Monsieur Colbert:
In bearing testimony to the King of the joy which I have in the pregnancy of the Queen, I am daring to command his good graces, and the permission for an audience to ask them in person.
I trust that you will assist me with your good offices to obtain so precious a favour. If I cannot succeed in obtaining this, I beg to be permitted to pass through Paris before May,[162] having three considerable lawsuits at this date. I look, on this occasion, for the continuation of your good offices.
Anne-Marie-Louise d'Orléans.
The King waited two months before responding:
TO MY COUSIN MADEMOISELLE, ELDEST DAUGHTER OF THE
LATE MONSEIGNEUR DUC D'ORLÉANS
My Cousin:
It consoles me much to find you in the state of mind which your letter shows. I willingly forget the past and permit you not only to pass through Paris, but also either to dwell there, or to choose any other place of residence which may be agreeable to you, and even to come here in case you wish it, if you assure me that your conduct will always give me reason for cherishing you and for treating you properly as a personage so nearly related.
I thank you for the affection with which you write to me of the Queen's pregnancy and pray, etc.
Louis.
Some days later Mademoiselle was en route for Fontainebleau, well resolved to show herself. She was transported with joy at having recovered liberty of movement, but the Court at this time inspired her with terror. The ground had become too slippery for a person of her temperament, loving so much her independence and rebellious to all discipline.