“It is fortunate I have met with you.”

“Were you looking for me, then?”

“Mon Dieu!

yes.”

“On the part of the king, I will wager?”

“Yes.”

“As I, three days ago, went in search of M. Fouquet?”

“Oh!”

“Nonsense! It is of no use being over-delicate with me; that is all labor lost. Tell me at once you are come to arrest me.”

“To arrest you? — Good heavens! no.”

“Why do you come to accost me with twelve horsemen at your heels, then?”