"You are a lucky fellow, Albert. For a lad from the country, you have done well. Peste! You have made quite a splash in the world, and I am proud of my cousin."
"You do me great honour," said I, with a mocking bow.
"Not more than you deserve. By the way, is it true that you have joined Condé's party?"
"Why?"
"Because you were with his mob when Madame Coutance behaved so stupidly."
"I did my best to save a woman from being torn to pieces—nothing more."
"It was very gallant of you," and then, as an afterthought, "so you still fancy there is a chance of Mazarin's return?"
"There may be, or not. I only know that I am pledged to assist him, and that the De Lalandes have been taught to keep their word."
"Quite right!" returned Henri, gaily. "Well, adieu, my faithful cousin! Your constancy is touching, and I hope it may bring you good fortune, but of that I am doubtful," and, with a careless laugh, he hurried on.
"Planning some fresh mischief!" I muttered, and dismissed the incident from my mind.