He saw clearly enough that the faithful servant had overheard his conversation with the councillor, and that, to save Lucilio, he was making use of the idea that had occurred to him, of passing off the Italian as an astrologer, knowing, as everybody knew, the respect which the Prince de Condé entertained for the art of divination. But would the serious-minded Lucilio give his assent to that stratagem? Would he know how to play his part?
"However," thought Bois-Doré, "we must rely on Providence and on Adamas's genius! It is simply a matter of getting rid of the enemy without his taking possession of my friend's person and mine; after that we will look to our safety in the future."
[XLIII]
After a few moments Lucilio appeared with Adamas. He was calm and smiling as usual. He bowed slightly to the councillor, very low to the marquis, and handed the latter a paper covered with hieroglyphics.
"Alas! my friend," said Bois-Doré, "I know nothing about it."
"Speak!" cried Lenet to the mute, who motioned that that was impossible. "Then write!"
Lucilio sat down and wrote:
"I obey no orders here save those of the Marquis de Bois-Doré; I do not know you. Leave this room; I will not write before you."
"Mordieu! yes you will!" cried the councillor, beside himself. "I propose to know everything, and you shall answer me."
"Forgive him, monsieur," said Adamas; "like all great scholars, he is very odd and capricious. If you wish him to reveal his secrets, speak to him gently."