"No, I told you the truth."

"Well, then, as we are alone, tell me your little history. Where
did it happen?"

"In the wood of Meridor."

The duke grew pale again, but did not speak.

"Decidedly," thought Bussy, "the duke is mixed up with that story.
Pardieu! monseigneur," said he, "as M. de Monsoreau seems to
have found the method of pleasing you so well, teach it to me."

"Pardieu! yes, Bussy, I will tell you how. Listen; I met, by
chance, at church, a charming woman, and as some features of
her face, which I only saw through a veil, recalled to me a lady
whom I had much loved, I followed her, and found out where she
lived. I have gained over her servant, and have a key of the
house."

"Well, monseigneur, all seems to go well for you."

"But they say she is a great prude, although free, young, and
beautiful."

"Ah! you are romancing."

"Well, you are brave, and love me?"