D'Artagnan received his visitors with all the courtesy he was capable of; he preserved his unmoved and unconcerned look.

All the persons present were men of distinction, occupying posts of honor and credit at the court.

After he had apologized to each of them for any inconvenience he might have put them to, he turned towards De Wardes, who, in spite of his customary self-command, could not prevent his face betraying some surprise mingled with not a little uneasiness.
"Now, monsieur," said D'Artagnan, "since we are no longer within the precincts of the king's palace, and since we can speak out without failing in respect to propriety, I will inform you why I have taken the liberty to request you to visit me here, and why I have invited these gentlemen to be present at the same time.

My friend, the Comte de la Fere, has acquainted me with the injurious reports you are spreading about myself.

You have stated that you regard me as your mortal enemy, because I was, so you affirm, that of your father." "Perfectly true, monsieur, I have said so," replied De Wardes, whose pallid face became slightly tinged with color.
"You accuse me, therefore, of a crime, or a fault, or of some mean and cowardly act.