On the same day the
vicomte Adolphe du Barry told his father that that the young de
Bearn had asked him the evening before, if I had found a
to present me; that in case I had not, his mother would not refuse
such a service, should it be desired by the king. Comte Jean and
I perfectly understood the lady. She came again, and I renewed
the expression of my desire to be useful to her. She replied in
a hackneyed phrase, that she should be charmed to prove her
gratitude to me. I took her word.
"Madame," said I to her, "you cannot be ignorant that I ardently
desire to be presented. My husband has sent in his proofs of
nobility, which have been received; I now only want a
(godmother); if you will officiate in that capacity, I shall owe
you a debt of gratitude all my life."
"Madame, I am at the king's orders."
"But, madame, the king has nothing to do with this. I wish to
be presented; will you be my introductress?"
"Madame, the first wish of my heart is to be agreeable to you; I
only desire that the king indicate in some way, no matter how
trifling, his will on this point."
"Well, then," I exclaimed, with impatience, "I see you will not
give me a direct reply. Why should you wish the king to interfere
in what does not concern him? Is it your intention to oblige me;
yes or no?"
"Yes, madame, certainly; but you must be aware of the tremendous
cabal which is raised against you.
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