He had no sooner left the room than Louvois darted to the side of Madame de Maintenon, who was just about to raise a portiere leading to her own apartments.
Catching her dress in his agitation, Louvois implored her to remain.
"Wherefore, monsieur?" asked she, coldly.
"Oh, madame, I fear that I shall never be able to rescue this accursed city, and, I implore you, be my mediatrix with his majesty."
"On what grounds, monsieur?"
"Oh, madame, you have enemies as well as I: let us make a compact together, and crush them all. Uphold me for this once, and you will not find me ungrateful."
"I fear no man's enmity," was the reply of the marquise. "My trust is in God, who ruleth all things."
"You refuse me then?" said Louvois.
"I am not in a position to defy the king, and uphold his rebellious subjects. Were I Queen of France, my influence would, perhaps, avail; as it is, I would advise you to make all speed to dispatch your couriers, and thereby rescue Trier and yourself."
With these consolatory words, the marquise disappeared; and Louvois, taking her advice, unpalatable though it was, rushed in undignified haste through the corridors, and plunging into his carriage, was driven at full gallop to his hotel.