"There are those who call Mazarin a niggard," said he, still smiling,
"but there will be at least one to hold him a good paymaster. You have
done your share, De Lalande, and now I will do mine. There, go now;
you must be anxious to see your parents. Some day I may need your
services again."

* * * * *

I suppose that the story of my adventures really ends with my dismissal
from the Cardinal's room, but there are a few matters on which my
readers may like a little further information.

I need not dwell on my reception at home; of my father's pride, of my
mother's unfeigned joy as she kissed and embraced me; nor is it
necessary to add that the Cardinal was as good as his word, and that
Vancey has long since been once again in the possession of the De
Lalandes. I may, however, say a word or two about those whose
acquaintance I made during that stirring period of my life.

Lautrec, of the gorgeous attire, followed the fortunes of Conde and was
slain outside Bordeaux. Young Armand d'Arcy clung to the weak Gaston
of Orleans and left Paris with the disgraced Duke. He was one of the
first to congratulate me on my success, though he would never bow the
knee to Mazarin. John Humphreys fought his way to a high rank in the
Queen's Guards, and might have gained even further honours, but, in
1660, he returned to England with King Charles, and had his rich
estates restored to him.

My old friend, Roland Belloc, had deservedly gained the King's favour,
and spent several happy years as the youthful monarch's personal
attendant, instructing him in the art of horsemanship and in the use of
a soldier's weapons. Afterwards he retired on an ample pension to his
country seat, and frequently paid a visit to Vancey, where he was
always sure of a cordial welcome.

The unlucky Peleton never left the Bastille. Harassed by his own
difficulties, Conde had forgotten his prisoner, who remained in his
cell until released by a merciful death.

As for Pillot, I tried hard to induce him to stay at Vancey, but he
could not tear himself from his beloved Paris; so I set aside for him a
sum of money on which he was able to live in comfort.

Only one other matter remains to be told, and my readers will readily
guess what it is. As soon as the troubles were at an end, I posted
down to Aunay, where I was received by the ladies with every mark of
pleasure. The old friendship was renewed, and in course of time Marie
d