But on the whole it was better as it was.
The next morning the king sent for me to come to his closet, and asked if I knew one Lilly, an astrologer.

I answered that I knew little of him personally, but had heard much of his wisdom and learning.
"Yes, yes, but you know where he lives, do you not?
On the Strand, a dozen houses this side of Temple Bar ?" asked the king.
"I have seen the house often, your Majesty," I replied.
"Good! Now listen attentively to what I have to say," returned the king, graciously taking my arm and leading me to a window overlooking the river.

"I hear from De Grammont that the Abbe du Boise is a firm believer in the teachings of astrology.

I want you to arrange, without letting any one know that my finger is in the pie, to take Lilly to see the Abbe, or the Abbe to see Lilly.

I'll whisper a word in your ear.