A brief silence followed this revelation, and then the Marquis bade Cyprien go on with what he was saying.
"I was saying, sir, that I have employed all the resources of my weak mind in the defence of the sacred interests of the society, and that I had the power to replace you in the position which your imprudence has forfeited!"
The lacquey was becoming insolent.
"And how will you perform this miracle?" asked the Marquis.
"By including you in the great plan which will prove our zeal for the monarchy."
The Marquis frowned. He was not pleased at the association!
Cyprien dropped his voice.
"A vast conspiracy," he said, "is forming to overthrow the king!"
The Marquis started.
"Not so—the monarchy is strong."