said Colbert, bowing.

“If the dead, therefore, were to speak — ”

“They do speak sometimes, sire, — read.”

“Ah!” murmured Aramis, in the prince’s ear, who, close beside him, listened without losing a syllable, “since you are placed here, monseigneur, in order to learn your vocation of a king, listen to a piece of infamy — of a nature truly royal.

You are about to be a witness of one of those scenes which the foul fiend alone conceives and executes. Listen attentively, — you will find your advantage in it.”

The prince redoubled his attention, and saw Louis XIV. take from Colbert’s hands a letter the latter held out to him.