Raoul entered the ante-chamber at the very moment the two ministers quitted it, and the king, perceiving him through the half-closed door, said, "What do you want, M.de Bragelonne ?" The young man approached: "An audience, sire," he replied, "for the Comte de la Fere, who has just arrived from Blois, and is most anxious to have an interview with your majesty." "I have an hour to spare between cards and supper," said the king.

"Is the Comte de la Fere at hand ?" "He is below, and awaits your majesty's permission." "Let him come up at once," said the king, and five minutes afterwards Athos entered the presence of Louis XIV.

He was received by the king with that gracious kindness of manner which Louis, with a tact beyond his years, reserved for the purpose of gaining those who were not to be conquered by ordinary favors.

"Let me hope, comte," said the king, "that you have come to ask me for something." "I will not conceal from your majesty," replied the comte, "that I am indeed come for that purpose." "That is well," said the king, joyously.
"It is not for myself, sire." "So much the worse; but, at least, I will do for your _protege_ what you refuse to permit me to do for you." "Your majesty encourages me.

I have come to speak on behalf of the Vicomte de Bragelonne." "It is the same as if you spoke on your own behalf, comte." "Not altogether so, sire.