during which England had been sometimes the enemy, but never the
equal friend, of France. His task had been well performed; and he
now came back, leaving behind him the reputation of an excellent
minister, firm yet cautious as to substance, dignified yet
conciliating in manner. His last audience at Versailles was
unusually long; and no third person was present. Nothing could be
more gracious than the language and demeanour of Lewis. He
condescended to trace a route for the embassy, and insisted that
Portland should make a circuit for the purpose of inspecting some
of the superb fortresses of the French Netherlands. At every one
of those fortresses the governors and engineers had orders to pay
every attention to the distinguished stranger. Salutes were
everywhere fired to welcome him. A guard of honour was everywhere
in attendance on him. He stopped during three days at Chantilly,
and was entertained there by the Prince of Condé with all that
taste and magnificence for which Chantilly had long been
renowned. There were boar hunts in the morning and concerts in
the evening. Every gentleman of the legation had a gamekeeper
specially assigned to him. The guests, who, in their own island
were accustomed to give extravagant vails at every country house
which they visited, learned, with admiration, that His Highness's
servants were strictly forbidden to receive presents. At his
luxurious table, by a refinement of politeness, choice cider from
the orchards round the Malvern Hills made its appearance in
company with the Champagne and the Burgundy.

Portland was welcomed by his master with all the kindness of old
times. But that kindness availed nothing. For Albemarle was still
in the royal household, and appeared to have been, during the
last few months, making progress in the royal favour. Portland