Well? asked Louis XIV, who, on perceiving him, threw on the table covered with papers a large green cloth.
The order is executed, Sire.
And Fouquet?
Monsieur the Superintendent follows me, replied dArtagnan.
In ten minutes let him be introduced, said the King, dismissing dArtagnan with a gesture. The latter retired, but had scarcely reached the corridor at the extremity of which Fouquet was waiting for him, when he was recalled by the Kings bell.
Did he not appear astonished? asked the King.
Who, Sire?
Fouquet, repeated the King, without saying Monsieur, a trifle which confirmed the captain of the Musketeers in his suspicions.
No, Sire, replied he.
Thats well! and a second time Louis dismissed dArtagnan.
Fouquet had not quitted the terrace where he had been left by his
