D'Argenson's eyes glistened with malignant joy. "Monsieur," said he, "I told you that you would be treated with indulgence. You might therefore have spoken sooner, and perhaps his highness's kindness might not have waited for a prayer."
"You mistake me, monsieur," said Gaston, with dignity; "neither his majesty's honor nor mine will suffer from the favor which I shall ask."
"What would you ask?" said D'Argenson; "speak, and I will tell you at once if there be a chance of your request being granted."
"I ask, first, that my titles and dignities—which are not very great—should not be canceled, as I have no posterity. I am alone in the world; my name only survives me; but as that name is only noble, and not illustrious, it would not survive long."
"This is quite a royal favor, monsieur. His majesty alone can and will reply. Is that all you wish to ask?"
"No; I have another request to make, but I do not know to whom I should apply."
"First to me, monsieur, in my character of lieutenant of police. I shall see if I can grant it, or if I must refer it to his majesty."
"Well, then, monsieur, I desire to see Mademoiselle Helene de Chaverny, ward of his excellency the Duc d'Olivares, and also the duke himself."
D'Argenson, at this request, made a singular gesture, which Gaston interpreted as one of hesitation.
"Monsieur," said Gaston, "I would see them in any place, and for as short a time as may be thought advisable."