d, your Eminence, but
times have changed, and we with them."

"It is hard work climbing the ladder, but harder still to stand on the
top," remarked the Cardinal, and he asked me to tell him something of
my family history. So, as we walked through the silent streets of the
slumbering city, I described sadly how the broad acres of my
forefathers had dwindled to a solitary farm.

We were in sight of the Palais Royal when I finished the melancholy
narrative, and Mazarin stopped. The night was already past, and, in
the light of the early dawn, we saw each other's faces distinctly. It
may have been mere fancy, or the result of the severe strain on my
nerves, or, more simple still, the manner in which the half light
played on his face, but it seemed to me that the powerful Cardinal had
become strangely agitated.

"Did you hear anything?" he asked suddenly, pressing my arm. "Listen,
there it is again," and from our right came the sound of a low, clear
whistle.

"It is a signal of some sort," I said.

"Yes," he exclaimed, "but fortunately it was given just too late. I
must be more careful in future. Come! The sooner we are inside the
gate the better," and he walked so quickly that I had much ado to keep
pace with him.

Passing the sentries at the gate, we crossed the courtyard, and entered
the Palais Royal through a narrow door leading to a private staircase.
Turning to the left at the top, Mazarin led the way along what appeared
to be an endless succession of corridors. Soldiers were stationed here
and there, but, instantly recognising the cloaked figure, they saluted
and we passed on.

At last Mazarin paused, and blowing softly on a silver whistle was
instantly joined by a man in civilian attire.

"Find M. de Lalande food and a bed," exclaimed the Cardinal briskly.
"For the present he is my guest, and will remain within call. Has M.
Belloc returned?"

"No, my Lord."

"Let him attend me immediately upon his arrival. Where are the
reports?"

"On your table, my Lord."

"Very good. See to M. de Lalande, and then wait in the ante-chamber.
You may be wanted."

The man, who, I imagine, was a kind of under secretary, made a low bow,
and motioned me to follow him, which I did gladly, being both hungry
and tired. Showing me into a large room, he rang the bell and ordered
supper. The excitement had not destroyed my appetite, and I did ample
justice to the meal. Then, passing to an inner chamber, I undress