the declaration to that king, "No
concurrer con los ambassadores des de Francia," with this
inscription, "Jus praecedendi assertum," and under it, "Hispaniorum
excusatio coram xxx legatis principum, 1662." A very curious
account of the fray occasioned by this dispute, drawn up by Evelyn,
is to be seen in that gentleman's article in the Biographia
Britannica.]

I do not know whether the Chevalier de Grammont had any share in the
capture of this place; but I know very well, that during a more glorious
reign, and with armies ever victorious, his intrepidity and address have
been the cause of taking others since, even under the eye of his master,
as we shall see in the sequel of these memoirs.

CHAPTER FOURTH. HIS ARRIVAL AT THE COURT OF TURIN, AND HOW HE SPENT HIS
TIME THERE

Military glory is at most but one half of the accomplishments which
distinguish heroes. Love must give the finishing stroke, and adorn their
character by the difficulties they encounter, the temerity of their
enterprises, and finally, by the lustre of success. We have examples
of this, not only in romances, but also in the genuine histories of the
most famous warriors and the most celebrated conquerors.

The Chevalier de Grammont and Matta, who did not think much of these
examples, were, however, of opinion, that it would be very agreeable to
refresh themselves after the fatigues of the siege of Trino, by forming
some other sieges, at the expense of the beauties and the husbands of
Turin. As the campaign had finished early, they thought they should have
time to perform some exploits before the bad weather obliged them to
repass the mountains.

They sallied forth, therefore, not unlike Amadis de Gaul or Don
Galaor after they had been dubbed knights, eager in their search after
adventures in love, war and enchantments. They were greatly superior
to those two brothers, who only knew how to cleave in twain giants, to
break lances, and to carry off fair damsels behind them on horseback,
without saying a single word to them; whereas our heroes were adepts at
cards and dice, of which the others were totally ignorant.

They went to Turin, met with an agreeable reception, and were greatly
distinguished at court. Could it be otherwise? They were young and
handsome; they had wit at command, and spent their money liberally.
In what country will not a man succeed, possessing such advantages? As
Turin was at that time the seat of g