to have completely forgotten Paris, Saint-Mande, and Belle-Isle — that M. Colbert’s mind was occupied with illuminations and fireworks — that for the next month, at least, the ladies had plenty of glances to bestow, and also to receive in exchange — D’Artagnan asked the king for leave of absence for a matter of private business. At the moment D’Artagnan made his request, his majesty was on the point of going to bed, quite exhausted from dancing.

“You wish to leave me, Monsieur d’Artagnan?” inquired the king, with an air of astonishment; for Louis XIV. could never understand why any one who had the distinguished honor of being near him could wish to leave him.

“Sire,” said D’Artagnan, “I leave you simply because