D’Artagnan mounted the box, having a pair of pistols in his belt, a musket under his feet and a naked sword behind him.
The queen appeared, and was followed by the king and the Duke d’Anjou, his brother.
“Monsieur the coadjutor’s carriage!” she exclaimed, falling back.
“Yes, madame,” said D’Artagnan; “but get in fearlessly, for I myself will drive you.”
The queen uttered a cry of surprise and entered the carriage, and the king and monsieur took their places at her side.
“Come, Laporte,” said the queen.
“How, madame!” said the valet, “in the same carriage as your majesties?”
“It is not a matter of royal etiquette this evening, but of the king’s safety. Get in, Laporte.”
Laporte obeyed.
“Pull down the blinds,” said D’Artagnan.