"In two words, eight nights ago you went out disguised as a musketeer through the little door in the Rue Richelieu, accompanied by Nocé and Simiane."
"It is true; what passed in the Rue St. Honore?"
"Do you wish to know, monseigneur?"
"I can refuse you nothing."
"Speak, then."
"You supped at the house—that house, monseigneur."
"Still with Nocé and Simiane?"
"No, monseigneur, tete-à-tete. Nocé and Simiane supped too, but separately. You supped, then, and were at table, when a brave officer, who probably mistook the door, knocked so obstinately at yours, that you became impatient, and handled the unfortunate who disturbed you somewhat roughly, but he, who, it seems, was not of an enduring nature, took out his sword, whereupon you, monseigneur, who never look twice before committing a folly, drew your rapier and tried your skill with the officer."
"And the result?" asked the regent.