On this advice, which was quite to my taste, I went instantly to
my writing-table, the last present which the king had made me.
It was made of silver gilt, and china slabs beautifully painted.
When I opened it, a glass was lifted which reflected my countenance.
I sat down and wrote the following note to the duc d'Aiguillon:--

"You must be content. I want your assistance, I
really want it. The moment has come for deserving
all my confidence. Will you have it at all risks and
perils? Reflect well before you undertake this: if
you accept, come to-day at five o'clock precisely,
neither later nor sooner."

A little while afterwards the following reply was brought.

"One thing displeases me in your letter which else
enchants me. You appear to doubt my obedience.
Am I not your slave? And when you say to me ,
will I not ? Rely on me as on yourself; even
more: for your vivacity may lead you into error,
and I shall preserve my reason. Yes, madame, I
will, when near you, preserve my reason when your
interests are at stake. At the fixed hour I shall
have the honor to lay at your feet my respectful
homage and boundless devotion."

It was impossible to express a real sentiment with more delicacy.
I was charmed at it, no longer doubting that the duke would
consider my interests as his own. I awaited the hour of five
with impatience, when my good fortune brought the prince de