"Ah! you were very wrong to compromise yourself with such a clown, and for such a paltry affair!"
"I shall fight for my honor henceforth."
"If there had been a woman in the affair, why, you might properly have drawn your sword against such people: but for a mere place to sleep in—"
"The Hôtel de Nesle is a place for princes to sleep in."
"Agreed; but even so, think of exposing yourself for such a matter to be chastised by a blackguard!"
"Ah! I have an idea, Marmagne," said the provost. "Parbleu! you are so devoted to me that I long to render you a friendly service, and I am delighted to have the opportunity now. For a nobleman, and secretary to the king, you are wretchedly located on Rue de la Huchette, my dear Viscount. Now I recently requested for a friend of mine, from the Duchesse d'Etampes, who refuses nothing that I ask, apartments in such one of the king's palaces as my friend might select. I obtained the privilege for him, not without difficulty, but it so happens that he has been called to Spain on urgent business. I have therefore at my disposal the document signed by the king containing this grant of apartments. I cannot make use of it myself; will you have it? I should be happy to acknowledge thus your services and your generous friendship."
"Dear D'Estourville, how can I ever repay you? It is quite true that I am living in very unsuitable quarters, and I have complained to the king a score of times."
"I shall insist upon one condition."
"What is that?"
"That, inasmuch as you are at liberty to take your choice among all the royal hotels, you will choose—"