"This will be hard work for one so weak as I am."

"Oh, you are sufficiently powerful, I assure you. Only confide
in me, the intermediary between you and my friends, let me guide
you, and I will steer to the right port. What do you think of
this, madame?"

"Oh! monsieur le duc, it is not at a moment that we can give a
positive reply to such grave matters. I content myself in assuring
you, that I have for you as much confidence as respect, and should
be very happy to obtain your protection."

"My protection! Oh, heaven, madame, you are jesting. It is I who
should be honored by your friendship."

"It is yours; but as yet I am nothing at court, and can do nothing
there until I have been presented. It is for my speedy presentation
that my friends should labor now."

"We will not fail, madame; and if you will allow me to come from
time to time to converse with you, we can take our measures."

"Your visits will always be agreeable."

Such was the conversation which I had with the duc de la Vauguyon.
I have given it somewhat at length, because it was the preface to a
deep intrigue which made a vast noise. I think I extricated myself
very well from the net in which the duke sought to catch me. I knew
that his situation at Versailles compelled me to act with caution
towards him. He was in good odor with , had the ear of