"Who is the man?" demanded the queen.
"Captain Cauvignac, madame."
"Is he of my army?"
"I do not think it."
"Ascertain that fact, and if he is not of my army, say that I cannot receive him."
"I crave your Majesty's pardon for venturing to differ with you on that point," said Mazarin, "but it seems to me that if he is not of your army, that is the very best of reasons for receiving him."
"Why so?"
"Because, if he is of your Majesty's army, and seeks an audience, he cannot be other than a faithful subject; whereas, if he belongs to the enemy's army, he may be a traitor. At this moment, madame, traitors are not to be despised, for they may be extremely useful."
"Admit him," said the queen, "since Monsieur le Cardinal so advises."
The captain was at once introduced, and presented himself with an easy and assured demeanor which amazed the queen, accustomed as she was to produce a far different effect upon all who approached her.