[CHAPTER XVII]
One winter evening, several months after Sulkowski's departure, Father Guarini entered the King's room. It was the hour which Augustus III was accustomed either to spend in the Queen's apartment, or in the opera, or shooting at a target.
That day Augustus III remained closeted in his room. Twice a chamberlain came to tell him that the Queen was waiting for him, but he sent him away. It was a sign that the King was in a very bad humour. So they told Father Guarini about it and he rushed to the rescue. He alone could improve his temper. The old priest entered smiling as usual.
The King looked at him gloomily and turned away his head.
Notwithstanding that, the Padre sat on a stool and said:
'May I ask your Majesty what makes my lord so sad? His faithful servant is sorry.'
Augustus III moved his head, muttered something and took a pipe.
'It would relieve your Majesty,' continued the Jesuit, 'if your Majesty would tell me.'
'A trifle,' said the King.
'Then it is not worth while to be sad about,' rejoined the Padre.