Page:Ten Years Later.djvu/231

Rh Only you understand what I am afraid of — I am afraid of being thought jealous of the favor shown, when I am, only jealous as far as friendship is concerned. I know your disposition; I know that when you bestow your affections you become exclusively attached. You love madame — and who, indeed, would not love her? Follow me attentively as I proceed: Madame has noticed among your friends the handsomest and most fascinating of them all; she will begin to influence you on his behalf, in such a way that you will neglect the others. Your indifference would kill me; it is already bad enough to have to support madame's indifference. I have, therefore, made up my mind to give way to the favorite whose happiness I envy even while I acknowledge my sincere friendship and sincere admiration for him. Well, monseigneur, do you see anything to object to in this reasoning? Is it not that of a man of honor? Is my conduct that of a sincere friend? Answer me, at least, after having so closely questioned me."

The duke had seated himself, with his head buried in his hands. After a silence long enough to enable the chevalier to judge of the effect of his oratorical display, the duke rose, saying, "Come, be candid."

"As I always am."

"Very well. You know that we already observed something respecting that mad fellow, Buckingham."

"Do not say anything against madame, monseigneur, or I shall take my leave. It is impossible you can be suspicious of madame?"

"No, no, chevalier; I do not suspect madame; but, in fact, I observe — I compare "

"Buckingham was a madman, monseigneur."

"A madman about whom, however, you opened my eyes thoroughly."

"No, no," said the chevalier quickly; "it was not I who opened your eyes. It was De Guiche. Do not confound us, I beg." And he began to laugh in so harsh a manner that it sounded like the hiss of a serpent.

"Yes, yes; I remember. You said a few words, but De Guiche showed the most jealousy."

"I should think so," continued the chevalier, in the same tone. "He was fighting for home and altar."

"What did you say?" said the duke haughtily, thoroughly roused by this insidious jest.

"Am I not right? for does not Monsieur de Guiche hold the chief post of honor in your household?"