For the talk at Court was that the Duke of Orleans hated to let his wife out of his sight, while she for her part hated to be in it.

Both had their reasons, I do not doubt.
"Perhaps," he answered with a shrug.

"But it's hard to know the truth in these matters.

I am myself acquainted with many gentlemen at the French Court, and they have much to say, but I believe little of it." Though I might commend his prudence, I was not encouraged to pursue the topic, and, seeking a change of conversation, I paid him a compliment on his mastery of English, hazarding a suggestion that he must have passed some time in this country.
"Yes," he replied, "I was in London for a year or more a little while ago." "Your English puts my French to the blush," I laughed, "else hospitality would bid me use your language." "You speak French ?" he asked.

"I confess it is easier to me." "Only a little, and that learnt from merchants, not at Court." For traders of all nations had come from time to time to my uncle's house at Norwich.
"But I believe you speak very well," he insisted politely.