-de-lis, which the -royal lighter always carries."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And then," said -Fouquet, "because it is impossible it should be the king, -Gourville, as the king was still in Paris yesterday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Gourville replied to the -surintendant by a look which said: "You were there yourself -yesterday."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And by what sign -do you make out they are in such haste?" added he, for the sake -of gaining time.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"By this, -monsieur," said the patron; "these people must have set out a -long while after us, and they have already nearly overtaken -us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bah!" said -Gourville, "who told you that they do not come from Beaugency or -from Moit even?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We have seen no -lighter of that shape, except at Orléans.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It comes from Orléans, -monsieur, and makes great haste."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet and -Gourville exchanged a glance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain remarked their -uneasiness, and, to mislead him, Gourville immediately said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Some friend, who -has laid a wager he would catch us; let us win the wager, and not -allow him to come up with us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The patron opened -his mouth to say that it was quite impossible, but Fouquet said -with much <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>hauteur</i>, - -"If it is any one who wishes to overtake us, let him come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We can try, -monseigneur," said the man, timidly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, you fellows, put out your -strength; row, row!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No," said Fouquet, -"on the contrary; stop short."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur! what -folly!" interrupted Gourville, stooping towards his ear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Pull up!" repeated -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The eight oars -stopped, and resisting the water, created a retrograde -motion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It stopped.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The twelve rowers in the other -did not, at first, perceive this maneuver, for they continued to -urge on their boat so vigorously that it arrived quickly within -musket-shot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet was -short-sighted, Gourville was annoyed by the sun, now full in his -eyes; the skipper alone, with that habit and clearness which are -acquired by a constant struggle with the elements, perceived -distinctly the travelers in the neighboring lighter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I can see them!" -cried he; "there are two."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I can see -nothing," said Gourville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will not be -long before you distinguish them; in twenty strokes of their oars -they will be within ten paces of us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>But what the patron -announced was not realized; the lighter imitated the movement -commanded by Fouquet, and instead of coming to join its pretended -friends, it stopped short in the middle of the river.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I cannot -comprehend this," said the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nor I," cried -Gourville.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You who can see so -plainly the people in that lighter," resumed Fouquet, "try to -describe them to us, before we are too far off."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I thought I saw -two," replied the boatman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I can only see one now, under the -tent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What sort of man -is he?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is a dark man, -broad-shouldered, bull-necked."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A little cloud at -that moment passed across the azure, darkening the sun.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville, who was still -looking, with one hand over his eyes, became able to see what he -sought, and all at once, jumping from the deck into the chamber -where Fouquet awaited him: "Colbert!" said he, in a voice broken -by emotion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Colbert!" repeated -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Too strange! -but no, it is impossible!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I tell you I -recognized him, and he, at the same time, so plainly recognized -me, that he is just gone into the chamber on the poop.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps the king has sent him -on our track."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case he -would join us, instead of lying by.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What is he doing there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is watching us, -without a doubt."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not like -uncertainty," said Fouquet; "let us go straight up to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! monseigneur, -do not do that, the lighter is full of armed men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He wishes to -arrest me, then, Gourville?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why does he not come on?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur, it is -not consistent with your dignity to go to meet even your -ruin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But to allow them -to watch me like a malefactor!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing yet proves -that they are watching you, monseigneur; be patient!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is to be -done, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do not stop; you -were only going so fast to appear to obey the king's order with -zeal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Redouble the -speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He who lives will -see!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is -better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come!" cried -Fouquet; "since they remain stock-still yonder, let us go -on."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The captain gave -the signal, and Fouquet's rowers resumed their task with all the -success that could be looked for from men who had rested.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Scarcely had the lighter made -a hundred fathoms, than the other, that with the twelve rowers, -resumed its rapid course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This position lasted all day, without any increase or diminution -of distance between the two vessels.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Towards evening Fouquet wished to -try the intentions of his persecutor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He ordered his rowers to pull -towards the shore, as if to effect a landing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert's lighter imitated this -maneuver, and steered towards the shore in a slanting -direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By the merest -chance, at the spot where Fouquet pretended to wish to land, a -stableman, from the château of Langeais, was following the -flowery banks leading three horses in halters.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Without doubt the people of the -twelve-oared lighter fancied that Fouquet was directing his -course to these horses ready for flight, for four or five men, -armed with muskets, jumped from the lighter on to the shore, and -marched along the banks, as if to gain ground on the horseman. -<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet, satisfied of -having forced the enemy to a demonstration, considered his -intention evident, and put his boat in motion again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert's people returned likewise -to theirs, and the course of the two vessels was resumed with -fresh perseverance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon -seeing this, Fouquet felt himself threatened closely, and in a -prophetic voice - "Well, Gourville," said he, whisperingly, "what -did I say at our last repast, at my house?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Am I going, or not, to my ruin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! -monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"These two boats, -which follow each other with so much emulation, as if we were -disputing, M. Colbert and I, a prize for swiftness on the Loire, -do they not aptly represent our fortunes; and do you not believe, -Gourville, that one of the two will be wrecked at Nantes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At least," -objected Gourville, "there is still uncertainty; you are about to -appear at the States; you are about to show what sort of man you -are; your eloquence and genius for business are the buckler and -sword that will serve to defend you, if not to conquer with.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Bretons do not know you; -and when they become acquainted with you your cause is won!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! let M. Colbert look to it -well, for his lighter is as much exposed as yours to being -upset.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Both go quickly, -his faster than yours, it is true; we shall see which will be -wrecked first."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet, taking -Gourville's hand - "My friend," said he, "everything considered, -remember the proverb, 'First come, first served!'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Colbert takes care not to pass -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is a prudent man -is M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>He was right; the -two lighters held their course as far as Nantes, watching each -other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the -surintendant landed, Gourville hoped he should be able to seek -refuge at once, and have the relays prepared.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, at the landing, the second -lighter joined the first, and Colbert, approaching Fouquet, -saluted him on the quay with marks of the profoundest respect - -marks so significant, so public, that their result was the -bringing of the whole population upon La Fosse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet was completely -self-possessed; he felt that in his last moments of greatness he -had obligations towards himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He wished to fall from such a height -that his fall should crush some of his enemies.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert was there - so much the -worse for Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -surintendant, therefore, coming up to him, replied, with that -arrogant semi-closure of the eyes peculiar to him - "What! is -that you, M. Colbert?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To offer you my -respects, monseigneur," said the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Were you in that -lighter?" - pointing to the one with twelve rowers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of twelve rowers?" -said Fouquet; "what luxury, M. Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For a moment I thought it was the -queen-mother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monseigneur!" - -and Colbert blushed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"This is a voyage -that will cost those who have to pay for it dear, Monsieur -l'Intendant!" said Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But you have, happily, arrived! - -You see, however," added he, a moment after, "that I, who had but -eight rowers, arrived before you."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he turned his back towards him, -leaving him uncertain whether the maneuvers of the second lighter -had escaped the notice of the first.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At least he did not give him the -satisfaction of showing that he had been frightened.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert, so annoyingly attacked, did -not give way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have not been -quick, monseigneur," he replied, "because I followed your example -whenever you stopped."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why did you do -that, Monsieur Colbert?" cried Fouquet, irritated by the base -audacity; "as you had a superior crew to mine, why did you not -either join me or pass me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Out of respect," -said the intendant, bowing to the ground.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet got into a -carriage which the city had sent to him, we know not why or how, -and he repaired to <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>la -Maison de Nantes</i>, escorted by a vast crowd of people, who for -several days had been agog with expectation of a convocation of -the States.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Scarcely was -he installed when Gourville went out to order horses on the route -to Poitiers and Vannes, and a boat at Paimbœf.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He performed these various -operations with so much mystery, activity, and generosity, that -never was Fouquet, then laboring under an attack of fever, more -nearly saved, except for the counteraction of that immense -disturber of human projects, - chance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A report was spread during the -night, that the king was coming in great haste on post horses, -and would arrive in ten or twelve hours at the latest.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The people, while waiting for -the king, were greatly rejoiced to see the musketeers, newly -arrived, with Monsieur d'Artagnan, their captain, and quartered -in the castle, of which they occupied all the posts, in quality -of guard of honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. -d'Artagnan, who was very polite, presented himself, about ten -o'clock, at the lodgings of the surintendant to pay his -respectful compliments; and although the minister suffered from -fever, although he was in such pain as to be bathed in sweat, he -would receive M. d'Artagnan, who was delighted with that honor, -as will be seen by the conversation they had together.</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'> -Friendly 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'> -F</span>ouquet had gone to bed, like a man who clings to life, -and wishes to economize, as much as possible, that slender tissue -of existence, of which the shocks and frictions of this world so -quickly wear out the tenuity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan appeared at the door of -this chamber, and was saluted by the superintendent with a very -affable "Good day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Bon jour!</i> monseigneur," replied -the musketeer; "how did you get through the journey?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tolerably well, thank -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And the fever?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But poorly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I drink, as you perceive.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am scarcely arrived, and I -have already levied a contribution of <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>tisane</i> upon Nantes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You should sleep first, -monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>corbleu!</i> my dear Monsieur -d'Artagnan, I should be very glad to sleep."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who hinders -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>you</i> in the first place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, monseigneur!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No doubt you -do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it at Nantes as at -Paris?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you not come in -the king's name?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"For Heaven's sake, -monseigneur," replied the captain, "leave the king alone!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The day on which I shall come -on the part of the king, for the purpose you mean, take my word -for it, I will not leave you long in doubt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will see me place my hand on my -sword, according to the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ordonnance</i>, and you will hear my -say at once, in ceremonial voice, 'Monseigneur, in the name of -the king, I arrest you!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You promise me -that frankness?" said the superintendent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Upon my -honor!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But we have not -come to that, believe me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What makes you -think that, M. d'Artagnan?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For my part, I think quite the -contrary."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have heard speak -of nothing of the kind," replied D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh! eh!" said -Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed, no.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are an agreeable man, in -spite of your fever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king should not, cannot help loving you, at the bottom of his -heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet's -expression implied doubt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"But M. Colbert?" said he; "does M. Colbert love me as much as -you say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I am not speaking -of M. Colbert," replied D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He is an exceptional man.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He does not love you; so much -is very possible; but, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux!</i> the squirrel can guard -himself against the adder with very little trouble."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know that -you are speaking to me quite as a friend?" replied Fouquet; "and -that, upon my life!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have never met with a man of your intelligence, and heart?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are pleased to -say so," replied D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Why did you wait till to-day to pay -me such a compliment?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Blind that we -are!" murmured Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your voice is -getting hoarse," said D'Artagnan; "drink, monseigneur, -drink!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he offered -him a cup of <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>tisane</i>, -with the most friendly cordiality; Fouquet took it, and thanked -him by a gentle smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Such things only happen to me," said the musketeer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have passed ten years under your -very beard, while you were rolling about tons of gold.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You were clearing an annual -pension of four millions; you never observed me; and you find out -there is such a person in the world, just at the moment you - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Just at the moment -I am about to fall," interrupted Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is true, my dear Monsieur -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I did not say -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you thought -so; and that is the same thing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well! if I fall, take my word as -truth, I shall not pass a single day without saying to myself, as -I strike my brow, 'Fool! fool! - stupid mortal!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You had a Monsieur d'Artagnan under -your eye and hand, and you did not employ him, you did not enrich -him!'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You overwhelm me," -said the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -esteem you greatly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There exists -another man, then, who does not think as M. Colbert thinks," said -the surintendant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How this M. -Colbert looms up in your imagination!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is worse than fever!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have good cause," said -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Judge for -yourself."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he related -the details of the course of the lighters, and the hypocritical -persecution of Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Is not this a clear sign of my ruin?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan became -very serious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is -true," he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes; it -has an unsavory odor, as M. de Tréville used to say."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he fixed on M. Fouquet his -intelligent and significant look.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Am I not clearly -designated in that, captain?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is not the king bringing me to -Nantes to get me away from Paris, where I have so many creatures, -and to possess himself of Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Where M. d'Herblay -is," added D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet raised his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"As for me, monseigneur," continued D'Artagnan, "I can assure you -the king has said nothing to me against you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king commanded -me to set out for Nantes, it is true; and to say nothing about it -to M. de Gesvres."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To M. de Gesvres, -yes, monseigneur," continued the musketeer, whose eyes did not -cease to speak a language different from the language of his -lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The king, -moreover, commanded me to take a brigade of musketeers, which is -apparently superfluous, as the country is quite quiet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A brigade!" said -Fouquet, raising himself upon his elbow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ninety-six -horsemen, yes, monseigneur.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The same number as were employed in -arresting MM. de Chalais, de Cinq-Mars, and Montmorency."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet pricked up -his ears at these words, pronounced without apparent value.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And what else?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! nothing but -insignificant orders; such as guarding the castle, guarding every -lodging, allowing none of M. de Gesvres's guards to occupy a -single post."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And as to myself," -cried Fouquet, "what orders had you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As to you, -monseigneur? - not the smallest word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan, my safety, my honor, perhaps my life are at -stake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would not -deceive me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I? - to what -end?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you -threatened?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only there -really is an order with respect to carriages and boats - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"An order?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; but it cannot -concern you - a simple measure of police."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What is it, -captain? - what is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To forbid all -horses or boats to leave Nantes, without a pass, signed by the -king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Great God! but - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan began to -laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "All that is not -to be put into execution before the arrival of the king at -Nantes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So that you see -plainly, monseigneur, the order in nowise concerns you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet became -thoughtful, and D'Artagnan feigned not to observe his -preoccupation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is -evident, by my thus confiding to you the orders which have been -given to me, that I am friendly towards you, and that I am trying -to prove to you that none of them are directed against you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Without doubt! - -without doubt!" said Fouquet, still absent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us -recapitulate," said the captain, his glance beaming with -earnestness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A special -guard about the castle, in which your lodging is to be, is it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know the -castle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! monseigneur, a -regular prison!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -absence of M. de Gesvres, who has the honor of being one of your -friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The closing of -the gates of the city, and of the river without a pass; but, only -when the king shall have arrived.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Please to observe, Monsieur Fouquet, -that if, instead of speaking to man like you, who are one of the -first in the kingdom, I were speaking to a troubled, uneasy -conscience - I should compromise myself forever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What a fine opportunity for any one -who wished to be free!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No -police, no guards, no orders; the water free, the roads free, -Monsieur d'Artagnan obliged to lend his horses, if required.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All this ought to reassure -you, Monsieur Fouquet, for the king would not have left me thus -independent, if he had any sinister designs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In truth, Monsieur Fouquet, ask me -whatever you like, I am at your service; and, in return, if you -will consent to do it, do me a service, that of giving my -compliments to Aramis and Porthos, in case you embark for -Belle-Isle, as you have a right to do without changing your -dress, immediately, in your <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>robe de chambre</i> - just as you -are."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saying these words, -and with a profound bow, the musketeer, whose looks had lost none -of their intelligent kindness, left the apartment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had not reached the steps of the -vestibule, when Fouquet, quite beside himself, hung to the -bell-rope, and shouted, "My horses! - my lighter!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But nobody answered.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The surintendant dressed himself -with everything that came to hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Gourville! - -Gourville!" cried he, while slipping his watch into his -pocket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the bell -sounded again, whilst Fouquet repeated, "Gourville! - -Gourville!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Gourville at length -appeared, breathless and pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us be -gone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us be gone!" -cried Fouquet, as soon as he saw him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is too late!" -said the surintendant's poor friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Too late! - -why?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And they heard the sounds of -trumpets and drums in front of the castle.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What does that -mean, Gourville?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It means the king -is come, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The king, who has -ridden double stages, who has killed horses, and who is eight -hours in advance of all our calculations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We are lost!" -murmured Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Brave -D'Artagnan, all is over, thou has spoken to me too late!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king, in fact, -was entering the city, which soon resounded with the cannon from -the ramparts, and from a vessel which replied from the lower -parts of the river.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet's brow darkened; he called his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>valets de chambre</i> and dressed -in ceremonial costume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -From his window, behind the curtains, he could see the eagerness -of the people, and the movement of a large troop, which had -followed the prince.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king was conducted to the castle with great pomp, and Fouquet saw -him dismount under the portcullis, and say something in the ear -of D'Artagnan, who held his stirrup.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, when the king had passed -under the arch, directed his steps towards the house Fouquet was -in; but so slowly, and stopping so frequently to speak to his -musketeers, drawn up like a hedge, that it might be said he was -counting the seconds, or the steps, before accomplishing his -object.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet opened -the window to speak to him in the court.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" cried -D'Artagnan, on perceiving him, "are you still there, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And that word <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>still</i> completed the proof -to Fouquet of how much information and how many useful counsels -were contained in the first visit the musketeer had paid -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The surintendant -sighed deeply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Good -heavens! yes, monsieur," replied he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The arrival of the king has -interrupted me in the projects I had formed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, then you know -that the king has arrived?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, monsieur, I -have seen him; and this time you come from him - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To inquire after -you, monseigneur; and, if your health is not too bad, to beg you -to have the kindness to repair to the castle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Directly, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, directly!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mordioux!</i>" said the captain, -"now the king is come, there is no more walking for anybody - no -more free will; the password governs all now, you as much as me, -me as much as you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet heaved a -last sigh, climbed with difficulty into his carriage, so great -was his weakness, and went to the castle, escorted by D'Artagnan, -whose politeness was not less terrifying this time than it had -just before been consoling and cheerful.</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'>How -the King, Louis XIV., Played His Little Part.</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 Fouquet was alighting from his carriage, to enter the -castle of Nantes, a man of mean appearance went up to him with -marks of the greatest respect, and gave him a letter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan endeavored to prevent -this man from speaking to Fouquet, and pushed him away, but the -message had been given to the surintendant.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet opened the letter and read -it, and instantly a vague terror, which D'Artagnan did not fail -to penetrate, was painted on the countenance of the first -minister.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet put the -paper into the portfolio which he had under his arm, and passed -on towards the king's apartments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, through the small -windows made at every landing of the donjon stairs, saw, as he -went up behind Fouquet, the man who had delivered the note, -looking round him on the place and making signs to several -persons, who disappeared in the adjacent streets, after having -themselves repeated the signals.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet was made to wait for a -moment on the terrace of which we have spoken, - a terrace which -abutted on the little corridor, at the end of which the cabinet -of the king was located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Here D'Artagnan passed on before the surintendant, whom, till -that time, he had respectfully accompanied, and entered the royal -cabinet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?" asked Louis -XIV., who, on perceiving him, threw on to the table covered with -papers a large green cloth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The order is executed, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le -surintendant follows me," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In ten minutes let him -be introduced," said the king, dismissing D'Artagnan again with a -gesture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter -retired; but had scarcely reached the corridor at the extremity -of which Fouquet was waiting for him, when he was recalled by the -king's bell.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did he not appear -astonished?" asked the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Fouquet</i>," replied the king, -without saying monsieur, a peculiarity which confirmed the -captain of the musketeers in his suspicions.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, sire," replied -he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's well!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And a second time Louis -dismissed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet had not quitted -the terrace where he had been left by his guide.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He reperused his note, conceived -thus:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Something is being -contrived against you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Perhaps they will not dare to carry it out at the castle; it will -be on your return home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The house is already surrounded by musketeers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not enter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A white horse is in waiting for you -behind the esplanade!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet recognized the -writing and zeal of Gourville.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not being willing that, if any evil -happened to himself, this paper should compromise a faithful -friend, the surintendant was busy tearing it into a thousand -morsels, spread about by the wind from the balustrade of the -terrace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan found -him watching the snowflake fluttering of the last scraps in -space.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, -"the king awaits you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet walked with a -deliberate step along the little corridor, where MM. de Brienne -and Rose were at work, whilst the Duc de Saint-Aignan, seated on -a chair, likewise in the corridor, appeared to be waiting for -orders, with feverish impatience, his sword between his -legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It appeared strange -to Fouquet that MM. Brienne, Rose, and de Saint-Aignan, in -general so attentive and obsequious, should scarcely take the -least notice, as he, the surintendant, passed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But how could he expect to find it -otherwise among courtiers, he whom the king no longer called -anything but <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Fouquet?</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He raised his head, determined to -look every one and everything bravely in the face, and entered -the king's apartment, where a little bell, which we already know, -had already announced him to his majesty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, without -rising, nodded to him, and with interest: "Well! how are you, -Monsieur Fouquet?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am in a high fever," -replied the surintendant; "but I am at the king's service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is well; the -States assemble to-morrow; have you a speech ready?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet looked at -the king with astonishment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have not, sire," replied he; "but -I will improvise one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -am too well acquainted with affairs to feel any -embarrassment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -only one question to ask; will your majesty permit me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ask it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why did not your -majesty do his first minister the honor of giving him notice of -this in Paris?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You were ill; I -was not willing to fatigue you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Never did a labor -- never did an explanation fatigue me, sire; and since the moment -is come for me to demand an explanation of my king - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, Monsieur -Fouquet! an explanation?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -An explanation, pray, of what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of your majesty's -intentions with respect to myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king -blushed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have been -calumniated," continued Fouquet, warmly, "and I feel called upon -to adjure the justice of the king to make inquiries."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You say all this -to me very uselessly, Monsieur Fouquet; I know what I know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty can -only know the things that have been told to you; and I, on my -part, have said nothing to you, whilst others have spoken many, -many times - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you wish -to say?" said the king, impatient to put an end to this -embarrassing conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will go straight -to the facts, sire; and I accuse a certain man of having injured -me in your majesty's opinion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nobody has injured -you, Monsieur Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That reply proves -to me, sire, that I am right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur Fouquet, -I do not like people to be accused."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not when one is -accused?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We have already -spoken too much about this affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty will -not allow me to justify myself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I repeat that I do -not accuse you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet, with a -half-bow, made a step backward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is certain," thought he, "that -he has made up his mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He alone who cannot go back can show such obstinacy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not to see the danger now would be -to be blind indeed; not to shun it would be stupid."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He resumed aloud, "Did your majesty -send for me on business?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, Monsieur -Fouquet, but for some advice I wish to give you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I respectfully -await it, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Rest yourself, -Monsieur Fouquet, do not throw away your strength; the session of -the States will be short, and when my secretaries shall have -closed it, I do not wish business to be talked of in France for a -fortnight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Has the king -nothing to say to me on the subject of this assembly of the -States?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, Monsieur -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not to me, the -surintendant of the finances?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Rest yourself, I -beg you; that is all I have to say to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Fouquet bit his -lips and hung his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He was evidently busy with some uneasy thought.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This uneasiness struck the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are you angry at -having to rest yourself, M. Fouquet?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire, I am -not accustomed to take rest."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you are ill; -you must take care of yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty spoke -just now of a speech to be pronounced to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>His majesty made no -reply; this unexpected stroke embarrassed him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet felt the weight of this -hesitation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He thought he -could read danger in the eyes of the young prince, which fear -would but precipitate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"If I appear frightened, I am lost," thought he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king, on his -part, was only uneasy at the alarm of Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Has he a suspicion of anything?" -murmured he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If his first word -is severe," again thought Fouquet; "if he becomes angry, or -feigns to be angry for the sake of a pretext, how shall I -extricate myself?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us -smooth the declivity a little.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville was right."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," said he, -suddenly, "since the goodness of the king watches over my health -to the point of dispensing with my labor, may I not be allowed to -be absent from the council of to-morrow?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could pass the day in bed, and -will entreat the king to grant me his physician, that we may -endeavor to find a remedy against this fearful fever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So be it, Monsieur -Fouquet, it shall be as you desire; you shall have a holiday -to-morrow, you shall have the physician, and shall be restored to -health."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thanks!" said -Fouquet, bowing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -opening his game:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Shall I not have -the happiness of conducting your majesty to my residence of -Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And he looked Louis -full in the face, to judge of the effect of such a proposal.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king blushed again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know," -replied he, endeavoring to smile, "that you have just said, 'My -residence of Belle-Isle'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! do you not -remember," continued the king in the same cheerful tone, "that -you gave me Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is true -again, sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only, as you -have not taken it, you will doubtless come with me and take -possession of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I mean to do -so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That was, besides, -your majesty's intention as well as mine; and I cannot express to -your majesty how happy and proud I have been to see all the -king's regiments from Paris to help take possession."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king stammered -out that he did not bring the musketeers for that alone.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, I am convinced -of that," said Fouquet, warmly; "your majesty knows very well -that you have nothing to do but to come alone with a cane in your -hand, to bring to the ground all the fortifications of -Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Peste!</i>" cried the king; "I do -not wish those fine fortifications, which cost so much to build, -to fall at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, let -them stand against the Dutch and English.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would not guess what I want to -see at Belle-Isle, Monsieur Fouquet; it is the pretty peasants -and women of the lands on the sea-shore, who dance so well, and -are so seducing with their scarlet petticoats!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have heard great boast of your -pretty tenants, monsieur le surintendant; well, let me have a -sight of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Whenever your -majesty pleases."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Have you any means -of transport?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It shall be -to-morrow, if you like."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The surintendant -felt this stroke, which was not adroit, and replied, "No, sire; I -was ignorant of your majesty's wish; above all, I was ignorant of -your haste to see Belle-Isle, and I am prepared with -nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You have a boat of -your own, nevertheless?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have five; but -they are all in port, or at Paimbœuf; and to join them, or -bring them hither, would require at least twenty-four hours.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Have I any occasion to send a -courier?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Must I do -so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Wait a little, put -an end to the fever, - wait till to-morrow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is true.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who knows but that by -to-morrow we may not have a hundred other ideas?" replied -Fouquet, now perfectly convinced and very pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king started, -and stretched his hand out towards his little bell, but Fouquet -prevented his ringing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," said he, "I -have an ague - I am trembling with cold.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I remain a moment longer, I shall -most likely faint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -request your majesty's permission to go and fling myself beneath -the bedclothes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Indeed, you are in -a shiver; it is painful to behold!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, Monsieur Fouquet, begone!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will send to inquire after -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty -overwhelms me with kindness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In an hour I shall be better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will call some -one to reconduct you," said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As you please, -sire; I would gladly take the arm of any one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan!" cried the king, ringing his little bell.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, sire," -interrupted Fouquet, laughing in such a manner as made the prince -feel cold, "would you give me the captain of your musketeers to -take me to my lodgings?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -An equivocal honor that, sire!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A simple footman, I beg."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why, M. -Fouquet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Artagnan -conducts me often, and extremely well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, but when he -conducts you, sire, it is to obey you; whilst me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Go on!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If I am obliged to -return home supported by the leader of the musketeers, it would -be everywhere said you had had me arrested."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Arrested!" replied -the king, who became paler than Fouquet himself, - "arrested! -oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why should -they not say so?" continued Fouquet, still laughing; "and I would -lay a wager there would be people found wicked enough to laugh at -it."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This sally -disconcerted the monarch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Fouquet was skillful enough, or fortunate enough, to make Louis -XIV. recoil before the appearance of the deed he meditated.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. d'Artagnan, when he -appeared, received an order to desire a musketeer to accompany -the surintendant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Quite -unnecessary," said the latter; "sword for sword; I prefer -Gourville, who is waiting for me below.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But that will not prevent me -enjoying the society of M. d'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am glad he will see Belle-Isle, he -is so good a judge of fortifications."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan bowed, -without at all comprehending what was going on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet bowed again and left the -apartment, affecting all the slowness of a man who walks with -difficulty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When once out -of the castle, "I am saved!" said he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! yes, disloyal king, you shall -see Belle-Isle, but it shall be when I am no longer there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>He disappeared, -leaving D'Artagnan with the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Captain," said the -king, "you will follow M. Fouquet at the distance of a hundred -paces."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is going to his -lodgings again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will -go with him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will arrest -him in my name, and will shut him up in a carriage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In a -carriage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In such a fashion -that he may not, on the road, either converse with any one or -throw notes to people he may meet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That will be -rather difficult, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not at all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Pardon me, sire, I -cannot stifle M. Fouquet, and if he asks for liberty to breathe, -I cannot prevent him by closing both the windows and the -blinds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He will throw out -at the doors all the cries and notes possible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The case is -provided for, Monsieur d'Artagnan; a carriage with a trellis will -obviate both the difficulties you point out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A carriage with an -iron trellis!" cried D'Artagnan; "but a carriage with an iron -trellis is not made in half an hour, and your majesty commands me -to go immediately to M. Fouquet's lodgings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The carriage in -question is already made."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! that is quite -a different thing," said the captain; "if the carriage is ready -made, very well, then, we have only to set it in motion."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is ready - and -the horses harnessed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And the coachman, -with the outriders, is waiting in the lower court of the -castle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan -bowed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "There only -remains for me to ask your majesty whither I shall conduct M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To the castle of -Angers, at first."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very well, -sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Afterwards we will -see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan, one last word: you have remarked that, for making -this capture of M. Fouquet, I have not employed my guards, on -which account M. de Gesvres will be furious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your majesty does -not employ your guards," said the captain, a little humiliated, -"because you mistrust M. de Gesvres, that is all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is to say, -monsieur, that I have more confidence in you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I know that very -well, sire! and it is of no use to make so much of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is only for the -sake of arriving at this, monsieur, that if, from this moment, it -should happen that by any chance whatever M. Fouquet should -escape - such chances have been, monsieur - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! very often, -sire; but for others, not for me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And why not with -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because I, sire, -have, for an instant, wished to save M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king -started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Because," -continued the captain, "I had then a right to do so, having -guessed your majesty's plan, without you having spoken to me of -it, and that I took an interest in M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, was I not at liberty to show my -interest in this man?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In truth, -monsieur, you do not reassure me with regard to your -services."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If I had saved him -then, I should have been perfectly innocent; I will say more, I -should have done well, for M. Fouquet is not a bad man.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he was not willing; his -destiny prevailed; he let the hour of liberty slip by.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So much the worse!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now I have orders, I will obey those -orders, and M. Fouquet you may consider as a man arrested.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is at the castle of Angers, -this very M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! you have not -got him yet, captain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That concerns me; -every one to his trade, sire; only, once more, reflect!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you seriously give me -orders to arrest M. Fouquet, sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, a thousand -times, yes!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In writing, sire, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here is the -order."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan read it, -bowed to the king, and left the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From the height of the terrace he -perceived Gourville, who went by with a joyous air towards the -lodgings of M. Fouquet.</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'>The -White Horse and the Black.</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>hat is rather surprising," said D'Artagnan; "Gourville -running about the streets so gayly, when he is almost certain -that M. Fouquet is in danger; when it is almost equally certain -that it was Gourville who warned M. Fouquet just now by the note -which was torn into a thousand pieces upon the terrace, and given -to the winds by monsieur le surintendant.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville is rubbing his hands; that -is because he has done something clever.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whence comes M. Gourville?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville is coming from the -Rue aux Herbes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whither -does the Rue aux Herbes lead?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan followed, along the -tops of the houses of Nantes, dominated by the castle, the line -traced by the streets, as he would have done upon a topographical -plan; only, instead of the dead, flat paper, the living chart -rose in relief with the cries, the movements, and the shadows of -men and things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Beyond -the inclosure of the city, the great verdant plains stretched -out, bordering the Loire, and appeared to run towards the pink -horizon, which was cut by the azure of the waters and the dark -green of the marshes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Immediately outside the gates of Nantes two white roads were seen -diverging like separate fingers of a gigantic hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, who had taken in all the -panorama at a glance by crossing the terrace, was led by the line -of the Rue aux Herbes to the mouth of one of those roads which -took its rise under the gates of Nantes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One step more, and he was about to -descend the stairs, take his trellised carriage, and go towards -the lodgings of M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But chance decreed, at the moment of -plunging into the staircase, that he was attracted by a moving -point then gaining ground upon that road.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is that?" said the -musketeer to himself; "a horse galloping, - a runaway horse, no -doubt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What a rate he is -going at!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The moving -point became detached from the road, and entered into the -fields.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A white horse," -continued the captain, who had just observed the color thrown -luminously against the dark ground, "and he is mounted; it must -be some boy whose horse is thirsty and has run away with -him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> These reflections, rapid -as lightning, simultaneous with visual perception, D'Artagnan had -already forgotten when he descended the first steps of the -staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Some morsels -of paper were spread over the stairs, and shone out white against -the dirty stones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Eh! -eh!" said the captain to himself, "here are some of the fragments -of the note torn by M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor man! he has given his secret to -the wind; the wind will have no more to do with it, and brings it -back to the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Decidedly, Fouquet, you play with misfortune! the game is not a -fair one, - fortune is against you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The star of Louis XIV. obscures -yours; the adder is stronger and more cunning than the -squirrel."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -picked up one of these morsels of paper as he descended.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Gourville's pretty little -hand!" cried he, whilst examining one of the fragments of the -note; "I was not mistaken."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he read the word "horse."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Stop!" said he; and he -examined another, upon which there was not a letter traced.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon a third he read the word -"white;" "white horse," repeated he, like a child that is -spelling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Ah, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mordioux!</i>" cried the suspicious -spirit, "a white horse!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And, like that grain of powder which, burning, dilates into ten -thousand times its volume, D'Artagnan, enlightened by ideas and -suspicions, rapidly reascended the stairs towards the -terrace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The white horse -was still galloping in the direction of the Loire, at the -extremity of which, melting into the vapors of the water, a -little sail appeared, wave-balanced like a water-butterfly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!" cried the musketeer, -"only a man who wants to fly would go at that pace across plowed -lands; there is but one Fouquet, a financier, to ride thus in -open day upon a white horse; there is no one but the lord of -Belle-Isle who would make his escape towards the sea, while there -are such thick forests on land, and there is but one D'Artagnan -in the world to catch M. Fouquet, who has half an hour's start, -and who will have gained his boat within an hour."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This being said, the musketeer gave -orders that the carriage with the iron trellis should be taken -immediately to a thicket situated just outside the city.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He selected his best horse, -jumped upon his back, galloped along the Rue aux Herbes, taking, -not the road Fouquet had taken, but the bank itself of the Loire, -certain that he should gain ten minutes upon the total distance, -and, at the intersection of the two lines, come up with the -fugitive, who could have no suspicion of being pursued in that -direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the -rapidity of the pursuit, and with the impatience of the avenger, -animating himself as in war, D'Artagnan, so mild, so kind towards -Fouquet, was surprised to find himself become ferocious - almost -sanguinary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For a long -time he galloped without catching sight of the white horse.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His rage assumed fury, he -doubted himself, - he suspected that Fouquet had buried himself -in some subterranean road, or that he had changed the white horse -for one of those famous black ones, as swift as the wind, which -D'Artagnan, at Saint-Mandé, had so frequently admired and -envied for their vigor and their fleetness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At such moments, when -the wind cut his eyes so as to make the tears spring from them, -when the saddle had become burning hot, when the galled and -spurred horse reared with pain, and threw behind him a shower of -dust and stones, D'Artagnan, raising himself in his stirrups, and -seeing nothing on the waters, nothing beneath the trees, looked -up into the air like a madman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was losing his senses.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the paroxysms of eagerness -he dreamt of aerial ways, - the discovery of following century; -he called to his mind Dædalus and the vast wings that had -saved him from the prisons of Crete.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A hoarse sigh broke from his lips, -as he repeated, devoured by the fear of ridicule, "I!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I! duped by a Gourville!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They will say that I am growing old, -- they will say I have received a million to allow Fouquet to -escape!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he again dug -his spurs into the sides of his horse: he had ridden -astonishingly fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Suddenly, at the extremity of some open pasture-ground, behind -the hedges, he saw a white form which showed itself, disappeared, -and at last remained distinctly visible against the rising -ground. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan's -heart leaped with joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -wiped the streaming sweat from his brow, relaxed the tension of -his knees, - by which the horse breathed more freely, - and, -gathering up his reins, moderated the speed of the vigorous -animal, his active accomplice on this man-hunt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had then time to study the -direction of the road, and his position with regard to -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -superintendent had completely winded his horse by crossing the -soft ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He felt the -necessity of gaining a firmer footing, and turned towards the -road by the shortest secant line.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, on his part, had nothing -to do but to ride straight on, concealed by the sloping shore; so -that he would cut his quarry off the road when he came up with -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then the real race -would begin, - then the struggle would be in earnest.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan gave his -horse good breathing-time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He observed that the superintendent -had relaxed into a trot, which was to say, he, too, was favoring -his horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But both of -them were too much pressed for time to allow them to continue -long at that pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -white horse sprang off like an arrow the moment his feet touched -firm ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -dropped his head, and his black horse broke into a gallop.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Both followed the same route; -the quadruple echoes of this new race-course were -confounded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet had -not yet perceived D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But on issuing from the slope, a -single echo struck the air; it was that of the steps of -D'Artagnan's horse, which rolled along like thunder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet turned round, and saw behind -him, within a hundred paces, his enemy bent over the neck of his -horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There could be no -doubt - the shining baldrick, the red cassock - it was a -musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -slackened his hand likewise, and the white horse placed twenty -feet more between his adversary and himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, but," thought -D'Artagnan, becoming very anxious, "that is not a common horse M. -Fouquet is upon - let us see!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he attentively examined with his -infallible eye the shape and capabilities of the courser.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Round full quarters - a thin -long tail - large hocks - thin legs, as dry as bars of steel - -hoofs hard as marble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -spurred his own, but the distance between the two remained the -same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan listened -attentively; not a breath of the horse reached him, and yet he -seemed to cut the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The black horse, on the contrary, began to puff like any -blacksmith's bellows.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I must overtake him, if -I kill my horse," thought the musketeer; and he began to saw the -mouth of the poor animal, whilst he buried the rowels of his -merciless spurs into his sides.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The maddened horse gained twenty -toises, and came up within pistol-shot of Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Courage!" said the -musketeer to himself, "courage! the white horse will perhaps grow -weaker, and if the horse does not fall, the master must pull up -at last."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But horse and -rider remained upright together, gaining ground by difficult -degrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -uttered a wild cry, which made Fouquet turn round, and added -speed to the white horse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A famous horse! a mad -rider!" growled the captain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Hola! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur Fouquet! stop! in the -king's name!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet -made no reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you hear me?" -shouted D'Artagnan, whose horse had just stumbled.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i>" replied Fouquet, -laconically; and rode on faster.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was nearly -mad; the blood rushed boiling to his temples and his eyes.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "In the king's name!" cried he -again, "stop, or I will bring you down with a pistol-shot!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do!" replied Fouquet, -without relaxing his speed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan seized a -pistol and cocked it, hoping that the double click of the spring -would stop his enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You have pistols likewise," said he, "turn and defend -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet did turn round -at the noise, and looking D'Artagnan full in the face, opened, -with his right hand, the part of his dress which concealed his -body, but he did not even touch his holsters.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There were not more than twenty -paces between the two.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i>" said D'Artagnan, "I -will not assassinate you; if you will not fire upon me, -surrender! what is a prison?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I would rather die!" -replied Fouquet; "I shall suffer less."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, drunk with -despair, hurled his pistol to the ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will take you alive!" said he; -and by a prodigy of skill which this incomparable horseman alone -was capable, he threw his horse forward to within ten paces of -the white horse; already his hand was stretched out to seize his -prey.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Kill me! kill me!" -cried Fouquet, "'twould be more humane!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No! alive - alive!" -murmured the captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment his horse -made a false step for the second time, and Fouquet's again took -the lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was an -unheard-of spectacle, this race between two horses which now only -kept alive by the will of their riders.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might be said that D'Artagnan -rode, carrying his horse along between his knees.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To the furious gallop had succeeded -the fast trot, and that had sunk to what might be scarcely called -a trot at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the -chase appeared equally warm in the two fatigued <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>athletœ</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, quite in despair, seized -his second pistol, and cocked it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At your horse! not at -you!" cried he to Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he fired.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The animal was hit in the quarters - -he made a furious bound, and plunged forward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At that moment D'Artagnan's horse -fell dead.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am dishonored!" -thought the musketeer; "I am a miserable wretch! for pity's sake, -M. Fouquet, throw me one of your pistols, that I may blow out my -brains!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Fouquet rode -away.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For mercy's sake! for -mercy's sake!" cried D'Artagnan; "that which you will not do at -this moment, I myself will do within an hour, but here, upon this -road, I should die bravely; I should die esteemed; do me that -service, M. Fouquet!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. Fouquet made no -reply, but continued to trot on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan began to run after his -enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Successively he -threw away his hat, his coat, which embarrassed him, and then the -sheath of his sword, which got between his legs as he was -running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sword in his -hand itself became too heavy, and he threw it after the -sheath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The white horse -began to rattle in its throat; D'Artagnan gained upon him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From a trot the exhausted -animal sunk to a staggering walk - the foam from his mouth was -mixed with blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan made a desperate effort, sprang towards Fouquet, and -seized him by the leg, saying in a broken, breathless voice, "I -arrest you in the king's name! blow my brains out, if you like; -we have both done our duty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet hurled far from -him, into the river, the two pistols D'Artagnan might have -seized, and dismounting from his horse - "I am your prisoner, -monsieur," said he; "will you take my arm, for I see you are -ready to faint?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thanks!" murmured -D'Artagnan, who, in fact, felt the earth sliding from under his -feet, and the light of day turning to blackness around him; then -he rolled upon the sand, without breath or strength.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fouquet hastened to the brink of the -river, dipped some water in his hat, with which he bathed the -temples of the musketeer, and introduced a few drop between his -lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan raised -himself with difficulty, and looked about him with a wandering -eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He beheld Fouquet on -his knees, with his wet hat in his hand, smiling upon him with -ineffable sweetness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You -are not off, then?" cried he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh, monsieur! the true king of -royalty, in heart, in soul, is not Louis of the Louvre, or -Philippe of Sainte-Marguerite; it is you, proscribed, -condemned!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, who this day am -ruined by a single error, M. d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, in the name of -Heaven, is that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should have had you -for a friend!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But how -shall we return to Nantes?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are a great way from it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true," said -D'Artagnan, gloomily.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The white horse will -recover, perhaps; he is a good horse!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mount, Monsieur d'Artagnan; I will -walk till you have rested a little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor beast! and -wounded, too?" said the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will go, I tell you; -I know him; but we can do better still, let us both get up, and -ride slowly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We can try," said the -captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But they had -scarcely charged the animal with this double load, when he began -to stagger, and then with a great effort walked a few minutes, -then staggered again, and sank down dead by the side of the black -horse, which he had just managed to come up to.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will go on foot - -destiny wills it so - the walk will be pleasant," said Fouquet, -passing his arm through that of D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i>" cried the latter, -with a fixed eye, a contracted brow, and a swelling heart - "What -a disgraceful day!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They walked slowly the -four leagues which separated them from the little wood behind -which the carriage and escort were in waiting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Fouquet perceived that sinister -machine, he said to D'Artagnan, who cast down his eyes, ashamed -of Louis XIV., "There is an idea that did not emanate from a -brave man, Captain d'Artagnan; it is not yours.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What are these gratings for?" said -he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To prevent your -throwing letters out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ingenious!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you can speak, if -you cannot write," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Can I speak to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, certainly, if you -wish to do so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fouquet reflected for a -moment, then looking the captain full in the face, "One single -word," said he; "will you remember it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not forget -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Will you speak it to -whom I wish?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Saint-Mandé," -articulated Fouquet, in a low voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! and for -whom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For Madame de -Bellière or Pélisson."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It shall be done."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The carriage rolled -through Nantes, and took the route to Angers.</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'>In -Which the Squirrel Falls, - the Adder Flies.</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 was two o'clock in the afternoon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, full of impatience, went -to his cabinet on the terrace, and kept opening the door of the -corridor, to see what his secretaries were doing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. Colbert, seated in the same place -M. de Saint-Aignan had so long occupied in the morning, was -chatting in a low voice with M. de Brienne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king opened the door suddenly, -and addressed them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What -is it you are saying?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We were speaking of the -first sitting of the States," said M. de Brienne, rising.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well," replied the -king, and returned to his room.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Five minutes after, the -summons of the bell recalled Rose, whose hour it was.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you finished your -copies?" asked the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not yet, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "See if M. d'Artagnan -has returned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not yet, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is very strange," -murmured the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Call -M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert entered; he had -been expecting this all the morning.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur Colbert," said -the king, very sharply; "you must ascertain what has become of M. -d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert in his calm -voice replied, "Where does your majesty desire him to be sought -for?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! monsieur! do you -not know on what I have sent him?" replied Louis, -acrimoniously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty did not -inform me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, there are -things that must be guessed; and you, above all, are apt to guess -them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I might have been able -to imagine, sire; but I do not presume to be positive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert had not finished -these words when a rougher voice than that of the king -interrupted the interesting conversation thus begun between the -monarch and his clerk.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan!" cried the -king, with evident joy.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, pale and in -evidently bad humor, cried to the king, as he entered, "Sire, is -it your majesty who has given orders to my musketeers?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What orders?" said the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About M. Fouquet's -house?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "None!" replied -Louis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ha!" said D'Artagnan, -biting his mustache; "I was not mistaken, then; it was monsieur -here;" and he pointed to Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What orders?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let me know," said the -king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Orders to turn the -house topsy-turvy, to beat M. Fouquet's servants, to force the -drawers, to give over a peaceful house to pillage!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i> these are savage -orders!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur!" said -Colbert, turning pale.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," interrupted -D'Artagnan, "the king alone, understand, - the king alone has a -right to command my musketeers; but, as to you, I forbid you to -do it, and I tell you so before his majesty; gentlemen who carry -swords do not sling pens behind their ears."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan!" murmured the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is humiliating," -continued the musketeer; "my soldiers are disgraced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not command <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>reîtres</i>, thank you, nor -clerks of the intendant, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mordioux!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! but what is all -this about?" said the king with authority.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "About this, sire; -monsieur - monsieur, who could not guess your majesty's orders, -and consequently could not know I was gone to arrest M. Fouquet; -monsieur, who has caused the iron cage to be constructed for his -patron of yesterday - has sent M. de Roncherolles to the lodgings -of M. Fouquet, and, under the pretense of securing the -surintendant's papers, they have taken away the furniture.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My musketeers have been posted -round the house all the morning; such were my orders.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why did any one presume to order -them to enter?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, by -forcing them to assist in this pillage, have they been made -accomplices in it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i> we serve the -king, we do; but we do not serve M. Colbert!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Dumas here, and later in -the chapter, uses the name Roncherat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Roncherolles is the actual name of -the man. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan," -said the king, sternly, "take care; it is not in my presence that -such explanations, and made in such a tone, should take -place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have acted for the -good of the king," said Colbert, in a faltering voice.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is hard to be so treated -by one of your majesty's officers, and that without redress, on -account of the respect I owe the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The respect you owe the -king," cried D'Artagnan, his eyes flashing fire, "consists, in -the first place, in making his authority respected, and his -person beloved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every -agent of a power without control represents that power, and when -people curse the hand which strikes them, it is the royal hand -that God reproaches, do you hear?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Must a soldier, hardened by forty -years of wounds and blood, give you this lesson, monsieur?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Must mercy be on my side, and -ferocity on yours?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -have caused the innocent to be arrested, bound, and -imprisoned!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Accomplices, perhaps, -of M. Fouquet," said Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who told you M. Fouquet -had accomplices, or even that he was guilty?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king alone knows that; his -justice is not blind!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -When he says, 'Arrest and imprison' such and such a man, he is -obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not talk to -me, then, any more of the respect you owe the king, and be -careful of your words, that they may not chance to convey the -slightest menace; for the king will not allow those to be -threatened who do him service by others who do him disservice; -and if in case I should have, which God forbid! a master so -ungrateful, I would make myself respected."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Thus saying, D'Artagnan -took his station haughtily in the king's cabinet, his eyes -flashing, his hand on his sword, his lips trembling, affecting -much more anger than he really felt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert, humiliated and devoured -with rage, bowed to the king as if to ask his permission to leave -the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, -thwarted alike in pride and in curiosity, knew not which part to -take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan saw him -hesitate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To remain -longer would have been a mistake: it was necessary to score a -triumph over Colbert, and the only method was to touch the king -so near the quick, that his majesty would have no other means of -extrication but choosing between the two antagonists.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan bowed as Colbert had -done; but the king, who, in preference to everything else, was -anxious to have all the exact details of the arrest of the -surintendant of the finances from him who had made him tremble -for a moment, - the king, perceiving that the ill-humor of -D'Artagnan would put off for half an hour at least the details he -was burning to be acquainted with, - Louis, we say, forgot -Colbert, who had nothing new to tell him, and recalled his -captain of the musketeers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the first place," -said he, "let me see the result of your commission, monsieur; you -may rest yourself hereafter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, who was just -passing through the doorway, stopped at the voice of the king, -retraced his steps, and Colbert was forced to leave the -closet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His countenance -assumed almost a purple hue, his black and threatening eyes shone -with a dark fire beneath their thick brows; he stepped out, bowed -before the king, half drew himself up in passing D'Artagnan, and -went away with death in his heart.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, on being left alone with -the king, softened immediately, and composing his countenance: -"Sire," said he, "you are a young king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is by the dawn that people judge -whether the day will be fine or dull.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How, sire, will the people, whom the -hand of God has placed under your law, argue of your reign, if -between them and you, you allow angry and violent ministers to -interpose their mischief?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But let us speak of myself, sire, let us leave a discussion that -may appear idle, and perhaps inconvenient to you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us speak of myself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have arrested M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You took plenty of time -about it," said the king, sharply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan looked at the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I perceive that I -have expressed myself badly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I announced to your majesty that I -had arrested Monsieur Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You did; and what -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I ought to have told your majesty -that M. Fouquet had arrested me; that would have been more -just.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I re-establish the -truth, then; I have been arrested by M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> It was now the turn of -Louis XIV. to be surprised.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His majesty was astonished in his -turn.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, with his -quick glance, appreciated what was passing in the heart of his -master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not allow -him time to put any questions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He related, with that poetry, that -picturesqueness, which perhaps he alone possessed at that period, -the escape of Fouquet, the pursuit, the furious race, and, -lastly, the inimitable generosity of the surintendant, who might -have fled ten times over, who might have killed the adversary in -the pursuit, but who had preferred imprisonment, perhaps worse, -to the humiliation of one who wished to rob him of his -liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In proportion as -the tale advanced, the king became agitated, devouring the -narrator's words, and drumming with his finger-nails upon the -table.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It results from all -this, sire, in my eyes, at least, that the man who conducts -himself thus is a gallant man, and cannot be an enemy to the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is my opinion, -and I repeat it to your majesty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know what the king will say to me, -and I bow to it, - reasons of state.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So be it!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To my ears that sounds highly -respectable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I am a -soldier, and I have received my orders, my orders are executed - -very unwillingly on my part, it is true, but they are -executed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I say no -more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where is M. Fouquet at -this moment?" asked Louis, after a short silence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. Fouquet, sire," -replied D'Artagnan, "is in the iron cage that M. Colbert had -prepared for him, and is galloping as fast as four strong horses -can drag him, towards Angers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why did you leave him -on the road?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because your majesty -did not tell me to go to Angers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The proof, the best proof of what I -advance, is that the king desired me to be sought for but this -minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then I had -another reason."</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> "Whilst I was with him, -poor M. Fouquet would never attempt to escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" cried the king, -astonished.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty ought to -understand, and does understand, certainly, that my warmest wish -is to know that M. Fouquet is at liberty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have given him one of my -brigadiers, the most stupid I could find among my musketeers, in -order that the prisoner might have a chance of escaping."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you mad, Monsieur -d'Artagnan?" cried the king, crossing his arms on his -breast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do people utter -such enormities, even when they have the misfortune to think -them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! sire, you cannot -expect that I should be an enemy to M. Fouquet, after what he has -just done for you and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -No, no; if you desire that he should remain under your lock and -bolt, never give him in charge to me; however closely wired might -be the cage, the bird would, in the end, take wing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am surprised," said -the king, in his sternest tone, "you did not follow the fortunes -of the man M. Fouquet wished to place upon my throne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You had in him all you want - -affection, gratitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -my service, monsieur, you will only find a master."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If M. Fouquet had not -gone to seek you in the Bastile, sire," replied D'Artagnan, with -a deeply impressive manner, "one single man would have gone -there, and I should have been that man - you know that right -well, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king was brought to -a pause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before that -speech of his captain of the musketeers, so frankly spoken and so -true, the king had nothing to offer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On hearing D'Artagnan, Louis -remembered the D'Artagnan of former times; him who, at the Palais -Royal, held himself concealed behind the curtains of his bed, -when the people of Paris, led by Cardinal de Retz, came to assure -themselves of the presence of the king; the D'Artagnan whom he -saluted with his hand at the door of his carriage, when repairing -to Notre Dame on his return to Paris; the soldier who had quitted -his service at Blois; the lieutenant he had recalled to be beside -his person when the death of Mazarin restored his power; the man -he had always found loyal, courageous, devoted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis advanced towards the door and -called Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert -had not left the corridor where the secretaries were at -work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He reappeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Colbert, did you make a -perquisition on the house of M. Fouquet?"</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 has it -produced?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. de Roncherolles, who -was sent with your majesty's musketeers, has remitted me some -papers," replied Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will look at -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Give me your -hand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My hand, sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, that I may place -it in that of M. d'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, M. d'Artagnan," added he, -with a smile, turning towards the soldier, who, at sight of the -clerk, had resumed his haughty attitude, "you do not know this -man; make his acquaintance."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he pointed to Colbert.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He has been made but a -moderately valuable servant in subaltern positions, but he will -be a great man if I raise him to the foremost rank."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire!" stammered -Colbert, confused with pleasure and fear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I always understood -why," murmured D'Artagnan in the king's ear; "he was -jealous."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely, and his -jealousy confined his wings."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He will henceforward be -a winged-serpent," grumbled the musketeer, with a remnant of -hatred against his recent adversary.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But Colbert, approaching -him, offered to his eyes a physiognomy so different from that -which he had been accustomed to see him wear; he appeared so -good, so mild, so easy; his eyes took the expression of an -intelligence so noble, that D'Artagnan, a connoisseur in -physiognomies, was moved, and almost changed in his -convictions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert -pressed his hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That which the king has -just told you, monsieur, proves how well his majesty is -acquainted with men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -inveterate opposition I have displayed, up to this day, against -abuses and not against men, proves that I had it in view to -prepare for my king a glorious reign, for my country a great -blessing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have many -ideas, M. d'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -will see them expand in the sun of public peace; and if I have -not the good fortune to conquer the friendship of honest men, I -am at least certain, monsieur, that I shall obtain their -esteem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For their -admiration, monsieur, I would give my life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This change, this sudden -elevation, this mute approbation of the king, gave the musketeer -matter for profound reflection.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bowed civilly to Colbert, who did -not take his eyes off him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, when he saw they were -reconciled, dismissed them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They left the room together.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as they were out of -the cabinet, the new minister, stopping the captain, said:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it possible, M. -d'Artagnan, that with such an eye as yours, you did not, at the -first glance, at the first impression, discover what sort of man -I am?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur Colbert," -replied the musketeer, "a ray of the sun in our eyes prevents us -from seeing the most vivid flame.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The man in power radiates, you know; -and since you are there, why should you continue to persecute him -who had just fallen into disgrace, and fallen from such a -height?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, monsieur!" said -Colbert; "oh, monsieur!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -would never persecute him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I wished to administer the finances -and to administer them alone, because I am ambitious, and, above -all, because I have the most entire confidence in my own merit; -because I know that all the gold of this country will ebb and -flow beneath my eyes, and I love to look at the king's gold; -because, if I live thirty years, in thirty years not a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dénir</i> of it will remain -in my hands; because, with that gold, I will build granaries, -castles, cities, and harbors; because I will create a marine, I -will equip navies that shall waft the name of France to the most -distant people; because I will create libraries and academies; -because I will make France the first country in the world, and -the wealthiest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These are -the motives for my animosity against M. Fouquet, who prevented my -acting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, when I -shall be great and strong, when France is great and strong, in my -turn, then, will I cry, 'Mercy'!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mercy, did you say? -then ask his liberty of the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is only crushing him on <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>your</i> account."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert again raised his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," said -he, "you know that is not so, and that the king has his own -personal animosity against M. Fouquet; it is not for me to teach -you that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the king will grow -tired; he will forget."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king never forgets, -M. d'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Hark! the -king calls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is going -to issue an order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -not influenced him, have I?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Listen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king, in fact, was -calling his secretaries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur d'Artagnan," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am here, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Give twenty of your -musketeers to M. de Saint-Aignan, to form a guard for M. -Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan and Colbert -exchanged looks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And -from Angers," continued the king, "they will conduct the prisoner -to the Bastile, in Paris."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You were right," said -the captain to the minister.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Saint-Aignan," -continued the king, "you will have any one shot who shall attempt -to speak privately with M. Fouquet, during the journey."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But myself, sire," said -the duke.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You, monsieur, you will -only speak to him in the presence of the musketeers."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The duke bowed and departed to -execute his commission.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was about to -retire likewise; but the king stopped him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, -"you will go immediately, and take possession of the isle and -fief of Belle-Île-en-Mer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, sire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Alone?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will take a -sufficient number of troops to prevent delay, in case the place -should be contumacious."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A murmur of courtly -incredulity rose from the group of courtiers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That shall be done," said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I saw the place in my -infancy," resumed the king, "and I do not wish to see it -again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have heard -me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, monsieur, and do -not return without the keys."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Colbert went up to -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A commission -which, if you carry it out well," said he, "will be worth a -maréchal's baton to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you employ the -words, 'if you carry it out well'?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Because it is -difficult."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! in what -respect?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have friends in -Belle-Isle, Monsieur d'Artagnan; and it is not an easy thing for -men like you to march over the bodies of their friends to obtain -success."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan hung his head -in deepest thought, whilst Colbert returned to the king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A quarter of an hour after, -the captain received the written order from the king, to blow up -the fortress of Belle-Isle, in case of resistance, with power of -life and death over all the inhabitants or refugees, and an -injunction not to allow one to escape.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Colbert was right," -thought D'Artagnan; "for me the baton of a maréchal of -France will cost the lives of my two friends.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only they seem to forget that my -friends are not more stupid than the birds, and that they will -not wait for the hand of the fowler to extend over their -wings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will show them -that hand so plainly, that they will have quite time enough to -see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor -Porthos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor -Aramis!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No; my fortune -should shall not cost your wings a feather."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Having thus determined, -D'Artagnan assembled the royal army, embarked it at -Paimbœuf, and set sail, without the loss of an unnecessary -minute.</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'> -Belle-Île-en-Mer.</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 the extremity of the mole, against which the furious -sea beats at the evening tide, two men, holding each other by the -arm, were conversing in an animated and expansive tone, without -the possibility of any other human being hearing their words, -borne away, as they were, one by one, by the gusts of wind, with -the white foam swept from the crests of the waves.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sun had just gone down in the -vast sheet of the crimsoned ocean, like a gigantic crucible.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From time to time, one of -these men, turning towards the east, cast an anxious, inquiring -look over the sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -other, interrogating the features of his companion, seemed to -seek for information in his looks.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, both silent, busied with -dismal thoughts, they resumed their walk.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one has already perceived that -these two men were our proscribed heroes, Porthos and Aramis, who -had taken refuge in Belle-Isle, since the ruin of their hopes, -since the discomfiture of the colossal schemes of M. -d'Herblay.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If is of no use your -saying anything to the contrary, my dear Aramis," repeated -Porthos, inhaling vigorously the salt breeze with which he -charged his massive chest, "It is of no use, Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The disappearance of all the -fishing-boats that went out two days ago is not an ordinary -circumstance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There has -been no storm at sea; the weather has been constantly calm, not -even the lightest gale; and even if we had had a tempest, all our -boats would not have foundered.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I repeat, it is strange.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This complete disappearance -astonishes me, I tell you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "True," murmured -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You are right, -friend Porthos; it is true, there is something strange in -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And further," added -Porthos, whose ideas the assent of the bishop of Vannes seemed to -enlarge; "and, further, do you not observe that if the boats have -perished, not a single plank has washed ashore?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have remarked it as -well as yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And do you not think it -strange that the two only boats we had left in the whole island, -and which I sent in search of the others - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis here interrupted -his companion by a cry, and by so sudden a movement, that Porthos -stopped as if he were stupefied.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What do you say, Porthos?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What! - You have sent the two -boats - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In search of the -others!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, to be sure I -have," replied Porthos, calmly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Unhappy man!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What have you done?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then we are indeed lost," -cried the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Lost! - what did you -say?" exclaimed the terrified Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How lost, Aramis?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How are we lost?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis bit his -lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Nothing! -nothing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your pardon, I -meant to say - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That if we were -inclined - if we took a fancy to make an excursion by sea, we -could not."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very good! and why -should that vex you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -precious pleasure, <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ma -foi!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For my part, I -don't regret it at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What I regret is certainly not the more or less amusement we can -find at Belle-Isle: what I regret, Aramis, is Pierrefonds; -Bracieux; le Vallon; beautiful France!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here, we are not in France, my dear -friend; we are - I know not where.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I tell you, in full sincerity of -soul, and your affection will excuse my frankness, but I declare -to you I am not happy at Belle-Isle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No; in good truth, I am not -happy!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis breathed a long, -but stifled sigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Dear -friend," replied he: "that is why it is so sad a thing you have -sent the two boats we had left in search of the boats which -disappeared two days ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -If you had not sent them away, we would have departed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Departed!'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the orders, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What orders?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why, the orders you have been -constantly, in and out of season, repeating to me - that we were -to hold Belle-Isle against the usurper.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You know very well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true!" murmured -Aramis again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, then, plainly, -my friend, that we could not depart; and that the sending away of -the boats in search of the others cannot prove prejudicial to us -in the very least."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis was silent; and -his vague glances, luminous as that of an albatross, hovered for -a long time over the sea, interrogating space, seeking to pierce -the very horizon.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With all that, Aramis," -continued Porthos, who adhered to his idea, and that the more -closely from the bishop having apparently endorsed it, - "with -all that, you give me no explanation about what can have happened -to these unfortunate boats.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am assailed by cries and -complaints whichever way I go.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The children cry to see the -desolation of the women, as if I could restore the absent -husbands and fathers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -What do you suppose, my friend, and how ought I to answer -them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Think all you like, my -good Porthos, and say nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This reply did not -satisfy Porthos at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He turned away grumbling something in ill-humor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis stopped the valiant -musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do you -remember," said he, in a melancholy tone, kneading the two hands -of the giant between his own with affectionate cordiality, "do -you remember, my friend, that in the glorious days of youth - do -you remember, Porthos, when we were all strong and valiant - we, -and the other two - if we had then had an inclination to return -to France, do you think this sheet of salt water would have -stopped us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Porthos; "but -six leagues."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you had seen me get -astride of a plank, would you have remained on land, -Porthos?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>pardieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, nowadays, what sort of a plank -should we want, my friend!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, in particular."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the Seigneur de Bracieux cast a -profound glance over his colossal rotundity with a loud -laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And do you mean -seriously to say you are not tired of Belle-Isle a little, and -that you would not prefer the comforts of your dwelling - of your -episcopal palace, at Vannes?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Come, confess."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied Aramis, -without daring to look at Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us stay where we -are, then," said his friend, with a sigh, which, in spite of the -efforts he made to restrain it, escaped his echoing breast.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Let us remain! - let us -remain!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet," added -he, "and yet, if we seriously wished, but that decidedly - if we -had a fixed idea, one firmly taken, to return to France, and -there were not boats - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Have you remarked -another thing, my friend - that is, since the disappearance of -our barks, during the last two days' absence of fishermen, not a -single small boat has landed on the shores of the isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, certainly! you are -right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I, too, have -remarked it, and the observation was the more naturally made, -for, before the last two fatal days, barks and shallops were as -plentiful as shrimps."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I must inquire," said -Aramis, suddenly, and with great agitation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And then, if we had a raft -constructed - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But there are some -canoes, my friend; shall I board one?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A canoe! - a -canoe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can you think of -such a thing, Porthos?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -canoe to be upset in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, -no," said the bishop of Vannes; "it is not our trade to ride upon -the waves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will wait, -we will wait."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Aramis continued -walking about with increased agitation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, who grew tired of following -all the feverish movements of his friend - Porthos, who in his -faith and calmness understood nothing of the sort of exasperation -which was betrayed by his companion's continual convulsive starts -- Porthos stopped him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Let us sit down upon this rock," said he.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Place yourself there, close to me, -Aramis, and I conjure you, for the last time, to explain to me in -a manner I can comprehend - explain to me what we are doing -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos," said Aramis, -much embarrassed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know that the false -king wished to dethrone the true king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is a fact, that I -understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know that the false -king formed the project of selling Belle-Isle to the -English.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I understand -that, too."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know that we -engineers and captains came and threw ourselves into Belle-Isle -to take direction of the works, and the command of ten companies -levied and paid by M. Fouquet, or rather the ten companies of his -son-in-law.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All that is -plain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis rose in a state -of great impatience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -might be said to be a lion importuned by a gnat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos held him by the arm.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But what I cannot understand, -what, in spite of all the efforts of my mind, and all my -reflections, I cannot comprehend, and never shall comprehend, is, -that instead of sending us troops, instead of sending us -reinforcements of men, munitions, provisions, they leave us -without boats, they leave Belle-Isle without arrivals, without -help; it is that instead of establishing with us a -correspondence, whether by signals, or written or verbal -communications, all relations with the shore are -intercepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me, -Aramis, answer me, or rather, before answering me, will you allow -me to tell you what I have thought?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you hear what my idea is, the -plan I have conceived?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The bishop raised his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis," continued Porthos, "I have -dreamed, I have imagined that an event has taken place in -France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I dreamt of M. -Fouquet all the night, of lifeless fish, of broken eggs, of -chambers badly furnished, meanly kept.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Villainous dreams, my dear -D'Herblay; very unlucky, such dreams!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos, what is that -yonder?" interrupted Aramis, rising suddenly, and pointing out to -his friend a black spot upon the empurpled line of the water.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A bark!" said Porthos; -"yes, it is a bark!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! -we shall have some news at last."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There are two!" cried -the bishop, on discovering another mast; "two! three! four!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Five!" said Porthos, in -his turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Six! -seven!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>mon Dieu! mon Dieu!</i> it is a -fleet!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Our boats returning, -probably," said Aramis, very uneasily, in spite of the assurance -he affected.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They are very large for -fishing-boats," observed Porthos, "and do you not remark, my -friend, that they come from the Loire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They come from the -Loire - yes - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And look! everybody -here sees them as well as ourselves; look, women and children are -beginning to crowd the jetty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> An old fisherman -passed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are those our -barks, yonder?" asked Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The old man looked -steadily into the eye of the horizon.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monseigneur," -replied he, "they are lighter boars, boats in the king's -service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Boats in the royal -service?" replied Aramis, starting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "How do you know that?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By the flag."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," said Porthos, -"the boat is scarcely visible; how the devil, my friend, can you -distinguish the flag?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see there is one," -replied the old man; "our boats, trade lighters, do not carry -any.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That sort of craft -is generally used for transport of troops."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" groaned -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Vivat!</i>" cried Porthos, "they are -sending us reinforcements, don't you think they are, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Probably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Unless it is the -English coming."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By the Loire?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That would have an evil look, -Porthos; for they must have come through Paris!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right; they are -reinforcements, decidedly, or provisions."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis leaned his head -upon his hands, and made no reply.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, all at once, - "Porthos," said -he, "have the alarm sounded."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The alarm! do you -imagine such a thing?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, and let the -cannoniers mount their batteries, the artillerymen be at their -pieces, and be particularly watchful of the coast batteries."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos opened his eyes -to their widest extent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He looked attentively at his friend, to convince himself he was -in his proper senses.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I</i> will do it, my dear Porthos," -continued Aramis, in his blandest tone; "I will go and have these -orders executed myself, if you do not go, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will - instantly!" said Porthos, -who went to execute the orders, casting all the while looks -behind him, to see if the bishop of Vannes were not deceived; and -if, on recovering more rational ideas, he would not recall -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The alarm was -sounded, trumpets brayed, drums rolled; the great bronze bell -swung in horror from its lofty belfry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The dikes and moles were quickly -filled with the curious and soldiers; matches sparkled in the -hands of the artillerymen, placed behind the large cannon bedded -in their stone carriages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -When every man was at his post, when all the preparations for -defense were made: "Permit me, Aramis, to try to comprehend," -whispered Porthos, timidly, in Aramis's ear.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend, you -will comprehend but too soon," murmured M. d'Herblay, in reply to -this question of his lieutenant.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fleet which is -coming yonder, with sails unfurled, straight towards the port of -Belle-Isle, is a royal fleet, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But as there are two -kings in France, Porthos, to which of these two kings does this -fleet belong?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you open my eyes," -replied the giant, stunned by the insinuation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Porthos, whose eyes -this reply of his friend's had at last opened, or rather -thickened the bandage which covered his sight, went with his best -speed to the batteries to overlook his people, and exhort every -one to do his duty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -the meantime, Aramis, with his eye fixed on the horizon, saw the -ships continually drawing nearer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The people and the soldiers, perched -on the summits of the rocks, could distinguish the masts, then -the lower sails, and at last the hulls of the lighters, bearing -at the masthead the royal flag of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was night when one of these -vessels, which had created such a sensation among the inhabitants -of Belle-Isle, dropped anchor within cannon shot of the -place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was soon seen, -notwithstanding the darkness, that some sort of agitation reigned -on board the vessel, from the side of which a skiff was lowered, -of which the three rowers, bending to their oars, took the -direction of the port, and in a few instants struck land at the -foot of the fort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -commander jumped ashore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He had a letter in his hand, which he waved in the air, and -seemed to wish to communicate with somebody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This man was soon recognized by -several soldiers as one of the pilots of the island.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was the captain of one of the two -barks retained by Aramis, but which Porthos, in his anxiety with -regard to the fate of the fishermen who had disappeared, had sent -in search of the missing boats.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He asked to be conducted to M. -d'Herblay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two soldiers, -at a signal from a sergeant, marched him between them, and -escorted him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis was -upon the quay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The envoy -presented himself before the bishop of Vannes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The darkness was almost absolute, -notwithstanding the flambeaux borne at a small distance by the -soldiers who were following Aramis in his rounds.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, Jonathan, from -whom do you come?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, from those -who captured me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who captured you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know, monseigneur, -we set out in search of our comrades?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; and -afterwards?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! monseigneur, -within a short league we were captured by a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>chasse marée</i> belonging -to the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of which king?" cried -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Jonathan started.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak!" continued the -bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We were captured, -monseigneur, and joined to those who had been taken yesterday -morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was the cause of -the mania for capturing you all?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, to prevent us -from telling you," replied Jonathan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos was again at a -loss to comprehend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And -they have released you to-day?" asked he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That I might tell you -they have captured us, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Trouble upon trouble," -thought honest Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> During this time Aramis -was reflecting.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Humph!" said he, "then -I suppose it is a royal fleet blockading the coasts?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who commands it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The captain of the -king's musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> -"D'Artagnan!" exclaimed Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe that is the -name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And did he give you -this letter?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bring the torches -nearer."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is his writing," -said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis eagerly read the -following lines:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Order of the king to -take Belle-Isle; or to put the garrison to the sword, if they -resist; order to make prisoners of all the men of the garrison; -signed, D'ARTAGNAN, who, the day before yesterday, arrested M. -Fouquet, for the purpose of his being sent to the Bastile."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis turned pale, and -crushed the paper in his hands.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it?" asked -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing, my friend, -nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me, Jonathan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did you speak to M. -d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What did he say to -you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That for ampler -information, he would speak with monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On board his own -vessel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On board his vessel!" -and Porthos repeated, "On board his vessel!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. le mousquetaire," -continued Jonathan, "told me to take you both on board my canoe, -and bring you to him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us go at once," -exclaimed Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Dear -D'Artagnan!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But Aramis stopped -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Are you mad?" cried -he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Who knows that it is -not a snare?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of the other king's?" -said Porthos, mysteriously.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A snare, in fact!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That's what it is, my -friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very possibly; what is -to be done, then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If -D'Artagnan sends for us - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who assures you that -D'Artagnan sends for us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, but - but his -writing - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Writing is easily -counterfeited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This looks -counterfeited - unsteady - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are always right; -but, in the meantime, we know nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis was silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is true," said the -good Porthos, "we do not want to know anything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What shall I do?" asked -Jonathan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will return on -board this captain's vessel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And will tell him that -we beg he will himself come into the island."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I comprehend!" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur," -replied Jonathan; "but if the captain should refuse to come to -Belle-Isle?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If he refuses, as we -have cannon, we will make use of them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! against -D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it is D'Artagnan, -Porthos, he will come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Go, Jonathan, go!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i> <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I no longer comprehend anything," -murmured Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will make you -comprehend it all, my dear friend; the time for it has come; sit -down upon this gun-carriage, open your ears, and listen well to -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>pardieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will listen, no fear of that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "May I depart, -monseigneur?" cried Jonathan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, begone, and bring -back an answer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Allow the -canoe to pass, you men there!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the canoe pushed off to regain -the fleet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis took Porthos by -the hand, and commenced his explanations.</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'> -Explanations by Aramis.</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>hat I have to say to you, friend Porthos, will probably -surprise you, but it may prove instructive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I like to be -surprised," said Porthos, in a kindly tone; "do not spare me, -therefore, I beg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am -hardened against emotions; don't fear, speak out."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is difficult, -Porthos - difficult; for, in truth, I warn you a second time, I -have very strange things, very extraordinary things, to tell -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you speak so well, -my friend, that I could listen to you for days together.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Speak, then, I beg - and - -stop, I have an idea: I will, to make your task more easy, I -will, to assist you in telling me such things, question you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I shall be pleased at -your doing so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are we going to -fight for, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you ask me many such -questions as that - if you would render my task the easier by -interrupting my revelations thus, Porthos, you will not help me -at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So far, on the -contrary, that is the very Gordian knot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, my friend, with a man like you, -good, generous, and devoted, the confession must be bravely -made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have deceived -you, my worthy friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have deceived -me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good Heavens! yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Was it for my good, -Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I thought so, Porthos; -I thought so sincerely, my friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then," said the honest -seigneur of Bracieux, "you have rendered me a service, and I -thank you for it; for if you had not deceived me, I might have -deceived myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In what, -then, have you deceived me, tell me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that I was serving -the usurper against whom Louis XIV., at this moment, is directing -his efforts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The usurper!" said -Porthos, scratching his head.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is - well, I do not quite -clearly comprehend!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is one of the two -kings who are contending fro the crown of France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then you were serving him who is not -Louis XIV.?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have hit the matter -in one word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It follows that - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It follows that we are -rebels, my poor friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The devil! the devil!" -cried Porthos, much disappointed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! but, dear Porthos, -be calm, we shall still find means of getting out of the affair, -trust me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not that which -makes me uneasy," replied Porthos; "that which alone touches me -is that ugly word <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>rebels</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so, according to -this, the duchy that was promised me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was the usurper that -was to give it to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And that is not the -same thing, Aramis," said Porthos, majestically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friend, if it had -only depended upon me, you should have become a prince."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos began to bite -his nails in a melancholy way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is where you have -been wrong," continued he, "in deceiving me; for that promised -duchy I reckoned upon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Oh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I reckoned upon it -seriously, knowing you to be a man of your word, Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Poor Porthos! pardon -me, I implore you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So, then," continued -Porthos, without replying to the bishop's prayer, "so then, -it<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> seems, I have quite -fallen out with Louis XIV.?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will settle all that, my good -friend, I will settle all that.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will take it on myself alone!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Aramis!"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, no, -Porthos, I conjure you, let me act.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No false generosity!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No inopportune devotedness!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You knew nothing of my -projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have done -nothing of yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With -me it is different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -alone am the author of this plot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I stood in need of my inseparable -companion; I called upon you, and you came to me in remembrance -of our ancient device, 'All for one, one for all.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My crime is that I was an -egotist."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now, that is a word I -like," said Porthos; "and seeing that you have acted entirely for -yourself, it is impossible for me to blame you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is natural."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And upon this sublime -reflection, Porthos pressed his friend's hand cordially.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In presence of this -ingenuous greatness of soul, Aramis felt his own littleness.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the second time he had -been compelled to bend before real superiority of heart, which is -more imposing than brilliancy of mind.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He replied by a mute and energetic -pressure to the endearment of his friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now," said Porthos, -"that we have come to an explanation, now that I am perfectly -aware of our situation with respect to Louis XIV., I think, my -friend, it is time to make me comprehend the political intrigue -of which we are the victims - for I plainly see there is a -political intrigue at the bottom of all this."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan, my good -Porthos, D'Artagnan is coming, and will detail it to you in all -its circumstances; but, excuse me, I am deeply grieved, I am -bowed down with mental anguish, and I have need of all my -presence of mind, all my powers of reflection, to extricate you -from the false position in which I have so imprudently involved -you; but nothing can be more clear, nothing more plain, than your -position, henceforth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king Louis XIV. has no longer now but one enemy: that enemy is -myself, myself alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -have made you a prisoner, you have followed me, to-day I liberate -you, you fly back to your prince.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You can perceive, Porthos, there is -not one difficulty in all this."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you think so?" said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am quite sure of -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then why," said the -admirable good sense of Porthos, "then why, if we are in such an -easy position, why, my friend, do we prepare cannon, muskets, and -engines of all sorts?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -seems to me it would be much more simple to say to Captain -d'Artagnan: 'My dear friend, we have been mistaken; that error is -to be repaired; open the door to us, let us pass through, and we -will say good-bye.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that!" said Aramis, -shaking his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you say -'that'?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you not -approve of my plan, my friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I see a difficulty in -it."</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> "The hypothesis that -D'Artagnan may come with orders which will oblige us to defend -ourselves."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! defend ourselves -against D'Artagnan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Folly!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Against the good -D'Artagnan!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis once more replied -by shaking his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos," at length -said he, "if I have had the matches lighted and the guns pointed, -if I have had the signal of alarm sounded, if I have called every -man to his post upon the ramparts, those good ramparts of -Belle-Isle which you have so well fortified, it was not for -nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Wait to judge; -or rather, no, do not wait - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What can I do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If I knew, my friend, I -would have told you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But there is one thing -much more simple than defending ourselves: - a boat, and away for -France - where -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My dear friend," said -Aramis, smiling with a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -strong shade of sadness, "do not let us reason like children; let -us be men in council and in execution. - But, hark!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I hear a hail for landing at the -port.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Attention, Porthos, -serious attention!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is D'Artagnan, no -doubt," said Porthos, in a voice of thunder, approaching the -parapet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, it is I," replied -the captain of the musketeers, running lightly up the steps of -the mole, and gaining rapidly the little esplanade on which his -two friends waited for him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he came towards them, -Porthos and Aramis observed an officer who followed D'Artagnan, -treading apparently in his very steps.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain stopped upon the stairs -of the mole, when half-way up.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His companions imitated him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Make your men draw -back," cried D'Artagnan to Porthos and Aramis; "let them retire -out of hearing."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This -order, given by Porthos, was executed immediately.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then D'Artagnan, turning towards him -who followed him:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, "we -are no longer on board the king's fleet, where, in virtue of your -order, you spoke so arrogantly to me, just now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," replied the -officer, "I did not speak arrogantly to you; I simply, but -rigorously, obeyed instructions.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I was commanded to follow you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I follow you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am directed not to allow you to -communicate with any one without taking cognizance of what you -do; I am in duty bound, accordingly, to overhear your -conversations."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan trembled with -rage, and Porthos and Aramis, who heard this dialogue, trembled -likewise, but with uneasiness and fear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, biting his mustache with -that vivacity which denoted in him exasperation, closely to be -followed by an explosion, approached the officer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, in -a low voice, so much the more impressive, that, affecting calm, -it threatened tempest - "monsieur, when I sent a canoe hither, -you wished to know what I wrote to the defenders of -Belle-Isle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You produced -an order to that effect; and, in my turn, I instantly showed you -the note I had written.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -When the skipper of the boat sent by me returned, when I received -the reply of these two gentlemen" (and he pointed to Aramis and -Porthos), "you heard every word of what the messenger said.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All that was plainly in your -orders, all that was well executed, very punctually, was it -not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur," -stammered the officer; "yes, without doubt, but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," continued -D'Artagnan, growing warm - "monsieur, when I manifested the -intention of quitting my vessel to cross to Belle-Isle, you -demanded to accompany me; I did not hesitate; I brought you with -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are now at -Belle-Isle, are you not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur; but - -"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But - the question no -longer is of M. Colbert, who has given you that order, or of -whomsoever in the world you are following the instructions; the -question now is of a man who is a clog upon M. d'Artagnan, and -who is alone with M. d'Artagnan upon steps whose feet are bathed -by thirty feet of salt water; a bad position for that man, a bad -position, monsieur!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -warn you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, monsieur, if I am -a restraint upon you," said the officer, timidly, and almost -faintly, "it is my duty which - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur, you have had -the misfortune, either you or those that sent you, to insult -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is done.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I cannot seek redress from -those who employ you, - they are unknown to me, or are at too -great a distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But you -are under my hand, and I swear that if you make one step behind -me when I raise my feet to go up to those gentlemen, I swear to -you by my name, I will cleave your head in two with my sword, and -pitch you into the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Oh! it will happen! it will happen!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have only been six times angry in -my life, monsieur, and all five preceding times <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>I killed my man</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The officer did not -stir; he became pale under this terrible threat, but replied with -simplicity, "Monsieur, you are wrong in acting against my -orders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos and Aramis, mute -and trembling at the top of the parapet, cried to the musketeer, -"Good D'Artagnan, take care!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan made them a -sign to keep silence, raised his foot with ominous calmness to -mount the stair, and turned round, sword in hand, to see if the -officer followed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -officer made a sign of the cross and stepped up.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos and Aramis, who knew their -D'Artagnan, uttered a cry, and rushed down to prevent the blow -they thought they already heard.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But D'Artagnan passed his sword into -his left hand, -</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he to -the officer, in an agitated voice, "you are a brave man.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will all the better -comprehend what I am going to say to you now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, speak," replied the officer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "These gentlemen we have -just seen, and against whom you have orders, are my friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I know they are, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You can understand -whether or not I ought to act towards them as your instructions -prescribe."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand your -reserve."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well; permit me, -then, to converse with them without a witness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, if -I yield to your request, if I do that which you beg me, I break -my word; but if I do not do it, I disoblige you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I prefer the one dilemma to the -other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Converse with your -friends, and do not despise me, monsieur, for doing this for <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>your</i> sake, whom I esteem -and honor; do not despise me for committing for you, and you -alone, an unworthy act."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan, much agitated, threw his arm round the neck of the -young man, and then went up to his friends.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officer, enveloped in his cloak, -sat down on the damp, weed-covered steps.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" said D'Artagnan -to his friends, "such is my position, judge for yourselves."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All three embraced as in the -glorious days of their youth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the meaning of -all these preparations?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You ought to have a -suspicion of what they signify," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not any, I assure you, -my dear captain; for, in fact, I have done nothing, no more has -Aramis," the worthy baron hastened to say.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan darted a -reproachful look at the prelate, which penetrated that hardened -heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear Porthos!" cried -the bishop of Vannes.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see what is being -done against you," said D'Artagnan; "interception of all boats -coming to or going from Belle-Isle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your means of transport seized.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you had endeavored to fly, -you would have fallen into the hands of the cruisers that plow -the sea in all directions, on the watch for you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king wants you to be taken, and -he will take you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan tore at his gray mustache.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis grew somber, Porthos -angry.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My idea was this," -continued D'Artagnan: "to make you both come on board, to keep -you near me, and restore you your liberty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But now, who can say, when I return -to my ship, I may not find a superior; that I may not find secret -orders which will take from me my command, and give it to -another, who will dispose of me and you without hope of -help?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We must remain at -Belle-Isle," said Aramis, resolutely; "and I assure you, for my -part, I will not surrender easily."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos said nothing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan remarked the silence of -his friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have another trial to -make of this officer, of this brave fellow who accompanies me, -and whose courageous resistance makes me very happy; for it -denotes an honest man, who, though an enemy, is a thousand times -better than a complaisant coward.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us try to learn from him what -his instructions are, and what his orders permit or forbid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us try," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan went to the -parapet, leaned over towards the steps of the mole, and called -the officer, who immediately came up.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur," said D'Artagnan, after -having exchanged the cordial courtesies natural between gentlemen -who know and appreciate each other, "monsieur, if I wished to -take away these gentlemen from here, what would you do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I should not oppose it, -monsieur; but having direct explicit orders to put them under -guard, I should detain them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's all over," said -Aramis, gloomily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -did not stir.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But still take -Porthos," said the bishop of Vannes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He can prove to the king, and I -will help him do so, and you too, Monsieur d'Artagnan, that he -had nothing to do with this affair."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hum!" said -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you -come?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Will you follow me, -Porthos?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is -merciful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I want time for -reflection," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will remain here, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Until fresh orders," -said Aramis, with vivacity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Until we have an idea," -resumed D'Artagnan; "and I now believe that will not be long, for -I have one already."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us say adieu, -then," said Aramis; "but in truth, my good Porthos, you ought to -go."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," said the latter, -laconically.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As you please," replied -Aramis, a little wounded in his susceptibilities at the morose -tone of his companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Only I am reassured by the promise of an idea from D'Artagnan, -an idea I fancy I have divined."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us see," said the -musketeer, placing his ear near Aramis's mouth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter spoke several words -rapidly, to which D'Artagnan replied, "That is it, -precisely."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Infallible!" cried -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "During the first -emotion this resolution will cause, take care of yourself, -Aramis."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! don't be -afraid."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now, monsieur," said -D'Artagnan to the officer, "thanks, a thousand thanks!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have made yourself three -friends for life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," added -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos alone -said nothing, but merely bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, having -tenderly embraced his two old friends, left Belle-Isle with the -inseparable companion with whom M. Colbert had saddled him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus, with the exception of -the explanation with which the worthy Porthos had been willing to -be satisfied, nothing had changed in appearance in the fate of -one or the other, "Only," said Aramis, "there is D'Artagnan's -idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan did not -return on board without profoundly analyzing the idea he had -discovered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, we know -that whatever D'Artagnan did examine, according to custom, -daylight was certain to illuminate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to the officer, now grown mute -again, he had full time for meditation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore, on putting his foot on -board his vessel, moored within cannon-shot of the island, the -captain of the musketeers had already got together all his means, -offensive and defensive.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He immediately assembled -his council, which consisted of the officers serving under his -orders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These were eight -in number; a chief of the maritime forces; a major directing the -artillery; an engineer, the officer we are acquainted with, and -four lieutenants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having -assembled them, D'Artagnan arose, took of his hat, and addressed -them thus:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Gentlemen, I have been -to reconnoiter Belle-Île-en-Mer, and I have found in it a -good and solid garrison; moreover, preparations are made for a -defense that may prove troublesome.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I therefore intend to send for two -of the principal officers of the place, that we may converse with -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Having separated -them from their troops and cannon, we shall be better able to -deal with them; particularly by reasoning with them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is not this your opinion, -gentlemen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The major of artillery -rose.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, -with respect, but firmness, "I have heard you say that the place -is preparing to make a troublesome defense.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The place is then, as you know, -determined on rebellion?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was visibly -put out by this reply; but he was not the man to allow himself to -be subdued by a trifle, and resumed:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, -"your reply is just.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -you are ignorant that Belle-Isle is a fief of M. Fouquet's, and -that former monarchs gave the right to the seigneurs of -Belle-Isle to arm their people."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The major made a movement.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! do not interrupt me," -continued D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You are going to tell me that that right to arm themselves -against the English was not a right to arm themselves against -their king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it is not -M. Fouquet, I suppose, who holds Belle-Isle at this moment, since -I arrested M. Fouquet the day before yesterday.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now the inhabitants and defenders of -Belle-Isle know nothing of this arrest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would announce it to them in -vain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a thing so -unheard-of and extraordinary, so unexpected, that they would not -believe you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A Breton -serves his master, and not his masters; he serves his master till -he has seen him dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now -the Bretons, as far as I know, have not seen the body of M. -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not, then, -surprising they hold out against that which is neither M. Fouquet -nor his signature."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The major bowed in token -of assent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is why," continued -D'Artagnan, "I propose to cause two of the principal officers of -the garrison to come on board my vessel.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They will see you, gentlemen; they -will see the forces we have at our disposal; they will -consequently know to what they have to trust, and the fate that -attends them, in case of rebellion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will affirm to them, upon our -honor, that M. Fouquet is a prisoner, and that all resistance can -only be prejudicial to them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will tell them that at the first -cannon fired, there will be no further hope of mercy from the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, or so at -least I trust, they will resist no longer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They will yield up without fighting, -and we shall have a place given up to us in a friendly way which -it might cost prodigious efforts to subdue."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The officer who had -followed D'Artagnan to Belle-Isle was preparing to speak, but -D'Artagnan interrupted him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I know what you -are going to tell me, monsieur; I know that there is an order of -the king's to prevent all secret communications with the -defenders of Belle-Isle, and that is exactly why I do not offer -to communicate except in presence of my staff."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And D'Artagnan made an -inclination of the head to his officers, who knew him well enough -to attach a certain value to the condescension.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The officers looked at -each other as if to read each other's opinions in their eyes, -with the intention of evidently acting, should they agree, -according to the desire of D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And already the latter saw with joy -that the result of their consent would be sending a bark to -Porthos and Aramis, when the king's officer drew from a pocket a -folded paper, which he placed in the hands of D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This paper bore upon its -superscription the number 1.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What, more!" murmured -the surprised captain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Read, monsieur," said -the officer, with a courtesy that was not free from sadness.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, full of -mistrust, unfolded the paper, and read these words: "Prohibition -to M. d'Artagnan to assemble any council whatever, or to -deliberate in any way before Belle-Isle be surrendered and the -prisoners shot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Signed - -LOUIS."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan repressed the -quiver of impatience that ran through his whole body, and with a -gracious smile:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is well, -monsieur," said he; "the king's orders shall be complied -with."</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'> -Result of the Ideas of the King, and the Ideas of 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>he blow was direct.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was severe, mortal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, furious at having been -anticipated by an idea of the king's, did not despair, however, -even yet; and reflecting upon the idea he had brought back from -Belle-Isle, he elicited therefrom novel means of safety for his -friends.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Gentlemen," said he, -suddenly, "since the king has charged some other than myself with -his secret orders, it must be because I no longer possess his -confidence, and I should really be unworthy of it if I had the -courage to hold a command subject to so many injurious -suspicions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Therefore I -will go immediately and carry my resignation to the king.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I tender it before you all, -enjoining you all to fall back with me upon the coast of France, -in such a way as not to compromise the safety of the forces his -majesty has confided to me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For this purpose, return all to your -posts; within an hour, we shall have the ebb of the tide.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To your posts, gentlemen!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I suppose," added he, on -seeing that all prepared to obey him, except the surveillant -officer, "you have no orders to object, this time?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And D'Artagnan almost -triumphed while speaking these words.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This plan would prove the safety of -his friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The blockade -once raised, they might embark immediately, and set sail for -England or Spain, without fear of being molested.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst they were making their -escape, D'Artagnan would return to the king; would justify his -return by the indignation which the mistrust of Colbert had -raised in him; he would be sent back with full powers, and he -would take Belle-Isle; that is to say, the cage, after the birds -had flown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But to this -plan the officer opposed a further order of the king's.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was thus conceived:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From the moment M. -d'Artagnan shall have manifested the desire of giving in his -resignation, he shall no longer be reckoned leader of the -expedition, and every officer placed under his orders shall be -held to no longer obey him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Moreover, the said Monsieur -d'Artagnan, having lost that quality of leader of the army sent -against Belle-Isle, shall set out immediately for France, -accompanied by the officer who will have remitted the message to -him, and who will consider him a prisoner for whom he is -answerable."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Brave and careless as he -was, D'Artagnan turned pale.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything had been calculated with -a depth of precognition which, for the first time in thirty -years, recalled to him the solid foresight and inflexible logic -of the great cardinal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -leaned his head on his hand, thoughtful, scarcely breathing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "If I were to put this order -in my pocket," thought he, "who would know it, what would prevent -my doing it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Before the -king had had time to be informed, I should have saved those poor -fellows yonder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us -exercise some small audacity!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My head is not one of those the -executioner strikes off for disobedience.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will disobey!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But at the moment he was about to -adopt this plan, he saw the officers around him reading similar -orders, which the passive agent of the thoughts of that infernal -Colbert had distributed to them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This contingency of his disobedience -had been foreseen - as all the rest had been.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said the -officer, coming up to him, "I await your good pleasure to -depart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am ready, monsieur," -replied D'Artagnan, grinding his teeth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The officer immediately -ordered a canoe to receive M. d'Artagnan and himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At sight of this he became almost -distraught with rage.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How," stammered he, -"will you carry on the directions of the different corps?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "When you are gone, -monsieur," replied the commander of the fleet, "it is to me the -command of the whole is committed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, monsieur," -rejoined Colbert's man, addressing the new leader, "it is for you -that this last order remitted to me is intended.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us see your powers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here they are," said -the officer, exhibiting the royal signature.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here are your -instructions," replied the officer, placing the folded paper in -his hands; and turning round towards D'Artagnan, "Come, -monsieur," said he, in an agitated voice (such despair did he -behold in that man of iron), "do me the favor to depart at -once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Immediately!" -articulated D'Artagnan, feebly, subdued, crushed by implacable -impossibility.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And he painfully -subsided into the little boat, which started, favored by wind and -tide, for the coast of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king's guards embarked with -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The musketeer still -preserved the hope of reaching Nantes quickly, and of pleading -the cause of his friends eloquently enough to incline the king to -mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The bark flew like -a swallow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -distinctly saw the land of France profiled in black against the -white clouds of night.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! monsieur," said he, -in a low voice, to the officer to whom, for an hour, he had -ceased speaking, "what would I give to know the instructions for -the new commander!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -are all pacific, are they not? and - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He did not finish; the -thunder of a distant cannon rolled athwart the waves, another, -and two or three still louder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan shuddered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They have commenced the -siege of Belle-Isle," replied the officer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The canoe had just touched the soil -of France.</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'>The -Ancestors of Porthos.</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 D'Artagnan left Aramis and Porthos, the latter -returned to the principal fort, in order to converse with greater -liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, still -thoughtful, was a restraint on Aramis, whose mind had never felt -itself more free.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Dear Porthos," said he, -suddenly, "I will explain D'Artagnan's idea to you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What idea, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "An idea to which we -shall owe our liberty within twelve hours."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! indeed!" said -Porthos, much astonished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Let us hear it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did you remark, in the -scene our friend had with the officer, that certain orders -constrained him with regard to us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I did notice -that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan is going to give in his -resignation to the king, and during the confusion that will -result from his absence, we will get away, or rather you will get -away, Porthos, if there is possibility of flight for only -one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Here Porthos shook his -head and replied: "We will escape together, Aramis, or we will -stay together."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thine is a right, a -generous heart," said Aramis, "only your melancholy uneasiness -affects me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not uneasy," said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then you are angry with -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am not angry with -you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then why, my friend, do -you put on such a dismal countenance?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will tell you; I am -making my will."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -while saying these words, the good Porthos looked sadly in the -face of Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your will!" cried the -bishop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What, then! do -you think yourself lost?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I feel fatigued.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is the first time, and -there is a custom in our family."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is it, my -friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My grandfather was a -man twice as strong as I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Indeed!" said Aramis; -"then your grandfather must have been Samson himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; his name was -Antoine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well! he was -about my age, when, setting out one day for the chase, he felt -his legs weak, the man who had never known what weakness was -before."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What was the meaning of -that fatigue, my friend?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing good, as you -will see; for having set out, complaining still of weakness of -the legs, he met a wild boar, which made head against him; he -missed him with his arquebuse, and was ripped up by the beast and -died immediately."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There is no reason in -that why you should alarm yourself, dear Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you will see.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My father was as strong again -as I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was a rough -soldier, under Henry III. and Henry IV.; his name was not -Antoine, but Gaspard, the same as M. de Coligny.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Always on horseback, he had never -known what lassitude was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -One evening, as he rose from table, his legs failed him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He had supped heartily, -perhaps," said Aramis, "and that was why he staggered."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A friend of M. de Bassompierre, -nonsense!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, no, he was -astonished at this lassitude, and said to my mother, who laughed -at him, 'Would not one believe I was going to meet with a wild -boar, as the late M. du Vallon, my father did?'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, having this -weakness, my father insisted upon going down into the garden, -instead of going to bed; his foot slipped on the first stair, the -staircase was steep; my father fell against a stone in which an -iron hinge was fixed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -hinge gashed his temple; and he was stretched out dead upon the -spot."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis raised his eyes -to his friend: "These are two extraordinary circumstances," said -he; "let us not infer that there may succeed a third.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not becoming in a man of your -strength to be superstitious, my brave Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, when were your legs known -to fail?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never have you -stood so firm, so haughtily; why, you could carry a house on your -shoulders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At this moment," said -Porthos, "I feel myself pretty active; but at times I vacillate; -I sink; and lately this phenomenon, as you say, has occurred four -times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will not say -this frightens me, but it annoys me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Life is an agreeable thing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have money; I have fine -estates; I have horses that I love; I have also friends that I -love: D'Artagnan, Athos, Raoul, and you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The admirable Porthos -did not even take the trouble to dissimulate in the very presence -of Aramis the rank he gave him in his friendship.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis pressed his hand: "We will -still live many years," said he, "to preserve to the world such -specimens of its rarest men.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trust yourself to me, my friend; we -have no reply from D'Artagnan, that is a good sign.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He must have given orders to get the -vessels together and clear the seas.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On my part I have just issued -directions that a bark should be rolled on rollers to the mouth -of the great cavern of Locmaria, which you know, where we have so -often lain in wait for the foxes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, and which -terminates at the little creek by a trench where we discovered -the day that splendid fox escaped that way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In case of misfortunes, a bark is to -be concealed for us in that cavern; indeed, it must be there by -this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will wait -for a favorable moment, and during the night we will go to -sea!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is a grand -idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What shall we gain -by it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We shall gain this - -nobody knows that grotto, or rather its issue, except ourselves -and two or three hunters of the island; we shall gain this - that -if the island is occupied, the scouts, seeing no bark upon the -shore, will never imagine we can escape, and will cease to -watch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I understand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! that weakness in -the legs?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! better, much, just -now."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, then, plainly, -that everything conspires to give us quietude and hope.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan will sweep the sea -and leave us free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No -royal fleet or descent to be dreaded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Vive Dieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, we have still half a -century of magnificent adventure before us, and if I once touch -Spanish ground, I swear to you," added the bishop with terrible -energy, "that your brevet of duke is not such a chance as it is -said to be."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We live by hope," said -Porthos, enlivened by the warmth of his companion.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> All at once a cry -resounded in their ears: "To arms! to arms!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This cry, repeated by a -hundred throats, piercing the chamber where the two friends were -conversing, carried surprise to one, and uneasiness to the -other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis opened the -window; he saw a crowd of people running with flambeaux.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Women were seeking places of -safety, the armed population were hastening to their posts.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fleet! the fleet!" -cried a soldier, who recognized Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fleet?" repeated -the latter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Within half -cannon-shot," continued the soldier.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To arms!" cried -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To arms!" repeated -Porthos, formidably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -both rushed forth towards the mole to place themselves within the -shelter of the batteries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Boats, laden with soldiers, were seen approaching; and in three -directions, for the purpose of landing at three points at -once.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What must be done?" -said an officer of the guard.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stop them; and if they -persist, fire!" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Five minutes later, the -cannonade commenced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -These were the shots that D'Artagnan had heard as he landed in -France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the boats -were too near the mole to allow the cannon to aim correctly.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They landed, and the combat -commenced hand to hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What's the matter, -Porthos?" said Aramis to his friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing! nothing! - -only my legs; it is really incomprehensible! - they will be -better when we charge."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In fact, Porthos and Aramis did charge with such vigor, and so -thoroughly animated their men, that the royalists re-embarked -precipitately, without gaining anything but the wounds they -carried away.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! but Porthos," cried -Aramis, "we must have a prisoner, quick! quick!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos bent over the stair of the -mole, and seized by the nape of the neck one of the officers of -the royal army who was waiting to embark till all his people -should be in the boat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The arm of the giant lifted up his prey, which served him as a -buckler, and he recovered himself without a shot being fired at -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here is a prisoner for -you," said Porthos coolly to Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" cried the -latter, laughing, "did you not calumniate your legs?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was not with my legs -I captured him," said Porthos, "it was with my arms!"</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'>The -Son of Biscarrat.</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 Bretons of the Isle were very proud of this victory; -Aramis did not encourage them in the feeling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What will happen," said -he to Porthos, when everybody was gone home, "will be that the -anger of the king will be roused by the account of the -resistance; and that these brave people will be decimated or shot -when they are taken, which cannot fail to take place."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "From which it results, -then," said Porthos, "that what we have done is of not the -slightest use."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For the moment it may -be," replied the bishop, "for we have a prisoner from whom we -shall learn what our enemies are preparing to do."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, let us interrogate -the prisoner," said Porthos, "and the means of making him speak -are very simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We are -going to supper; we will invite him to join us; as he drinks he -will talk."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This was done.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officer was at first -rather uneasy, but became reassured on seeing what sort of men he -had to deal with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -gave, without having any fear of compromising himself, all the -details imaginable of the resignation and departure of -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He explained -how, after that departure, the new leader of the expedition had -ordered a surprise upon Belle-Isle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There his explanations stopped.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and Porthos exchanged a -glance that evinced their despair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No more dependence to be placed now -on D'Artagnan's fertile imagination - no further resource in the -event of defeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, -continuing his interrogations, asked the prisoner what the -leaders of the expedition contemplated doing with the leaders of -Belle-Isle.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The orders are," -replied he, "to kill <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>during</i> combat, or hang <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>afterwards</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos and Aramis -looked at each other again, and the color mounted to their -faces.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am too light for the -gallows," replied Aramis; "people like me are not hung."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I am too heavy," -said Porthos; "people like me break the cord."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am sure," said the -prisoner, gallantly, "that we could have guaranteed you the exact -kind of death you preferred."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "A thousand thanks!" -said Aramis, seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos bowed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One more cup of wine to -your health," said he, drinking himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From one subject to another the chat -with the officer was prolonged.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was an intelligent gentleman, and -suffered himself to be led on by the charm of Aramis's wit and -Porthos's cordial <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bonhomie</i>.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me," said he, -"if I address a question to you; but men who are in their sixth -bottle have a clear right to forget themselves a little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Address it!" cried -Porthos; "address it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Speak," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Were you not, -gentlemen, both in the musketeers of the late king?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur, and -amongst the best of them, if you please," said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true; I should -say even the best of all soldiers, messieurs, if I did not fear -to offend the memory of my father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of your father?" cried -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you know what my -name is?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i> no, monsieur; but you -can tell us, and - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am called Georges de -Biscarrat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" cried Porthos, in -his turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Biscarrat!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you -remember that name, Aramis?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Biscarrat!" reflected -the bishop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It seems to -me - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Try to recollect, -monsieur," said the officer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i> that won't take me -long," said Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Biscarrat - called Cardinal - one of the four who interrupted us -on the day on which we formed our friendship with D'Artagnan, -sword in hand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Precisely, -gentlemen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The only one," cried -Aramis, eagerly, "we could not scratch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Consequently, a capital -blade?" said the prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's true! most -true!" exclaimed both friends together.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monsieur Biscarrat, we are delighted -to make the acquaintance of such a brave man's son."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat pressed the -hands held out by the two musketeers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis looked at Porthos as much as -to say, "Here is a man who will help us," and without delay, - -"Confess, monsieur," said he, "that it is good to have once been -a good man."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> ""My father always said -so, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Confess, likewise, that -it is a sad circumstance in which you find yourself, of falling -in with men destined to be shot or hung, and to learn that these -men are old acquaintances, in fact, hereditary friends."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you are not -reserved for such a frightful fate as that, messieurs and -friends!" said the young man, warmly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Bah! you said so -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I said so just now, -when I did not know you; but now that I know you, I say - you -will evade this dismal fate, if you wish!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How - if we wish?" -echoed Aramis, whose eyes beamed with intelligence as he looked -alternately at the prisoner and Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Provided," continued -Porthos, looking, in his turn, with noble intrepidity, at M. -Biscarrat and the bishop - "provided nothing disgraceful be -required of us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nothing at all will be -required of you, gentlemen," replied the officer - "what should -they ask of you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If they -find you they will kill you, that is a predetermined thing; try, -then, gentlemen, to prevent their finding you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't think I am -mistaken," said Porthos, with dignity; "but it appears evident to -me that if they want to find us, they must come and seek us -here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In that you are -perfectly right, my worthy friend," replied Aramis, constantly -consulting with his looks the countenance of Biscarrat, who had -grown silent and constrained.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You wish, Monsieur de Biscarrat, to -say something to us, to make us some overture, and you dare not - -is that true?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! gentlemen and -friends! it is because by speaking I betray the watchword.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, hark!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I hear a voice that frees mine by -dominating it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Cannon!" said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Cannon and musketry, -too!" cried the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> On hearing at a -distance, among the rocks, these sinister reports of a combat -which they thought had ceased:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What can that be?" -asked Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i>" cried Aramis; "that is -just what I expected."</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 the attack made by -you was nothing but a feint; is not that true, monsieur?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And whilst your companions -allowed themselves to be repulsed, you were certain of effecting -a landing on the other side of the island."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! several, -monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We are lost, then," -said the bishop of Vannes, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Lost! that is -possible," replied the Seigneur de Pierrefonds, "but we are not -taken or hung."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so -saying, he rose from the table, went to the wall, and coolly took -down his sword and pistols, which he examined with the care of an -old soldier who is preparing for battle, and who feels that life, -in a great measure, depends upon the excellence and right -conditions of his arms.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At the report of the -cannon, at the news of the surprise which might deliver up the -island to the royal troops, the terrified crowd rushed -precipitately to the fort to demand assistance and advice from -their leaders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, -pale and downcast, between two flambeaux, showed himself at the -window which looked into the principal court, full of soldiers -waiting for orders and bewildered inhabitants imploring -succor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My friends," said -D'Herblay, in a grave and sonorous voice, "M. Fouquet, your -protector, your friend, you father, has been arrested by an order -of the king, and thrown into the Bastile."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A sustained yell of vengeful fury -came floating up to the window at which the bishop stood, and -enveloped him in a magnetic field.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Avenge Monsieur -Fouquet!" cried the most excited of his hearers, "death to the -royalists!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, my friends," -replied Aramis, solemnly; "no, my friends; no resistance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is master in his -kingdom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is the -mandatory of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king and God have struck M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Humble yourselves before the hand of -God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Love God and the -king, who have struck M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But do not avenge your seigneur, do -not think of avenging him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would sacrifice yourselves in -vain - you, your wives and children, your property, your -liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lay down your -arms, my friends - lay down your arms! since the king commands -you so to do - and retire peaceably to your dwellings.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is I who ask you to do so; -it is I who beg you to do so; it is I who now, in the hour of -need, command you to do so, in the name of M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The crowd collected -under the window uttered a prolonged roar of anger and -terror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The soldiers of -Louis XIV. have reached the island," continued Aramis.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "From this time it would no -longer be a fight betwixt them and you - it would be a -massacre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Begone, then, -begone, and forget; this time I command you, in the name of the -Lord of Hosts!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The mutineers retired -slowly, submissive, silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! what have you just -been saying, my friend?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said -Biscarrat to the bishop, "you may save all these inhabitants, but -thus you will neither save yourself nor your friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur de Biscarrat," -said the bishop of Vannes, with a singular accent of nobility and -courtesy, "Monsieur de Biscarrat, be kind enough to resume your -liberty."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am very willing to do -so, monsieur; but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That would render us a -service, for when announcing to the king's lieutenant the -submission of the islanders, you will perhaps obtain some grace -for us on informing him of the manner in which that submission -has been effected."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Grace!" replied Porthos -with flashing eyes, "what is the meaning of that word?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis touched the elbow -of his friend roughly, as he had been accustomed to do in the -days of their youth, when he wanted to warn Porthos that he had -committed, or was about to commit, a blunder.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos understood him, and was -silent immediately.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will go, messieurs," -replied Biscarrat, a little surprised likewise at the word -"grace" pronounced by the haughty musketeer, of and to whom, but -a few minutes before, he had related with so much enthusiasm the -heroic exploits with which his father had delighted him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go, then, Monsieur -Biscarrat," said Aramis, bowing to him, "and at parting receive -the expression of our entire gratitude."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you, messieurs, you -whom I think it an honor to call my friends, since you have been -willing to accept that title, what will become of you in the -meantime?" replied the officer, very much agitated at taking -leave of the two ancient adversaries of his father.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We will wait here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mon Dieu!</i> - the order is precise -and formal."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am bishop of Vannes, -Monsieur de Biscarrat; and they no more shoot a bishop than they -hang a gentleman."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! yes, monsieur - -yes, monseigneur," replied Biscarrat; "it is true, you are right, -there is still that chance for you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, I will depart, I will repair -to the commander of the expedition, the king's lieutenant.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Adieu! then, messieurs, or -rather, to meet again, I hope."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The worthy officer, -jumping upon a horse given him by Aramis, departed in the -direction of the sound of cannon, which, by surging the crowd -into the fort, had interrupted the conversation of the two -friends with their prisoner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis watched the departure, and -when left alone with Porthos:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, do you -comprehend?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i> no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did not Biscarrat -inconvenience you here?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No; he is a brave -fellow."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; but the grotto of -Locmaria - is it necessary all the world should know it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! that is true, that -is true; I comprehend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -are going to escape by the cavern."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If you please," cried -Aramis, gayly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Forward, -friend Porthos; our boat awaits us.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> King Louis has not caught us - <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>yet</i>."</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'>The -Grotto of Locmaria.</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 cavern of Locmaria was sufficiently distant from the -mole to render it necessary for our friends to husband their -strength in order to reach it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, night was advancing; -midnight had struck at the fort.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos and Aramis were loaded with -money and arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -walked, then, across the heath, which stretched between the mole -and the cavern, listening to every noise, in order better to -avoid an ambush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From -time to time, on the road which they had carefully left on their -left, passed fugitives coming from the interior, at the news of -the landing of the royal troops.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and Porthos, concealed behind -some projecting mass of rock, collected the words that escaped -from the poor people, who fled, trembling, carrying with them -their most valuable effects, and tried, whilst listening to their -complaints, to gather something from them for their own -interest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At length, -after a rapid race, frequently interrupted by prudent stoppages, -they reached the deep grottoes, in which the prophetic bishop of -Vannes had taken care to have secreted a bark capable of keeping -the sea at this fine season.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My good friend," said -Porthos, panting vigorously, "we have arrived, it seems.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I thought you spoke of -three men, three servants, who were to accompany us.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't see them - where are -they?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why should you see -them, Porthos?" replied Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "They are certainly waiting for us -in the cavern, and, no doubt, are resting, having accomplished -their rough and difficult task."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis stopped Porthos, -who was preparing to enter the cavern.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Will you allow me, my friend," said -he to the giant, "to pass in first?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know the signal I have given to -these men; who, not hearing it, would be very likely to fire upon -you or slash away with their knives in the dark."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go on, then, Aramis; go -on - go first; you impersonate wisdom and foresight; go.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! there is that fatigue -again, of which I spoke to you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It has just seized me afresh."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis left Porthos -sitting at the entrance of the grotto, and bowing his head, he -penetrated into the interior of the cavern, imitating the cry of -the owl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A little -plaintive cooing, a scarcely distinct echo, replied from the -depths of the cave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Aramis pursued his way cautiously, and soon was stopped by the -same kind of cry as he had first uttered, within ten paces of -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you there, Yves?" -said the bishop.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur; -Goenne is here likewise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His son accompanies us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is well.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are all things ready?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monseigneur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Go to the entrance of -the grottoes, my good Yves, and you will there find the Seigneur -de Pierrefonds, who is resting after the fatigue of our -journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And if he should -happen not to be able to walk, lift him up, and bring him hither -to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The three men -obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the -recommendation given to his servants was superfluous.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, refreshed, had already -commenced the descent, and his heavy step resounded amongst the -cavities, formed and supported by columns of porphyry and -granite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as the -Seigneur de Bracieux had rejoined the bishop, the Bretons lighted -a lantern with which they were furnished, and Porthos assured his -friend that he felt as strong again as ever.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us inspect the -boat," said Aramis, "and satisfy ourselves at once what it will -hold."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do not go too near with -the light," said the patron Yves; "for as you desired me, -monseigneur, I have placed under the bench of the poop, in the -coffer you know of, the barrel of powder, and the musket-charges -that you sent me from the fort."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well," said -Aramis; and, taking the lantern himself, he examined minutely all -parts of the canoe, with the precautions of a man who is neither -timid nor ignorant in the face of danger.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The canoe was long, light, drawing -little water, thin of keel; in short, one of those that have -always been so aptly built at Belle-Isle; a little high in its -sides, solid upon the water, very manageable, furnished with -planks which, in uncertain weather, formed a sort of deck over -which the waves might glide, so as to protect the rowers.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In two well-closed coffers, -placed beneath the benches of the prow and the poop, Aramis found -bread, biscuit, dried fruits, a quarter of bacon, a good -provision of water in leathern bottles; the whole forming rations -sufficient for people who did not mean to quit the coast, and -would be able to revictual, if necessity commanded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The arms, eight muskets, and as many -horse-pistols, were in good condition, and all loaded.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There were additional oars, in -case of accident, and that little sail called <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>trinquet</i>, which assists the -speed of the canoe at the same time the boatmen row, and is so -useful when the breeze is slack.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Aramis had seen to all these -things, and appeared satisfied with the result of his inspection, -"Let us consult Porthos," said he, "to know if we must endeavor -to get the boat out by the unknown extremity of the grotto, -following the descent and the shade of the cavern, or whether it -be better, in the open air, to make it slide upon its rollers -through the bushes, leveling the road of the little beach, which -is but twenty feet high, and gives, at high tide, three or four -fathoms of good water upon a sound bottom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It must be as you -please, monseigneur," replied the skipper Yves, respectfully; -"but I don't believe that by the slope of the cavern, and in the -dark in which we shall be obliged to maneuver our boat, the road -will be so convenient as the open air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know the beach well, and can -certify that it is as smooth as a grass-plot in a garden; the -interior of the grotto, on the contrary, is rough; without -reckoning, monseigneur, that at its extremity we shall come to -the trench which leads into the sea, and perhaps the canoe will -not pass down it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have made my -calculation," said the bishop, "and I am certain it will -pass."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So be it; I wish it -may, monseigneur," continued Yves; "but your highness knows very -well that to make it reach the extremity of the trench, there is -an enormous stone to be lifted - that under which the fox always -passes, and which closes the trench like a door."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It can be raised," said -Porthos; "that is nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know that monseigneur has the -strength of ten men," replied Yves; "but that is giving him a -great deal of trouble."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think the skipper may -be right," said Aramis; "let us try the open-air passage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The more so, -monseigneur," continued the fisherman, "that we should not be -able to embark before day, it will require so much labor, and -that as soon as daylight appears, a good <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>vedette</i> placed outside the -grotto would be necessary, indispensable even, to watch the -maneuvers of the lighters or cruisers that are on the look-out -for us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, yes, Yves, your -reasons are good; we will go by the beach."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the three robust -Bretons went to the boat, and were beginning to place their -rollers underneath it to put it in motion, when the distant -barking of dogs was heard, proceeding from the interior of the -island.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis darted out of the -grotto, followed by Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dawn just tinted with purple and -white the waves and plain; through the dim light, melancholy -fir-trees waved their tender branches over the pebbles, and long -flights of crows were skimming with their black wings the -shimmering fields of buckwheat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In a quarter of an hour it would be -clear daylight; the wakened birds announced it to all -nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The barkings -which had been heard, which had stopped the three fishermen -engaged in moving the boat, and had brought Aramis and Porthos -out of the cavern, now seemed to come from a deep gorge within -about a league of the grotto.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a pack of -hounds," said Porthos; "the dogs are on a scent."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who can be hunting at -such a moment as this?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And this way, -particularly," continued Porthos, "where they might expect the -army of the royalists."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The noise comes -nearer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, you are -right, Porthos, the dogs are on a scent.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, Yves!" cried Aramis, "come -here! come here!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Yves ran towards him, -letting fall the cylinder which he was about to place under the -boat when the bishop's call interrupted him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the meaning of -this hunt, skipper?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! monseigneur, I -cannot understand it," replied the Breton.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is not at such a moment that the -Seigneur de Locmaria would hunt.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No, and yet the dogs - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Unless they have -escaped from the kennel."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," said Goenne, "they -are not the Seigneur de Locmaria's hounds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In common prudence," -said Aramis, "let us go back into the grotto; the voices -evidently draw nearer, we shall soon know what we have to trust -to."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> They re-entered, but had -scarcely proceeded a hundred steps in the darkness, when a noise -like the hoarse sigh of a creature in distress resounded through -the cavern, and breathless, rapid, terrified, a fox passed like a -flash of lightning before the fugitives, leaped over the boat and -disappeared, leaving behind its sour scent, which was perceptible -for several seconds under the low vaults of the cave.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The fox!" cried the -Bretons, with the glad surprise of born hunters.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Accursed mischance!" -cried the bishop, "our retreat is discovered."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How so?" said Porthos; -"are you afraid of a fox?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh! my friend, what do -you mean by that? why do you specify the fox?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is not the fox alone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Pardieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But don't you know, Porthos, that -after the foxes come hounds, and after hounds men?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos hung his -head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As though to -confirm the words of Aramis, they heard the yelping pack approach -with frightful swiftness upon the trail.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Six foxhounds burst at once upon the -little heath, with mingling yelps of triumph.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There are the dogs, -plain enough!" said Aramis, posted on the look-out behind a chink -in the rocks; "now, who are the huntsmen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it is the Seigneur -de Locmaria's," replied the sailor, "he will leave the dogs to -hunt the grotto, for he knows them, and will not enter in -himself, being quite sure that the fox will come out the other -side; it is there he will wait for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is not the Seigneur -de Locmaria who is hunting," replied Aramis, turning pale in -spite of his efforts to maintain a placid countenance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who is it, then?" said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Look!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos applied his eye -to the slit, and saw at the summit of a hillock a dozen horsemen -urging on their horses in the track of the dogs, shouting, "<i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Taïaut! -taïaut!</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The guards!" said -he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, my friend, the -king's guards."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The king's guards! do -you say, monseigneur?" cried the Bretons, growing pale in -turn.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "With Biscarrat at their -head, mounted upon my gray horse," continued Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The hounds at the same -moment rushed into the grotto like an avalanche, and the depths -of the cavern were filled with their deafening cries.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! the devil!" said -Aramis, resuming all his coolness at the sight of this certain, -inevitable danger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I am -perfectly satisfied we are lost, but we have, at least, one -chance left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If the -guards who follow their hounds happen to discover there is an -issue to the grotto, there is no help for us, for on entering -they must see both ourselves and our boat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The dogs must not go out of the -cavern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Their masters -must not enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is clear," said -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You understand," added -Aramis, with the rapid precision of command; "there are six dogs -that will be forced to stop at the great stone under which the -fox has glided - but at the too narrow opening of which they must -be themselves stopped and killed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The Bretons sprang -forward, knife in hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -In a few minutes there was a lamentable concert of angry barks -and mortal howls - and then, silence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That's well!" said -Aramis, coolly, "now for the masters!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is to be done with -them?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Wait their arrival, -conceal ourselves, and kill them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Kill them!</i>" replied Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "There are sixteen," -said Aramis, "at least, at present."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And well armed," -added Porthos, with a smile of consolation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It will last about -ten minutes," said Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "To work!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And with a resolute -air he took up a musket, and placed a hunting-knife between his -teeth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yves, Goenne, and -his son," continued Aramis, will pass the muskets to us.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, Porthos, will fire when -they are close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall -have brought down, at the lowest computation, eight, before the -others are aware of anything - that is certain; then all, there -are five of us, will dispatch the other eight, knife in -hand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And poor -Biscarrat?" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis reflected a -moment - "Biscarrat first," replied he, coolly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "He knows us."</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'>The -Grotto.</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 spite of the sort of divination which was the -remarkable side of the character of Aramis, the event, subject to -the risks of things over which uncertainty presides, did not fall -out exactly as the bishop of Vannes had foreseen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat, better mounted than his -companions, arrived first at the opening of the grotto, and -comprehended that fox and hounds were one and all engulfed in -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only, struck by that -superstitious terror which every dark and subterraneous way -naturally impresses upon the mind of man, he stopped at the -outside of the grotto, and waited till his companions should have -assembled round him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!" asked the young -men, coming up, out of breath, and unable to understand the -meaning of this inaction.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I cannot hear the dogs; they and the -fox must all be lost in this infernal cavern."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They were too close -up," said one of the guards, "to have lost scent all at -once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, we should -hear them from one side or another.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They must, as Biscarrat says, be in -this grotto."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But then," said one of -the young men, "why don't they give tongue?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is strange!" -muttered another.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, but," said a -fourth, "let us go into this grotto.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Does it happen to be forbidden we -should enter it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied -Biscarrat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Only, as it -looks as dark as a wolf's mouth, we might break our necks in -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Witness the dogs," said -a guard, "who seem to have broken theirs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What the devil can have -become of them?" asked the young men in chorus.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And every master called his dog by -his name, whistled to him in his favorite mode, without a single -one replying to either call or whistle.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is perhaps an -enchanted grotto," said Biscarrat; "let us see."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, jumping from his horse, he made -a step into the grotto.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stop! stop!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will accompany you," said one of -the guards, on seeing Biscarrat disappear in the shades of the -cavern's mouth.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied Biscarrat, -"there must be something extraordinary in the place - don't let -us risk ourselves all at once.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If in ten minutes you do not hear of -me, you can come in, but not all at once."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Be it so," said the -young man, who, besides, did not imagine that Biscarrat ran much -risk in the enterprise, "we will wait for you."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And without dismounting from their -horses, they formed a circle round the grotto.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat entered then -alone, and advanced through the darkness till he came in contact -with the muzzle of Porthos's musket.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The resistance which his chest met -with astonished him; he naturally raised his hand and laid hold -of the icy barrel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the -same instant, Yves lifted a knife against the young man, which -was about to fall upon him with all force of a Breton's arm, when -the iron wrist of Porthos stopped it half-way.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, like low muttering thunder, -his voice growled in the darkness, "I will not have him -killed!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat found himself -between a protection and a threat, the one almost as terrible as -the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> However brave -the young man might be, he could not prevent a cry escaping him, -which Aramis immediately suppressed by placing a handkerchief -over his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur -de Biscarrat," said he, in a low voice, "we mean you no harm, and -you must know that if you have recognized us; but, at the first -word, the first groan, the first whisper, we shall be forced to -kill you as we have killed your dogs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, I recognize you, -gentlemen," said the officer, in a low voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But why are you here - what are you -doing, here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Unfortunate -men!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I thought you were -in the fort."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you, monsieur, you -were to obtain conditions for us, I think?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I did all I was able, -messieurs, but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But there are positive -orders."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To kill us?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat -made no reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It would -have cost him too much to speak of the cord to gentlemen.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis understood the silence -of the prisoner.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur Biscarrat," -said he, "you would be already dead if we had not regard for your -youth and our ancient association with your father; but you may -yet escape from the place by swearing that you will not tell your -companions what you have seen."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will not only swear -that I will not speak of it," said Biscarrat, "but I still -further swear that I will do everything in the world to prevent -my companions from setting foot in the grotto."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Biscarrat!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat!" cried several voices -from the outside, coming like a whirlwind into the cave.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Reply," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here I am!" cried -Biscarrat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Now, begone; we depend -on your loyalty."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -left his hold of the young man, who hastily returned towards the -light.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Biscarrat!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat!" cried the voices, still -nearer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the shadows -of several human forms projected into the interior of the -grotto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat rushed -to meet his friends in order to stop them, and met them just as -they were adventuring into the cave.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and Porthos listened with the -intense attention of men whose life depends upon a breath of -air.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! oh!" exclaimed one -of the guards, as he came to the light, "how pale you are!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pale!" cried another; -"you ought to say corpse-color."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I!" said the young man, -endeavoring to collect his faculties.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the name of Heaven! -what has happened?" exclaimed all the voices.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have not a drop of -blood in your veins, my poor friend," said one of them, -laughing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Messieurs, it is -serious," said another, "he is going to faint; does any one of -you happen to have any salts?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And they all laughed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This hail of jests fell -round Biscarrat's ears like musket-balls in a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>mêlée</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He recovered himself amidst a deluge -of interrogations.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What do you suppose I -have seen?' asked he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -was too hot when I entered the grotto, and I have been struck -with a chill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is -all."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But the dogs, the dogs; -have you seen them again - did you see anything of them - do you -know anything about them?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I suppose -they have got out some other way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Messieurs," said one of -the young men, "there is in that which is going on, in the -paleness and silence of our friend, a mystery which Biscarrat -will not, or cannot reveal.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only, and this is certain, Biscarrat -has seen something in the grotto.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, for my part, I am very curious -to see what it is, even if it is the devil!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To the grotto! messieurs, to the -grotto!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the grotto!" -repeated all the voices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -And the echo of the cavern carried like a menace to Porthos and -Aramis, "To the grotto! to the grotto!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat threw himself -before his companions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Messieurs! messieurs!" cried he, "in the name of Heaven! do not -go in!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, what is there so -terrific in the cavern?" asked several at once.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come, speak, Biscarrat."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Decidedly, it is the -devil he has seen," repeated he who had before advanced that -hypothesis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said another, -"if he has seen him, he need not be selfish; he may as well let -us have a look at him in turn."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Messieurs! -messieurs!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beseech -you," urged Biscarrat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nonsense!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Let us pass!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Messieurs, I implore -you not to enter!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, you went in -yourself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then one of the -officers, who - of a riper age than the others - had till this -time remained behind, and had said nothing, advanced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Messieurs," said he, with a -calmness which contrasted with the animation of the young men, -"there is in there some person, or something, that is not the -devil; but which, whatever it may be, has had sufficient power to -silence our dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We must -discover who this some one is, or what this something is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat made a last -effort to stop his friends, but it was useless.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In vain he threw himself before the -rashest; in vain he clung to the rocks to bar the passage; the -crowd of young men rushed into the cave, in the steps of the -officer who had spoken last, but who had sprung in first, sword -in hand, to face the unknown danger.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat, repulsed by his friends, -unable to accompany them, without passing in the eyes of Porthos -and Aramis for a traitor and a perjurer, with painfully attentive -ear and unconsciously supplicating hands leaned against the rough -side of a rock which he thought must be exposed to the fire of -the musketeers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to the -guards, they penetrated further and further, with exclamations -that grew fainter as they advanced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All at once, a discharge of -musketry, growling like thunder, exploded in the entrails of the -vault.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two or three balls -were flattened against the rock on which Biscarrat was -leaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the same -instant, cries, shrieks, imprecations burst forth, and the little -troop of gentlemen reappeared - some pale, some bleeding - all -enveloped in a cloud of smoke, which the outer air seemed to suck -from the depths of the cavern.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Biscarrat!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat!" cried the fugitives, -"you knew there was an ambuscade in that cavern, and you did not -warn us!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat, you -are the cause that four of us are murdered men!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Woe be to you, Biscarrat!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are the cause of my -being wounded unto death," said one of the young men, letting a -gush of scarlet life-blood vomit in his palm, and spattering it -into Biscarrat's livid face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My blood be on your head!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he rolled in agony at the -feet of the young man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, at least, tell us -who is there?" cried several furious voices.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Biscarrat remained -silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Tell us, or -die!" cried the wounded man, raising himself upon one knee, and -lifting towards his companion an arm bearing a useless -sword.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat rushed -towards him, opening his breast for the blow, but the wounded man -fell back not to rise again, uttering a groan which was his -last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat, with -hair on end, haggard eyes, and bewildered head, advanced towards -the interior of the cavern, saying, "You are right.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Death to me, who have allowed my -comrades to be assassinated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am a worthless wretch!"<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And throwing away his sword, -for he wished to die without defending himself, he rushed head -foremost into the cavern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The others followed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The eleven who remained out of sixteen imitated his example; but -they did not go further than the first.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A second discharge laid five upon -the icy sand; and as it was impossible to see whence this -murderous thunder issued, the others fell back with a terror that -can be better imagined than described.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, far from flying, as the others -had done, Biscarrat remained safe and sound, seated on a fragment -of rock, and waited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There were only six gentlemen left.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Seriously," said one of -the survivors, "is it the devil?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Ma foi!</i> it is much worse," said -another.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ask Biscarrat, he -knows."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where is -Biscarrat?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young men -looked round them, and saw that Biscarrat did not answer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is dead!" said two -or three voices.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! no!" replied -another, "I saw him through the smoke, sitting quietly on a -rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is in the -cavern; he is waiting for us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He must know who are -there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"And how should he -know them?"<br> -"He was taken prisoner by the rebels."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is true.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well! let us call him, and -learn from him whom we have to deal with."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And all voices shouted, -"Biscarrat!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Biscarrat!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Biscarrat -did not answer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good!" said the -officer who had shown so much coolness in the affair.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We have no longer any need of him; -here are reinforcements coming."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>In fact, a company -of guards, left in the rear by their officers, whom the ardor of -the chase had carried away - from seventy-five to eighty men - -arrived in good order, led by their captain and the first -lieutenant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The five -officers hastened to meet their soldiers; and, in language the -eloquence of which may be easily imagined, they related the -adventure, and asked for aid.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain interrupted them.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where are your companions?" -demanded he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Dead!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But there were -sixteen of you!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ten are dead.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat is in the cavern, -and we are five."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Biscarrat is a -prisoner?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Probably."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, for here he is -- look."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, -Biscarrat appeared at the opening of the grotto.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is making a -sign to come on," said the officer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come on!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come on!" cried -all the troop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And they -advanced to meet Biscarrat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -the captain, addressing Biscarrat, "I am assured that you know -who the men are in that grotto, and who make such a desperate -defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the king's -name I command you to declare what you know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Captain," said -Biscarrat, "you have no need to command me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My word has been restored to me this -very instant; and I came in the name of these men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To tell me who -they are?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To tell you they -are determined to defend themselves to the death, unless you -grant them satisfactory terms."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How many are there -of them, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There are two," -said Biscarrat.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There are two - -and want to impose conditions upon us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There are two, and -they have already killed ten of our men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What sort of -people are they - giants?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Worse than -that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you remember the -history of the Bastion Saint-Gervais, captain?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; where four -musketeers held out against an army."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well, these are -two of those same musketeers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And their -names?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"At that period -they were called Porthos and Aramis.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now they are styled M. d'Herblay and -M. du Vallon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And what interest -have they in all this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is they who -were holding Bell-Isle for M. Fouquet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A murmur ran -through the ranks of the soldiers on hearing the two words -"Porthos and Aramis."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"The musketeers! the musketeers!" repeated they.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And among all these brave men, the -idea that they were going to have a struggle against two of the -oldest glories of the French army, made a shiver, half -enthusiasm, two-thirds terror, run through them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, those four names - -D'Artagnan, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis - were venerated among all -who wore a sword; as, in antiquity, the names of Hercules, -Theseus, Castor, and Pollux were venerated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Two men - and they -have killed ten in two discharges!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is impossible, Monsieur -Biscarrat!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh! captain," -replied the latter, "I do not tell you that they have not with -them two or three men, as the musketeers of the Bastion -Saint-Gervais had two or three lackeys; but, believe me, captain, -I have seen these men, I have been taken prisoner by them - I -know they themselves alone are all-sufficient to destroy an -army."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That we shall -see," said the captain, "and that in a moment, too.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gentlemen, attention!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>At this reply, no -one stirred, and all prepared to obey.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Biscarrat alone risked a last -attempt.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -he, in a low voice, "be persuaded by me; let us pass on our -way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those two men, those -two lions you are going to attack, will defend themselves to the -death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They have already -killed ten of our men; they will kill double the number, and end -by killing themselves rather than surrender.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What shall we gain by fighting -them?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We shall gain the -consciousness, monsieur, of not having allowed eighty of the -king's guards to retire before two rebels.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I listened to your advice, -monsieur, I should be a dishonored man; and by dishonoring myself -I should dishonor the army.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Forward, my men!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And he marched -first as far as the opening of the grotto.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There he halted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The object of this halt was to give -Biscarrat and his companions time to describe to him the interior -of the grotto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, when -he believed he had a sufficient acquaintance with the place, he -divided his company into three bodies, which were to enter -successively, keeping up a sustained fire in all directions.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No doubt, in this attack they -would lose five more, perhaps ten; but, certainly, they must end -by taking the rebels, since there was no issue; and, at any rate, -two men could not kill eighty.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Captain," said -Biscarrat, "I beg to be allowed to march at the head of the first -platoon."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So be it," replied -the captain; "you have all the honor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I make you a present of it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thanks!" replied -the young man, with all the firmness of his race.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Take your sword, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I shall go as I -am, captain," said Biscarrat, "for I do not go to kill, I go to -be killed."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And placing himself -at the head of the first platoon, with head uncovered and arms -crossed, - "March, gentlemen," said he.</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'>An -Homeric Song.</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 is time to pass to the other camp, and to describe at -once the combatants and the field of battle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis and Porthos had gone to the -grotto of Locmaria with the expectation of finding there their -canoe ready armed, as well as the three Bretons, their -assistants; and they at first hoped to make the bark pass through -the little issue of the cavern, concealing in that fashion both -their labors and their flight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The arrival of the fox and dogs -obliged them to remain concealed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The grotto extended the space of -about a hundred <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>toises</i>, -to that little slope dominating a creek.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Formerly a temple of the Celtic -divinities, when Belle-Isle was still called Kalonèse, -this grotto had beheld more than one human sacrifice accomplished -in its mystic depths.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -first entrance to the cavern was by a moderate descent, above -which distorted rocks formed a weird arcade; the interior, very -uneven and dangerous from the inequalities of the vault, was -subdivided into several compartments, which communicated with -each other by means of rough and jagged steps, fixed right and -left, in uncouth natural pillars.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the third compartment the vault -was so low, the passage so narrow, that the bark would scarcely -have passed without touching the side; nevertheless, in moments -of despair, wood softens and stone grows flexible beneath the -human will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such was the -thought of Aramis, when, after having fought the fight, he -decided upon flight - a flight most dangerous, since all the -assailants were not dead; and that, admitting the possibility of -putting the bark to sea, they would have to fly in open day, -before the conquered, so interested on recognizing their small -number, in pursuing their conquerors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When the two discharges had killed -ten men, Aramis, familiar with the windings of the cavern, went -to reconnoiter them one by one, and counted them, for the smoke -prevented seeing outside; and he immediately commanded that the -canoe should be rolled as far as the great stone, the closure of -the liberating issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos collected all his strength, took the canoe in his arms, -and raised it up, whilst the Bretons made it run rapidly along -the rollers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They had -descended into the third compartment; they had arrived at the -stone which walled the outlet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos seized this gigantic stone -at its base, applied his robust shoulder, and gave a heave which -made the wall crack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -cloud of dust fell from the vault, with the ashes of ten thousand -generations of sea birds, whose nests stuck like cement to the -rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At the third shock -the stone gave way, and oscillated for a minute.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, placing his back against -the neighboring rock, made an arch with his foot, which drove the -block out of the calcareous masses which served for hinges and -cramps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The stone fell, -and daylight was visible, brilliant, radiant, flooding the cavern -through the opening, and the blue sea appeared to the delighted -Bretons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They began to -lift the bark over the barricade.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Twenty more <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>toises</i>, and it would glide into -the ocean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was during -this time that the company arrived, was drawn up by the captain, -and disposed for either an escalade or an assault.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis watched over everything, to -favor the labors of his friends.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw the reinforcements, counted -the men, and convinced himself at a single glance of the -insurmountable peril to which fresh combat would expose -them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To escape by sea, -at the moment the cavern was about to be invaded, was -impossible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, the -daylight which had just been admitted to the last compartments -had exposed to the soldiers the bark being rolled towards the -sea, the two rebels within musket-shot; and one of their -discharges would riddle the boat if it did not kill the -navigators.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, -allowing everything, - if the bark escaped with the men on board -of it, how could the alarm be suppressed - how could notice to -the royal lighters be prevented?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What could hinder the poor canoe, -followed by sea and watched from the shore, from succumbing -before the end of the day?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, digging his hands into his -gray hair with rage, invoked the assistance of God and the -assistance of the demons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Calling to Porthos, who was doing more work than all the rollers -- whether of flesh or wood - "My friend," said he, "our -adversaries have just received a reinforcement."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, ah!" said Porthos, -quietly, "what is to be done, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To recommence the -combat," said Aramis, "is hazardous."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said Porthos, -"for it is difficult to suppose that out of two, one should not -be killed; and certainly, if one of us was killed, the other -would get himself killed also."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos spoke these words with that -heroic nature which, with him, grew grander with necessity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis felt it like a -spur to his heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We -shall neither of us be killed if you do what I tell you, friend -Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Tell me what?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "These people are coming -down into the grotto."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We could kill about -fifteen of them, but no more."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How many are there in -all?" asked Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They have received a -reinforcement of seventy-five men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Seventy-five and five, -eighty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!" sighed -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If they fire all at -once they will riddle us with balls."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Certainly they -will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Without reckoning," -added Aramis, "that the detonation might occasion a collapse of -the cavern."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ay," said Porthos, "a -piece of falling rock just now grazed my shoulder."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! it is nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We must determine upon -something quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Our -Bretons are going to continue to roll the canoe towards the -sea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We two will keep the -powder, the balls, and the muskets here."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But only two, my dear -Aramis - we shall never fire three shots together," said Porthos, -innocently, "the defense by musketry is a bad one."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Find a better, -then."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have found one," said -the giant, eagerly; "I will place myself in ambuscade behind the -pillar with this iron bar, and invisible, unattackable, if they -come in floods, I can let my bar fall upon their skulls, thirty -times in a minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Hein!</i> what do you think -of the project?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You -smile!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Excellent, dear friend, -perfect!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I approve it -greatly; only you will frighten them, and half of them will -remain outside to take us by famine.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What we want, my good friend, is the -entire destruction of the troop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A single survivor encompasses our -ruin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You are right, my -friend, but how can we attract them, pray?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "By not stirring, my -good Porthos."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! we won't stir, -then; but when they are all together - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then leave it to me, I -have an idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "If it is so, and your -idea proves a good one - and your idea is most likely to be good -- I am satisfied."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To your ambuscade, -Porthos, and count how many enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you, what will you -do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Don't trouble yourself -about me; I have a task to perform."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I think I hear -shouts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is they!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To your post.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Keep within reach of my voice and -hand."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos took refuge in -the second compartment, which was in darkness, absolutely -black.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis glided into -the third; the giant held in his hand an iron bar of about fifty -pounds weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -handled this lever, which had been used in rolling the bark, with -marvelous facility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -During this time, the Bretons had pushed the bark to the -beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the further and -lighter compartment, Aramis, stooping and concealed, was busy -with some mysterious maneuver.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A command was given in a loud -voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the last -order of the captain commandant.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Twenty-five men jumped from the -upper rocks into the first compartment of the grotto, and having -taken their ground, began to fire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The echoes shrieked and barked, the -hissing balls seemed actually to rarefy the air, and then opaque -smoke filled the vault.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the left! to the -left!" cried Biscarrat, who, in his first assault, had seen the -passage to the second chamber, and who, animated by the smell of -powder, wished to guide his soldiers in that direction.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The troop, accordingly, -precipitated themselves to the left - the passage gradually -growing narrower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Biscarrat, with his hands stretched forward, devoted to death, -marched in advance of the muskets.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Come on! come on!" exclaimed he, "I -see daylight!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Strike, Porthos!" cried -the sepulchral voice of Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos breathed a heavy -sigh - but he obeyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -iron bar fell full and direct upon the head of Biscarrat, who was -dead before he had ended his cry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then the formidable lever rose ten -times in ten seconds, and made ten corpses.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The soldiers could see nothing; they -heard sighs and groans; they stumbled over dead bodies, but as -they had no conception of the cause of all this, they came -forward jostling each other. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The implacable bar, still falling, -annihilated the first platoon, without a single sound to warn the -second, which was quietly advancing; only, commanded by the -captain, the men had stripped a fir, growing on the shore, and, -with its resinous branches twisted together, the captain had made -a flambeau.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On arriving -at the compartment where Porthos, like the exterminating angel, -had destroyed all he touched, the first rank drew back in -terror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No firing had -replied to that of the guards, and yet their way was stopped by a -heap of dead bodies - they literally walked in blood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos was still behind his -pillar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain, -illumining with trembling pine-torch this frightful carnage, of -which he in vain sought the cause, drew back towards the pillar -behind which Porthos was concealed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then a gigantic hand issued from the -shade, and fastened on the throat of the captain, who uttered a -stifle rattle; his stretched-out arms beating the air, the torch -fell and was extinguished in blood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A second after, the corpse of the -captain dropped close to the extinguished torch, and added -another body to the heap of dead which blocked up the -passage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All this was -effected as mysteriously as though by magic.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At hearing the rattling in the -throat of the captain, the soldiers who accompanied him had -turned round, caught a glimpse of his extended arms, his eyes -starting from their sockets, and then the torch fell and they -were left in darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -From an unreflective, instinctive, mechanical feeling, the -lieutenant cried:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Immediately a volley of -musketry flamed, thundered, roared in the cavern, bringing down -enormous fragments from the vaults.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cavern was lighted for an -instant by this discharge, and then immediately returned to -pitchy darkness rendered thicker by the smoke.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To this succeeded a profound -silence, broken only by the steps of the third brigade, now -entering the cavern.</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'>The -Death of a Titan.</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 the moment when Porthos, more accustomed to the -darkness than these men, coming from open daylight, was looking -round him to see if through this artificial midnight Aramis were -not making him some signal, he felt his arm gently touched, and a -voice low as a breath murmured in his ear, "Come."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Hush!" said Aramis, if -possible, yet more softly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And amidst the noise of -the third brigade, which continued to advance, the imprecations -of the guards still left alive, the muffled groans of the dying, -Aramis and Porthos glided unseen along the granite walls of the -cavern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis led -Porthos into the last but one compartment, and showed him, in a -hollow of the rocky wall, a barrel of powder weighing from -seventy to eighty pounds, to which he had just attached a -fuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My friend," said -he to Porthos, "you will take this barrel, the match of which I -am going to set fire to, and throw it amidst our enemies; can you -do so?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!</i>" replied Porthos; and -he lifted the barrel with one hand.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Light it!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Stop," said Aramis, -"till they are all massed together, and then, my Jupiter, hurl -your thunderbolt among them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Light it," repeated -Porthos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On my part," continued -Aramis, "I will join our Bretons, and help them to get the canoe -to the sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will wait -for you on the shore; launch it strongly, and hasten to us."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Light it," said -Porthos, a third time.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But do you understand -me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Parbleu!</i>" said Porthos again, -with laughter that he did not even attempt to restrain, "when a -thing is explained to me I understand it; begone, and give me the -light."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis gave the burning -match to Porthos, who held out his arm to him, his hands being -engaged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis pressed -the arm of Porthos with both his hands, and fell back to the -outlet of the cavern where the three rowers awaited him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos, left alone, -applied the spark bravely to the match.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The spark - a feeble spark, first -principle of conflagration - shone in the darkness like a -glow-worm, then was deadened against the match which it set fire -to, Porthos enlivening the flame with his breath.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The smoke was a little dispersed, -and by the light of the sparkling match objects might, for two -seconds, be distinguished.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was a brief but splendid -spectacle, that of this giant, pale, bloody, his countenance -lighted by the fire of the match burning in surrounding -darkness!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The soldiers -saw him, they saw the barrel he held in his hand - they at once -understood what was going to happen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, these men, already choked with -horror at the sight of what had been accomplished, filled with -terror at thought of what was about to be accomplished, gave out -a simultaneous shriek of agony.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Some endeavored to fly, but they -encountered the third brigade, which barred their passage; others -mechanically took aim and attempted to fire their discharged -muskets; others fell instinctively upon their knees. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two or three officers cried out to -Porthos to promise him his liberty if he would spare their -lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lieutenant of -the third brigade commanded his men to fire; but the guards had -before them their terrified companions, who served as a living -rampart for Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -have said that the light produced by the spark and the match did -not last more than two seconds; but during these two seconds this -is what it illumined: in the first place, the giant, enlarged in -the darkness; then, at ten paces off, a heap of bleeding bodies, -crushed, mutilated, in the midst of which some still heaved in -the last agony, lifting the mass as a last respiration inflating -the sides of some old monster dying in the night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every breath of Porthos, thus -vivifying the match, sent towards this heap of bodies a -phosphorescent aura, mingled with streaks of purple.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In addition to this principal group -scattered about the grotto, as the chances of death or surprise -had stretched them, isolated bodies seemed to be making ghastly -exhibitions of their gaping wounds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Above ground, bedded in pools of -blood, rose, heavy and sparkling, the short, thick pillars of the -cavern, of which the strongly marked shades threw out the -luminous particles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -all this was seen by the tremulous light of a match attached to a -barrel of powder, that is to say, a torch which, whilst throwing -a light on the dead past, showed death to come.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As I have said, this -spectacle did not last above two seconds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> During this short space of time an -officer of the third brigade got together eight men armed with -muskets, and, through an opening, ordered them to fire upon -Porthos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But they who -received the order to fire trembled so that three guards fell by -the discharge, and the five remaining balls hissed on to splinter -the vault, plow the ground, or indent the pillars of the -cavern.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A burst of laughter -replied to this volley; then the arm of the giant swung round; -then was seen whirling through the air, like a falling star, the -train of fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -barrel, hurled a distance of thirty feet, cleared the barricade -of dead bodies, and fell amidst a group of shrieking soldiers, -who threw themselves on their faces.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officer had followed the -brilliant train in the air; he endeavored to precipitate himself -upon the barrel and tear out the match before it reached the -powder it contained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Useless!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The air had made -the flame attached to the conductor more active; the match, which -at rest might have burnt five minutes, was consumed in thirty -seconds, and the infernal work exploded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Furious vortices of sulphur and -nitre, devouring shoals of fire which caught every object, the -terrible thunder of the explosion, this is what the second which -followed disclosed in that cavern of horrors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The rocks split like planks of deal -beneath the axe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A jet of -fire, smoke, and <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>débris</i> sprang from the -middle of the grotto, enlarging as it mounted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The large walls of silex tottered -and fell upon the sand, and the sand itself, an instrument of -pain when launched from its hard bed, riddled the faces with its -myriad cutting atoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Shrieks, imprecations, human life, dead bodies - all were -engulfed in one terrific crash.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The three first -compartments became one sepulchral sink into which fell grimly -back, in the order of their weight, every vegetable, mineral, or -human fragment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then the -lighter sand and ash came down in turn, stretching like a winding -sheet and smoking over the dismal scene.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And now, in this burning tomb, this -subterranean volcano, seek the king's guards with their blue -coats laced with silver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Seek the officers, brilliant in gold, seek for the arms upon -which they depended for their defense.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One single man has made of all of -those things a chaos more confused, more shapeless, more terrible -than the chaos which existed before the creation of the -world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There remained -nothing of the three compartments - nothing by which God could -have recognized His handiwork.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for Porthos, after having hurled -the barrel of powder amidst his enemies, he had fled, as Aramis -had directed him to do, and had gained the last compartment, into -which air, light, and sunshine penetrated through the -opening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Scarcely had he -turned the angle which separated the third compartment from the -fourth when he perceived at a hundred paces from him the bark -dancing on the waves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There were his friends, there liberty, there life and -victory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Six more of his -formidable strides, and he would be out of the vault; out of the -vault! a dozen of his vigorous leaps and he would reach the -canoe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Suddenly he felt -his knees give way; his knees seemed powerless, his legs to yield -beneath him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! oh!" murmured he, -"there is my weakness seizing me again!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can walk no further!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What is this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis perceived him -through the opening, and unable to conceive what could induce him -to stop thus - "Come on, Porthos! come on," he cried; "come -quickly!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" replied the giant, -making an effort that contorted every muscle of his body - "oh! -but I cannot."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> While -saying these words, he fell upon his knees, but with his mighty -hands he clung to the rocks, and raised himself up again.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Quick! quick!" repeated -Aramis, bending forward towards the shore, as if to draw Porthos -towards him with his arms.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here I am," stammered -Porthos, collecting all his strength to make one step more.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the name of -Heaven!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos, make -haste! the barrel will blow up!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Make haste, -monseigneur!" shouted the Bretons to Porthos, who was floundering -as in a dream.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But there was no time; -the explosion thundered, earth gaped, the smoke which hurled -through the clefts obscured the sky; the sea flowed back as -though driven by the blast of flame which darted from the grotto -as if from the jaws of some gigantic fiery chimera; the reflux -took the bark out twenty <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>toises</i>; the solid rocks cracked -to their base, and separated like blocks beneath the operation of -the wedge; a portion of the vault was carried up towards heaven, -as if it had been built of cardboard; the green and blue and -topaz conflagration and black lava of liquefactions clashed and -combated an instant beneath a majestic dome of smoke; then -oscillated, declined, and fell successively the mighty monoliths -of rock which the violence of the explosion had not been able to -uproot from the bed of ages; they bowed to each other like grave -and stiff old men, then prostrating themselves, lay down forever -in their dusty tomb.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> This frightful shock -seemed to restore Porthos the strength that he had lost; he -arose, a giant among granite giants.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But at the moment he was flying -between the double hedge of granite phantoms, these latter, which -were no longer supported by the corresponding links, began to -roll and totter round our Titan, who looked as if precipitated -from heaven amidst rocks which he had just been launching.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos felt the very earth -beneath his feet becoming jelly-tremulous.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He stretched both hands to repulse -the falling rocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -gigantic block was held back by each of his extended arms.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He bent his head, and a third -granite mass sank between his shoulders.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For an instant the power of Porthos -seemed about to fail him, but this new Hercules united all his -force, and the two walls of the prison in which he was buried -fell back slowly and gave him place.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For an instant he appeared, in this -frame of granite, like the angel of chaos, but in pushing back -the lateral rocks, he lost his point of support, for the monolith -which weighed upon his shoulders, and the boulder, pressing upon -him with all its weight, brought the giant down upon his -knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The lateral rocks, -for an instant pushed back, drew together again, and added their -weight to the ponderous mass which would have been sufficient to -crush ten men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The hero -fell without a groan - he fell while answering Aramis with words -of encouragement and hope, for, thanks to the powerful arch of -his hands, for an instant he believed that, like Enceladus, he -would succeed in shaking off the triple load.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But by degrees Aramis beheld the -block sink; the hands, strung for an instant, the arms stiffened -for a last effort, gave way, the extended shoulders sank, wounded -and torn, and the rocks continued to gradually collapse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos!" cried Aramis, tearing his -hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Porthos! where are -you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Speak!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here, here," murmured -Porthos, with a voice growing evidently weaker, "patience! -patience!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Scarcely had he -pronounced these words, when the impulse of the fall augmented -the weight; the enormous rock sank down, pressed by those others -which sank in from the sides, and, as it were, swallowed up -Porthos in a sepulcher of badly jointed stones.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On hearing the dying voice of his -friend, Aramis had sprung to land.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two of the Bretons followed him, -with each a lever in his hand - one being sufficient to take care -of the bark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The dying -rattle of the valiant gladiator guided them amidst the -ruins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, animated, -active and young as at twenty, sprang towards the triple mass, -and with his hands, delicate as those of a woman, raised by a -miracle of strength the corner-stone of this great granite -grave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then he caught a -glimpse, through the darkness of that charnel-house, of the still -brilliant eye of his friend, to whom the momentary lifting of the -mass restored a momentary respiration.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The two men came rushing up, grasped -their iron levers, united their triple strength, not merely to -raise it, but sustain it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -All was useless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -gave way with cries of grief, and the rough voice of Porthos, -seeing them exhaust themselves in a useless struggle, murmured in -an almost cheerful tone those supreme words which came to his -lips with the last respiration, "Too heavy!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> After which his eyes -darkened and closed, his face grew ashy pale, the hands whitened, -and the colossus sank quite down, breathing his last sigh.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With him sank the rock, which, -even in his dying agony he had still held up.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The three men dropped the levers, -which rolled upon the tumulary stone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, breathless, pale, his brow -covered with sweat, Aramis listened, his breast oppressed, his -heart ready to break.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Nothing more.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The giant slept the eternal -sleep, in the sepulcher which God had built about him to his -measure.</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'> -Porthos's Epitaph.</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, silent and sad as ice, trembling like a timid -child, arose shivering from the stone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A Christian does not walk on -tombs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, though -capable of standing, he was not capable of walking.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might be said that something of -dead Porthos had just died within him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His Bretons surrounded him; Aramis -yielded to their kind exertions, and the three sailors, lifting -him up, carried him to the canoe.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, having laid him down upon the -bench near the rudder, they took to their oars, preferring this -to hoisting sail, which might betray them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> On all that leveled -surface of the ancient grotto of Locmaria, one single hillock -attracted their eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Aramis never removed his from it; and, at a distance out in the -sea, in proportion as the shore receded, that menacing proud mass -of rock seemed to draw itself up, as formerly Porthos used to -draw himself up, raising a smiling, yet invincible head towards -heaven, like that of his dear old honest valiant friend, the -strongest of the four, yet the first dead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Strange destiny of these men of -brass!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The most simple of -heart allied to the most crafty; strength of body guided by -subtlety of mind; and in the decisive moment, when vigor alone -could save mind and body, a stone, a rock, a vile material -weight, triumphed over manly strength, and falling upon the body, -drove out the mind.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Worthy Porthos! born to -help other men, always ready to sacrifice himself for the safety -of the weak, as if God had only given him strength for that -purpose; when dying he only thought he was carrying out the -conditions of his compact with Aramis, a compact, however, which -Aramis alone had drawn up, and which Porthos had only known to -suffer by its terrible solidarity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Noble Porthos! of what good now are -thy châteaux overflowing with sumptuous furniture, forests -overflowing with game, lakes overflowing with fish, cellars -overflowing with wealth!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Of what service to thee now thy lackeys in brilliant liveries, -and in the midst of them Mousqueton, proud of the power delegated -by thee!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh, noble -Porthos! careful heaper-up of treasure, was it worth while to -labor to sweeten and gild life, to come upon a desert shore, -surrounded by the cries of seagulls, and lay thyself, with broken -bones, beneath a torpid stone?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Was it worth while, in short, noble -Porthos, to heap so much gold, and not have even the distich of a -poor poet engraven upon thy monument?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Valiant Porthos!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> he still, without doubt, sleeps, -lost, forgotten, beneath the rock the shepherds of the heath take -for the gigantic abode of a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dolmen</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so many twining branches, so -many mosses, bent by the bitter wind of ocean, so many lichens -solder thy sepulcher to earth, that no passers-by will imagine -such a block of granite could ever have been supported by the -shoulders of one man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis, still pale, -still icy-cold, his heart upon his lips, looked, even till, with -the last ray of daylight, the shore faded on the horizon.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Not a word escaped him, not a -sigh rose from his deep breast.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The superstitious Bretons looked -upon him, trembling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such -silence was not that of a man, it was the silence of a -statue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime, -with the first gray lines that lighted up the heavens, the canoe -hoisted its little sail, which, swelling with the kisses of the -breeze, and carrying them rapidly from the coast, made bravest -way towards Spain, across the dreaded Gulf of Gascony, so rife -with storms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But scarcely -half an hour after the sail had been hoisted, the rowers became -inactive, reclining on their benches, and, making an eye-shade -with their hands, pointed out to each other a white spot which -appeared on the horizon as motionless as a gull rocked by the -viewless respiration of the waves.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But that which might have appeared -motionless to ordinary eyes was moving at a quick rate to the -experienced eye of the sailor; that which appeared stationary -upon the ocean was cutting a rapid way through it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For some time, seeing the profound -torpor in which their master was plunged, they did not dare to -rouse him, and satisfied themselves with exchanging their -conjectures in whispers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Aramis, in fact, so vigilant, so active - Aramis, whose eye, like -that of the lynx, watched without ceasing, and saw better by -night than by day - Aramis seemed to sleep in this despair of -soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> An hour passed -thus, during which daylight gradually disappeared, but during -which also the sail in view gained so swiftly on the bark, that -Goenne, one of the three sailors, ventured to say aloud:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, we are -being chased!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis made no reply; -the ship still gained upon them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, of their own accord, two of -the sailors, by the direction of the patron Yves, lowered the -sail, in order that that single point upon the surface of the -waters should cease to be a guide to the eye of the enemy -pursuing them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the -part of the ship in sight, on the contrary, two more small sails -were run up at the extremities of the masts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Unfortunately, it was the time of -the finest and longest days of the year, and the moon, in all her -brilliancy, succeeded inauspicious daylight.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>balancelle</i>, which was pursuing -the little bark before the wind, had then still half an hour of -twilight, and a whole night almost as light as day.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur! -monseigneur! we are lost!" said the captain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Look! they see us plainly, though -we have lowered sail."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is not to be -wondered at," murmured one of the sailors, "since they say that, -by the aid of the devil, the Paris-folk have fabricated -instruments with which they see as well at a distance as near, by -night as well as by day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis took a telescope -from the bottom of the boat, focussed it silently, and passing it -to the sailor, "Here," said he, "look!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sailor hesitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Don't be alarmed," said -the bishop, "there is no sin in it; and if there is any sin, I -will take it on myself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The sailor lifted the -glass to his eye, and uttered a cry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He believed that the vessel, which -appeared to be distant about cannon-shot, had at a single bound -cleared the whole distance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, on withdrawing the instrument -from his eye, he saw that, except the way which the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>balancelle</i> had been able to make -during that brief instant, it was still at the same distance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So," murmured the -sailor, "they can see us as we see them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They see us," said -Aramis, and sank again into impassibility.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What! - they see us!" -said Yves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Impossible!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, captain, look -yourself," said the sailor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he passed him the glass.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur assures me -that the devil has nothing to do with this?" asked Yves.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis shrugged his -shoulders.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The skipper lifted the -glass to his eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! -monseigneur," said he, "it is a miracle - there they are; it -seems as if I were going to touch them.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Twenty-five men at least!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I see the captain forward.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He holds a glass like this, -and is looking at us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! -he turns round, and gives an order; they are rolling a piece of -cannon forward - they are loading it - pointing it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Miséricorde!</i> they are -firing at us!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And by a mechanical -movement, the skipper put aside the telescope, and the pursuing -ship, relegated to the horizon, appeared again in its true -aspect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The vessel was -still at the distance of nearly a league, but the maneuver -sighted thus was not less real.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A light cloud of smoke appeared -beneath the sails, more blue than they, and spreading like a -flower opening; then, at about a mile from the little canoe, they -saw the ball take the crown off two or three waves, dig a white -furrow in the sea, and disappear at the end of it, as inoffensive -as the stone with which, in play, a boy makes ducks and -drakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was at once a -menace and a warning.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is to be done?" -asked the patron.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They will sink us!" -said Goenne, "give us absolution, monseigneur!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the sailors fell on their knees -before him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You forget that they -can see you," said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true!" said the -sailors, ashamed of their weakness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Give us your orders, monseigneur, -we are prepared to die for you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us wait," said -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "How - let us wait?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes; do you not see, as -you just now said, that if we endeavor to fly, they will sink -us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But, perhaps," the -patron ventured to say, "perhaps under cover of night, we could -escape them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" said Aramis, "they -have, no doubt, Greek fire with which to lighten their own course -and ours likewise."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At the same moment, as -if the vessel was responsive to the appeal of Aramis, a second -cloud of smoke mounted slowly to the heavens, and from the bosom -of that cloud sparkled an arrow of flame, which described a -parabola like a rainbow, and fell into the sea, where it -continued to burn, illuminating a space of a quarter of a league -in diameter.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The Bretons looked at -each other in terror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"You see plainly," said Aramis, "it will be better to wait for -them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The oars dropped from -the hands of the sailors, and the bark, ceasing to make way, -rocked motionless upon the summits of the waves.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Night came on, but still the ship -drew nearer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might be -imagined it redoubled its speed with darkness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From time to time, as a vulture -rears its head out of its nest, the formidable Greek fire darted -from its sides, and cast its flame upon the ocean like an -incandescent snowfall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At -last it came within musket-shot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the men were on deck, arms in -hand; the cannoniers were at their guns, the matches -burning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might be -thought they were about to board a frigate and to fight a crew -superior in number to their own, not to attempt the capture of a -canoe manned by four people.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Surrender!" cried the -commander of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>balancelle</i>, with the aid of his -speaking-trumpet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The sailors looked at -Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis made a -sign with his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yves -waved a white cloth at the end of a gaff.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was like striking their -flag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The pursuer came on -like a race-horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -launched a fresh Greek fire, which fell within twenty paces of -the little canoe, and threw a light upon them as white as -sunshine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At the first sign of -resistance," cried the commander of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>balancelle</i>, "fire!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The soldiers brought their muskets -to the present.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Did we not say we -surrendered?" said Yves.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Alive, alive, captain!" -cried one excited soldier, "they must be taken alive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, yes - living," -said the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -turning towards the Bretons, "Your lives are safe, my friends!" -cried he, "all but the Chevalier d'Herblay."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis stared -imperceptibly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For an -instant his eye was fixed upon the depths of the ocean, illumined -by the last flashes of the Greek fire, which ran along the sides -of the waves, played on the crests like plumes, and rendered -still darker and more terrible the gulfs they covered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you hear, -monseigneur?" said the sailors.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What are your -orders?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Accept!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But you, -monseigneur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis leaned still more -forward, and dipped the ends of his long white fingers in the -green limpid waters of the sea, to which he turned with smiles as -to a friend.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Accept!" repeated -he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We accept," repeated -the sailors; "but what security have we?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The word of a -gentleman," said the officer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "By my rank and by my name I swear -that all except M. le Chevalier d'Herblay shall have their lives -spared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am lieutenant -of the king's frigate the 'Pomona,' and my name is Louis Constant -de Pressigny."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> With a rapid gesture, -Aramis - already bent over the side of the bark towards the sea - -drew himself up, and with a flashing eye, and a smile upon his -lips, "Throw out the ladder, messieurs," said he, as if the -command had belonged to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was obeyed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Aramis, seizing the rope -ladder, walked straight up to the commander, with a firm step, -looked at him earnestly, made a sign to him with his hand, a -mysterious and unknown sign at sight of which the officer turned -pale, trembled, and bowed his head, the sailors were profoundly -astonished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Without a -word Aramis then raised his hand to the eyes of the commander and -showed him the collet of a ring he wore on the ring-finger of his -left hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And while -making this sign Aramis, draped in cold and haughty majesty, had -the air of an emperor giving his hand to be kissed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The commandant, who for a moment had -raised his head, bowed a second time with marks of the most -profound respect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -stretching his hand out, in his turn, towards the poop, that is -to say, towards his own cabin, he drew back to allow Aramis to go -first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The three Bretons, -who had come on board after their bishop, looked at each other, -stupefied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The crew were -awed to silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Five -minutes after, the commander called the second lieutenant, who -returned immediately, ordering the head to be put towards -Corunna.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst this -order was being executed, Aramis reappeared upon the deck, and -took a seat near the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bastingage</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Night had fallen; the moon had not -yet risen, yet Aramis looked incessantly towards Belle-Isle.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yves then approached the -captain, who had returned to take his post in the stern, and -said, in a low and humble voice, "What course are we to follow, -captain?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We take what course -monseigneur pleases," replied the officer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis passed the night -leaning upon the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bastingage</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yves, on approaching him next -morning, remarked that "the night must have been a very damp one, -for the wood on which the bishop's head had rested was soaked -with dew."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who knows? - -that dew was, it may be, the first tears that had ever fallen -from the eyes of Aramis!</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> What epitaph would have -been worth that, good Porthos?</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'>M. -de Gesvres's Round.</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 was little used to resistance like that he had -just experienced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -returned, profoundly irritated, to Nantes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Irritation, with this vigorous man, -usually vented itself in impetuous attack, which few people, -hitherto, were they king, were they giants, had been able to -resist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Trembling with -rage, he went straight to the castle, and asked an audience with -the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might be -about seven o'clock in the morning, and, since his arrival at -Nantes, the king had been an early riser.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But on arriving at the corridor with -which we are acquainted, D'Artagnan found M. de Gesvres, who -stopped him politely, telling him not to speak too loud and -disturb the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Is the -king asleep?" said D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, I will let him sleep.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But about what o'clock do you -suppose he will rise?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! in about two hours; -his majesty has been up all night."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan took his hat -again, bowed to M. de Gesvres, and returned to his own -apartments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He came back -at half-past nine, and was told that the king was at -breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That will -just suit me," said D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I will talk to the king while he is -eating."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. de Brienne reminded -D'Artagnan that the king would not see any one at meal-time.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," said D'Artagnan, -looking askant at Brienne, "you do not know, perhaps, monsieur, -that I have the privilege of <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>entrée</i> anywhere - and at -any hour."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Brienne took the -captain's hand kindly, and said, "Not at Nantes, dear Monsieur -d'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, in -this journey, has changed everything."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, a little -softened, asked about what o'clock the king would have finished -his breakfast.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We don't know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Eh? - don't know!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What does that mean?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You don't know how much time -the king devotes to eating?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is generally an hour; and, if we -admit that the air of the Loire gives an additional appetite, we -will extend it to an hour and a half; that is enough, I -think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will wait where -I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! dear Monsieur -d'Artagnan, the order of the day is not to allow any person to -remain in this corridor; I am on guard for that particular -purpose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan felt his -anger mounting to his brain a second time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He went out quickly, for fear of -complicating the affair by a display of premature ill-humor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he was out he began -to reflect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The king," -said he, "will not receive me, that is evident.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young man is angry; he is -afraid, beforehand, of the words that I may speak to him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes; but in the meantime -Belle-Isle is besieged, and my two friends by now probably taken -or killed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Poor -Porthos!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to Master -Aramis, he is always full of resources, and I am easy on his -account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, no, no; -Porthos is not yet an invalid, nor is Aramis in his dotage.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The one with his arm, the -other with his imagination, will find work for his majesty's -soldiers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who knows if -these brave men may not get up for the edification of his most -Christian majesty a little bastion of Saint-Gervais!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I don't despair of it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They have cannon and a -garrison.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet," -continued D'Artagnan, "I don't know whether it would not be -better to stop the combat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For myself alone I will not put up -with either surly looks or insults from the king; but for my -friends I must put up with everything.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shall I go to M. Colbert?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, there is a man I must -acquire the habit of terrifying.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will go to M. Colbert."<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And D'Artagnan set forward -bravely to find M. Colbert, but was informed that he was working -with the king, at the castle of Nantes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Good!" cried he, "the times have -come again in which I measured my steps from De Tréville -to the cardinal, from the cardinal to the queen, from the queen -to Louis XIII.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Truly is -it said that men, in growing old, become children again! - To the -castle, then!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -returned thither.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Lyonne was coming out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -gave D'Artagnan both hands, but told him that the king had been -busy all the preceding evening and all night, and that orders had -been given that no one should be admitted.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Not even the captain who takes the -order?" cried D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"I think that is rather too strong."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Not even he," said M. -de Lyonne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Since that is the -case," replied D'Artagnan, wounded to the heart; "since the -captain of the musketeers, who has always entered the king's -chamber, is no longer allowed to enter it, his cabinet, or his <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>salle-à-manger</i>, -either the king is dead, or his captain is in disgrace.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do me the favor, then, M. de -Lyonne, who are in favor, to return and tell the king, plainly, I -send him my resignation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "D'Artagnan, beware of -what you are doing!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For friendship's sake, -go!" and he pushed him gently towards the cabinet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, I will go," said -Lyonne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan waited, -walking about the corridor in no enviable mood.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lyonne returned.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, what did the king -say?" exclaimed D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He simply answered, -''Tis well,'" replied Lyonne.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That it was well!" said -the captain, with an explosion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is to say, that he accepts -it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, then, I am free!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am only a plain citizen, M. de -Lyonne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have the -pleasure of bidding you good-bye!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Farewell, castle, corridor, -ante-chamber! a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>bourgeois</i>, about to breathe at -liberty, takes his farewell of you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And without waiting -longer, the captain sprang from the terrace down the staircase, -where he had picked up the fragments of Gourville's letter.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Five minutes after, he was at -the hostelry, where, according to the custom of all great -officers who have lodgings at the castle, he had taken what was -called his city-chamber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But when he arrived there, instead of throwing off his sword and -cloak, he took his pistols, put his money into a large leather -purse, sent for his horses from the castle-stables, and gave -orders that would ensure their reaching Vannes during the -night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything went on -according to his wishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -At eight o'clock in the evening, he was putting his foot in the -stirrup, when M. de Gesvres appeared, at the head of twelve -guards, in front of the hostelry.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan saw all from the corner -of his eye; he could not fail seeing thirteen men and thirteen -horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But he feigned -not to observe anything, and was about to put his horse in -motion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gesvres rode up -to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur -d'Artagnan!" said he, aloud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah, Monsieur de -Gesvres! good evening!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One would say you were -getting on horseback."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "More than that, - I am -mounted, - as you see."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is fortunate I have -met with you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Were you looking for -me, then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mon Dieu!</i> yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On the part of the -king, I will wager?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As I, three days ago, -went in search of M. Fouquet?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Nonsense!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is of no use being over-delicate -with me; that is all labor lost.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me at once you are come to -arrest me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To arrest you? - Good -heavens! no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why do you come to -accost me with twelve horsemen at your heels, then?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am making -my round."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That isn't bad!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And so you pick me up in your -round, eh?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I don't -pick you up; I meet with you, and I beg you to come with me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good!" said D'Artagnan, -with a bantering air; "the king is disengaged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For Heaven's sake, -captain," said M. de Gesvres, in a low voice to the musketeer, -"do not compromise yourself! these men hear you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan laughed -aloud, and replied:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "March!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> People who are arrested are placed -between the six first guards and the six last."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But as I am not -arresting you," said M. de Gesvres, "you will march behind, with -me, if you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well," said D'Artagnan, -"that is very polite, duke, and you are right in being so; for if -ever I had had to make my rounds near your <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>chambre-de-ville</i>, I should have -been courteous to you, I assure you, on the word of a -gentleman!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, one favor -more; what does the king want with me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, the king is -furious!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Very well! the king, -who has thought it worth while to be angry, may take the trouble -to grow calm again; that is all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shan't die of that, I will -swear."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, but - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But - I shall be sent -to keep company with unfortunate M. Fouquet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Mordioux!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is a gallant man, a worthy -man!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We shall live very -sociably together, I will be sworn."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Here we are at our -place of destination," said the duke.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Captain, for Heaven's sake be calm -with the king!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! ah! you are playing -the brave man with me, duke!" said D'Artagnan, throwing one of -his defiant glances over Gesvres.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have been told that you are -ambitious of uniting your guards with my musketeers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This strikes me as a splendid -opportunity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will take exceeding -good care not to avail myself of it, captain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And why not, pray?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, for many reasons - -in the first place, for this: if I were to succeed you in the -musketeers after having arrested you - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! then you admit you -have arrested me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, I <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>don't</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Say met me, then.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So, you were saying <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>if</i> you were to succeed me after -having arrested me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your musketeers, at the -first exercise with ball cartridges, would fire <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>my</i> way, by mistake."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, as to that I won't -say; for the fellows <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>do</i> -love me a little."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Gesvres made D'Artagnan -pass in first, and took him straight to the cabinet where Louis -was waiting for his captain of the musketeers, and placed himself -behind his colleague in the ante-chamber.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king could be heard distinctly, -speaking aloud to Colbert in the same cabinet where Colbert might -have heard, a few days before, the king speaking aloud with M. -d'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The guards -remained as a mounted picket before the principal gate; and the -report was quickly spread throughout the city that monsieur le -capitaine of the musketeers had been arrested by order of the -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then these men were -seen to be in motion, and as in the good old times of Louis XIII. -and M. de Tréville, groups were formed, and staircases -were filled; vague murmurs, issuing from the court below, came -rolling to the upper stories, like the distant moaning of the -waves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Gesvres -became uneasy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked -at his guards, who, after being interrogated by the musketeers -who had just got among their ranks, began to shun them with a -manifestation of innocence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan was certainly less -disturbed by all this than M. de Gesvres, the captain of the -guards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As soon as he -entered, he seated himself on the ledge of a window whence with -his eagle glance he saw all that was going on without the least -emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No step of the -progressive fermentation which had shown itself at the report of -his arrest escaped him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He foresaw the very moment the explosion would take place; and we -know that his previsions were in general correct.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It would be very -whimsical," thought he, "if, this evening, my prætorians -should make me king of France.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How I should laugh!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But, at the height, all -was stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Guards, -musketeers, officers, soldiers, murmurs, uneasiness, dispersed, -vanished, died away; there was an end of menace and -sedition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One word had -calmed the waves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king had desired Brienne to say, "Hush, messieurs! you disturb -the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan sighed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "All is over!" said he; "the -musketeers of the present day are not those of his majesty Louis -XIII.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All is over!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur d'Artagnan, -you are wanted in the ante-chamber of the king," proclaimed an -usher.</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'> -King Louis XIV.</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 was seated in his cabinet, with his back turned -towards the door of entrance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In front of him was a mirror, in -which, while turning over his papers, he could see at a glance -those who came in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did -not take any notice of the entrance of D'Artagnan, but spread -above his letters and plans the large silk cloth he used to -conceal his secrets from the importunate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan understood this by-play, -and kept in the background; so that at the end of a minute the -king, who heard nothing, and saw nothing save from the corner of -his eye, was obliged to cry, "Is not M. d'Artagnan there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I am here, sire," -replied the musketeer, advancing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, monsieur," said -the king, fixing his pellucid eyes on D'Artagnan, "what have you -to say to me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I, sire!" replied the -latter, who watched the first blow of his adversary to make a -good retort; "I have nothing to say to your majesty, unless it be -that you have caused me to be arrested, and here I am."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king was going to -reply that he had not had D'Artagnan arrested, but any such -sentence appeared too much like an excuse, and he was -silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -likewise preserved an obstinate silence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," at length -resumed the king, "what did I charge you to go and do at -Belle-Isle?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me, if -you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king while uttering -these words looked intently at his captain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here D'Artagnan was fortunate; the -king seemed to place the game in his hands.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I believe," replied he, -"that your majesty does me the honor to ask what I went to -Belle-Isle to accomplish?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! sire, I know -nothing about it; it is not of me that question should be asked, -but of that infinite number of officers of all kinds, to whom -have been given innumerable orders of all kinds, whilst to me, -head of the expedition, nothing precise was said or stated in any -form whatever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king was hurt: he -showed it by his reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur," said he, "orders have only been given to such as were -judged faithful."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And, therefore, I have -been astonished, sire," retorted the musketeer, "that a captain -like myself, who ranks with a maréchal of France, should -have found himself under the orders of five or six lieutenants or -majors, good to make spies of, possibly, but not at all fit to -conduct a warlike expedition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was upon this subject I came to -demand an explanation of your majesty, when I found the door -closed against me, which, the final insult offered to a brave -man, has led me to quit your majesty's service."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," replied the -king, "you still believe that you are living in an age when kings -were, as you complain of having been, under the orders and at the -discretion of their inferiors.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You seem to forget that a king owes -an account of his actions to none but God."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I forget nothing, -sire," said the musketeer, wounded by this lesson.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Besides, I do not see in what an -honest man, when he asks of his king how he has ill-served him, -offends him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have ill-served me, -monsieur, by siding with my enemies against me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who are your enemies, -sire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The men I sent you to -fight."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Two men the enemies of -the whole of your majesty's army!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That is incredible."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have no power to -judge of my will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I have to judge of -my own friendships, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He who serves his -friends does not serve his master."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I so well understand -this, sire, that I have respectfully offered your majesty my -resignation."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And I have accepted it, -monsieur," said the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Before being separated from you I was willing to prove to you -that I know how to keep my word."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Your majesty has kept -more than your word, for your majesty has had me arrested," said -D'Artagnan, with his cold, bantering air; "you did not promise me -that, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king would not -condescend to perceive the pleasantry, and continued, seriously, -"You see, monsieur, to what grave steps your disobedience forces -me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My disobedience!" cried -D'Artagnan, red with anger.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is the mildest term -that I can find," pursued the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "My idea was to take and punish -rebels; was I bound to inquire whether these rebels were your -friends or not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I was," replied -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It was a -cruelty on your majesty's part to send me to capture my friends -and lead them to your gibbets."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It was a trial I had to -make, monsieur, of pretended servants, who eat my bread and <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>should</i> defend my -person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The trial has -succeeded ill, Monsieur d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For one bad servant -your majesty loses," said the musketeer, with bitterness, "there -are ten who, on that same day, go through a like ordeal.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Listen to me, sire; I am not -accustomed to that service.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mine is a rebel sword when I am -required to do ill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was ill to send me in pursuit of two men whose lives M. Fouquet, -your majesty's preserver, implored you to save.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still further, these men were my -friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They did not -attack your majesty, they succumbed to your blind anger.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, why were they not -allowed to escape?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What -crime had they committed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I admit you may contest with me the right of judging their -conduct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But why suspect -me before the action?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why -surround me with spies?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Why disgrace me before the army?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why me, in whom till now you showed -the most entire confidence - who for thirty years have been -attached to your person, and have given you a thousand proofs of -my devotion - for it must be said, now that I am accused - why -reduce me to see three thousand of the king's soldiers march in -battle against two men?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "One would say you have -forgotten what these men have done to me!" said the king, in a -hollow voice, "and that it was no merit of theirs I was not -lost."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, one would imagine -you forget that I was there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enough, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, enough of these dominating interests which arise to -keep the sun itself from my interests.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am founding a state in which there -shall be but one master, as I promised you; the moment is at hand -for me to keep my promise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You wish to be, according to your -tastes or private friendships, free to destroy my plans and save -my enemies?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will thwart -you or will drop you - seek a more compliant master.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I know full well that another king -would not conduct himself as I do, and would allow himself to be -dominated by you, at the risk of sending you some day to keep -company with M. Fouquet and the rest; but I have an excellent -memory, and for me, services are sacred titles to gratitude, to -impunity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You shall only -have this lesson, Monsieur d'Artagnan, as the punishment of your -want of discipline, and I will not imitate my predecessors in -anger, not having imitated them in favor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, then, other reasons make me act -mildly towards you; in the first place, because you are a man of -sense, a man of excellent sense, a man of heart, and that you -will be a capital servant to him who shall have mastered you; -secondly, because you will cease to have any motives for -insubordination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -friends are now destroyed or ruined by me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These supports on which your -capricious mind instinctively relied I have caused to -disappear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this -moment, my soldiers have taken or killed the rebels of -Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan became -pale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Taken or killed!" -cried he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh! sire, if -you thought what you tell, if you were sure you were telling me -the truth, I should forget all that is just, all that is -magnanimous in your words, to call you a barbarous king, and an -unnatural man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I -pardon you these words," said he, smiling with pride; "I pardon -them to a young prince who does not know, who cannot comprehend -what such men as M. d'Herblay, M. du Vallon, and myself are.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Taken or killed!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! sire! tell me, if the news is -true, how much has it cost you in men and money.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We will then reckon if the game has -been worth the stakes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> As he spoke thus, the -king went up to him in great anger, and said, "Monsieur -d'Artagnan, your replies are those of a rebel!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Tell me, if you please, who is king -of France?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know -any other?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire," replied the -captain of the musketeers, coldly, "I very well remember that one -morning at Vaux you addressed that question to many people who -did not answer to it, whilst I, on my part, did answer to -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If I recognized my -king on that day, when the thing was not easy, I think it would -be useless to ask the question of me now, when your majesty and I -are alone."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At these words Louis -cast down his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -appeared to him that the shade of the unfortunate Philippe passed -between D'Artagnan and himself, to evoke the remembrance of that -terrible adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Almost at the same moment an officer entered and placed a -dispatch in the hands of the king, who, in his turn, changed -color, while reading it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur," said he, -"what I learn here you would know later; it is better I should -tell you, and that you should learn it from the mouth of your -king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A battle has taken -place at Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it possible?" said -D'Artagnan, with a calm air, though his heart was beating fast -enough to choke him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Well, sire?"<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, -monsieur - and I have lost a hundred and ten men."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A beam of joy and pride -shone in the eyes of D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And the rebels?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The rebels have fled," -said the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan could not -restrain a cry of triumph.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Only," added the king, "I have a -fleet which closely blockades Belle-Isle, and I am certain not a -bark can escape."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "So that," said the -musketeer, brought back to his dismal idea, "if these two -gentlemen are taken - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They will be hanged," -said the king, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And do they know it?" -replied D'Artagnan, repressing his trembling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "They know it, because -you must have told them yourself; and all the country knows -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Then, sire, they will -never be taken alive, I will answer for that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said the king, -negligently, and taking up his letter again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Very well, they will be dead, then, -Monsieur d'Artagnan, and that will come to the same thing, since -I should only take them to have them hanged."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan wiped the -sweat which flowed from his brow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have told you," -pursued Louis XIV., "that I would one day be an affectionate, -generous, and constant master.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are now the only man of former -times worthy of my anger or my friendship.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will not spare you either -sentiment, according to your conduct.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Could you serve a king, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, who should have a hundred kings, his equals, in the -kingdom?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Could I, tell -me, do with such weak instruments the great things I -meditate?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Did you ever -see an artist effect great works with an unworthy tool?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Far from us, monsieur, the old -leaven of feudal abuse!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The Fronde, which threatened to ruin monarchy, has emancipated -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am master at home, -Captain d'Artagnan, and I shall have servants who, lacking, -perhaps, your genius, will carry devotion and obedience to the -verge of heroism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of what -consequence, I ask you, of what consequence is it that God has -given no sense to arms and legs?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is to the head he has given -genius, and the head, you know, the rest obey.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am the head."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan started.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis XIV. continued as if he -had seen nothing, although this emotion had not by any means -escaped him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Now, let us -conclude between us two the bargain I promised to make with you -one day when you found me in a very strange predicament at -Blois.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do me justice, -monsieur, when you admit I do not make any one pay for the tears -of shame that I then shed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look around you; lofty heads have -bowed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Bow yours, or -choose such exile as will suit you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps, when reflecting upon it, -you will find your king has a generous heart, who reckons -sufficiently upon your loyalty to allow you to leave him -dissatisfied, when you possess a great state secret.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are a brave man; I know you to -be so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why have you -judged me prematurely?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Judge me from this day forward, D'Artagnan, and be as severe as -you please."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan remained -bewildered, mute, undecided for the first time in his life.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At last he had found an -adversary worthy of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -This was no longer trick, it was calculation; no longer violence, -but strength; no longer passion, but will; no longer boasting, -but council.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This young -man who had brought down a Fouquet, and could do without a -D'Artagnan, deranged the somewhat headstrong calculations of the -musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, let us see what -stops you?" said the king, kindly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "You have given in your resignation; -shall I refuse to accept it?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I admit that it may be hard for such -an old captain to recover lost good-humor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh!" replied -D'Artagnan, in a melancholy tone, "that is not my most serious -care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I hesitate to take -back my resignation because I am old in comparison with you, and -have habits difficult to abandon.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Henceforward, you must have -courtiers who know how to amuse you - madmen who will get -themselves killed to carry out what you call your great -works.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Great they will -be, I feel - but, if by chance I should not think them so?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have seen war, sire, I have -seen peace; I have served Richelieu and Mazarin; I have been -scorched with your father, at the fire of Rochelle; riddled with -sword-thrusts like a sieve, having grown a new skin ten times, as -serpents do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After -affronts and injustices, I have a command which was formerly -something, because it gave the bearer the right of speaking as he -liked to his king. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -your captain of the musketeers will henceforward be an officer -guarding the outer doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Truly, sire, if that is to be my employment from this time, seize -the opportunity of our being on good terms, to take it from -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not imagine that I -bear malice; no, you have tamed me, as you say; but it must be -confessed that in taming me you have lowered me; by bowing me you -have convicted me of weakness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you knew how well it suits me to -carry my head high, and what a pitiful mien I shall have while -scenting the dust of your carpets!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Oh! sire, I regret sincerely, and -you will regret as I do, the old days when the king of France saw -in every vestibule those insolent gentlemen, lean, always -swearing - cross-grained mastiffs, who could bite mortally in the -hour of danger or of battle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These men were the best of courtiers -to the hand which fed them - they would lick it; but for the hand -that struck them, oh! the bite that followed!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A little gold on the lace of their -cloaks, a slender stomach in their <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>hauts-de-chausses</i>, a little -sparkling of gray in their dry hair, and you will behold the -handsome dukes and peers, the haughty <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>maréchaux</i> of France.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But why should I tell you all -this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is master; -he wills that I should make verses, he wills that I should polish -the mosaics of his ante-chambers with satin shoes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Mordioux!</i> that is difficult, -but I have got over greater difficulties.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will do it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why should I do it?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Because I love money? - I have -enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Because I am -ambitious? - my career is almost at an end.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Because I love the court?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will remain here because I have -been accustomed for thirty years to go and take the orderly word -of the king, and to have said to me 'Good evening, D'Artagnan,' -with a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> smile I did not -beg for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That smile I -will beg for!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Are you -content, sire?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -D'Artagnan bowed his silver head, upon which the smiling king -placed his white hand with pride.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Thanks, my old servant, my faithful -friend," said he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "As, -reckoning from this day, I have no longer any enemies in France, -it remains with me to send you to a foreign field to gather your -marshal's baton.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Depend -upon me for finding you an opportunity.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meanwhile, eat of my very -best bread, and sleep in absolute tranquillity."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is all kind and -well!" said D'Artagnan, much agitated.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "But those poor men at -Belle-Isle?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One of them, -in particular - so good! so brave! so true!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Do you ask their pardon -of me?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Upon my knees, -sire!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Well! then, go and -take it to them, if it be still in time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But do you answer for them?"<br> -"With my life, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Go, then.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To-morrow I set out for -Paris.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Return by that -time, for I do not wish you to leave me in the future."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Be assured of -that, sire," said D'Artagnan, kissing the royal hand.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And with a heart -swelling with joy, he rushed out of the castle on his way to -Belle-Isle.</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'>M. -Fouquet's 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 king had returned to Paris, and with him D'Artagnan, -who, in twenty-four hours, having made with greatest care all -possible inquiries at Belle-Isle, succeeded in learning nothing -of the secret so well kept by the heavy rock of Locmaria, which -had fallen on the heroic Porthos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain of the musketeers only -knew what those two valiant men - these two friends, whose -defense he had so nobly taken up, whose lives he had so earnestly -endeavored to save - aided by three faithful Bretons, had -accomplished against a whole army.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had seen, spread on the -neighboring heath, the human remains which had stained with -clouted blood the scattered stones among the flowering -broom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He learned also -that a bark had been seen far out at sea, and that, like a bird -of prey, a royal vessel had pursued, overtaken, and devoured the -poor little bird that was flying with such palpitating -wings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But there -D'Artagnan's certainties ended.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The field of supposition was thrown -open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, what could he -conjecture?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The vessel -had not returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is -true that a brisk wind had prevailed for three days; but the -corvette was known to be a good sailer and solid in its timbers; -it had no need to fear a gale of wind, and it ought, according to -the calculation of D'Artagnan, to have either returned to Brest, -or come back to the mouth of the Loire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such was the news, ambiguous, it is -true, but in some degree reassuring to him personally, which -D'Artagnan brought to Louis XIV., when the king, followed by all -the court, returned to Paris.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Louis, satisfied with -his success - Louis, more mild and affable as he felt himself -more powerful - had not ceased for an instant to ride beside the -carriage door of Mademoiselle de la Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everybody was anxious to amuse the -two queens, so as to make them forget this abandonment by son and -husband.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything -breathed the future, the past was nothing to anybody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only that past was like a painful -bleeding wound to the hearts of certain tender and devoted -spirits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Scarcely was the -king reinstalled in Paris, when he received a touching proof of -this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louis XIV. had just -risen and taken his first repast when his captain of the -musketeers presented himself before him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan was pale and looked -unhappy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king, at the -first glance, perceived the change in a countenance generally so -unconcerned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is the -matter, D'Artagnan?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, a great -misfortune has happened to me."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Good heavens! what is -that?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Sire, I have lost one -of my friends, M. du Vallon, in the affair of Belle-Isle."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And, while speaking -these words, D'Artagnan fixed his falcon eye upon Louis XIV., to -catch the first feeling that would show itself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I knew it," replied the -king, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You knew it, and did -not tell me!" cried the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "To what good?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your grief, my friend, was so -well worthy of respect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was my duty to treat it gently.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To have informed you of this -misfortune, which I knew would pain you so greatly, D'Artagnan, -would have been, in your eyes, to have triumphed over you.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Yes, I knew that M. du Vallon -had buried himself beneath the rocks of Locmaria; I knew that M. -d'Herblay had taken one of my vessels with its crew, and had -compelled it to convey him to Bayonne.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I was willing you should learn -these matters in a direct manner, in order that you might be -convinced my friends are with me respected and sacred; that -always in me the man will sacrifice himself to subjects, whilst -the king is so often found to sacrifice men to majesty and -power."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"But, sire, how -could you know?"<br> -"How do you yourself know, D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"By this letter, -sire, which M. d'Herblay, free and out of danger, writes me from -Bayonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Look here," said -the king, drawing from a casket placed upon the table closet to -the seat upon which D'Artagnan was leaning, "here is a letter -copied exactly from that of M. d'Herblay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Here is the very letter, which -Colbert placed in my hands a week before you received yours.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am well served, you may -perceive."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, sire," -murmured the musketeer, "you were the only man whose star was -equal to the task of dominating the fortune and strength of my -two friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You have -used your power, sire, you will not abuse it, will you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"D'Artagnan," said -the king, with a smile beaming with kindness, "I could have M. -d'Herblay carried off from the territories of the king of Spain, -and brought here, alive, to inflict justice upon him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But, D'Artagnan, be assured I will -not yield to this first and natural impulse.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is free - let him continue -free."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, sire! you will -not always remain so clement, so noble, so generous as you have -shown yourself with respect to me and M. d'Herblay; you will have -about you counselors who will cure you of that weakness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, D'Artagnan, -you are mistaken when you accuse my council of urging me to -pursue rigorous measures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The advice to spare M. d'Herblay comes from Colbert himself."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, sire!" said -D'Artagnan, extremely surprised.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"As for you," -continued the king, with a kindness very uncommon to him, "I have -several pieces of good news to announce to you; but you shall -know them, my dear captain, the moment I have made my accounts -all straight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have said -that I wish to make, and would make, your fortune; that promise -will soon become reality."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A thousand times -thanks, sire!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I can -wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But I implore you, -whilst I go and practice patience, that your majesty will deign -to notice those poor people who have for so long a time besieged -your ante-chamber, and come humbly to lay a petition at your -feet."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who are they?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Enemies of your -majesty."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king raised -his head.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Friends of M. -Fouquet," added D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Their names?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. Gourville, M. -Pélisson, and a poet, M. Jean de la Fontaine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king took a -moment to reflect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What -do they want?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I do not -know."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"How do they -appear?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In great -affliction."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do they -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nothing."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do they -do?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They weep."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let them come in," -said the king, with a serious brow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan turned -rapidly on his heel, raised the tapestry which closed the -entrance to the royal chamber, and directing his voice to the -adjoining room, cried, "Enter."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The three men -D'Artagnan had named immediately appeared at the door of the -cabinet in which were the king and his captain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A profound silence prevailed in -their passage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -courtiers, at the approach of the friends of the unfortunate -superintendent of finances, drew back, as if fearful of being -affected by contagion with disgrace and misfortune.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, with a quick step, came -forward to take by the hand the unhappy men who stood trembling -at the door of the cabinet; he led them in front of the king's <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fauteuil</i>, who, having -placed himself in the embrasure of a window, awaited the moment -of presentation, and was preparing himself to give the -supplicants a rigorously diplomatic reception.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The first of the -friends of Fouquet's to advance was Pélisson.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not weep, but his tears were -only restrained that the king might better hear his voice and -prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Gourville bit his -lips to check his tears, out of respect for the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> La Fontaine buried his face in his -handkerchief, and the only signs of life he gave were the -convulsive motions of his shoulders, raised by his sobs.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king preserved -his dignity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -countenance was impassible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He even maintained the frown which -appeared when D'Artagnan announced his enemies.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He made a gesture which signified, -"Speak;" and he remained standing, with his eyes fixed -searchingly on these desponding men.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pélisson bowed to the ground, -and La Fontaine knelt as people do in churches.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This dismal silence, disturbed only -by sighs and groans, began to excite in the king, not compassion, -but impatience.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -Pélisson," said he, in a sharp, dry tone.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Monsieur Gourville, and you, -Monsieur - " and he did not name La Fontaine, "I cannot, without -sensible displeasure, see you come to plead for one of the -greatest criminals it is the duty of justice to punish.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A king does not allow himself -to soften save at the tears of the innocent, the remorse of the -guilty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no faith -either in the remorse of M. Fouquet or the tears of his friends, -because the one is tainted to the very heart, and the others -ought to dread offending me in my own palace.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For these reasons, I beg you, -Monsieur Pélisson, Monsieur Gourville, and you, Monsieur - -, to say nothing that will not plainly proclaim the respect you -have for my will."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," replied -Pélisson, trembling at these words, "we are come to say -nothing to your majesty that is not the most profound expression -of the most sincere respect and love that are due to a king from -all his subjects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -majesty's justice is redoubtable; every one must yield to the -sentences it pronounces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -We respectfully bow before it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Far from us the idea of coming to -defend him who has had the misfortune to offend your -majesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He who has -incurred your displeasure may be a friend of ours, but he is an -enemy to the state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -abandon him, but with tears, to the severity of the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Besides," -interrupted the king, calmed by that supplicating voice, and -those persuasive words, "my parliament will decide.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not strike without first having -weighed the crime; my justice does not wield the sword without -employing first a pair of scales."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Therefore we have -every confidence in that impartiality of the king, and hope to -make our feeble voices heard, with the consent of your majesty, -when the hour for defending an accused friend strikes."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In that case, -messieurs, what do you ask of me?" said the king, with his most -imposing air.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," continued -Pélisson, "the accused has a wife and family.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The little property he had was -scarcely sufficient to pay his debts, and Madame Fouquet, since -her husband's captivity, is abandoned by everybody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The hand of your majesty strikes -like the hand of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -When the Lord sends the curse of leprosy or pestilence into a -family, every one flies and shuns the abode of the leprous or -plague-stricken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Sometimes, but very rarely, a generous physician alone ventures -to approach the ill-reputed threshold, passes it with courage, -and risks his life to combat death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He is the last resource of the -dying, the chosen instrument of heavenly mercy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sire, we supplicate you, with -clasped hands and bended knees, as a divinity is -supplicated!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame -Fouquet has no longer any friends, no longer any means of -support; she weeps in her deserted home, abandoned by all those -who besieged its doors in the hour of prosperity; she has neither -credit nor hope left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At -least, the unhappy wretch upon whom your anger falls receives -from you, however culpable he may be, his daily bread though -moistened by his tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -As much afflicted, more destitute than her husband, Madame -Fouquet - the lady who had the honor to receive your majesty at -her table - Madame Fouquet, the wife of the ancient -superintendent of your majesty's finances, Madame Fouquet has no -longer bread."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Here the mortal -silence which had chained the breath of Pélisson's two -friends was broken by an outburst of sobs; and D'Artagnan, whose -chest heaved at hearing this humble prayer, turned round towards -the angle of the cabinet to bite his mustache and conceal a -groan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king had -preserved his eye dry and his countenance severe; but the blood -had mounted to his cheeks, and the firmness of his look was -visibly diminished.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What do you wish?" -said he, in an agitated voice.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We come humbly to -ask your majesty," replied Pélisson, upon whom emotion was -fast gaining, "to permit us, without incurring the displeasure of -your majesty, to lend to Madame Fouquet two thousand pistoles -collected among the old friends of her husband, in order that the -widow may not stand in need of the necessaries of life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>At the word <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>widow</i>, pronounced by -Pélisson whilst Fouquet was still alive, the king turned -very pale; - his pride disappeared; pity rose from his heart to -his lips; he cast a softened look upon the men who knelt sobbing -at his feet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"God forbid," said -he, "that I should confound the innocent with the guilty.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They know me but ill who doubt -my mercy towards the weak.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I strike none but the arrogant.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do, messieurs, do all that -your hearts counsel you to assuage the grief of Madame -Fouquet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Go, messieurs - -go!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The three now rose -in silence with dry eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The tears had been scorched away by contact with their burning -cheeks and eyelids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They -had not the strength to address their thanks to the king, who -himself cut short their solemn reverences by entrenching himself -suddenly behind the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fauteuil</i>.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan remained -alone with the king.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well," said he, -approaching the young prince, who interrogated him with his -look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Well, my -master!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If you had not -the device which belongs to your sun, I would recommend you one -which M. Conrart might translate into eclectic Latin, 'Calm with -the lowly; stormy with the strong.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king smiled, -and passed into the next apartment, after having said to -D'Artagnan, "I give you the leave of absence you must want to put -the affairs of your friend, the late M. du Vallon, in order."</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'> -Porthos's Will.</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 Pierrefonds everything was in mourning.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The courts were deserted - the -stables closed - the parterres neglected.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the basins, the fountains, -formerly so jubilantly fresh and noisy, had stopped of -themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Along the -roads around the château came a few grave personages -mounted on mules or country nags.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These were rural neighbors, -curés and bailiffs of adjacent estates.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these people entered the -château silently, handed their horses to a -melancholy-looking groom, and directed their steps, conducted by -a huntsman in black, to the great dining-room, where Mousqueton -received them at the door.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mousqueton had become so thin in two -days that his clothes moved upon him like an ill-fitting scabbard -in which the sword-blade dances at each motion.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His face, composed of red and white, -like that of the Madonna of Vandyke, was furrowed by two silver -rivulets which had dug their beds in his cheeks, as full formerly -as they had become flabby since his grief began.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At each fresh arrival, Mousqueton -found fresh tears, and it was pitiful to see him press his throat -with his fat hand to keep from bursting into sobs and -lamentations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All these -visits were for the purpose of hearing the reading of Porthos's -will, announced for that day, and at which all the covetous -friends of the dead man were anxious to be present, as he had -left no relations behind him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The visitors took their -places as they arrived, and the great room had just been closed -when the clock struck twelve, the hour fixed for the reading of -the important document.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Porthos's procureur - and that was naturally the successor of -Master Coquenard - commenced by slowly unfolding the vast -parchment upon which the powerful hand of Porthos had traced his -sovereign will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The seal -broken - the spectacles put on - the preliminary cough having -sounded - every one pricked up his ears.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mousqueton had squatted himself in a -corner, the better to weep and the better to hear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All at once the folding-doors of the -great room, which had been shut, were thrown open as if by magic, -and a warlike figure appeared upon the threshold, resplendent in -the full light of the sun.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was D'Artagnan, who had come -alone to the gate, and finding nobody to hold his stirrup, had -tied his horse to the knocker and announced himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The splendor of daylight invading -the room, the murmur of all present, and, more than all, the -instinct of the faithful dog, drew Mousqueton from his reverie; -he raised his head, recognized the old friend of his master, and, -screaming with grief, he embraced his knees, watering the floor -with his tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan raised the poor intendant, embraced him as if he had -been a brother, and, having nobly saluted the assembly, who all -bowed as they whispered to each other his name, he went and took -his seat at the extremity of the great carved oak hall, still -holding by the hand poor Mousqueton, who was suffocating with -excess of woe, and sank upon the steps.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then the procureur, who, like the -rest, was considerably agitated, commenced.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Porthos, after a -profession of faith of the most Christian character, asked pardon -of his enemies for all the injuries he might have done them.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this paragraph, a ray of -inexpressible pride beamed from the eyes of D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He recalled to his mind -the old soldier; all those enemies of Porthos brought to earth by -his valiant hand; he reckoned up the numbers of them, and said to -himself that Porthos had acted wisely, not to enumerate his -enemies or the injuries done to them, or the task would have been -too much for the reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Then came the following schedule of his extensive lands:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I possess at this -present time, by the grace of God -</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "1. The domain of -Pierrefonds, lands, woods, meadows, waters, and forests, -surrounded by good walls.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "2. The domain of -Bracieux, châteaux, forests, plowed lands, forming three -farms.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "3. The little estate Du -Vallon, so named because it is in the valley."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> (Brave Porthos!)</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "4. Fifty farms in -Touraine, amounting to five hundred acres.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "5. Three mills upon the -Cher, bringing in six hundred livres each.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "6. Three fish-pools in -Berry, producing two hundred livres a year.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "As to my personal or -movable property, so called because it can be moved, as is so -well explained by my learned friend the bishop of Vannes - "<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> (D'Artagnan shuddered at the -dismal remembrance attached to that name) - the procureur -continued imperturbably - "they consist - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "1. In goods which I -cannot detail here for want of room, and which furnish all my -châteaux or houses, but of which the list is drawn up by my -intendant."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Every one turned his -eyes towards Mousqueton, who was still lost in grief.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "2. In twenty horses for -saddle and draught, which I have particularly at my château -of Pierrefonds, and which are called - Bayard, Roland, -Charlemagne, Pépin, Dunois, La Hire, Ogier, Samson, Milo, -Nimrod, Urganda, Armida, Flastrade, Dalilah, Rebecca, Yolande, -Finette, Grisette, Lisette, and Musette.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "3. In sixty dogs, -forming six packs, divided as follows: the first, for the stag; -the second, for the wolf; the third, for the wild boar; the -fourth, for the hare; and the two others, for setters and -protection.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "4. In arms for war and -the chase contained in my gallery of arms.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "5. My wines of Anjou, -selected for Athos, who liked them formerly; my wines of -Burgundy, Champagne, Bordeaux, and Spain, stocking eight cellars -and twelve vaults, in my various houses.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "6. My pictures and -statues, which are said to be of great value, and which are -sufficiently numerous to fatigue the sight.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "7. My library, -consisting of six thousand volumes, quite new, and have never -been opened.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "8. My silver plate, -which is perhaps a little worn, but which ought to weigh from a -thousand to twelve hundred pounds, for I had great trouble in -lifting the coffer that contained it and could not carry it more -than six times round my chamber.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "9. All these objects, -in addition to the table and house linen, are divided in the -residences I liked the best."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Here the reader stopped -to take breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one -sighed, coughed, and redoubled his attention.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The procureur resumed:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I have lived without -having any children, and it is probable I never shall have any, -which to me is a cutting grief.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet I am mistaken, for I have a -son, in common with my other friends; that is, M. Raoul Auguste -Jules de Bragelonne, the true son of M. le Comte de la -Fère.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This young nobleman -appears to me extremely worthy to succeed the valiant gentleman -of whom I am the friend and very humble servant."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Here a sharp sound -interrupted the reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was D'Artagnan's sword, which, slipping from his baldric, had -fallen on the sonorous flooring.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one turned his eyes that way, -and saw that a large tear had rolled from the thick lid of -D'Artagnan, half-way down to his aquiline nose, the luminous edge -of which shone like a little crescent moon.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is why," continued -the procureur, "I have left all my property, movable, or -immovable, comprised in the above enumerations, to M. le Vicomte -Raoul Auguste Jules de Bragelonne, son of M. le Comte de la -Fère, to console him for the grief he seems to suffer, and -enable him to add more luster to his already glorious name."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A vague murmur ran -through the auditory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -procureur continued, seconded by the flashing eye of D'Artagnan, -which, glancing over the assembly, quickly restored the -interrupted silence:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "On condition that M. le -Vicomte de Bragelonne do give to M. le Chevalier d'Artagnan, -captain of the king's musketeers, whatever the said Chevalier -d'Artagnan may demand of my property.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On condition that M. le Vicomte de -Bragelonne do pay a good pension to M. le Chevalier d'Herblay, my -friend, if he should need it in exile.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I leave to my intendant Mousqueton -all of my clothes, of city, war, or chase, to the number of -forty-seven suits, in the assurance that he will wear them till -they are worn out, for the love of and in remembrance of his -master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Moreover, I -bequeath to M. le Vicomte de Bragelonne my old servant and -faithful friend Mousqueton, already named, providing that the -said vicomte shall so act that Mousqueton shall declare, when -dying, he has never ceased to be happy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> On hearing these words, -Mousqueton bowed, pale and trembling; his shoulders shook -convulsively; his countenance, compressed by a frightful grief, -appeared from between his icy hands, and the spectators saw him -stagger and hesitate, as if, though wishing to leave the hall, he -did not know the way.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Mousqueton, my good -friend," said D'Artagnan, "go and make your preparations.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I will take you with me to -Athos's house, whither I shall go on leaving Pierrefonds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Mousqueton made no -reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He scarcely -breathed, as if everything in that hall would from that time be -foreign.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He opened the -door, and slowly disappeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The procureur finished -his reading, after which the greater part of those who had come -to hear the last will of Porthos dispersed by degrees, many -disappointed, but all penetrated with respect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for D'Artagnan, thus left alone, -after having received the formal compliments of the procureur, he -was lost in admiration of the wisdom of the testator, who had so -judiciously bestowed his wealth upon the most necessitous and the -most worthy, with a delicacy that neither nobleman nor courtier -could have displayed more kindly.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When Porthos enjoined Raoul de -Bragelonne to give D'Artagnan all that he would ask, he knew -well, our worthy Porthos, that D'Artagnan would ask or take -nothing; and in case he did demand anything, none but himself -could say what.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Porthos -left a pension to Aramis, who, if he should be inclined to ask -too much, was checked by the example of D'Artagnan; and that word -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>exile</i>, thrown out by -the testator, without apparent intention, was it not the mildest, -most exquisite criticism upon that conduct of Aramis which had -brought about the death of Porthos?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But there was no mention of Athos in -the testament of the dead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Could the latter for a moment -suppose that the son would not offer the best part to the -father?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The rough mind of -Porthos had fathomed all these causes, seized all these shades -more clearly than law, better than custom, with more propriety -than taste.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos had indeed a -heart," said D'Artagnan to himself with a sigh.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As he made this reflection, he -fancied he hard a groan in the room above him; and he thought -immediately of poor Mousqueton, whom he felt it was a pleasing -duty to divert from his grief.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For this purpose he left the hall -hastily to seek the worthy intendant, as he had not -returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He ascended the -staircase leading to the first story, and perceived, in Porthos's -own chamber, a heap of clothes of all colors and materials, upon -which Mousqueton had laid himself down after heaping them all on -the floor together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -was the legacy of the faithful friend.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those clothes were truly his own; -they had been given to him; the hand of Mousqueton was stretched -over these relics, which he was kissing with his lips, with all -his face, and covered with his body.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan approached to console the -poor fellow.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "My God!" said he, "he -does not stir - he has fainted!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But D'Artagnan was -mistaken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mousqueton was -dead!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dead, like the dog -who, having lost his master, crawls back to die upon his -cloak.</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'>The -Old Age of Athos.</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 these affairs were separating forever the four -musketeers, formerly bound together in a manner that seemed -indissoluble, Athos, left alone after the departure of Raoul, -began to pay his tribute to that foretaste of death which is -called the absence of those we love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Back in his house at Blois, no -longer having even Grimaud to receive a poor smile as he passed -through the parterre, Athos daily felt the decline of vigor of a -nature which for so long a time had seemed impregnable.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Age, which had been kept back -by the presence of the beloved object, arrived with that <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>cortège</i> of pains -and inconveniences, which grows by geometrical accretion.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos had no longer his son to -induce him to walk firmly, with head erect, as a good example; he -had no longer, in those brilliant eyes of the young man, an -ever-ardent focus at which to kindle anew the fire of his -looks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, must it -be said, that nature, exquisite in tenderness and reserve, no -longer finding anything to understand its feelings, gave itself -up to grief with all the warmth of common natures when they yield -to joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Comte de la -Fère, who had remained a young man to his sixty-second -year; the warrior who had preserved his strength in spite of -fatigue; his freshness of mind in spite of misfortune, his mild -serenity of soul and body in spite of Milady, in spite of -Mazarin, in spite of La Vallière; Athos had become an old -man in a week, from the moment at which he lost the comfort of -his later youth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still -handsome, though bent, noble, but sad, he sought, since his -solitude, the deeper glades where sunshine scarcely -penetrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -discontinued all the mighty exercises he had enjoyed through -life, when Raoul was no longer with him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The servants, accustomed to see him -stirring with the dawn at all seasons, were astonished to hear -seven o'clock strike before their master quitted his bed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos remained in bed with a -book under his pillow - but he did not sleep, neither did he -read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Remaining in bed -that he might no longer have to carry his body, he allowed his -soul and spirit to wander from their envelope and return to his -son, or to God.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: In some editions, "in -spite of Milady" reads "in spite of malady." - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> His people were -sometimes terrified to see him, for hours together, absorbed in -silent reverie, mute and insensible; he no longer heard the timid -step of the servant who came to the door of his chamber to watch -the sleeping or waking of his master.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It often occurred that he forgot the -day had half passed away, that the hours for the two first meals -were gone by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then he was -awakened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He rose, -descended to his shady walk, then came out a little into the sun, -as though to partake of its warmth for a minute in memory of his -absent child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then -the dismal monotonous walk recommenced, until, exhausted, he -regained the chamber and his bed, his domicile by choice.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For several days the comte did -not speak a single word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He refused to receive the visits that were paid him, and during -the night he was seen to relight his lamp and pass long hours in -writing, or examining parchments.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Athos wrote one of these -letters to Vannes, another to Fontainebleau; they remained -without answers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We know -why: Aramis had quitted France, and D'Artagnan was traveling from -Nantes to Paris, from Paris to Pierrefonds.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>valet de chambre</i> observed that -he shortened his walk every day by several turns.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The great alley of limes soon became -too long for feet that used to traverse it formerly a hundred -times a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte -walked feebly as far as the middle trees, seated himself upon a -mossy bank that sloped towards a sidewalk, and there waited the -return of his strength, or rather the return of night.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Very shortly a hundred steps -exhausted him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At length -Athos refused to rise at all; he declined all nourishment, and -his terrified people, although he did not complain, although he -wore a smile upon his lips, although he continued to speak with -his sweet voice - his people went to Blois in search of the -ancient physician of the late Monsieur, and brought him to the -Comte de la Fère in such a fashion that he could see the -comte without being himself seen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For this purpose, they placed him in -a closet adjoining the chamber of the patient, and implored him -not to show himself, for fear of displeasing their master, who -had not asked for a physician.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The doctor obeyed.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos was a sort of model for the -gentlemen of the country; the Blaisois boasted of possessing this -sacred relic of French glory.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos was a great seigneur compared -with such nobles as the king improvised by touching with his -artificial scepter the parched-up trunks of the heraldic trees of -the province.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> People respected Athos, -we say, and they loved him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The physician could not bear to see -his people weep, to see flock round him the poor of the canton, -to whom Athos had so often given life and consolation by his kind -words and his charities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -He examined, therefore, from the depths of his hiding-place, the -nature of that mysterious malady which bent and aged more -mortally every day a man but lately so full of life and a desire -to live.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He remarked upon -the cheeks of Athos the hectic hue of fever, which feeds upon -itself; slow fever, pitiless, born in a fold of the heart, -sheltering itself behind that rampart, growing from the suffering -it engenders, at once cause and effect of a perilous -situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte -spoke to nobody; he did not even talk to himself.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His thought feared noise; it -approached to that degree of over-excitement which borders upon -ecstasy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Man thus -absorbed, though he does not yet belong to God, already -appertains no longer to the earth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The doctor remained for several -hours studying this painful struggle of the will against superior -power; he was terrified at seeing those eyes always fixed, ever -directed on some invisible object; was terrified at the -monotonous beating of that heart from which never a sigh arose to -vary the melancholy state; for often pain becomes the hope of the -physician.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Half a day -passed away thus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -doctor formed his resolution like a brave man; he issued suddenly -from his place of retreat, and went straight up to Athos, who -beheld him without evincing more surprise than if he had -understood nothing of the apparition.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le comte, I -crave your pardon," said the doctor, coming up to the patient -with open arms; "but I have a reproach to make you - you shall -hear me."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he seated -himself by the pillow of Athos, who had great trouble in rousing -himself from his preoccupation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter, -doctor?" asked the comte, after a silence.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The matter is, you are -ill, monsieur, and have had no advice."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I! ill!" said Athos, -smiling.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Fever, consumption, -weakness, decay, monsieur le comte!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Weakness!" replied -Athos; "is it possible?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I -do not get up."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Come, come! monsieur le -comte, no subterfuges; you are a good Christian?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I hope so," said -Athos.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Is it your wish to kill -yourself?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Never, doctor."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! monsieur, you are -in a fair way of doing so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thus to remain is suicide.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Get well! monsieur le comte, -get well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Of what?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Find the disease first.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> For my part, I never knew myself -better; never did the sky appear more blue to me; never did I -take more care of my flowers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You have a hidden -grief."<br> -<span style='mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Concealed! -- not at all; the absence of my son, doctor; that is my malady, -and I do not conceal it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le comte, your -son lives, he is strong, he has all the future before him - the -future of men of merit, of his race; live for him - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But I do live, doctor; -oh! be satisfied of that," added he, with a melancholy smile; -"for as long as Raoul lives, it will be plainly known, for as -long as he lives, I shall live."</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> "A very simple -thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At this moment, -doctor, I leave life suspended within me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A forgetful, dissipated, indifferent -life would be beyond my strength, now I have no longer Raoul with -me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You do not ask the -lamp to burn when the match has not illumed the flame; do not ask -me to live amidst noise and merriment.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I vegetate, I prepare myself, I -wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look, doctor; -remember those soldiers we have so often seen together at the -ports, where they were waiting to embark; lying down, -indifferent, half on one element, half on the other; they were -neither at the place where the sea was going to carry them, nor -at the place the earth was going to lose them; baggage prepared, -minds on the stretch, arms stacked - they waited.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I repeat it, the word is the one -which paints my present life.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Lying down like the soldiers, my ear -on the stretch for the report that may reach me, I wish to be -ready to set out at the first summons.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who will make me that summons? life -or death?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God or -Raoul?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My baggage is -packed, my soul is prepared, I await the signal - I wait, doctor, -I wait!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The doctor knew the -temper of that mind; he appreciated the strength of that body; he -reflected for the moment, told himself that words were useless, -remedies absurd, and left the château, exhorting Athos's -servants not to quit him for a moment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The doctor being gone, -Athos evinced neither anger nor vexation at having been -disturbed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not -even desire that all letters that came should be brought to him -directly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He knew very -well that every distraction which should arise would be a joy, a -hope, which his servants would have paid with their blood to -procure him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Sleep had -become rare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By intense -thinking, Athos forgot himself, for a few hours at most, in a -reverie most profound, more obscure than other people would have -called a dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -momentary repose which this forgetfulness thus gave the body, -still further fatigued the soul, for Athos lived a double life -during these wanderings of his understanding.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> One night, he dreamt that Raoul was -dressing himself in a tent, to go upon an expedition commanded by -M. de Beaufort in person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The young man was sad; he clasped his cuirass slowly, and slowly -he girded on his sword.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What is the matter?" -asked his father, tenderly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What afflicts me is the -death of Porthos, ever so dear a friend," replied Raoul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I suffer here the grief you -soon will feel at home."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And the vision -disappeared with the slumber of Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At daybreak one of his servants -entered his master's apartment, and gave him a letter which came -from Spain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The writing of Aramis," -thought the comte; and he read.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Porthos is dead!" cried -he, after the first lines.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, Raoul! thanks! thou keepest -thy promise, thou warnest me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And Athos, seized with a -mortal sweat, fainted in his bed, without any other cause than -weakness.</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'> -Athos's Vision.</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 this fainting of Athos had ceased, the comte, almost -ashamed of having given way before this superior natural event, -dressed himself and ordered his horse, determined to ride to -Blois, to open more certain correspondences with either Africa, -D'Artagnan, or Aramis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In -fact, this letter from Aramis informed the Comte de la -Fère of the bad success of the expedition of -Belle-Isle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It gave him -sufficient details of the death of Porthos to move the tender and -devoted heart of Athos to its innermost fibers.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos wished to go and pay his -friend Porthos a last visit.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To render this honor to his -companion in arms, he meant to send to D'Artagnan, to prevail -upon him to recommence the painful voyage to Belle-Isle, to -accomplish in his company that sad pilgrimage to the tomb of the -giant he had so much loved, then to return to his dwelling to -obey that secret influence which was conducting him to eternity -by a mysterious road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -scarcely had his joyous servants dressed their master, whom they -saw with pleasure preparing for a journey which might dissipate -his melancholy; scarcely had the comte's gentlest horse been -saddled and brought to the door, when the father of Raoul felt -his head become confused, his legs give way, and he clearly -perceived the impossibility of going one step further.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He ordered himself to be -carried into the sun; they laid him upon his bed of moss where he -passed a full hour before he could recover his spirits.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing could be more natural -than this weakness after then inert repose of the latter -days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos took a <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bouillon</i>, to give him -strength, and bathed his dried lips in a glassful of the wine he -loved the best - that old Anjou wine mentioned by Porthos in his -admirable will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, -refreshed, free in mind, he had his horse brought again; but only -with the aid of his servants was he able painfully to climb into -the saddle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not go -a hundred paces; a shivering seized him again at the turning of -the road.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "This is very strange!" -said he to his <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>valet de -chambre</i>, who accompanied him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Let us stop, monsieur - -I conjure you!" replied the faithful servant; "how pale you are -getting!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That will not prevent -my pursuing my route, now I have once started," replied the -comte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he gave his -horse his head again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -suddenly, the animal, instead of obeying the thought of his -master, stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A -movement, of which Athos was unconscious, had checked the -bit.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Something," said Athos, -"wills that I should go no further.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Support me," added he, stretching -out his arms; "quick! come closer!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I feel my muscles relax - I shall -fall from my horse."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The valet had seen the -movement made by his master at the moment he received the -order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He went up to him -quickly, received the comte in his arms, and as they were not yet -sufficiently distant from the house for the servants, who had -remained at the door to watch their master's departure, not to -perceive the disorder in the usually regular proceeding of the -comte, the valet called his comrades by gestures and voice, and -all hastened to his assistance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos had gone but a few steps on -his return, when he felt himself better again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His strength seemed to revive and -with it the desire to go to Blois.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He made his horse turn round: but, -at the animal's first steps, he sunk again into a state of torpor -and anguish.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well! decidedly," said -he, "it is <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>willed</i> that -I should stay at home."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -His people flocked around him; they lifted him from his horse, -and carried him as quickly as possible into the house.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything was prepared in his -chamber, and they put him to bed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You will be sure to -remember," said he, disposing himself to sleep, "that I expect -letters from Africa this very day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur will no doubt -hear with pleasure that Blaisois's son is gone on horseback, to -gain an hour over the courier of Blois," replied his <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>valet de chambre</i>.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Thank you," replied -Athos, with his placid smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The comte fell asleep, -but his disturbed slumber resembled torture rather than -repose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The servant who -watched him saw several times the expression of internal -suffering shadowed on his features.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Perhaps Athos was dreaming.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The day passed -away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Blaisois's son -returned; the courier had brought no news.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte reckoned the minutes with -despair; he shuddered when those minutes made an hour.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The idea that he was forgotten -seized him once, and brought on a fearful pang of the heart.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everybody in the house had -given up all hopes of the courier - his hour had long -passed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Four times the -express sent to Blois had repeated his journey, and there was -nothing to the address of the comte.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos knew that the courier only -arrived once a week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Here, then, was a delay of eight mortal days to be endured.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He commenced the night in this -painful persuasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All -that a sick man, irritated by suffering, can add of melancholy -suppositions to probabilities already gloomy, Athos heaped up -during the early hours of this dismal night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The fever rose: it invaded the -chest, where the fire soon caught, according to the expression of -the physician, who had been brought back from Blois by Blaisois -at his last journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Soon -it gained the head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -physician made two successive bleedings, which dislodged it for -the time, but left the patient very weak, and without power of -action in anything but his brain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet this redoubtable fever had -ceased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It besieged with -its last palpitations the tense extremities; it ended by yielding -as midnight struck.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The physician, seeing -the incontestable improvement, returned to Blois, after having -ordered some prescriptions, and declared that the comte was -saved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then commenced for -Athos a strange, indefinable state.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Free to think, his mind turned -towards Raoul, that beloved son.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His imagination penetrated the -fields of Africa in the environs of Gigelli, where M. de Beaufort -must have landed with his army.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A waste of gray rocks, rendered -green in certain parts by the waters of the sea, when it lashed -the shore in storms and tempest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Beyond, the shore, strewed over with -these rocks like gravestones, ascended, in form of an -amphitheater among mastic-trees and cactus, a sort of small town, -full of smoke, confused noises, and terrified movements.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All of a sudden, from the -bosom of this smoke arose a flame, which succeeded, creeping -along the houses, in covering the entire surface of the town, and -increased by degrees, uniting in its red and angry vortices -tears, screams, and supplicating arms outstretched to Heaven.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> There was, for a moment, -a frightful <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>pêle-mêle</i> of timbers -falling to pieces, of swords broken, of stones calcined, trees -burnt and disappearing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was a strange thing that in this chaos, in which Athos -distinguished raised arms, in which he heard cries, sobs, and -groans, he did not see one human figure.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cannon thundered at a distance, -musketry madly barked, the sea moaned, flocks made their escape, -bounding over the verdant slope.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But not a soldier to apply the match -to the batteries of cannon, not a sailor to assist in maneuvering -the fleet, not a shepherd in charge of the flocks.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After the ruin of the village, the -destruction of the forts which dominated it, a ruin and -destruction magically wrought without the co-operation of a -single human being, the flames were extinguished, the smoke began -to subside, then diminished in intensity, paled and disappeared -entirely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Night then came -over the scene; night dark upon the earth, brilliant in the -firmament.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The large -blazing stars which spangled the African sky glittered and -gleamed without illuminating anything.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A long silence ensued, -which gave, for a moment, repose to the troubled imagination of -Athos; and as he felt that that which he saw was not terminated, -he applied more attentively the eyes of his understanding on the -strange spectacle which his imagination had presented.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This spectacle was soon -continued for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A mild -pale moon rose behind the declivities of the coast, streaking at -first the undulating ripples of the sea, which appeared to have -calmed after the roaring it had sent forth during the vision of -Athos - the moon, we say, shed its diamonds and opals upon the -briers and bushes of the hills.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The gray rocks, so many silent and -attentive phantoms, appeared to raise their heads to examine -likewise the field of battle by the light of the moon, and Athos -perceived that the field, empty during the combat, was now strewn -with fallen bodies.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> An inexpressible shudder -of fear and horror seized his soul as he recognized the white and -blue uniforms of the soldiers of Picardy, with their long pikes -and blue handles, and muskets marked with the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fleur-de-lis</i> on the butts.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> When he saw all the gaping -wounds, looking up to the bright heavens as if to demand back of -them the souls to which they had opened a passage, - when he saw -the slaughtered horses, stiff, their tongues hanging out at one -side of their mouths, sleeping in the shiny blood congealed -around them, staining their furniture and their manes, - when he -saw the white horse of M. de Beaufort, with his head beaten to -pieces, in the first ranks of the dead, Athos passed a cold hand -over his brow, which he was astonished not to find burning.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was convinced by this touch -that he was present, as a spectator, without delirium's dreadful -aid, the day after the battle fought upon the shores of Gigelli -by the army of the expedition, which he had seen leave the coast -of France and disappear upon the dim horizon, and of which he had -saluted with thought and gesture the last cannon-shot fired by -the duke as a signal of farewell to his country.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Who can paint the mortal -agony with which his soul followed, like a vigilant eye, these -effigies of clay-cold soldiers, and examined them, one after the -other, to see if Raoul slept among them?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Who can express the intoxication of -joy with which Athos bowed before God, and thanked Him for not -having seen him he sought with so much fear among the dead?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, fallen in their -ranks, stiff, icy, the dead, still recognizable with ease, seemed -to turn with complacency towards the Comte de la Fère, to -be the better seen by him, during his sad review.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But yet, he was astonished, while -viewing all these bodies, not to perceive the survivors.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To such a point did the -illusion extend, that this vision was for him a real voyage made -by the father into Africa, to obtain more exact information -respecting his son.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Fatigued, therefore, -with having traversed seas and continents, he sought repose under -one of the tents sheltered behind a rock, on the top of which -floated the white <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fleur-de-lised</i> pennon.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked for a soldier to -conduct him to the tent of M. de Beaufort.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, while his eye was wandering -over the plain, turning on all sides, he saw a white form appear -behind the scented myrtles.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This figure was clothed in the -costume of an officer; it held in its hand a broken sword; it -advanced slowly towards Athos, who, stopping short and fixing his -eyes upon it, neither spoke nor moved, but wished to open his -arms, because in this silent officer he had already recognized -Raoul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte -attempted to utter a cry, but it was stifled in his throat.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul, with a gesture, -directed him to be silent, placing his finger on his lips and -drawing back by degrees, without Athos being able to see his legs -move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte, still -paler than Raoul, followed his son, painfully traversing briers -and bushes, stones and ditches, Raoul not appearing to touch the -earth, no obstacle seeming to impede the lightness of his -march.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte, whom -the inequalities of the path fatigued, soon stopped, -exhausted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul still -continued to beckon him to follow him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The tender father, to whom love -restored strength, made a last effort, and climbed the mountain -after the young man, who attracted him by gesture and by -smile.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At length he gained the -crest of the hill, and saw, thrown out in black, upon the horizon -whitened by the moon, the aerial form of Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos reached forth his hand to get -closer to his beloved son upon the plateau, and the latter also -stretched out his; but suddenly, as if the young man had been -drawn away in his own despite, still retreating, he left the -earth, and Athos saw the clear blue sky shine between the feet of -his child and the ground of the hill.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Raoul rose insensibly into the void, -smiling, still calling with gesture: - he departed towards -heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos uttered a -cry of tenderness and terror.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked below again.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He saw a camp destroyed, and all -those white bodies of the royal army, like so many motionless -atoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And, then, raising -his head, he saw the figure of his son still beckoning him to -climb the mystic void.</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'>The -Angel of Death.</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>thos was at this part of his marvelous vision, when the -charm was suddenly broken by a great noise rising from the outer -gates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A horse was heard -galloping over the hard gravel of the great alley, and the sound -of noisy and animated conversations ascended to the chamber in -which the comte was dreaming.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos did not stir from the place he -occupied; he scarcely turned his head towards the door to -ascertain the sooner what these noises could be.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A heavy step ascended the stairs; -the horse, which had recently galloped, departed slowly towards -the stables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Great -hesitation appeared in the steps, which by degrees approached the -chamber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A door was -opened, and Athos, turning a little towards the part of the room -the noise came from, cried, in a weak voice:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is a courier from -Africa, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No, monsieur le comte," -replied a voice which made the father of Raoul start upright in -his bed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Grimaud!" murmured -he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And the sweat began -to pour down his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Grimaud appeared in the doorway.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was no longer the Grimaud we have -seen, still young with courage and devotion, when he jumped the -first into the boat destined to convey Raoul de Bragelonne to the -vessels of the royal fleet.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> 'Twas now a stern and pale old man, -his clothes covered with dust, and hair whitened by old age.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He trembled whilst leaning -against the door-frame, and was near falling on seeing, by the -light of the lamps, the countenance of his master.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These two men who had lived so long -together in a community of intelligence, and whose eyes, -accustomed to economize expressions, knew how to say so many -things silently - these two old friends, one as noble as the -other in heart, if they were unequal in fortune and birth, -remained tongue-tied whilst looking at each other.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> By the exchange of a single glance -they had just read to the bottom of each other's hearts.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The old servitor bore upon his -countenance the impression of a grief already old, the outward -token of a grim familiarity with woe.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He appeared to have no longer in use -more than a single version of his thoughts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As formerly he was accustomed not to -speak much, he was now accustomed not to smile at all.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos read at a glance all -these shades upon the visage of his faithful servant, and in the -same tone he would have employed to speak to Raoul in his -dream:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Grimaud," said he, -"Raoul is dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>Is it not so?</i>"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Behind Grimaud the other -servants listened breathlessly, with their eyes fixed upon the -bed of their sick master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -They heard the terrible question, and a heart-breaking silence -followed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied the old -man, heaving the monosyllable from his chest with a hoarse, -broken sigh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then arose voices of -lamentation, which groaned without measure, and filled with -regrets and prayers the chamber where the agonized father sought -with his eyes the portrait of his son.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was for Athos like the -transition which led to his dream.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Without uttering a cry, without -shedding a tear, patient, mild, resigned as a martyr, he raised -his eyes towards Heaven, in order there to see again, rising -above the mountain of Gigelli, the beloved shade that was leaving -him at the moment of Grimaud's arrival.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Without doubt, while looking towards -the heavens, resuming his marvelous dream, he repassed by the -same road by which the vision, at once so terrible and sweet, had -led him before; for after having gently closed his eyes, he -reopened them and began to smile: he had just seen Raoul, who had -smiled upon him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With his -hands joined upon his breast, his face turned towards the window, -bathed by the fresh air of night, which brought upon its wings -the aroma of the flowers and the woods, Athos entered, never -again to come out of it, into the contemplation of that paradise -which the living never see.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God willed, no doubt, to open to -this elect the treasures of eternal beatitude, at this hour when -other men tremble with the idea of being severely received by the -Lord, and cling to this life they know, in the dread of the other -life of which they get but merest glimpses by the dismal murky -torch of death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos was -spirit-guided by the pure serene soul of his son, which aspired -to be like the paternal soul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Everything for this just man was -melody and perfume in the rough road souls take to return to the -celestial country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> After -an hour of this ecstasy, Athos softly raised his hands as white -as wax; the smile did not quit his lips, and he murmured low, so -low as scarcely to be audible, these three words addressed to God -or to Raoul:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "HERE I AM!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> And his hands fell -slowly, as though he himself had laid them on the bed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Death had been kind and -mild to this noble creature.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It had spared him the tortures of -the agony, convulsions of the last departure; had opened with an -indulgent finger the gates of eternity to that noble soul.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God had no doubt ordered it -thus that the pious remembrance of this death should remain in -the hearts of those present, and in the memory of other men - a -death which caused to be loved the passage from this life to the -other by those whose existence upon this earth leads them not to -dread the last judgment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Athos preserved, even in the eternal sleep, that placid and -sincere smile - an ornament which was to accompany him to the -tomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The quietude and -calm of his fine features made his servants for a long time doubt -whether he had really quitted life.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The comte's people wished to remove -Grimaud, who, from a distance, devoured the face now quickly -growing marble-pale, and did not approach, from pious fear of -bringing to him the breath of death.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Grimaud, fatigued as he was, -refused to leave the room.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He sat himself down upon the -threshold, watching his master with the vigilance of a sentinel, -jealous to receive either his first waking look or his last dying -sigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The noises all were -quiet in the house - every one respected the slumber of their -lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Grimaud, by -anxiously listening, perceived that the comte no longer -breathed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He raised -himself with his hands leaning on the ground, looked to see if -there did not appear some motion in the body of his master.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nothing!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Fear seized him; he rose completely -up, and, at the very moment, heard some one coming up the -stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A noise of spurs -knocking against a sword - a warlike sound familiar to his ears - -stopped him as he was going towards the bed of Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A voice more sonorous than brass or -steel resounded within three paces of him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Athos!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos! my friend!" cried this voice, -agitated even to tears.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur le Chevalier -d'Artagnan," faltered out Grimaud.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Where is he?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where is he?" continued the -musketeer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud seized -his arm in his bony fingers, and pointed to the bed, upon the -sheets of which the livid tints of death already showed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A choked respiration, -the opposite to a sharp cry, swelled the throat of -D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He advanced -on tip-toe, trembling, frightened at the noise his feet made on -the floor, his heart rent by a nameless agony.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He placed his ear to the breast of -Athos, his face to the comte's mouth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Neither noise, nor breath!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan drew back.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud, who had followed him -with his eyes, and for whom each of his movements had been a -revelation, came timidly; seated himself at the foot of the bed, -and glued his lips to the sheet which was raised by the stiffened -feet of his master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then -large drops began to flow from his red eyes.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This old man in invincible despair, -who wept, bent doubled without uttering a word, presented the -most touching spectacle that D'Artagnan, in a life so filled with -emotion, had ever met with.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The captain resumed -standing in contemplation before that smiling dead man, who -seemed to have burnished his last thought, to give his best -friend, the man he had loved next to Raoul, a gracious welcome -even beyond life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And for -reply to that exalted flattery of hospitality, D'Artagnan went -and kissed Athos fervently on the brow, and with his trembling -fingers closed his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Then he seated himself by the pillow without dread of that dead -man, who had been so kind and affectionate to him for five and -thirty years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was -feeding his soul with the remembrances the noble visage of the -comte brought to his mind in crowds - some blooming and charming -as that smile - some dark, dismal, and icy as that visage with -its eyes now closed to all eternity.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> All at once the bitter -flood which mounted from minute to minute invaded his heart, and -swelled his breast almost to bursting.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Incapable of mastering his emotion, -he arose, and tearing himself violently from the chamber where he -had just found dead him to whom he came to report the news of the -death of Porthos, he uttered sobs so heart-rending that the -servants, who seemed only to wait for an explosion of grief, -answered to it by their lugubrious clamors, and the dogs of the -late comte by their lamentable howlings.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud was the only one who did not -lift up his voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Even -in the paroxysm of his grief he would not have dared to profane -the dead, or for the first time disturb the slumber of his -master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Had not Athos -always bidden him be dumb?</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At daybreak D'Artagnan, -who had wandered about the lower hall, biting his fingers to -stifle his sighs - D'Artagnan went up once more; and watching the -moments when Grimaud turned his head towards him, he made him a -sign to come to him, which the faithful servant obeyed without -making more noise than a shadow.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan went down again, followed -by Grimaud; and when he had gained the vestibule, taking the old -man's hands, "Grimaud," said he, "I have seen how the father -died; now let me know about the son."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Grimaud drew from his -breast a large letter, upon the envelope of which was traced the -address of Athos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -recognized the writing of M. de Beaufort, broke the seal, and -began to read, while walking about in the first steel-chill rays -of dawn, in the dark alley of old limes, marked by the still -visible footsteps of the comte who had just died.</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'>The -Bulletin.</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 Duc de Beaufort wrote to Athos.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The letter destined for the living -only reached the dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -God had changed the address.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MY DEAR COMTE," wrote -the prince, in his large, school-boy's hand, - "a great -misfortune has struck us amidst a great triumph.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king loses one of the bravest of -soldiers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I lose a -friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You lose M. de -Bragelonne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He has died -gloriously, so gloriously that I have not the strength to weep as -I could wish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Receive my -sad compliments, my dear comte.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Heaven distributes trials according -to the greatness of our hearts.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is an immense one, but not -above your courage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Your -good friend,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'>"LE -DUC DE BEAUFORT."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The letter contained a -relation written by one of the prince's secretaries.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was the most touching recital, -and the most true, of that dismal episode which unraveled two -existences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -accustomed to battle emotions, and with a heart armed against -tenderness, could not help starting on reading the name of Raoul, -the name of that beloved boy who had become a shade now - like -his father.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the morning," said -the prince's secretary, "monseigneur commanded the attack.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Normandy and Picardy had taken -positions in the rocks dominated by the heights of the mountain, -upon the declivity of which were raised the bastions of -Gigelli.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The cannon opened the -action; the regiments marched full of resolution; the pikemen -with pikes elevated, the musket-bearers with their weapons -ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The prince -followed attentively the march and movements of the troops, so as -to be able to sustain them with a strong reserve.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> With monseigneur were the oldest -captains and his aides-de-camp.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. le Vicomte de Bragelonne had -received orders not to leave his highness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meantime the enemy's cannon, -which at first thundered with little success against the masses, -began to regulate their fire, and the balls, better directed, -killed several men near the prince.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The regiments formed in column, and, -advancing against the ramparts, were rather roughly handled.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was a sort of hesitation -in our troops, who found themselves ill-seconded by the -artillery. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In fact, the -batteries which had been established the evening before had but a -weak and uncertain aim, on account of their position.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The upward direction of the aim -lessened the justness of the shots as well as their range.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur, -comprehending the bad effect of this position on the siege -artillery, commanded the frigates moored in the little road to -commence a regular fire against the place.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Bragelonne offered himself at -once to carry this order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -But monseigneur refused to acquiesce in the vicomte's -request.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monseigneur was -right, for he loved and wished to spare the young nobleman.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was quite right, and the -event took upon itself to justify his foresight and refusal; for -scarcely had the sergeant charged with the message solicited by -M. de Bragelonne gained the seashore, when two shots from long -carbines issued from the enemy's ranks and laid him low.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The sergeant fell, dyeing the -sand with his blood; observing which, M. de Bragelonne smiled at -monseigneur, who said to him, 'You see, vicomte, I have saved -your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Report that, -some day, to M. le Comte de la Fère, in order that, -learning it from you, he may thank me.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The young nobleman smiled sadly, and -replied to the duke, 'It is true, monseigneur, that but for your -kindness I should have been killed, where the poor sergeant has -fallen, and should be at rest.'<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Bragelonne made this reply in -such a tone that monseigneur answered him warmly, '<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Vrai Dieu!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Young man, one would say that your -mouth waters for death; but, by the soul of Henry IV., I have -promised your father to bring you back alive; and, please the -Lord, I mean to keep my word.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur de -Bragelonne colored, and replied, in a lower voice, 'Monseigneur, -pardon me, I beseech you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -I have always had a desire to meet good opportunities; and it is -so delightful to distinguish ourselves before our general, -particularly when that general is M. le Duc de Beaufort.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur was a -little softened by this; and, turning to the officers who -surrounded him, gave different orders.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The grenadiers of the two regiments -got near enough to the ditches and intrenchments to launch their -grenades, which had but small effect.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the meanwhile, M. -d'Estrées, who commanded the fleet, having seen the -attempt of the sergeant to approach the vessels, understood that -he must act without orders, and opened fire.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then the Arabs, finding themselves -seriously injured by the balls from the fleet, and beholding the -destruction and the ruin of their walls, uttered the most fearful -cries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Their horsemen -descended the mountain at a gallop, bent over their saddles, and -rushed full tilt upon the columns of infantry, which, crossing -their pikes, stopped this mad assault.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Repulsed by the firm attitude of the -battalion, the Arabs threw themselves with fury towards the <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>état-major</i>, which -was not on its guard at that moment.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The danger was great; -monseigneur drew his sword; his secretaries and people imitated -him; the officers of the suite engaged in combat with the furious -Arabs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was then M. de -Bragelonne was able to satisfy the inclination he had so clearly -shown from the commencement of the action.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He fought near the prince with the -valor of a Roman, and killed three Arabs with his small -sword.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But it was evident -that his bravery did not arise from that sentiment of pride so -natural to all who fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was impetuous, affected, even forced; he sought to glut, -intoxicate himself with strife and carnage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He excited himself to such a degree -that monseigneur called to him to stop.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He must have heard the voice of -monseigneur, because we who were close to him heard it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He did not, however, stop, but -continued his course to the intrenchments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As M. de Bragelonne was a -well-disciplined officer, this disobedience to the orders of -monseigneur very much surprised everybody, and M. de Beaufort -redoubled his earnestness, crying, 'Stop, Bragelonne!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Where are you going?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stop,' repeated monseigneur, 'I -command you!'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "We all, imitating the -gesture of M. le duc, we all raised our hands.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We expected that the cavalier would -turn bridle; but M. de Bragelonne continued to ride towards the -palisades.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "'Stop, Bragelonne!' -repeated the prince, in a very loud voice, 'stop! in the name of -your father!'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At these words M. de -Bragelonne turned round; his countenance expressed a lively -grief, but he did not stop; we then concluded that his horse must -have run away with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -When M. le duc saw cause to conclude that the vicomte was no -longer master of his horse, and had watched him precede the first -grenadiers, his highness cried, 'Musketeers, kill his horse!<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A hundred pistoles for the man -who kills his horse!'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But -who could expect to hit the beast without at least wounding his -rider?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> No one dared the -attempt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At length one -presented himself; he was a sharp-shooter of the regiment of -Picardy, named Luzerne, who took aim at the animal, fired, and -hit him in the quarters, for we saw the blood redden the hair of -the horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Instead of -falling, the cursed jennet was irritated, and carried him on more -furiously than ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Every Picard who saw this unfortunate young man rushing on to -meet certain death, shouted in the loudest manner, 'Throw -yourself off, monsieur le vicomte! - off! - off! throw yourself -off!'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de Bragelonne -was an officer much beloved in the army. <span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Already had the vicomte arrived -within pistol-shot of the ramparts, when a discharge was poured -upon him that enshrouded him in fire and smoke.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We lost sight of him; the smoke -dispersed; he was on foot, upright; his horse was killed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The vicomte was -summoned to surrender by the Arabs, but he made them a negative -sign with his head, and continued to march towards the -palisades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This was a -mortal imprudence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Nevertheless the entire army was pleased that he would not -retreat, since ill-chance had led him so near.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He marched a few paces further, and -the two regiments clapped their hands.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was at this moment the second -discharge shook the walls, and the Vicomte de Bragelonne again -disappeared in the smoke; but this time the smoke dispersed in -vain; we no longer saw him standing.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was down, with his head lower -than his legs, among the bushes, and the Arabs began to think of -leaving their intrenchments to come and cut off his head or take -his body - as is the custom with the infidels.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But Monseigneur le Duc de Beaufort -had followed all this with his eyes, and the sad spectacle drew -from him many painful sighs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then cried aloud, seeing the -Arabs running like white phantoms among the mastic-trees, -'Grenadiers! lancers! will you let them take that noble -body?'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Saying these words and -waving his sword, he himself rode towards the enemy.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The regiments, rushing in his steps, -ran in their turn, uttering cries as terrible as those of the -Arabs were wild.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The combat commenced -over the body of M. de Bragelonne, and with such inveteracy was -it fought that a hundred and sixty Arabs were left upon the -field, by the side of at least fifty of our troops.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was a lieutenant from Normandy -who took the body of the vicomte on his shoulders and carried it -back to the lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -advantage was, however, pursued, the regiments took the reserve -with them, and the enemy's palisades were utterly destroyed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At three o'clock the fire of -the Arabs ceased; the hand-to-hand fight lasted two hours; it was -a massacre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At five -o'clock we were victorious at all points; the enemy had abandoned -his positions, and M. le duc ordered the white flag to be planted -on the summit of the little mountain.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was then we had time to think of -M. de Bragelonne, who had eight large wounds in his body, through -which almost all his blood had welled away.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Still, however, he had breathed, -which afforded inexpressible joy to monseigneur, who insisted on -being present at the first dressing of the wounds and the -consultation of the surgeons.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There were two among them who -declared M. de Bragelonne would live.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Monseigneur threw his arms around -their necks, and promised them a thousand louis each if they -could save him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The vicomte heard these -transports of joy, and whether he was in despair, or whether he -suffered much from his wounds, he expressed by his countenance a -contradiction, which gave rise to reflection, particularly in one -of the secretaries when he had heard what follows.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The third surgeon was the brother of -Sylvain de Saint-Cosme, the most learned of them all.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He probed the wounds in his turn, -and said nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Bragelonne fixed his eyes steadily upon the skillful surgeon, and -seemed to interrogate his every movement.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter, upon being questioned by -monseigneur, replied that he saw plainly three mortal wounds out -of eight, but so strong was the constitution of the wounded, so -rich was he in youth, and so merciful was the goodness of God, -that perhaps M. de Bragelonne might recover, particularly if he -did not move in the slightest manner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Frère Sylvain added, turning -towards his assistants, 'Above everything, do not allow him to -move, even a finger, or you will kill him;' and we all left the -tent in very low spirits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -That secretary I have mentioned, on leaving the tent, thought he -perceived a faint and sad smile glide over the lips of M. de -Bragelonne when the duke said to him, in a cheerful, kind voice, -'We will save you, vicomte, we will save you yet.'</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "In the evening, when it -was believed the wounded youth had taken some repose, one of the -assistants entered his tent, but rushed out again immediately, -uttering loud cries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> We -all ran up in disorder, M. le duc with us, and the assistant -pointed to the body of M. de Bragelonne upon the ground, at the -foot of his bed, bathed in the remainder of his blood.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It appeared that he had -suffered some convulsion, some delirium, and that he had fallen; -that the fall had accelerated his end, according to the prognosis -of Frère Sylvain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -We raised the vicomte; he was cold and dead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He held a lock of fair hair in his -right hand, and that hand was tightly pressed upon his -heart."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Then followed the -details of the expedition, and of the victory obtained over the -Arabs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan stopped -at the account of the death of poor Raoul.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!" murmured he, "unhappy boy! a -suicide!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And turning his -eyes towards the chamber of the château, in which Athos -slept in eternal sleep, "They kept their words with each other," -said he, in a low voice; "now I believe them to be happy; they -must be reunited."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he -returned through the parterre with slow and melancholy -steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the village - -all the neighborhood - were filled with grieving neighbors -relating to each other the double catastrophe, and making -preparations for the funeral.</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'>The -Last Canto of the Poem.</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 morrow, all the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>noblesse</i> of the provinces, of -the environs, and wherever messengers had carried the news, might -have been seen arriving in detachments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan had shut himself up, -without being willing to speak to anybody.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Two such heavy deaths falling upon -the captain, so closely after the death of Porthos, for a long -time oppressed that spirit which had hitherto been so -indefatigable and invulnerable.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Except Grimaud, who entered his -chamber once, the musketeer saw neither servants nor guests.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He supposed, from the noises -in the house, and the continual coming and going, that -preparations were being made for the funeral of the comte.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He wrote to the king to ask -for an extension of his leave of absence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud, as we have said, had -entered D'Artagnan's apartment, had seated himself upon a -joint-stool near the door, like a man who meditates profoundly; -then, rising, he made a sign to D'Artagnan to follow him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The latter obeyed in -silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud -descended to the comte's bed-chamber, showed the captain with his -finger the place of the empty bed, and raised his eyes eloquently -towards Heaven.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," replied -D'Artagnan, "yes, good Grimaud - now with the son he loved so -much!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Grimaud left the -chamber, and led the way to the hall, where, according to the -custom of the province, the body was laid out, previously to -being put away forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -D'Artagnan was struck at seeing two open coffins in the -hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In reply to the -mute invitation of Grimaud, he approached, and saw in one of them -Athos, still handsome in death, and, in the other, Raoul with his -eyes closed, his cheeks pearly as those of the Palls of Virgil, -with a smile on his violet lips.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He shuddered at seeing the father -and son, those two departed souls, represented on earth by two -silent, melancholy bodies, incapable of touching each other, -however close they might be.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Raoul here!" murmured -he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Grimaud, why did you not tell me -this?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Grimaud shook his head, -and made no reply; but taking D'Artagnan by the hand, he led him -to the coffin, and showed him, under the thin winding-sheet, the -black wounds by which life had escaped.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The captain turned away his eyes, -and, judging it was useless to question Grimaud, who would not -answer, he recollected that M. de Beaufort's secretary had -written more than he, D'Artagnan, had had the courage to -read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Taking up the -recital of the affair which had cost Raoul his life, he found -these words, which ended the concluding paragraph of the -letter:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monseigneur le duc has -ordered that the body of monsieur le vicomte should be embalmed, -after the manner practiced by the Arabs when they wish their dead -to be carried to their native land; and monsieur le duc has -appointed relays, so that the same confidential servant who -brought up the young man might take back his remains to M. le -Comte de la Fère."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And so," thought -D'Artagnan, "I shall follow thy funeral, my dear boy - I, already -old - I, who am of no value on earth - and I shall scatter dust -upon that brow I kissed but two months since.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> God has willed it to be so.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Thou hast willed it to be so, -thyself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have no longer -the right even to weep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Thou hast chosen death; it seemed to thee a preferable gift to -life."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At length arrived the -moment when the chill remains of these two gentlemen were to be -given back to mother earth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There was such an affluence of -military and other people that up to the place of the sepulture, -which was a little chapel on the plain, the road from the city -was filled with horsemen and pedestrians in mourning.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Athos had chosen for his -resting-place the little inclosure of a chapel erected by himself -near the boundary of his estates.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had had the stones, cut in 1550, -brought from an old Gothic manor-house in Berry, which had -sheltered his early youth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The chapel, thus rebuilt, -transported, was pleasing to the eye beneath its leafy curtains -of poplars and sycamores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It was ministered in every Sunday, by the curé of the -neighboring bourg, to whom Athos paid an allowance of two hundred -francs for this service; and all the vassals of his domain, with -their families, came thither to hear mass, without having any -occasion to go to the city.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Behind the chapel -extended, surrounded by two high hedges of hazel, elder and white -thorn, and a deep ditch, the little inclosure - uncultivated, -though gay in its sterility; because the mosses there grew thick, -wild heliotrope and ravenelles there mingled perfumes, while from -beneath an ancient chestnut issued a crystal spring, a prisoner -in its marble cistern, and on the thyme all around alighted -thousands of bees from the neighboring plants, whilst chaffinches -and redthroats sang cheerfully among the flower-spangled -hedges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was to this -place the somber coffins were carried, attended by a silent and -respectful crowd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -office of the dead being celebrated, the last adieux paid to the -noble departed, the assembly dispersed, talking, along the roads, -of the virtues and mild death of the father, of the hopes the son -had given, and of his melancholy end upon the arid coast of -Africa.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Little by little, all -noises were extinguished, like the lamps illuminating the humble -nave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The minister bowed -for the last time to the altar and the still fresh graves; then, -followed by his assistant, he slowly took the road back to the -presbytery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, -left alone, perceived that night was coming on.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had forgotten the hour, thinking -only of the dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -arose from the oaken bench on which he was seated in the chapel, -and wished, as the priest had done, to go and bid a last adieu to -the double grave which contained his two lost friends.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> A woman was praying, -kneeling on the moist earth.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan stopped at the door of -the chapel, to avoid disturbing her, and also to endeavor to find -out who was the pious friend who performed this sacred duty with -so much zeal and perseverance.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The unknown had hidden her face in -her hands, which were white as alabaster.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From the noble simplicity of her -costume, she must be a woman of distinction.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Outside the inclosure were several -horses mounted by servants; a travelling carriage was in waiting -for this lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -in vain sought to make out what caused her delay.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She continued praying, and -frequently pressed her handkerchief to her face, by which -D'Artagnan perceived she was weeping.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He beheld her strike her breast with -the compunction of a Christian woman.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He heard her several times exclaim -as from a wounded heart: "Pardon! pardon!"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And as she appeared to abandon -herself entirely to her grief, as she threw herself down, almost -fainting, exhausted by complaints and prayers, D'Artagnan, -touched by this love for his so much regretted friends, made a -few steps towards the grave, in order to interrupt the melancholy -colloquy of the penitent with the dead.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But as soon as his step sounded on -the gravel, the unknown raised her head, revealing to D'Artagnan -a face aflood with tears, a well-known face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was Mademoiselle de la -Vallière!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"Monsieur d'Artagnan!" murmured she.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You!" replied the -captain, in a stern voice, "you here! - oh! madame, I should -better have liked to see you decked with flowers in the mansion -of the Comte de la Fère.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You would have wept less - and they -too - and I!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Monsieur!" said she, -sobbing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "For it was you," added -this pitiless friend of the dead, - "it was you who sped these -two men to the grave."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! spare me!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "God forbid, madame, -that I should offend a woman, or that I should make her weep in -vain; but I must say that the place of the murderer is not upon -the grave of her victims."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She wished to reply.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "What I now tell you," -added he, coldly, "I have already told the king."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She clasped her -hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I know," said -she, "I have caused the death of the Vicomte de Bragelonne."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! you know it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The news arrived at -court yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -traveled during the night forty leagues to come and ask pardon of -the comte, whom I supposed to be still living, and to pray God, -on the tomb of Raoul, that he would send me all the misfortunes I -have merited, except a single one.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, monsieur, I know that the death -of the son has killed the father; I have two crimes to reproach -myself with; I have two punishments to expect from Heaven."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "I will repeat to you, -mademoiselle," said D'Artagnan, "what M. de Bragelonne said of -you, at Antibes, when he already meditated death: 'If pride and -coquetry have misled her, I pardon her while despising her.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If love has produced her -error, I pardon her, but I swear that no one could have loved her -as I have done.'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You know," interrupted -Louise, "that of my love I was about to sacrifice myself; you -know whether I suffered when you met me lost, dying, -abandoned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well! never -have I suffered so much as now; because then I hoped, desired, - -now I have no longer anything to wish for; because this death -drags all my joy into the tomb; because I can no longer dare to -love without remorse, and I feel that he whom I love - oh! it is -but just! - will repay me with the tortures I have made others -undergo."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan made no -reply; he was too well convinced that she was not mistaken.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Well, then," added she, -"dear Monsieur d'Artagnan, do not overwhelm me to-day, I again -implore you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am like -the branch torn from the trunk, I no longer hold to anything in -this world - a current drags me on, I know not whither.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I love madly, even to the -point of coming to tell it, wretch that I am, over the ashes of -the dead, and I do not blush for it - I have no remorse on this -account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such love is a -religion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Only, as -hereafter you will see me alone, forgotten, disdained; as you -will see me punished, as I am destined to be punished, spare me -in my ephemeral happiness, leave it to me for a few days, for a -few minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, even at -the moment I am speaking to you, perhaps it no longer -exists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> My God! this -double murder is perhaps already expiated!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> While she was speaking -thus, the sound of voices and of horses drew the attention of the -captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> M. de -Saint-Aignan came to seek La Vallière.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "The king," he said, "is a prey to -jealousy and uneasiness."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Saint-Aignan did not perceive D'Artagnan, half concealed by the -trunk of a chestnut-tree which shaded the double grave.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Louise thanked Saint-Aignan, -and dismissed him with a gesture.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He rejoined the party outside the -inclosure.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You see, madame," said -the captain bitterly to the young woman, - "you see your -happiness still lasts."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The young woman raised -her head with a solemn air.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "A day will come," said she, "when -you will repent of having so misjudged me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On that day, it is I who will pray -God to forgive you for having been unjust towards me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, I shall suffer so much that -you yourself will be the first to pity my sufferings.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do not reproach me with my fleeting -happiness, Monsieur d'Artagnan; it costs me dear, and I have not -paid all my debt."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Saying -these words, she again knelt down, softly and affectionately.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Pardon me the last -time, my affianced Raoul!" said she.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have broken our chain; we are -both destined to die of grief.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is thou who departest first; fear -nothing, I shall follow thee.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> See, only, that I have not been -base, and that I have come to bid thee this last adieu.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Lord is my witness, Raoul, -that if with my life I could have redeemed thine, I would have -given that life without hesitation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I could not give my love.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Once more, forgive me, -dearest, kindest friend."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> She strewed a few sweet -flowers on the freshly sodded earth; then, wiping the tears from -her eyes, the heavily stricken lady bowed to D'Artagnan, and -disappeared.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The captain watched the -departure of the horses, horsemen, and carriage, then crossing -his arms upon his swelling chest, "When will it be my turn to -depart?" said he, in an agitated voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What is there left for man after -youth, love, glory, friendship, strength, and wealth have -disappeared?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> That rock, -under which sleeps Porthos, who possessed all I have named; this -moss, under which repose Athos and Raoul, who possessed much -more!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He hesitated for a -moment, with a dull eye; then, drawing himself up, "Forward! -still forward!" said he.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -"When it is time, God will tell me, as he foretold the -others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He touched the earth, -moistened with the evening dew, with the ends of his fingers, -signed himself as if he had been at the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>bénitier</i> in church, and -retook alone - ever alone - the road to Paris.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style= -'font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>Epilogue.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -F</span>our years after the scene we have just described, two -horsemen, well mounted, traversed Blois early in the morning, for -the purpose of arranging a hawking party the king had arranged to -make in that uneven plain the Loire divides in two, which borders -on the one side Meung, on the other Amboise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These were the keeper of the king's -harriers and the master of the falcons, personages greatly -respected in the time of Louis XIII., but rather neglected by his -successor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The horsemen, -having reconnoitered the ground, were returning, their -observations made, when they perceived certain little groups of -soldiers, here and there, whom the sergeants were placing at -distances at the openings of the inclosures.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These were the king's -musketeers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Behind them -came, upon a splendid horse, the captain, known by his richly -embroidered uniform.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> His -hair was gray, his beard turning so.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He seemed a little bent, although -sitting and handling his horse gracefully.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was looking about him -watchfully.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "M. d'Artagnan does not -get any older," said the keeper of the harriers to his colleague -the falconer; "with ten years more to carry than either of us, he -has the seat of a young man on horseback."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "That is true," replied -the falconer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I don't -see any change in him for the last twenty years."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> But this officer was -mistaken; D'Artagnan in the last four years had lived a -dozen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Age had printed -its pitiless claws at each angle of his eyes; his brow was bald; -his hands, formerly brown and nervous, were getting white, as if -the blood had half forgotten them.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan accosted the -officers with the shade of affability which distinguishes -superiors, and received in turn for his courtesy two most -respectful bows.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! what a lucky chance -to see you here, Monsieur d'Artagnan!" cried the falconer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "It is rather I who -should say that, messieurs," replied the captain, "for nowadays, -the king makes more frequent use of his musketeers than of his -falcons."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! it is not as it was -in the good old times," sighed the falconer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Do you remember, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, when the late king flew the pie in the vineyards -beyond Beaugence?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Ah! <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>dame!</i> you were not the -captain of the musketeers at that time, Monsieur d'Artagnan."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: "Pie" in this case -refers to magpies, the prey for the falcons. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And you were nothing -but under-corporal of the tiercelets," replied D'Artagnan, -laughing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Never mind -that, it was a good time, seeing that it is always a good time -when we are young.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Good -day, monsieur the keeper of the harriers."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "You do me honor, -monsieur le comte," said the latter.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan made no reply.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The title of comte had hardly -struck him; D'Artagnan had been a comte four years.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Are you not very much -fatigued with the long journey you have taken, monsieur le -capitaine?" continued the falconer.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It must be full two hundred leagues -from hence to Pignerol."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Two hundred and sixty -to go, and as many to return," said D'Artagnan, quietly.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And," said the -falconer, "is <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>he</i> -well?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who?" asked -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Why, poor M. Fouquet," -continued the falconer, in a low voice.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The keeper of the harriers had -prudently withdrawn.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "No," replied -D'Artagnan, "the poor man frets terribly; he cannot comprehend -how imprisonment can be a favor; he says that parliament absolved -him by banishing him, and banishment is, or should be, -liberty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He cannot -imagine that they had sworn his death, and that to save his life -from the claws of parliament was to be under too much obligation -to Heaven."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah! yes; the poor man -had a close chance of the scaffold," replied the falconer; "it is -said that M. Colbert had given orders to the governor of the -Bastile, and that the execution was ordered."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Enough!" said -D'Artagnan, pensively, and with a view of cutting short the -conversation.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Yes," said the keeper -of the harriers, drawing towards them, "M. Fouquet is now at -Pignerol; he has richly deserved it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had the good fortune to be -conducted there by you; he robbed the king sufficiently."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan launched at -the master of the dogs one of his crossest looks, and said to -him, "Monsieur, if any one told me you had eaten your dogs' meat, -not only would I refuse to believe it; but still more, if you -were condemned to the lash or to jail for it, I should pity you -and would not allow people to speak ill of you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And yet, monsieur, honest man as you -may be, I assure you that you are not more so than poor M. -Fouquet was."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> After having undergone -this sharp rebuke, the keeper of the harriers hung his head, and -allowed the falconer to get two steps in advance of him nearer to -D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "He is content," said -the falconer, in a low voice, to the musketeer; "we all know that -harriers are in fashion nowadays; if he were a falconer he would -not talk in that way."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan smiled in a -melancholy manner at seeing this great political question -resolved by the discontent of such humble interest.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He for a moment ran over in his mind -the glorious existence of the surintendant, the crumbling of his -fortunes, and the melancholy death that awaited him; and to -conclude, "Did M. Fouquet love falconry?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh, passionately, -monsieur!" repeated the falconer, with an accent of bitter regret -and a sigh that was the funeral oration of Fouquet.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan allowed the -ill-humor of the one and the regret of the other to pass, and -continued to advance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -They could already catch glimpses of the huntsmen at the issue of -the wood, the feathers of the outriders passing like shooting -stars across the clearings, and the white horses skirting the -bosky thickets looking like illuminated apparitions.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "But," resumed -D'Artagnan, "will the sport last long?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Pray, give us a good swift bird, for -I am very tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is it a -heron or a swan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Both, Monsieur -d'Artagnan," said the falconer; "but you need not be alarmed; the -king is not much of a sportsman; he does not take the field on -his own account, he only wishes to amuse the ladies."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The words "to amuse the -ladies" were so strongly accented they set D'Artagnan -thinking.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said he, looking -keenly at the falconer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The keeper of the -harriers smiled, no doubt with a view of making it up with the -musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Oh! you may safely -laugh," said D'Artagnan; "I know nothing of current news; I only -arrived yesterday, after a month's absence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I left the court mourning the death -of the queen-mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -king was not willing to take any amusement after receiving the -last sigh of Anne of Austria; but everything comes to an end in -this world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well! then he -is no longer sad?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> So much -the better."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "And everything begins -as well as ends," said the keeper with a coarse laugh.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Anne of Austria did not -die until 1666, and Dumas sets the current year as 1665. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Ah!" said D'Artagnan, a -second time, - he burned to know, but dignity would not allow him -to interrogate people below him, - "there is something beginning, -then, it seems?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The keeper gave him a -significant wink; but D'Artagnan was unwilling to learn anything -from this man.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Shall we see the king -early?" asked he of the falconer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "At seven o'clock, -monsieur, I shall fly the birds."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Who comes with the -king?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How is Madame?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How is the queen?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Better, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"Has she been ill, -then?"<br> -"Monsieur, since the last chagrin she suffered, her majesty has -been unwell."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='margin-left:.5in'>"What chagrin?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You need not fancy your news -is old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have but just -returned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It appears that -the queen, a little neglected since the death of her -mother-in-law, complained to the king, who answered her, - 'Do I -not sleep at home every night, madame?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What more do you expect?'"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" said -D'Artagnan, - "poor woman!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She must heartily hate Mademoiselle -de la Vallière."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, no! not -Mademoiselle de la Vallière," replied the falconer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Who then - "<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The blast of a hunting-horn -interrupted this conversation.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It summoned the dogs and the -hawks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The falconer and -his companions set off immediately, leaving D'Artagnan alone in -the midst of the suspended sentence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king appeared at a distance, -surrounded by ladies and horsemen.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All the troop advanced in beautiful -order, at a foot's pace, the horns of various sorts animating the -dogs and horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There -was an animation in the scene, a mirage of light, of which -nothing now can give an idea, unless it be the fictitious -splendor of a theatric spectacle.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, with an eye a little, -just a little, dimmed by age, distinguished behind the group -three carriages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -first was intended for the queen; it was empty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, who did not see -Mademoiselle de la Vallière by the king's side, on looking -about for her, saw her in the second carriage.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She was alone with two of her women, -who seemed as dull as their mistress.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the left hand of the king, upon a -high-spirited horse, restrained by a bold and skillful hand, -shone a lady of most dazzling beauty.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king smiled upon her, and she -smiled upon the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Loud laughter followed every word she uttered.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I must know that -woman," thought the musketeer; "who can she be?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he stooped towards his friend, -the falconer, to whom he addressed the question he had put to -himself.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The falconer was -about to reply, when the king, perceiving D'Artagnan, "Ah, -comte!" said he, "you are amongst us once more then!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Why have I not seen you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sire," replied the -captain, "because your majesty was asleep when I arrived, and not -awake when I resumed my duties this morning."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Still the same," -said Louis, in a loud voice, denoting satisfaction.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Take some rest, comte; I command -you to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will -dine with me to-day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A murmur of -admiration surrounded D'Artagnan like a caress.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Every one was eager to salute -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dining with the king -was an honor his majesty was not so prodigal of as Henry IV. had -been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king passed a -few steps in advance, and D'Artagnan found himself in the midst -of a fresh group, among whom shone Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Good-day, Monsieur -d'Artagnan," said the minister, with marked affability, "have you -had a pleasant journey?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, monsieur," -said D'Artagnan, bowing to the neck of his horse.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I heard the king -invite you to his table for this evening," continued the -minister; "you will meet an old friend there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"An old friend of -mine?" asked D'Artagnan, plunging painfully into the dark waves -of the past, which had swallowed up for him so many friendships -and so many hatreds.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"M. le Duc -d'Alméda, who is arrived this morning from Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The Duc -d'Alméda?" said D'Artagnan, reflecting in vain.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here!" cried an -old man, white as snow, sitting bent in his carriage, which he -caused to be thrown open to make room for the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Aramis!</i>" cried D'Artagnan, -struck with profound amazement.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he felt, inert as it was, the -thin arm of the old nobleman hanging round his neck.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert, after -having observed them in silence for a few moments, urged his -horse forward, and left the two old friends together.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And so," said the -musketeer, taking Aramis's arm, "you, the exile, the rebel, are -again in France?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! and I shall -dine with you at the king's table," said Aramis, smiling.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Yes, will you not ask -yourself what is the use of fidelity in this world?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Stop! let us allow poor La -Vallière's carriage to pass.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Look, how uneasy she is!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> How her eyes, dim with tears, follow -the king, who is riding on horseback yonder!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With whom?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"With Mademoiselle -de Tonnay-Charente, now Madame de Montespan," replied Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"She is -jealous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Is she then -deserted?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Not quite yet, but -it will not be long before she <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>is</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Madame de Montespan -would oust Louise from the king's affections by 1667. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>They chatted -together, while following the sport, and Aramis's coachman drove -them so cleverly that they arrived at the instant when the -falcon, attacking the bird, beat him down, and fell upon -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king alighted; -Madame de Montespan followed his example.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were in front of an isolated -chapel, concealed by huge trees, already despoiled of their -leaves by the first cutting winds of autumn.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Behind this chapel was an inclosure, -closed by a latticed gate.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The falcon had beaten down his prey -in the inclosure belonging to this little chapel, and the king -was desirous of going in to take the first feather, according to -custom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>cortège</i> formed a circle -round the building and the hedges, too small to receive so -many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan held -back Aramis by the arm, as he was about, like the rest, to alight -from his carriage, and in a hoarse, broken voice, "Do you know, -Aramis," said he, "whither chance has conducted us?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No," replied the -duke.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Here repose men -that we knew well," said D'Artagnan, greatly agitated.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis, without -divining anything, and with a trembling step, penetrated into the -chapel by a little door which D'Artagnan opened for him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Where are they buried?" said -he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"There, in the -inclosure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> There is a -cross, you see, beneath yon little cypress.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The tree of grief is planted over -their tomb; don't go to it; the king is going that way; the heron -has fallen just there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis stopped, and -concealed himself in the shade.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They then saw, without being seen, -the pale face of La Vallière, who, neglected in her -carriage, at first looked on, with a melancholy heart, from the -door, and then, carried away by jealousy, advanced into the -chapel, whence, leaning against a pillar, she contemplated the -king smiling and making signs to Madame de Montespan to approach, -as there was nothing to be afraid of.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame de Montespan complied; she -took the hand the king held out to her, and he, plucking out the -first feather from the heron, which the falconer had strangled, -placed it in his beautiful companion's hat.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> She, smiling in her turn, kissed the -hand tenderly which made her this present.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king grew scarlet with vanity -and pleasure; he looked at Madame de Montespan with all the fire -of new love.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What will you give -me in exchange?" said he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>She broke off a -little branch of cypress and offered it to the king, who looked -intoxicated with hope.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Humph!" said -Aramis to D'Artagnan; "the present is but a sad one, for that -cypress shades a tomb."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, and the tomb -is that of Raoul de Bragelonne," said D'Artagnan aloud; "of -Raoul, who sleeps under that cross with his father."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>A groan resounded - -they saw a woman fall fainting to the ground.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Mademoiselle de la Vallière -had seen all, heard all.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Poor woman!" -muttered D'Artagnan, as he helped the attendants to carry back to -her carriage the lonely lady whose lot henceforth in life was -suffering.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>That evening -D'Artagnan was seated at the king's table, near M. Colbert and M. -le Duc d'Alméda.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The king was very gay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He -paid a thousand little attentions to the queen, a thousand -kindnesses to Madame, seated at his left hand, and very sad.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It might have been supposed -that time of calm when the king was wont to watch his mother's -eyes for the approval or disapproval of what he had just -done.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Of mistresses there -was no question at this dinner.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king addressed Aramis two or -three times, calling him M. l'ambassadeur, which increased the -surprise already felt by D'Artagnan at seeing his friend the -rebel so marvelously well received at court.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king, on rising -from table, gave his hand to the queen, and made a sign to -Colbert, whose eye was on his master's face.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert took D'Artagnan and Aramis -on one side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king -began to chat with his sister, whilst Monsieur, very uneasy, -entertained the queen with a preoccupied air, without ceasing to -watch his wife and brother from the corner of his eye.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The conversation between -Aramis, D'Artagnan, and Colbert turned upon indifferent -subjects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They spoke of -preceding ministers; Colbert related the successful tricks of -Mazarin, and desired those of Richelieu to be related to -him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan could not -overcome his surprise at finding this man, with his heavy -eyebrows and low forehead, display so much sound knowledge and -cheerful spirits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -was astonished at that lightness of character which permitted -this serious man to retard with advantage the moment for more -important conversation, to which nobody made any allusion, -although all three interlocutors felt its imminence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was very plain, from the -embarrassed appearance of Monsieur, how much the conversation of -the king and Madame annoyed him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame's eyes were almost red: was -she going to complain?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Was she going to expose a little scandal in open court?<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king took her on one side, -and in a tone so tender that it must have reminded the princess -of the time when she was loved for herself:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Sister," said he, -"why do I see tears in those lovely eyes?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why - sire - " -said she.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur is -jealous, is he not, sister?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>She looked towards -Monsieur, an infallible sign that they were talking about -him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," said -she.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen to me," -said the king; "if your friends compromise you, it is not -Monsieur's fault."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>He spoke these -words with so much kindness that Madame, encouraged, having borne -so many solitary griefs so long, was nearly bursting into tears, -so full was her heart.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Come, come, dear -little sister," said the king, "tell me your griefs; on the word -of a brother, I pity them; on the word of a king, I will put an -end to them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>She raised her -glorious eyes and, in a melancholy tone:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is not my -friends who compromise me," said she; "they are either absent or -concealed; they have been brought into disgrace with your -majesty; they, so devoted, so good, so loyal!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You say this on -account of De Guiche, whom I have exiled, at Monsieur's -desire?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And who, since -that unjust exile, has endeavored to get himself killed once -every day."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Unjust, say you, -sister?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So unjust, that if -I had not had the respect mixed with friendship that I have -always entertained for your majesty - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I would have asked my brother -Charles, upon whom I can always - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>The king -started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "What, -then?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I would have asked -him to have had it represented to you that Monsieur and his -favorite M. le Chevalier de Lorraine ought not with impunity to -constitute themselves the executioners of my honor and my -happiness."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The Chevalier de -Lorraine," said the king; "that dismal fellow?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is my mortal -enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Whilst that man -lives in my household, where Monsieur retains him and delegates -his power to him, I shall be the most miserable woman in the -kingdom."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So," said the -king, slowly, "you call your brother of England a better friend -than I am?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Actions speak for -themselves, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you would -prefer going to ask assistance there - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To my own -country!" said she with pride; "yes, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You are the -grandchild of Henry IV. as well as myself, lady.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Cousin and brother-in-law, does not -that amount pretty well to the title of brother-germain?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then," said -Henrietta, "act!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us form an -alliance."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Begin."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have, you say, -unjustly exiled De Guiche."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! yes," said -she, blushing.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"De Guiche shall -return."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: De Guiche would not -return to court until 1671. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So far, well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And now you say -that I do wrong in having in your household the Chevalier de -Lorraine, who gives Monsieur ill advice respecting you?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Remember well what -I tell you, sire; the Chevalier de Lorraine some day - Observe, -if ever I come to a dreadful end, I beforehand accuse the -Chevalier de Lorraine; he has a spirit that is capable of any -crime!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The Chevalier de -Lorraine shall no longer annoy you - I promise you that."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Madame did die of poison -in 1670, shortly after returning from the mission described -later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Chevalier de -Lorraine had actually been ordered out of France in 1662. - -JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then that will be -a true preliminary of alliance, sire, - I sign; but since you -have done your part, tell me what shall be mine."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Instead of -embroiling me with your brother Charles, you must make him a more -intimate friend than ever."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is very -easy."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! not quite so -easy as you may suppose, for in ordinary friendship people -embrace or exercise hospitality, and that only costs a kiss or a -return, profitable expenses; but in political friendship - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! it's a -political friendship, is it?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes, my sister; -and then, instead of embraces and feasts, it is soldiers - it is -soldiers all alive and well equipped - that we must serve up to -our friends; vessels we must offer, all armed with cannons and -stored with provisions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It hence results that we have not always coffers in a fit -condition for such friendships."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! you are quite -right," said Madame; "the coffers of the king of England have -been sonorous for some time."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"But you, my -sister, who have so much influence over your brother, you can -secure more than an ambassador could ever get the promise -of."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To effect that I -must go to London, my dear brother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have thought -so," replied the king, eagerly; "and I have said to myself that -such a voyage would do your health and spirits good."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Only," interrupted -Madame, "it is possible I should fail.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king of England has dangerous -counselors."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Counselors, do you -say?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Precisely.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> If, by chance, your majesty -had any intention - I am only supposing so - of asking Charles -II. his alliance in a war - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A war?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes; well! then -the king's counselors, who are in number seven - Mademoiselle -Stewart, Mademoiselle Wells, Mademoiselle Gwyn, Miss Orchay, -Mademoiselle Zunga, Miss Davies, and the proud Countess of -Castlemaine - will represent to the king that war costs a great -deal of money; that it is better to give balls and suppers at -Hampton Court than to equip ships of the line at Portsmouth and -Greenwich."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And then your -negotiations will fail?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! those ladies -cause all negotiations to fall through which they don't make -themselves."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Do you know the -idea that has struck me, sister?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No; inform me what -it is."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is that, -searching well around you, you might perhaps find a female -counselor to take with you to your brother, whose eloquence might -paralyze the ill-will of the seven others."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is really an -idea, sire, and I will search."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You will find what -you want."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I hope so."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"A pretty -ambassadress is necessary; an agreeable face is better than an -ugly one, is it not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Most -assuredly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"An animated, -lively, audacious character."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Certainly."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Nobility; that is, -enough to enable her to approach the king without awkwardness - -not too lofty, so as not to trouble herself about the dignity of -her race."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Very true."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And who knows a -little English."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"<i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>Mon Dieu!</i> why, some one," cried -Madame, "like Mademoiselle de Kéroualle, for -instance!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! why, yes!" -said Louis XIV.; "you have hit the mark, - it is you who have -found, my sister."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will take her; -she will have no cause to complain, I suppose."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! no, I will -name her <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>séductrice -plénipotentiaire</i> at once, and will add a dowry to the -title."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is well."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I fancy you -already on your road, my dear little sister, consoled for all -your griefs."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will go, on two -conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The first is, -that I shall know what I am negotiating about."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is it.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The Dutch, you know, insult me -daily in their gazettes, and by their republican attitude.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I do not like republics."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That may easily be -imagined, sire."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I see with pain -that these kings of the sea - they call themselves so - keep -trade from France in the Indies, and that their vessels will soon -occupy all the ports of Europe.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Such a power is too near me, -sister."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They are your -allies, nevertheless."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is why they -were wrong in having the medal you have heard of struck; a medal -which represents Holland stopping the sun, as Joshua did, with -this legend: <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>The sun had -stopped before me</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -There is not much fraternity in that, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>is</i> there?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I thought you had -forgotten that miserable episode?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I never forget -anything, sister.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And if -my true friends, such as your brother Charles, are willing to -second me - "<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -princess remained pensively silent.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Listen to me; -there is the empire of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -the seas to be shared," said Louis XIV.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "For this partition, which England -submits to, could I not represent the second party as well as the -Dutch?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We have -Mademoiselle de Kéroualle to treat that question," replied -Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Your second -condition for going, if you please, sister?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"The consent of -Monsieur, my husband."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"You shall have -it."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then consider me -already gone, brother."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>On hearing these -words, Louis XIV. turned round towards the corner of the room in -which D'Artagnan, Colbert, and Aramis stood, and made an -affirmative sign to his minister.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert then broke in on the -conversation suddenly, and said to Aramis:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -l'ambassadeur, shall we talk about business?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan -immediately withdrew, from politeness.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He directed his steps towards the -fireplace, within hearing of what the king was about to say to -Monsieur, who, evidently uneasy, had gone to him.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The face of the king was -animated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Upon his brow -was stamped a strength of will, the expression of which already -met no further contradiction in France, and was soon to meet no -more in Europe.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -the king to his brother, "I am not pleased with M. le Chevalier -de Lorraine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You, who do -him the honor to protect him, must advise him to travel for a few -months."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>These words fell -with the crush of an avalanche upon Monsieur, who adored his -favorite, and concentrated all his affections in him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In what has the -chevalier been inconsiderate enough to displease your majesty?" -cried he, darting a furious look at Madame.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will tell you -that when he is gone," said the king, suavely.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And also when Madame, here, shall -have crossed over into England."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Madame! in -England!" murmured Monsieur, in amazement.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"In a week, -brother," continued the king, "whilst <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>we</i> will go whither I will -shortly tell you."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And -the king turned on his heel, smiling in his brother's face, to -sweeten, as it were, the bitter draught he had given him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>During this time -Colbert was talking with the Duc d'Alméda.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -Colbert to Aramis, "this is the moment for us to come to an -understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have -made your peace with the king, and I owed that clearly to a man -of so much merit; but as you have often expressed friendship for -me, an opportunity presents itself for giving me a proof of -it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You are, besides, -more a Frenchman than a Spaniard.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Shall we secure - answer me frankly -- the neutrality of Spain, if we undertake anything against the -United Provinces?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," replied -Aramis, "the interest of Spain is clear.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> To embroil Europe with the Provinces -would doubtless be our policy, but the king of France is an ally -of the United Provinces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -You are not ignorant, besides, that it would infer a maritime -war, and that France is in no state to undertake this with -advantage."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert, turning -round at this moment, saw D'Artagnan who was seeking some -interlocutor, during this "aside" of the king and Monsieur.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He called him, at the same -time saying in a low voice to Aramis, "We may talk openly with -D'Artagnan, I suppose?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh! certainly," -replied the ambassador.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We were saying, M. -d'Alméda and I," said Colbert, "that a conflict with the -United Provinces would mean a maritime war."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That's evident -enough," replied the musketeer.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And what do you -think of it, Monsieur d'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I think that to -carry on such a war successfully, you must have very large land -forces."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"What did you say?" -said Colbert, thinking he had ill understood him.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Why such a large -land army?" said Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Because the king -will be beaten by sea if he has not the English with him, and -that when beaten by sea, he will soon be invaded, either by the -Dutch in his ports, or by the Spaniards by land."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And Spain -neutral?" asked Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Neutral as long as -the king shall prove stronger," rejoined D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert admired -that sagacity which never touched a question without enlightening -it thoroughly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis -smiled, as he had long known that in diplomacy D'Artagnan -acknowledged no superior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Colbert, who, like all proud men, dwelt upon his fantasy with a -certainty of success, resumed the subject, "Who told you, M. -d'Artagnan, that the king had no navy?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I take no heed of these details," -replied the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I -am but an indifferent sailor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Like all nervous people, I hate the -sea; and yet I have an idea that, with ships, France being a -seaport with two hundred exits, we <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>might</i> have sailors."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert drew from -his pocket a little oblong book divided into two columns.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> On the first were the names of -vessels, on the other the figures recapitulating the number of -cannon and men requisite to equip these ships.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have had the same idea as you," -said he to D'Artagnan, "and I have had an account drawn up of the -vessels we have altogether - thirty-five ships."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Thirty-five ships! -impossible!" cried D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Something like two -thousand pieces of cannon," said Colbert.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "That is what the king possesses at -this moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Of five and -thirty vessels we can make three squadrons, but I must have -five."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Five!" cried -Aramis.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"They will be -afloat before the end of the year, gentlemen; the king will have -fifty ship of the line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -We may venture on a contest with them, may we not?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"To build vessels," -said D'Artagnan, "is difficult, but possible.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As to arming them, how is that to be -done?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In France there are -neither foundries nor military docks."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bah!" replied -Colbert, in a bantering tone, "I have planned all that this year -and a half past, did you not know it?<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Do you know M. d'Imfreville?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"D'Imfreville?" -replied D'Artagnan; "no."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is a man I have -discovered; he has a specialty; he is a man of genius - he knows -how to set men to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -It is he who has cast cannon and cut the woods of Bourgogne.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And then, monsieur -l'ambassadeur, you may not believe what I am going to tell you, -but I have a still further idea."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Oh, monsieur!" -said Aramis, civilly, "I always believe you."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Calculating upon -the character of the Dutch, our allies, I said to myself, 'They -are merchants, they are friendly with the king; they will be -happy to sell to the king what they fabricate for themselves; -then the more we buy' - Ah!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I must add this: I have Forant - do -you know Forant, D'Artagnan?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert, in his -warmth, forgot himself; he called the captain simply <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>D'Artagnan</i>, as the king -did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the captain only -smiled at it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No," replied he, -"I do not know him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is another -man I have discovered, with a genius for buying.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This Forant has purchased for me -350,000 pounds of iron in balls, 200,000 pounds of powder, twelve -cargoes of Northern timber, matches, grenades, pitch, tar - I -know not what! with a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -saving of seven per cent upon what all those articles would cost -me fabricated in France."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is a capital -and quaint idea," replied D'Artagnan, "to have Dutch cannon-balls -cast which will return to the Dutch."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Is it not, with -loss, too?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And Colbert -laughed aloud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was -delighted with his own joke.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Still further," -added he, "these same Dutch are building for the king, at this -moment, six vessels after the model of the best of their -name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Destouches - Ah! -perhaps you don't know Destouches?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"No, monsieur."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"He is a man who -has a sure glance to discern, when a ship is launched, what are -the defects and qualities of that ship - that is valuable, -observe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Nature is truly -whimsical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Well, this -Destouches appeared to me to be a man likely to prove useful in -marine affairs, and he is superintending the construction of six -vessels of seventy-eight guns, which the Provinces are building -for his majesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It -results from this, my dear Monsieur d'Artagnan, that the king, if -he wished to quarrel with the Provinces, would have a very pretty -fleet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, you know -better than anybody else if the land army is efficient."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan and -Aramis looked at each other, wondering at the mysterious labors -this man had undertaken in so short a time.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert understood them, and was -touched by this best of flatteries.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If we, in France, -were ignorant of what was going on," said D'Artagnan, "out of -France still less must be known."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"That is why I told -monsieur l'ambassadeur," said Colbert, "that, Spain promising its -neutrality, England helping us - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"If England assists -you," said Aramis, "I promise the neutrality of Spain."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I take you at your -word," Colbert hastened to reply with his blunt <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>bonhomie</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>à propos</i> of Spain, you -have not the 'Golden Fleece,' Monsieur d'Alméda.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I heard the king say the other -day that he should like to see you wear the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>grand cordon</i> of St. -Michael."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Aramis bowed.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Oh!" thought D'Artagnan, "and -Porthos is no longer here!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> What ells of ribbons would there be -for him in these <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>largesses!</i><span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Dear Porthos!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur -d'Artagnan," resumed Colbert, "between us two, you will have, I -wager, an inclination to lead your musketeers into Holland.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Can you swim?"<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> And he laughed like a man in high -good humor.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Like an eel," -replied D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah! but there are -some bitter passages of canals and marshes yonder, Monsieur -d'Artagnan, and the best swimmers are sometimes drowned -there."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"It is my -profession to die for his majesty," said the musketeer.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "Only, as it is seldom in war -that much water is met with without a little fire, I declare to -you beforehand, that I will do my best to choose fire.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am getting old; water -freezes me - but fire warms, Monsieur Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>And D'Artagnan -looked so handsome still in quasi-juvenile strength as he -pronounced these words, that Colbert, in his turn, could not help -admiring him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -perceived the effect he had produced.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He remembered that the best -tradesman is he who fixes a high price upon his goods, when they -are valuable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He prepared -his price in advance.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"So, then," said -Colbert, "we go into Holland?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Yes," replied -D'Artagnan; "only - "</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Only?" said M. -Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Only," repeated -D'Artagnan, "there lurks in everything the question of interest, -the question of self-love.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It is a very fine title, that of -captain of the musketeers; but observe this: we have now the -king's guards and the military household of the king.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A captain of musketeers ought to -command all that, and then he would absorb a hundred thousand -livres a year for expenses."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! but do you -suppose the king would haggle with you?" said Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Eh! monsieur, you -have not understood me," replied D'Artagnan, sure of carrying his -point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I was telling you -that I, an old captain, formerly chief of the king's guard, -having precedence of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>maréchaux</i> of France - I -saw myself one day in the trenches with two other equals, the -captain of the guards and the colonel commanding the Swiss.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Now, at no price will I suffer -that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have old habits, -and I will stand or fall by them."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>Colbert felt this -blow, but he was prepared for it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I have been -thinking of what you said just now," replied he.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"About what, -monsieur?"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"We were speaking -of canals and marshes in which people are drowned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Well! if they are -drowned, it is for want of a boat, a plank, or a stick."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Of a stick, -however short it may be," said D'Artagnan.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Exactly," said -Colbert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "And, therefore, -I never heard of an instance of a <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>maréchal</i> of France being -drowned."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan became -very pale with joy, and in a not very firm voice, "People would -be very proud of me in my country," said he, "if I were a <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>maréchal</i> of France; -but a man must have commanded an expedition in chief to obtain -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bâton</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur!" said -Colbert, "here is in this pocket-book which you will study, a -plan of campaign you will have to lead a body of troops to carry -out in the next spring."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in;tab-stops:155.25pt'> -<span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: This particular campaign -did not actually occur until 1673. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>D'Artagnan took the -book, tremblingly, and his fingers meeting those of Colbert, the -minister pressed the hand of the musketeer loyally.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Monsieur," said -he, "we had both a revenge to take, one over the other.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I have begun; it is now your -turn!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"I will do you -justice, monsieur," replied D'Artagnan, "and implore you to tell -the king that the first opportunity that shall offer, he may -depend upon a victory, or to behold me dead - <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>or both</i>."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Then I will have -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fleurs-de-lis</i> for -your <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>maréchal's -bâton</i> prepared immediately," said Colbert.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>On the morrow, -Aramis, who was setting out for Madrid, to negotiate the -neutrality of Spain, came to embrace D'Artagnan at his hotel.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Let us love each -other for four," said D'Artagnan.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "We are now but two."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"And you will, -perhaps, never see me again, dear D'Artagnan," said Aramis; "if -you knew how I have loved you!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I am old, I am extinct - ah, I am -almost dead."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"My friend," said -D'Artagnan, "you will live longer than I shall: diplomacy -commands you to live; but, for my part, honor condemns me to -die."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Bah! such men as -we are, monsieur le maréchal," said Aramis, "only die -satisfied with joy in glory."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>"Ah!" replied -D'Artagnan, with a melancholy smile, "I assure you, monsieur le -duc, I feel very little appetite for either."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" style='text-indent:.5in'>They once more -embraced, and, two hours after, separated - forever.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'> -<span style='font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'>The -Death of D'Artagnan.</span></p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt'><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span></span> <span style= -'font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Black-Chance'> -C</span>ontrary to that which generally happens, whether in -politics or morals, each kept his promises, and did honor to his -engagements.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The king recalled M. de -Guiche, and banished M. le Chevalier de Lorraine; so that -Monsieur became ill in consequence.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Madame set out for London, where she -applied herself so earnestly to make her brother, Charles II., -acquire a taste for the political counsels of Mademoiselle de -Kéroualle, that the alliance between England and France -was signed, and the English vessels, ballasted by a few millions -of French gold, made a terrible campaign against the fleets of -the United Provinces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Charles II. had promised Mademoiselle de Kéroualle a -little gratitude for her good counsels; he made her Duchess of -Portsmouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Colbert had -promised the king vessels, munitions, victories.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He kept his word, as is well -known.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> At length Aramis, -upon whose promises there was least dependence to be placed, -wrote Colbert the following letter, on the subject of the -negotiations which he had undertaken at Madrid:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MONSIEUR COLBERT, - I -have the honor to expedite to you the R. P. Oliva, general <i -style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>ad interim</i> of the Society -of Jesus, my provisional successor.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The reverend father will explain to -you, Monsieur Colbert, that I preserve to myself the direction of -all the affairs of the order which concern France and Spain; but -that I am not willing to retain the title of general, which would -throw too high a side-light on the progress of the negotiations -with which His Catholic Majesty wishes to intrust me.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I shall resume that title by the -command of his majesty, when the labors I have undertaken in -concert with you, for the great glory of God and His Church, -shall be brought to a good end.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The R. P. Oliva will inform you -likewise, monsieur, of the consent His Catholic Majesty gives to -the signature of a treaty which assures the neutrality of Spain -in the event of a war between France and the United -Provinces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This consent -will be valid even if England, instead of being active, should -satisfy herself with remaining neutral.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> As for Portugal, of which you and I -have spoken, monsieur, I can assure you it will contribute with -all its resources to assist the Most Christian King in his -war.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I beg you, Monsieur -Colbert, to preserve your friendship and also to believe in my -profound attachment, and to lay my respect at the feet of His -Most Christian Majesty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -Signed,</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'>"LE -DUC D'ALMÉDA."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: Jean-Paul Oliva was the -actual general of the Jesuits from 1664-1681. - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Aramis had performed -more than he had promised; it remained to be seen how the king, -M. Colbert, and D'Artagnan would be faithful to each other.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In the spring, as Colbert had -predicted, the land army entered on its campaign.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It preceded, in magnificent order, -the court of Louis XIV., who, setting out on horseback, -surrounded by carriages filled with ladies and courtiers, -conducted the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>élite</i> of his kingdom to -this sanguinary <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fête</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officers of the army, it is -true, had no other music save the artillery of the Dutch forts; -but it was enough for a great number, who found in this war -honor, advancement, fortune - or death.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. d'Artagnan set out -commanding a body of twelve thousand men, cavalry, and infantry, -with which he was ordered to take the different places which form -knots of that strategic network called La Frise.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never was an army conducted more -gallantly to an expedition.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The officers knew that their leader, -prudent and skillful as he was brave, would not sacrifice a -single man, nor yield an inch of ground without necessity.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He had the old habits of war, -to live upon the country, keeping his soldiers singing and the -enemy weeping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -captain of the king's musketeers well knew his business.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Never were opportunities -better chosen, <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coups-de-main</i> better supported, -errors of the besieged more quickly taken advantage of.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> The army commanded by -D'Artagnan took twelve small places within a month.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was engaged in besieging the -thirteenth, which had held out five days.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan caused the trenches to be -opened without appearing to suppose that these people would ever -allow themselves to be taken.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The pioneers and laborers were, in -the army of this man, a body full of ideas and zeal, because -their commander treated them like soldiers, knew how to render -their work glorious, and never allowed them to be killed if he -could help it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It should -have been seen with what eagerness the marshy glebes of Holland -were turned over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Those -turf-heaps, mounds of potter's clay, melted at the word of the -soldiers like butter in the frying-pans of Friesland -housewives.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. d'Artagnan dispatched -a courier to the king to give him an account of the last success, -which redoubled the good humor of his majesty and his inclination -to amuse the ladies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -These victories of M. d'Artagnan gave so much majesty to the -prince, that Madame de Montespan no longer called him anything -but Louis the Invincible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -So that Mademoiselle de la Vallière, who only called the -king Louis the Victorious, lost much of his majesty's favor.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Besides, her eyes were -frequently red, and to an Invincible nothing is more disagreeable -than a mistress who weeps while everything is smiling round -her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The star of -Mademoiselle de la Vallière was being drowned in clouds -and tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But the gayety -of Madame de Montespan redoubled with the successes of the king, -and consoled him for every other unpleasant circumstance.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was to D'Artagnan the king -owed this; and his majesty was anxious to acknowledge these -services; he wrote to M. Colbert:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MONSIEUR COLBERT, - We -have a promise to fulfil with M. d'Artagnan, who so well keeps -his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is to inform -you that the time is come for performing it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> All provisions for this purpose you -shall be furnished with in due time.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -LOUIS."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> In consequence of this, -Colbert, detaining D'Artagnan's envoy, placed in the hands of -that messenger a letter from himself, and a small coffer of ebony -inlaid with gold, not very important in appearance, but which, -without doubt, was very heavy, as a guard of five men was given -to the messenger, to assist him in carrying it.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> These people arrived before the -place which D'Artagnan was besieging towards daybreak, and -presented themselves at the lodgings of the general.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They were told that M. d'Artagnan, -annoyed by a sortie which the governor, an artful man, had made -the evening before, and in which the works had been destroyed and -seventy-seven men killed, and the reparation of the breaches -commenced, had just gone with twenty companies of grenadiers to -reconstruct the works.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> M. Colbert's envoy had -orders to go and seek M. d'Artagnan, wherever he might be, or at -whatever hour of the day or night.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He directed his course, therefore, -towards the trenches, followed by his escort, all on -horseback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They perceived -M. d'Artagnan in the open plain, with his gold-laced hat, his -long cane, and gilt cuffs.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He was biting his white mustache, -and wiping off, with his left hand, the dust which the passing -balls threw up from the ground they plowed so near him.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> They also saw, amidst this -terrible fire, which filled the air with whistling hisses, -officers handling the shovel, soldiers rolling barrows, and vast -fascines, rising by being either carried or dragged by from ten -to twenty men, cover the front of the trench reopened to the -center by this extraordinary effort of the general.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> In three hours, all was -reinstated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan -began to speak more mildly; and he became quite calm when the -captain of the pioneers approached him, hat in hand, to tell him -that the trench was again in proper order.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This man had scarcely finished -speaking, when a ball took off one of his legs, and he fell into -the arms of D'Artagnan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> -The latter lifted up his soldier, and quietly, with soothing -words, carried him into the trench, amidst the enthusiastic -applause of the regiments.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> From that time it was no longer a -question of valor - the army was delirious; two companies stole -away to the advanced posts, which they instantly destroyed.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> When their comrades, -restrained with great difficulty by D'Artagnan, saw them lodged -upon the bastions, they rushed forward likewise; and soon a -furious assault was made upon the counterscarp, upon which -depended the safety of the place.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan perceived there was only -one means left of checking his army - to take the place.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He directed all his force to -the two breaches, where the besieged were busy in repairing.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The shock was terrible; -eighteen companies took part in it, and D'Artagnan went with the -rest, within half cannon-shot of the place, to support the attack -by <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>échelons</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The cries of the Dutch, who were -being poniarded upon their guns by D'Artagnan's grenadiers, were -distinctly audible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The -struggle grew fiercer with the despair of the governor, who -disputed his position foot by foot.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan, to put an end to the -affair, and to silence the fire, which was unceasing, sent a -fresh column, which penetrated like a very wedge; and he soon -perceived upon the ramparts, through the fire, the terrified -flight of the besieged, pursued by the besiegers.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> At this moment the -general, breathing feely and full of joy, heard a voice behind -him, saying, "Monsieur, if you please, from M. Colbert."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> He broke the seal of the -letter, which contained these words:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "MONSIEUR D'ARTAGNAN: - -The king commands me to inform you that he has nominated you -maréchal of France, as a reward for your magnificent -services, and the honor you do to his arms.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> The king is highly pleased, -monsieur, with the captures you have made; he commands you, in -particular, to finish the siege you have commenced, with good -fortune to you, and success for him."</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was standing -with a radiant countenance and sparkling eye.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He looked up to watch the progress -of his troops upon the walls, still enveloped in red and black -volumes of smoke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "I have -finished," replied he to the messenger; "the city will have -surrendered in a quarter of an hour."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He then resumed his reading:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "The <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coffret</i>, Monsieur d'Artagnan, is -my own present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> You will -not be sorry to see that, whilst you warriors are drawing the -sword to defend the king, I am moving the pacific arts to -ornament a present worthy of you.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> I commend myself to your friendship, -monsieur le maréchal, and beg you to believe in mine.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style='text-align:right'> -COLBERT"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan, intoxicated -with joy, made a sign to the messenger, who approached, with his -<i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coffret</i> in his -hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> But at the moment -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>maréchal</i> -was going to look at it, a loud explosion resounded from the -ramparts, and called his attention towards the city.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> "It is strange," said D'Artagnan, -"that I don't yet see the king's flag on the walls, or hear the -drums beat the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>chamade</i>."<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> He launched three hundred fresh men, -under a high-spirited officer, and ordered another breach to be -made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, more -tranquilly, he turned towards the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coffret</i>, which Colbert's envoy -held out to him. - It was his treasure - he had won it.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> D'Artagnan was holding -out his hand to open the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coffret</i>, when a ball from the -city crushed the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>coffret</i> in the arms of the -officer, struck D'Artagnan full in the chest, and knocked him -down upon a sloping heap of earth, whilst the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>fleur-de-lised bâton</i>, -escaping from the broken box, came rolling under the powerless -hand of the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>maréchal</i>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> D'Artagnan endeavored to raise -himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> It was thought -he had been knocked down without being wounded.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> A terrible cry broke from the group -of terrified officers; the <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style: normal'>maréchal</i> was covered -with blood; the pallor of death ascended slowly to his noble -countenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Leaning upon -the arms held out on all sides to receive him, he was able once -more to turn his eyes towards the place, and to distinguish the -white flag at the crest of the principal bastion; his ears, -already deaf to the sounds of life, caught feebly the rolling of -the drum which announced the victory.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Then, clasping in his nerveless hand -the <i style='mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>bâton</i>, -ornamented with its <i style= -'mso-bidi-font-style:normal'>fleurs-de-lis</i>, he cast on it his -eyes, which had no longer the power of looking upwards towards -Heaven, and fell back, murmuring strange words, which appeared to -the soldiers cabalistic - words which had formerly represented so -many things on earth, and which none but the dying man any longer -comprehended:</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> "Athos - Porthos, -farewell till we meet again!<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Aramis, adieu forever!"</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal"><span style= -'mso-tab-count:1'> </span> Of the four valiant men -whose history we have related, there now remained but one.<span -style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> Heaven had taken to itself -three noble souls.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">Transcriber's note: In earlier editions, the -last line reads, "Of the four valiant men whose history we have -related, there now no longer remained but one single body; God -had resumed the souls." - JB</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style='text-align:center'>End -of <u>The Man in the Iron Mask</u>.<span style= -"mso-spacerun: yes"> </span> This is the last text in the -series.</p> - -<p class="MsoNormal">End of Project Gutenberg Etext The Man in -the Iron Mask, by Alexandre Dumas, Pere</p> -</div> -</body> -</html> - - |