“Play.”
“That is rather worldly: but you were obliged by the duties of greatness to keep a good house.”
“I like to win.”
“No player plays to lose.”
“I cheated a little.”
“You took your advantage. Pass on.”
“Well! reverend father, I feel nothing else upon my conscience. Give me absolution, and my soul will be able, when God shall please to call it, to mount without obstacle to the throne — ”
The Theatin moved neither his arms nor his lips. “What are you waiting for, father?” said Mazarin.