"It is impossible."
"Because of your wish for retirement, and of the austere projects you have in view?"—"Yes."
"You have been to the king to solicit a dispensation?"
"Who told you so?"
"I know it to be the case."
"It is true, then, for I have been to him."
"You will not obtain it."
"Why so, my brother?"
"Because the king has no interest in depriving himself of such a devoted servant as you are."
"My brother, the cardinal, will therefore do what his majesty will be disinclined to do."