“Certainly. But is it necessary?”
“No, not necessary. I ask it as a favour.”
The Chevalier bowed. Again there was silence, for her tone did not invite further question. “Have you discovered anything fresh of importance?” Denise asked presently.
“Several things, Mademoiselle.”
“Do they concern the Vicomte de Nérac?” she demanded quickly.
“Yes.”
“Then I do not wish to hear them. I cannot, I will not,” she added in a low voice of emotion.
The Chevalier made a gesture of despairing dismay. “But speak I must,” he said, “for things cannot be worse than they are. The King is absolutely infatuated. The Pompadour is wise enough to see that that may not last; she will not rest therefore till she has his Majesty completely in her power. This mysterious treachery is her chance. Let her discover the truth and the traitor and no one will prevail against her.” He paused to add, “And the man who will discover it for her is her friend and servant in secret, the Vicomte de Nérac.”
“You believe that?” she faced him eagerly.
“Mademoiselle, if there is any man in Versailles who can do it the Vicomte is that man.”