Madame de Montespan's resolution, as it was called in her presence, or effrontery, as it was termed behind her back, was proverbial.

If she attempted to force her way, would he venture to use violence upon one who only yesterday had held the fortunes of the whole court in the hollow of her hand, and who, with her beauty, her wit, and her energy, might very well be in the same position to-morrow?
If she passed him, then his future was ruined with the king, who never brooked the smallest deviation from his orders.

On the other hand, if he thrust her back, he did that which could never be forgiven, and which would entail some deadly vengeance should she return to power.
It was an unpleasant dilemma.

But a happy thought flashed into his mind at the very moment when she, with clenched hand and flashing eyes, was on the point of making a fresh attempt to pass him.
"If madame would deign to wait," said he soothingly, "the king will be on his way to the chapel in an instant." "It is not yet time." "I think the hour has just gone." "And why should I wait, like a lackey ?" "It is but a moment, madame." "No, I shall not wait." She took a step forward towards the door.
But the guardsman's quick ear had caught the sound of moving feet from within, and he knew that he was master of the situation.
"I will take Madame's message," said he.
"Ah, you have recovered your senses! Go, tell the king that I wish to speak with him." He must gain a little time yet.

"Shall I say it through the lord in waiting ?" "No; yourself." "Publicly ?" "No, no; for his private ear." "Shall I give a reason for your request ?" "Oh, you madden me! Say what I have told you, and at once." But the young officer's dilemma was happily over.
At that instant the double doors were swung open, and Louis appeared in the opening, strutting forwards on his high-heeled shoes, his stick tapping, his broad skirts flapping, and his courtiers spreading out behind him.