relate to you, as I have already had the honor to tell your majesty, is history.” The king bit his lips, and threw himself violently on a chair.

“I appear importunate to your majesty,” said the lieutenant. “Eh! sire, that is the fate of truth; she is a stern companion; she bristles all over with steel; she wounds those whom she attacks, and sometimes him who speaks her.”

“No, monsieur,” replied the king: “I bade you speak — speak then.”

“After the service of the king and the cardinal, came the service of the regency, sire; I fought pretty well in the Fronde — much less, though, than the first time. The men began to diminish in stature. I have, nevertheless, led your majesty’s