"Sire, I scarcely think you hold me accountable for failing to counteract the decrees of Providence regarding the birth of an heir. As for the matter which brings me here, I declare that my regard for Your Majesty cannot prevent my speaking my mind. I have considered that it was due you to make you a party to the knowledge of the iniquity, that you might have the opportunity of seconding my resolution. But if our strength is to have its foundation in infamy, a sad future has the House! I ask for but my commission in the army or to be a soldier in the ranks. Your Majesty accuses me of imitating the Corsican. I reply that the only glory I seek is the glory of arms and of a fearless heart."
"Is this all you would say, nephew?" asked the King, white with rage.
"Your Majesty is offended? Your Majesty dismisses me?"
"His Majesty's strength is unequal to such shocks," interposed Lecazes.
"My Lord Baron," said the Prince, "you are right. I retire. Henceforth, Ferdinand de Bourbon has no guide but his conscience."
Saluting the monarch gravely and the Minister with mock respect, he departed.
Lecazes followed him with a smile. As his footsteps died away, the Baron shrugged his shoulders.
"What do you think of this Lecazes?" inquired the King.
"That we must let the Prince continue the road he has chosen. Place no obstacles in his way—and do not trouble your mind about him.—Many important historical events have just such origins as this.—I shall not meddle in the affairs of His Royal Highness."
In the minister's mind there was formed the picture of a young vigorous tree felled at a blow.