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96 some of their hearts might be happy. A few of the persons present followed the king as he quitted the apartment; but such of the courtiers as assumed an independence of character, and professed a gallantry of disposition, began to approach the ladies of the court. The prince paid his compliments to Mile, de Tonnay-Charente, Buckingham devoted himself to Mme. Chalais and to Mile, de Lafayette, whom madame had already distinguished by her notice, and whom she held in high regard. As for the Comte de Guiche, who had abandoned Monsieur as soon as he could approach madame alone, he conversed, with great animation, with Mme. de Valentinois, and with Miles, de Cregny and de Chatillon.

Amid these varied political and amorous interests, Malicorne was anxious to gain Montalais' attention; but the latter preferred talking with Raoul, even if it were only to amuse herself with his numerous questions and his surprise. Raoul had gone direct to Mile, de la Valliere, and had saluted her with the profoundest respect, at which Louise blushed, and could not say a word. Montalais, however, hurried to her assistance.

"Well, Monsieur le Vicomte, here we are, you see."

"I do, indeed, see you," said Raoul, smiling, "and it is exactly because you are here that I wish to ask for some explanation."

Malicorne approached the group with his most fascinating smile.

"Go away, Malicorne; really, you are exceedingly indiscreet."

At this remark Malicorne bit his lips and retired a few steps, without making any reply. His smile, however, changed its expression, and from its former frankness, became mocking in its expression.

"You wished for an explanation. Monsieur Raoul?" inquired Montalais.

"It is surely worth one, I think; Mademoiselle de la Valliere a maid of honor to madame!"

"Why should not she be a maid of honor, as well as myself?" inquired Montalais.

"Pray, accept my compliments, young ladies," said Eaoul, who fancied he perceived they were not disposed to answer him in a direct manner.

"Your remark was not made in a very complimentary manner, vicomte."

"Mine?"