“Well, if you think, Monsieur,” he said quietly, “that you would gain a hearing against me, remember I am Armand du Plessis,” and Luc realized suddenly what a great man, what a notable person he was defying. He thought of his future career, and his heart sank; what could he hope to achieve commencing with such a powerful enemy?
Something of this thought showed in his sensitive face, and the Governor was quick to perceive and follow up his advantage.
“I have used lettres de cachet on less occasion,” he said gently.
Luc turned so as to face him.
“Scarcely on men of my position, M. de Richelieu,” he answered haughtily. “I am not of the bourgeois, to be threatened.”
He was stung now out of his shyness and reserve; he faced the Governor as an equal and unabashed.
“As to last night, my own wish is to forget it,” he said sternly. “I shall not speak for the sake of speaking—you know that. I should not be silent for any threat’s sake if honour bade me speak—you know that also, Monseigneur.”
M. de Richelieu was clearly puzzled; if at the same time vexed, or alarmed, he did not show it. His face expressed wonder and even amusement.
“It was only a jest last night,” he said lightly, “a common amusement.”
“It cost a man his life,” answered Luc wearily. “But I pray your Highness not to speak of it.”