“Every Frenchman who has been actively engaged in the Fronde knows Spanish.”
“You have lived in Flanders?”
“Three years.”
“And have stayed at Madrid?”
“Fifteen months.”
“You are in a position, then, to become a naturalized Spaniard, when you like.”
“Really?” said Aramis, with a frankness which deceived the duchesse.
“Undoubtedly. Two years’ residence and an acquaintance with the language are indispensable. You have upwards of four years—more than double the time necessary.”
“What are you driving at, duchesse?”
“At this—I am on good terms with the king of Spain.”