“Let the young man marry her, and accept a place in my royal entourage––But now that this little matter is settled,” continued the King with a return to his former animation, “I invite you to examine my latest invention, an unpickable lock, which I have here!”
The grave comedy of eulogy on the royal locksmithing was played by the delighted suppliant according to all the rules.
CHAPTER VIII
THE HONOR OF THE FAMILY
Daily the young Chevalier developed a warmer interest in the sweet and pure young girl at the faubourg lodgings. Always his visits brought a little delicious heart-flutter to Henriette, though not unmixed with mourning o’er lost sister. And as a result of these idyllic meetings, ambitious plans appeared to him abhorrent.
About this time the Countess de Linieres, calling one day at her husband’s ministerial offices, learned of his purposes.
“I was about to come to you,” said the Count, “but you have anticipated me. I desire to speak with you on the subject of your nephew, the Chevalier de Vaudrey, and to ask you to prepare him for the marriage which the King––”
“Wishes to impose on him,” interrupted the Countess bitterly.