"And you—have you no idea of her whereabouts?"
"She must either have died, or have retired to a convent."
"She has done neither," replied the duchess.
"She lives!" cried Louvois, with more terror in his voice than joy.
"Yes: dear, ill-used Laura! She lives, and lives happily with him whose arm will protect her against future persecution."
"Your royal highness does not mean to say that my daughter has sought the protection of Prince Eugene?" cried Louvois.
"I do, indeed: they are united at last, whom you sought to put asunder."
"Great God!" was the minister's exclamation. "She has given herself up to shame! She lives publicly as the mistress of a man who was not worthy to become her husband! Your royal highness must have been misinformed."
"I have it from herself, nevertheless."
"And your royal highness, that bears the name of the most virtuous woman in Paris, is not shocked at her unchastity?"