Memoirs of Casanova — Volume 12: Return to Paris by Giacomo Casanova
page 37 of 161 (22%)
page 37 of 161 (22%)
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introduced him to a lady who questioned him by himself about his birth,
he was to be perfectly open with her. On my arrival at Paris my first visit was to my patron, whom I found in grand company amongst whom I recognized the Venetian ambassador, who pretended not to know me. "How long have you been in Paris?" said the minister, taking me by the hand. "I have only just stepped out of my chaise." "Then go to Versailles. You will find the Duc de Choiseul and the comptroller-general there. You have been wonderfully successful, go and get your meed of praise and come and see me afterwards. Tell the duke that Voltaire's appointment to be a gentleman-in-ordinary to the king is ready." I was not going to start for Versailles at midday, but ministers in Paris are always talking in this style, as if Versailles were at the end of the street. Instead of going there, I went to see Madame d'Urfe. She received me with the words that her genius had informed her that I should come to-day, and that she was delighted with the fulfilment of the prophecy. "Corneman tells me that you have been doing wonders in Holland; but I see more in the matter than he does, as I am quite certain that you have taken over the twenty millions yourself. The funds have risen, and a hundred millions at least will be in circulation in the course of the |
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