The Regent had flattered himself that they would not come to the bed of justice, and had not summoned them.

He at once advanced towards the Count of Toulouse, and said out loud that he was surprised to see him in his robes, and that he had not thought proper to notify him of the bed of justice, because he knew that, since the last edict, he did not like going to the Parliament.

The Count of Toulouse replied that that was quite true, but that, when it was a question of the welfare of the State, he put every other consideration aside.

The Regent was disconcerted; he hesitated a moment, then, speaking low and very earnestly to the Count of Toulouse, he returned to St.Simon.

"I have just told him all," said he, "I couldn't help it; he is the best fellow in the world, and the one who touches my heart the most.