"What may that be?"
"You are aware, I presume, that I take great interest in the preservation of the present régime?"
"I was not aware of that," the Marquis said, with a slight elevation of the eyebrows. It seemed to him that the opinions of Monsieur Cyprien were of little importance, and that the government was not likely to benefit by his sympathy and protection.
"The fact is, sir, your future and that of the monarchy are too nearly allied for me to separate the two questions."
"You are right."
"And, in addition, I hold relations with persons who condescend to recognize in me a certain ability in the management of confidential matters."
"Pshaw! Who are these persons!"
"I will give you the name of one, sir—Monsieur Franchet."
And Cyprien stole a glance at his master, who started in spite of all his self-control. This Franchet was at the climax of his celebrity, and exercised the mysterious function of Director-General of the Police. He owed his elevation solely to the Society of Jesus. This occult power, whose ramifications extended all over France, was mysterious and tremendous in its workings. No one could expect any favor if he did not first render this society most abject homage.
Cyprien now became invested with immense importance in the eyes of the Marquis. He was now not only an accomplice, but a protector, who might become a formidable adversary.