“On the honor of Mazarin.”
“I should like another sort of oath better,” said D’Artagnan to himself; then aloud, “May I not offer my duty to her majesty the queen?”
“Her majesty is asleep and you must set off directly,” replied Mazarin; “go, pray, sir — — ”
“One word more, my lord; if there’s any fighting where I’m going, must I fight?”
“You are to obey the commands of the personage to whom I have addressed the inclosed letter.”
“‘Tis well,” said D’Artagnan, holding out his hand to receive the money.
“I offer my best respects and services to you, my lord.”