"So much the better, as he will be another servitor for the king; he must not have less than a cornetcy in the army," said Jean. "Any other kinsmen?"
"A nephew."
"We shall find a berth for him."
"We rely on your invention," said Countess Dubarry, rising. "You will allow me to mention your ladyship to the king?"
"Do me the honor," said the old dame with a sigh.
"No later than this evening," said the royal favorite. "I trust I have won your friendship?"
"Yes, though I believe I am in a dream."
But the dream only lasted to the foot of the stairs, where Countess Bearn was conducted on Jean's hale arm, for there the irrepressible Chon came bounding out of a sedan chair. Lady Bearn recognized the pretended daughter of Lawyer Flageot.
"It is Mistress Chon," roared Zamore.
"Is that little fool Gilbert here?" asked Chon of the footmen, when she suddenly looked up and saw Jean trying to hush her.