In the affair for which you have
so slightingly treated me there was no intent to injure you, but only
to procure for the king an amusement which should make him the more
estimate your charms and your society. Forgive a fault in which my heart
bore no share; I am sufficiently miserable, and shall not know repose
until I be reinstated in your good graces.

"As for the poor marchioness she is no more to blame than myself. She
feels for you as much esteem as attachment, and is anxious to prove it
at any opportunity. I beseech you not to treat her rigorously. Think
that we only work together for the good of the king, and that it would
be unjust of you to hate us because we have endeavored to please this
excellent prince. I hope that, contented with this justification, you
will not refuse to grant me the double amnesty which I ask of your
goodness."

I replied thus:--

"Your letter, monsieur le duc, seduces me no more than your words. I
know you well, and appreciate you fully. I was ignorant up to this time,
that amongst the duties of your office, certain such functions were
imposed upon you. It appears that you attend to them as well as to
others, and I sincerely compliment you thereupon; I beg of you to
announce it in the 'Court Kalendar.' It will add, I am convinced, to the
universal esteem in which you are held.

"As to madame de Laugeac, she is even more insignificant than you, and
that is not saying much. I thank her for her esteem and attachment, but
can dispense with any marks of them; no good can come from such an
one as she. Thus, M. le duc, keep quiet both of you, and do not again
attempt measures which may compromise me. Do your business and leave me
to mine.

"I am, with all due consideration,

"Your servant,

"COMTESSE DU BARRY"

I mentioned this to the king, who insisted on reconciling me with _le
petit saint_, who came and knelt to me. I granted the pardon sought, out
of regard for Louis XV; but from that moment the contempt I felt for the
duke increased an hundredfold.

CHAPTER XXXIV

Conversation with the king--Marriage of the comte d'Artois--
Intrigues--The place of lady of honor--The marechale de
Mirepoix--The comtesse de Forcalquier and madame du Barry--
The comtesse de Forcalquier and madame Boncault

The king was much annoyed at the indifference I evinced for all state
secrets, and frequently observed to me, "You are not at all like madame
de Pompadour: she was