de Valon, I have seen you to-day with the greatest pleasure, and my pleasure will be equally great to see you again." Porthos bowed as the Colossus of Rhodes would have done, and retired from the room with his face toward the king.

"M.
d'Artagnan," continued the king, "you will await my orders in the gallery; I am obliged to you for having made me acquainted with M.de Valon.

Gentlemen," addressing himself to the other guests, "I return to Paris to-morrow on account of the departure of the Spanish and Dutch ambassadors.

Until to-morrow, then." The apartment was immediately cleared of the guests.

The king took Saint-Aignan by the arm, made him read La Valliere's verses over again, and said.