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Rh LOUISE DE LA VALLIEBB. 56 D'Artagnan looked at Aramis most narrowly while he uttered these words, which displayed so mnch true respect, 80 much warm devotion, such entire frankness and sincer- ity, that even he, D'Artagnan, the eternal doubter, he, the almost infallible in his judgment, was deceived by it. *'A man who lies cannot speak in such a tone as that, he said, Louis was overcome by it. "In that case," he said to Fouquet, who anxiously awaited the result of this proof, ? ledge you my honor that the first promotion shall be yours, 'hank Monsieur Fouquet for it.'* Colbert overheard these words; they stung him to the quick, and he left the salon abruptly. "And, you. Monsieur du Vallon,*' said the king, "what have you to ask? I am pleased to have it in my power to acknowledge the services of those who were faithful to my father." "Sire — " began Porthos, but he was unable to proceed with what he was going to say. "Sire," exclaimed D'Artagnan, "this worthy gentleman is overpowered by your majesty's presence, he who has so valiantly sustained the looks and the fire of a thousand foes. But, knowing what his thoughts are, I — who am more accustomed to gaze upon the sun — can translate his thoughts; he needs nothing, his sole desire is to have the happiness of gazing upon your majesty for a quarter of an hour." "You shall sup with me this evening," said the king, saluting Porthos with a gracious smile. Porthos became crimson from delight and from pride. The king dismissed him, and D'Artagnan pushed him into the adjoining apartment, after he had embraced him warmly. "Sit next to me at table," said Porthos in his ear. "Yes, my friend.'* "Aramis is annoyed with me, I think.*' "Aramis has never liked you so much as he does now. Fancy, it was I who was the means of his getting the car- dinal's hat." "Of course," said Porthos. "By the bye, does the king like his guests to eat much at his table." "It is a compliment to himself if you do,'* said D'Artag- nan, "for he possesses a royal appetite,*'
 * the cardinal's hat is promised. Monsieur d*Herblay, I