So powerful was the influence of Eleonora Galigai and her husband, Concini, both Italians like herself, that in that superstitious age it was ascribed to magic.

Marie became the mere secretary to record the wishes of these parasites.

Concini was made marquis, then minister.

Whom he commended was elevated, and whom he denounced was abased.

Public indignation reached its climax when this adventurer was finally created Marshal of France, before whom counts and dukes must bow.