There, do you see now ?" "I see one, two, four musicians with their instruments, and behind them, urging them on, De Guiche himself.

What is he doing there, though ?" "He is waiting until the little door of the staircase, belonging to the ladies of honor, is opened; by that staircase he will ascend to Madame's apartments, where some new pieces of music are going to be performed during dinner." "This is admirable news you tell me." "Is it not, monsieur ?" "Was it M.de Malicorne who told you this ?" "Yes, monsieur." "He likes you, then ?" "No, monsieur, it is Monsieur that he likes." "Why ?" "Because he wishes to belong to his household." "And most certainly he shall.

How much did he give you for that ?" "The secret which I now dispose of to you, monsieur." "And which I buy for a hundred pistoles.

Take them." "Thank you, monsieur.

Look, look, the little door opens; a woman admits the musicians." "It is Montalais." "Hush, monseigneur; do not call out her name; whoever says Montalais says Malicorne.