"The fact is, the two crossed swords," the latter hastened to say, "one having insulted the lady, the other defending her and your majesty's property."
"But who was the aggressor, for Jean is mild as a lamb," said the monarch, glad that things were getting equalized.
"The officer must have been malapert."
"Impertinent to a man who was dragging away the horses reserved for your majesty's destined daughter?" exclaimed Choiseul. "Is this possible?"
"Hasty, anyway," said the king, as the dauphin stood pale without a word.
"A zealous servitor can never do wrong," remarked the duke, receding a step.
"Come, now, how did you get the news?" asked the king of his son, without losing sight of the minister, who was troubled by this abrupt question.
"I had an advice from one who was offended by the insult to the lady of my choice."
"Secret correspondence, eh?" exclaimed the sovereign. "Plots, plots! Here you are, beginning to worry me again, as in the days of Pompadour."