repair an indiscretion by an impertinence.

"You say, monsieur," said Monsoreau, "that the Duke recounted
to you my last exploit?"

"Yes, monsieur, but I should much like to hear the story from
your own lips."

M. de Monsoreau clasped his dagger tighter in his hand, as though
he longed to attack Bussy.

"Ma foi, monsieur," said he, "I was quite disposed to grant your
request, and recognize your courtesy, but unfortunately here
is the king arriving, so we must leave it for another time."

Indeed, the king, mounted on his favorite Spanish horse, advanced
rapidly towards them. He loved handsome faces, and was therefore
little pleased with that of M. de Monsoreau. However, he accepted,
with a good grace, the estortuaire which he presented to him,
kneeling, according to custom. As soon as the king was armed,
the chase commenced.

Bussy watched narrowly everyone that passed, looking for the
original of the portrait, but in vain; there were pretty, even
beautiful and charming women, but not the charming creature whom
he sought for. He was reduced to conversation, and the company
of his ordinary friends. Antragues, always laughing and talking,
was a great amusement.

"We have a frightful chief huntsman," said he to Bussy, "do you