The Comprachicos were, moreover, very discreet and very taciturn.

They bound themselves to silence, and kept their word, which is necessary in affairs of state.

There was scarcely an example of their having betrayed the secrets of the king.

This was, it is true, for their interest; and if the king had lost confidence in them, they would have been in great danger.

They were thus of use in a political point of view.