The Jesuits flatter
themselves that the dauphin inherits the kind feelings entertained
by his father for their order, and the parliamentarians justly
reckon upon the friendly disposition of the young prince towards
the old magistracy. Both parties equally flatter themselves that
a fresh reign would bring about their re-establishment, and they
are impatient to accelerate so desirable an event: the conspiracy
is directed by four Jesuits and the same number of the ex-members
of the parliament of Paris. The remainder of the two corporations
are not initiated in the secret of the enterprise. I am not able
at present to give you the names of the eight conspirators, the
person from whom I derive my information not having as yet
confided them even to myself, but I trust ere long to obtain such
a mark of confidence."
The female ceased speaking, and I remained in a state of doubt,
fear, and alarm, impossible to describe. Still one thing appeared
clear to me, that information so mysteriously conveyed was not
deserving of belief, unless supported by more corroborating
testimony. My unknown friend evidently divined all that was
passing in my mind, for she observed,
"I perceive that my recital appears to you improbable; one
particular which I will state may perhaps overcome your
incredulity. Are you not in the habit, madam, of taking every
evening
mixed with a large proportion of orange-
flower water?"
"I am," replied I.
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