16 IN WHICH M. SEGUIER, KEEPER OF THE SEALS, LOOKS MORE THAN ONCE FOR THE BELL
It is impossible to form an idea of the impression these few words made upon Louis XIII. He grew pale and red alternately; and the cardinal saw at once that he had recovered by a single blow all the ground he had lost.
“ Buckingham in Paris!” cried he, “and why does he come?”
“ To conspire, no doubt, with your enemies, the Huguenots and the Spaniards.”
“ No, PARDIEU, no! To conspire against my honor with Madame de Chevreuse, Madame de Longueville, and the Condes.”
“ Oh, sire, what an idea! The queen is too virtuous; and besides, loves your Majesty too well.”
“ Woman is weak, Monsieur Cardinal,” said the king; “and as to loving me much, I have my own opinion as to that love.”
“ I not the less maintai
