Who are those with whom you cannot contend?
De Guiche ?" "I name no one." "This is absurd.

Does De Guiche annoy you ?" "I do not say he does; do not force me to speak, however; you know very well that De Guiche is one of our best friends." "Who is it, then ?" "Excuse me, monseigneur, let us say no more about it." The chevalier knew perfectly well that curiosity is excited in the same way as thirst -- by removing that which quenches it; or in other words, by denying an explanation.
"No, no," said the prince; "I wish to know why you went away." "In that case, monseigneur, I will tell you; but do not get angry.

I remarked that my presence was disagreeable." "To whom ?" "To Madame." "What do you mean ?" said the duke in astonishment.
"It is simple enough; Madame is very probably jealous of the regard you are good enough to testify for me." "Has she shown it to you ?" "Madame never addresses a syllable to me, particularly since a certain time." "Since _what_ time ?" "Since the time when, M.de Guiche having made himself more agreeable to her than I could, she receives him at every and any hour." The duke colored.

"At any hour, chevalier; what do you mean by that ?" "You see, your highness, I have already displeased you; I was quite sure I should." "I am not displeased; but what you say is rather startling.

In what respect does Madame prefer De Guiche to you ?" "I shall say no more," said the chevalier, saluting the prince ceremoniously.
"On the contrary, I require you to speak.