"Go on," he softly said, when Simon paused.
"Thanks to the superintendent's confidence in me," said Simon, "I am able to secure a much more influential position at court for Monsieur le Marquis than he has at present."
"And how are you going to perform the miracle?" asked the marquis, sceptically.
"By allowing Monsieur le Marquis to take part in my projects for the good of the monarchy."
"Speak more clearly," ordered the marquis, briefly.
"Directly."
Simon went close to his master, and whispered:
"There exists a dangerous conspiracy against the state. People wish to overturn the government and depose the king."
"Folly! that has been often desired."
"But this time it is serious. A republican society—"