"That is not the point. The black spite of my enemies has not
yet deprived me of the counsels of a friend. But as it is necessary
to speak to the king in my favor, I wish that he should not know
that you do so at my request."
After this I related to the duke my conversation with the king.
"Your situation is delicate," said he to me, "but it should not
trouble you. The king is weak, we must give him courage. It is
his pliancy of disposition rather than his resistance that we must
contend with, and I go to act upon it. "
I then instructed the duke with what had passed between me and
the prince de Soubise. When I had done, the duke replied :
"Expect nothing from the prince de Soubise: he will speak, no
doubt; but how? In a jesting, laughing way. If, however, you
think he can at all serve you, give him all your confidence."
"No, no, never," I replied with quickness; "it is not a thing to be
done lightly; we do not select a confidant, counsellor, or friend,
at random. Do you not know this, M. le duc? It is requisite that
the heart of the one who speaks should repose itself on the heart
of the friend who listens. I repeat to you that I have no feeling of
confidence towards M. de Soubise. In fact," I added with visible
and troubled emotion, "my choice is made, and you have too much
heroism to wish to combat it."
At these flattering words the duke precipitated himself at my feet,
and swore to support my cause with all his power and interest.
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