This "at liberty" being a command which nobody dared resist, the king had no sooner left the room than the courtiers hastened to their carriages and gave orders to their various coachmen to join the royal cortege.
CHAPTER IV.
THE WINDOW THAT WAS TOO LARGE.
Meanwhile the king had made his way to the boudoir of his marquise, who advanced joyfully to meet him.
"Madame," said he, "I am about to drive to Trianon; will you accompany me? Decide according to your own judgment; do not inconvenience yourself on my account."
"Your majesty knows that I live in your presence," sighed the marquise, "but—"
"But you dare not leave your room. Well—I am sorry; you would have enjoyed the drive."
"The drive to Trianon," replied the marquise, "where, as an architect, Louvois will he the theme of your majesty's encomiums."
The king's lip curled. "Scarcely"—said he. "I do not think that Louvois will enjoy his visit to-day. I am not at all pleased with his plans, nor will I be at pains to conceal my displeasure."
The marquise looked inquiringly into the face of the king. It was smiling and significant.