point of the king's appointing this man."

"M. de Monsoreau has served me well, and I recompense him," replied
the duke.

"Well said, monseigneur, it is rare for princes to be grateful;
but if that be all, I also have served you well, and should wear
the embroidered jacket more gracefully, I trust, than M. de
Monsoreau. He has a red beard, I see also, which is an additional
beauty."

"I never knew that a man must be an Apollo, or Antinous, to fill
an office at court."

"You never heard it; astonishing!"

"I consult the heart and not the face--the services rendered and
promised."

"Your highness will say I am very envious; but I search, and
uselessly, I confess, to discover what service this Monsoreau
can have rendered you."

"You are too curious, Bussy," said the duke, angrily.

"Just like princes," cried Bussy, with his ordinary freedom,
"they ask you everything; but if you ask a question in return,
you are too curious."

"Well! go and ask M. de Monsoreau, himself."