The clerk, a little put out by the serious air of the captain, replied that that was a very respectable reason, but that the customs of the house were respectable likewise; and that in consequence he begged the bearer to call again next day. DArtagnan asked if he could not see M. Fouquet. The clerk replied that Monsieur the Superintendent did not interfere with such details, and rudely closed the door in dArtagnans face. But the latter had foreseen this stroke, and placed his boot between the door and the door case, so that the lock did not catch, and the clerk was still face to face with his interlocutor. This made him change his tone, and say with terrified politeness, If Monsieur wishes to speak to Monsieur the Superintendent, he must go to the antechambers; these are the offices where
