"Have your horse ready, and in good trim, as I believe you have a long journey."
"Not as far as Bruhl, I hope?"
"No," said he with a smile; "I think none of us will need to return to Bruhl in a hurry, though it is difficult to prophesy. However, see to your horse, and then get off to bed. The Cardinal will expect you at the very second."
By this time I was well aware of Mazarin's crotchets, and took care to present myself at the proper time. His secretary opened the door, and admitted me into his master's room. Whether Mazarin ever went to bed at this period of his life I cannot say, but he always gave me the impression that he could live without sleep. There he was at four o'clock, in dressing gown and slippers, writing with no sign of weariness whatever.
"Is your horse saddled, M. de Lalande?" he asked, without stopping or taking his eyes from the paper.
"Yes, your Eminence."
"Very good. Here is a little document; put it away safely. It is for Marshal Turenne, and it must be given to him this evening. He is at Etampes, or rather in the neighbourhood. Do not lose the missive, though it is less important than some you have carried."
"Do I return at once, your Eminence?"
"That will depend on Marshal Turenne. You will place yourself under his orders. And now, a prosperous ride to you."
M. Belloc, who had placed my horse in care of a soldier, was waiting outside. He evidently knew the nature of my errand, and, as I mounted, wished me a quick and pleasant journey.