Lemonnier was
somewhat of a courtier, and one glance at the two noblemen before
whom he stood, was sufficient to apprize him what opinion was
expected from him. He, therefore, fully and unhesitatingly
confirmed all that Bordeu had previously advanced.
Strong in these decisions, the duc de Duras expressed his regret
to the confessor at being unable to accord his request. "But,"
added he, "You perceive the thing is impossible, unless to him
who would become a regicide."
This terrible expression renewed the former terror of the abbe,
who, satisfied with having shown his zeal, was, perhaps, not
very sorry for having met with such insurmountable obstacles. He
immediately returned to the apartment of madame Sophie, where
the council was still assembled, and related the particulars of
his visit; whilst the poor archbishop of Paris, thus foiled in
every attempt, was compelled to leave Versailles
wholly unsuccessful.
I heard all these things from the duc de Richelieu; he told me
that nothing could have been more gratifying than the conduct of
Bordeu and Lemonnier, and that I had every reason for feeling
satisfied with the conduct of all around me. "It is in the moment
of peril," said he, "that we are best able to know our true friends."
"I see it," replied I; "and since our danger is a mutual one ought
we not to forget our old subjects of dispute?"
"For my own part, madam," returned he, "I do not remember that
any ever existed; besides, is not my cause yours likewise? A new
reign will place me completely in the background.
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