This secret between them was a powerful tie, and this was why, when about to appear before the Master of another world, Mazarin was desirous of taking good counsel in disposing the wealth he was so unwillingly obliged to leave in this world.

After the visit of Guenaud, he therefore sent for Colbert, desired him to sit down, and said to him: "Let us converse, Monsieur Colbert, and seriously, for I am very ill, and I may chance to die." "Man is mortal," replied Colbert.
"I have always remembered that, M.Colbert, and I have worked with that end in view.

You know that I have amassed a little wealth." "I know you have, monseigneur." "At how much do you estimate, as near as you can, the amount of this wealth, M.Colbert ?" "At forty millions, five hundred and sixty thousand, two hundred livres, nine cents, eight farthings," replied Colbert.
The cardinal heaved a deep sigh, and looked at Colbert with wonder, but he allowed a smile to steal across his lips.
"Known money," added Colbert, in reply to that smile.
The cardinal gave quite a start in bed.

"What do you mean by that ?" said he.
"I mean," said Colbert, "that besides those forty millions, five hundred and sixty thousand, two hundred livres, nine cents, eight farthings, there are thirteen millions that are not known." "_Ouf!_" sighed Mazarin, "what a man!" At this moment, the head of Bernouin appeared through the embrasure of the door.
"What is it ?" asked Mazarin, "and why do you disturb me ?" "The Theatin father, your eminence's director, was sent for this evening; and he cannot come again to my lord till after to-morrow." Mazarin looked a Colbert, who rose and took his hat, saying: "I shall come again, my lord." Mazarin hesitated.

"No, no," said he; "I have as much business to transact with you as with him.