"
Thus finished this little jest. However, Louis XV, who was
extremely kind to all about him, especially those in his service,
shortly after recompensed his simple-minded ambassador, by
intrusting him with a commission at once profitable and honorable.
Another event which took place at this period, caused no less
noise than the death of madame Brillant. At this time, mademoiselle
Mesnard was, for her many charms of mind and person, the general
rage throughout Paris. Courtiers, lawyers, bankers, and citizens
crowded alike to offer their homage. Frail as fair, mademoiselle
Mesnard received all kindly, and took with gracious smiles the
rich gifts showered upon her by her various adorers. The first
noblemen of the court, knights of the different orders, farmers-
general, all aspired to the honor of ruining themselves for her.
She had already satisfied the ruinous propensities of at least a
dozen of lovers, when the duc de Chaulnes entered the lists, and
was fortunate enough to eclipse all his rivals. He might long
have enjoyed the preference thus obtained, but for an act of the
greatest imprudence of which a lover could be guilty. He was so
indiscreet as to invite several of his most intimate friends to
sup with himself and Mademoiselle Mesnard. Amongst the number
was Caron de Beaumarchais, a man possessed of the grace of a
prince and the generous profusion of a highwayman.
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