"
That was his last word. He waited for no reply, but swung round
on his heel, and an instant later I beheld him deep in conversation
with the Duke of Saint-Simon. Of such a quality is the love of
princes - vain, capricious, and wilful. Indulge it ever and at any
cost, else you forfeit it.
I turned away with a sigh, for in spite of all his weaknesses and
meannesses I loved this cardinal-ridden king, and would have died
for him had the need occurred, as well he knew. But in this matter
--well, I accounted my honour involved, and there was now no
turning back save by the payment of my wager and the acknowledgment
of defeat.
CHAPTER III
RENE DE LESPERON
That very day I set out. For since the King was opposed to the
affair, and knowing the drastic measures by which he was wont to
enforce what he desired, I realized that did I linger he might
find a way definitely to prevent my going.
I travelled in a coach, attended by two lacqueys and a score of
men-at-arms in my own livery, all commanded by Ganymede. My
intendant himself came in another coach with my wardrobe and
travelling necessaries. We were a fine and almost regal cortege
as we passed down the rue de l'Enfer and quitted Paris by the
Orleans gate, taking the road south. So fine a cortege, indeed,
that it entered my mind. His Majesty would come to hear of it,
and, knowing my destination, send after me to bring me back. To
evade such a possibility, I ordered a divergence to be made, and
we struck east and into Touraine.
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