"Those who are traitors to God can scarce be loyal to the king,"
remarked Bossuet. "Your Majesty's power would be greater if there were
no temple, as they call their dens of heresy, within your dominions."

"My grandfather promised them protection. They are shielded, as you
well know, by the edict which be gave at Nantes."

"But it lies with your Majesty to undo the mischief that has been done."

"And how?"

"By recalling the edict."

"And driving into the open arms of my enemies two millions of my best
artisans and of my bravest servants. No, no, father, I have, I trust,
every zeal for Mother-Church, but there is some truth in what De
Frontenac said this morning of the evil which comes from mixing the
affairs of this world with those of the next. How say you, Louvois?"

"With all respect to the Church, sire, I would say that the devil has
given these men such cunning of hand and of brain that they are the best
workers and traders in your Majesty's kingdom. I know not how the state
coffers are to be filled if such tax-payers go from among us. Already
many have left the country and taken their trades with them. If all
were to go, it would be worse for us than a lost campaign."

"But," remarked Bossuet, "if it were once known that the king's will had
been expressed, your Majesty may rest assured that even the worst of his
subjects bear him such love that they would hasten to come within the