When my ambassador had delivered his message, the
king asked him if he, as well as the prince de Soubise, had been
set upon his haunches by me.
The duke, nothing intimidated at this, told the king that far from
having wished that he should be my interpreter, I had requested
him not to allude to the matter.
"Why, then," said Louis XV laughing, "do you not follow the
advice of the comtesse?"
"Because I entertain a sincere attachment for her, and that I am
vexed to hear it said that there are persons who lead your majesty."
"Who are the insolents that hold such language?"
"They surround you, sire. There is not a female here but affirms
that you dare not decide on the presentation of the comtesse."
"I alone am master, and will let them know it when the opportunity
arrives; but the present moment is not fitting. The comtesse knows
how well I love her; and if she will prove her friendship towards
me, she will remain quiet for some time."
The duke thought it best to be silent, and came to me. After
relating the conversation, he added, "Do not appear at all dejected;
the king would not then visit you lest he should find you out of
temper. Were I you I should write to him; a word of peace would
set him at ease."
I approved this advice, and instantly penned the following letter: --
Sire -They tell me that your majesty has been tormented
on my account. It is a treason of which I alone could
believe myself capable.
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