"Certainly, monsieur, that is common talk; the citizens are very pleased."
"Those who are peacefully disposed!" he exclaimed; then, sinking his voice to a whisper, he added, "but there are some still eager for mischief. It would be a pity if a tumult should arise during the King's progress. The soldiers, fortunately, can be depended on, but in addition, we require a band of gallant gentlemen to line the route. Can I rely on you for one?"
"Assuredly," I replied, "I shall be glad to assist."
"Then come to me at midnight to-morrow, and I will inform you where to station yourself."
"Another adventure?" inquired Humphreys, when I returned to him.
"Pouf! A bagatelle, nothing more! Le Tellier is anxious that I should have a good view of the procession. You will accompany the Queen, I suppose?"
"The orders have not yet been issued. It is a good idea this of declaring the King of age; though he is only a youngster."
"Fourteen," I said. "It is understood that his mother will continue to rule as before."
"Just so. But in the King's name. Don't you see that it will cut the ground from under the feet of her enemies? While they would plot against the Regent, they will not dare to raise arms against the King. I call it a very sensible proceeding. People will have to choose sides now, either with the King or with his foes. If Condé and De Retz do not submit, they will be rebels. They must either obey or defy the King, and we shall have a plain issue."
"It will keep Mazarin out, though."