principal," added D'O.

"Monseigneur cannot suppose that we had the shadow of an ill-will
towards him, even to disturb his pleasures?"

As he listened, the duke, by a skilful movement, had, little
by little, quitted the door, followed by Aurilly, and was now
at some distance off.

"My pleasures!" said he, angrily; "what makes you think I was
seeking pleasure?"

"Ah, monseigneur, in any case pardon us, and let us retire," said
Quelus.

"It is well; adieu, gentlemen; but first listen. I was going
to consult the Jew Manasses, who reads the future; he lives,
as you know, in Rue de la Tournelle. In passing, Aurilly saw
you and took you for the watch, and we, therefore, tried to hide
ourselves in a doorway. And now you know what to believe and
say; it is needless to add, that I do not wish to be followed,"
and he turned away.

"Monseigneur," said Aurilly, "I am sure these men have bad
intentions; it is near midnight, and this is a lonely quarter;
let us return home, I beg."

"No, no; let us profit by their departure."

"Your highness is deceived; they have not gone, but have returned