In another instant, Andrea came in, trembling as she could not understand this accumulation of favors.
“Find a place there, by the Dauphiness,” said the Dauphin.
She went upon the raised platform for the Royalties, and had what seemed the audacity to sit within one step of Lady Noailles. She received such a withering glance from the latter that the poor girl recoiled at least four feet as though she had been shocked by an electrical discharge.
Louis the King smiled as he saw this.
“Why, here are things running along so smoothly,” thought old Richelieu, “that there will hardly be any need of my helping them.”
The King turned on the marshal who was prepared to meet his look.
“How do you do, duke?” he said; “are you still chiming in with Lady Noailles?”
“Sire, the duchess is good enough still to treat me like a whipping-post.”
“I suppose you have been on the road to Chanteloup?”
“I, Sire? I have all the cheering news I desire from your Majesty to my house.”