my duties; that I had none but to please the king, and no intention
of mixing myself up with state affairs. This was my plan I can
assure you. I flattered myself that I could follow it, not
dreaming of those political nuisances into which I was precipitated
in spite of myself. I added, nevertheless, that in my situation,
which was delicate, I would not refuse the counsels of a faithful
servant of the king, and that under this title M. de Chauvelin
should be consulted on important occasions.

The marquis de Chauvelin had too much good sense, too much
knowledge of the world, not to perceive a refusal concealed under
this politeness. The secret inclination of my heart had already
led me to select the duc d'Aiguillon for my director, and I could
not reconcile myself to any other. He contented himself with
asking me again for my friendship, which I willingly accorded
him, and I have always found myself fortunate in his. Thus did I
accept the offers of service from the prince de Soubise, the duc
de la Vauguyon, and the marquis de Chauvelin.

A fourth sought to swell the ranks; the comte, afterwards prince,
de Montbarrey. This gentleman made up in pretensions for what he
lacked in talent. He was weak, self-important, selfish, fond of
women, and endeavored to preserve all the airs of a man of good
breeding in the midst of the grossest debauchery. He was full of
respect for himself and his house, of which in time of need he
could cite the whole genealogy. His nomination was a real scandal;
no one dreamt of his ever being minister of war. It was one of the
thousand follies of old Maurepas, whom the late king knew well, and
called the ballad-maker of the council.