the king; and, turning to M. de
Sartines, "Lieutenant of police," said he, "you have heard my fair
chancellor; you will act in strict conformity with the orders she will
transmit you from me."

"Then take these orders now, sir," said I: "in the first place, this
ill-treated young Moireau must immediately be set at liberty, and my
own police (for I must tell you I had them) will give me the faithful
account of all your proceedings in this affair."

The king comprehended my meaning. "You will keep a careful watch," added
he to M. de Sartines, "that no harm befalls this unfortunate youth,
whom, I beg, you will discreetly recommend to quit France ere the malice
of those who have reason to fear his reappearance works him some evil."

"And who, sire," asked I, "shall dare injure one whom your majesty
deigns to honor with your protection?"

"Madame," replied M. de Sartines, "even his majesty's high patronage
cannot prevent a secret blow from some daring hand; a quarrel purposely
got up; a beverage previously drugged; a fall from any of the bridges
into the river; or, even the supposition of one found dead, having
destroyed himself."

"You make me shudder," said I, "in thus unveiling the extent of human
depravity. So, then, this young man, whose only fault appears to have
been that captivating the eyes of a noble lady, should perish in
a dungeon, or save his life at the sacrifice of country, friends,
connections; and all this for having listened to the passion of a
woman, as licentious in manners as illustrious by birth: this frightful
injustice rouses all my indignation. Well, then, since the power of the
monarch of France is insufficient to protect his oppressed subject
in his own realms, let him shield him from want in a foreign land, by
allowing him a pension of one hundred louis. I will take upon myself to
defray the expenses of his journey."

Thus saying, I was hastening to the adjoining room, where stood my
_secretaire_, to take from it a thousand crowns I wished to give for the
purpose. The king held me back by my arm, saying to me,

"You are the most excellent creature I know of, but you see I am always
master. I will undertake to provide for this young man. M. de Sartines,"
pursued he, "I wish to secure to him a thousand crowns yearly; and,
further, you will supply him with six thousand francs ready money,
which M. de la Borde will repay to your order. _Now are you satisfied,
Couci?_" said the king, turning t