"By the magic in the gentleman's powers."
"Your eminence is jesting."
"Not at all, and the proof is that I want to have a serious explanation from this gentleman. Do not forget, my lord, that I
shall do all the questioning," added the cardinal, with haughtiness.
"And remember that I was quite willing to answer aloud, even before her royal highness—if your eminence desired so; but I am certain you will not desire it."
The cardinal had to smile.
"My lord," said he, "it is hard to play the wizard nowadays. I have seen you perform, and with great success; but everybody has not the patience, and still less the generosity, of the dauphiness."
"The dauphiness?" queried Princess Louise.
"Yes, your highness, I had the honor of presentation to her," said the count.
"But how did you repay the honor? Answer that, my lord."