Ten Years Later: Louise de la Valliere by Alexandre Dumas Chapter 51 Page 14

“You allude to Montalais, I suppose — her friend; a woman who, on that account, will exaggerate all that is either bad or good in the matter.

Do not talk to Montalais, my good fellow.”

“You have some reasons for wishing me not to talk with Montalais?”

“Well, I admit it. And, in point of fact, why should I play with you as a cat does with a poor mouse? You distress me, you do, indeed. And if I wish you not to speak to Montalais just now, it is because you will be betraying your secret, and people will take advantage of it. Wait, if you can.”

“I cannot.”

“So much the worse. Why, you see, Raoul, if I had an idea, — but I have not got one.”