Paris to-morrow on account of the departure of the Spanish and Dutch
ambassadors. Until to-morrow then."

The apartment was immediately cleared of the guests. The king took Saint-
Aignan by the arm, made him read La Valliere's verses over again, and
said, "What do you think of them?"

"Charming, sire."

"They charm me, in fact, and if they were known - "

"Oh! the professional poets would be jealous of them; but it is not
likely they will know anything about them."

"Did you give her mine?"

"Oh! sire, she positively devoured them."

"They were very weak, I am afraid."

"That is not what Mademoiselle de la Valliere said of them."

"Do you think she was pleased with them?"

"I am sure of it, sire."

"I must answer, then."

"Oh! sire, immediately after supper? Your majesty will fatigue yourself."