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The book tells the story of the French royal court during the reign of King Louis XIV, focusing on the intricate web of relationships, alliances, and rivalries between the king, his brother Monsieur, and their wives, as well as the various courtiers and nobles who surround them. The narrative follows the lives of several key characters, including D'Artagnan, Athos, Raoul, and Mademoiselle de la Valliere, as they navigate the complexities of court life, love, and politics. Along the way, the story touches on themes such as jealousy, ambition, and the corrupting influence of power, all set against the backdrop of the lavish and decadent world of 17th-century Versailles. Throughout the book, the author explores the inner workings of the royal court, revealing the secrets, intrigues, and passions that drive the characters and shape the course of their lives. Ultimately, the book is a rich and nuanced portrayal of a pivotal moment in French history, full of drama, romance, and insight into the human condition.
D'Artagnan, exhausted and covered in dust, arrives at the Louvre and is greeted by the king. Despite his fatigue, he is met with unexpected news: the king already knows about the fortifications of Belle-Isle, which D'Artagnan had risked his life to gather information about. Feeling undervalued and untrusted, D'Artagnan requests his discharge, but the king instead offers him a commission as captain of the musketeers. The king also reveals that he is aware of D'Artagnan's actions at the Place de Greve, where he had helped to hang two men, and D'Artagnan expresses his repentance for the act. The conversation turns to Raoul, the son of D'Artagnan's friend Athos, who is introduced to the king and swears his loyalty to him. The king is impressed by Raoul's noble character and decides to take him into his service. Finally, D'Artagnan shares the sad news of the death of Gaston of Orleans, the king's uncle, and the king is moved by the loss. Despite the ups and downs of the conversation, D'Artagnan remains loyal to the king and retires to rest and recover from his journey.
The scene shifts to the castle of Blois, where the death of Gaston of Orleans is being mourned. However, in a quiet corner of the castle, a young couple, Monsieur Malicorne and Mademoiselle Aure de Montalais, are engaged in a lively and flirtatious conversation. Malicorne, a clever and charming young man, has just presented Montalais with a commission as a lady of honor, which she had been seeking. As they banter back and forth, their conversation reveals a complex and playful dynamic between them, with each trying to outmaneuver the other. Despite their teasing and arguments, it becomes clear that they have strong feelings for each other, and their conversation is punctuated by romantic and passionate moments. Just as things are becoming heated between them, they are interrupted by the arrival of Madame de Saint-Remy, who is displeased to find Malicorne in Montalais's presence.
The scene continues with Madame de Saint-Remy scolding Mademoiselle de Montalais for her flirtatious behavior with Monsieur Malicorne. However, Montalais reveals that she has been appointed as a maid of honor to Madame Henrietta of England, the future wife of Monsieur, and shows Madame de Saint-Remy the official brevet. Madame de Saint-Remy is shocked and defeated, realizing that Malicorne's influence at court is more powerful than she thought. Meanwhile, Mademoiselle de la Valliere, who has been quietly observing the scene, is consoled by Montalais and reveals her own desire to go to Paris. Montalais promises to use Malicorne's influence to secure a similar appointment for La Valliere, and Malicorne agrees to try and obtain a brevet for her within a week. La Valliere is overjoyed at the prospect of going to Paris, where she hopes to reunite with Raoul, and the scene ends with Malicorne departing, having secured a promise from Montalais and La Valliere, but also mindful of the cost of his influence.
The story delves into the lives of Malicorne and Manicamp, two individuals with distinct personalities and ambitions. Malicorne, driven by a desire for social advancement, has set his sights on securing a position in the household of Monsieur, the king's brother, and marrying Mademoiselle de Montalais, a woman of noble birth. He has carefully planned and executed his strategy, using his connections with Manicamp, a charming and intelligent young man who has a talent for spending money, to further his goals. Manicamp, who lives off the generosity of the Comte de Guiche, has a unique system of living beyond his means, selling his belongings and then replenishing them when his patron's purse is full again. Malicorne, on the other hand, is calculating and ambitious, using his wealth and influence to manipulate those around him, including his mistress, Mademoiselle de Montalais. Despite his feelings for her, he maintains a facade of indifference, aware that showing his true emotions could lead to her losing interest in him. The complex web of relationships and alliances between Malicorne, Manicamp, and their associates sets the stage for a dramatic and potentially revolutionary series of events in Paris, involving the innocent and unsuspecting La Valliere.
Malicorne visits his friend Manicamp, who is struggling financially and has sold most of his belongings. Malicorne offers Manicamp twenty pistoles to retrieve a letter from the Comte de Guiche, which is necessary for obtaining a second place as a maid of honor. However, Manicamp comes up with a clever plan to get Malicorne to do the task himself, by making a wager that Malicorne will be able to obtain the letter within eight hours. Malicorne falls for the plan and sets out to Etampes to retrieve the letter. Before he leaves, Manicamp agrees to write a recommendation for Malicorne to obtain a place in the household of Monsieur, in exchange for five hundred pistoles. Malicorne pays two hundred and fifty pistoles upfront and promises to pay the rest when he receives his position. With the task and the recommendation in hand, Malicorne sets out to achieve his goals, hoping that the benefits will be worth the expense, particularly with regards to his interests in Mademoiselle de la Valliere.
Malicorne arrives at the Hotel Grammont to deliver a letter from Manicamp to the Comte de Guiche. He is admitted to the courtyard, where he finds the Comte inspecting his horses. Malicorne impresses the Comte with his knowledge of horses and his elegant dress. The Comte agrees to consider Manicamp's request for a second maid of honor appointment, which is intended for Mademoiselle de la Valliere. Malicorne also requests an appointment in the king's household for himself, and the Comte offers to help him. However, their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of De Wardes, who is skeptical of Malicorne's lack of noble birth. The Comte defends Malicorne, but De Wardes suggests that he could be created a gentleman through the purchase of letters of nobility. The conversation becomes heated when De Wardes criticizes the king's appointment of the Chevalier d'Artagnan as captain-general of the musketeers, which Raoul, who has just arrived, defends. The scene ends with tension between De Wardes and Raoul, who disagree on the value of noble birth and the merits of d'Artagnan's appointment.
The conversation between De Guiche, De Wardes, and Raoul becomes increasingly tense as they discuss their relationships and loyalty to one another. De Wardes reveals a deep-seated hatred for D'Artagnan, which De Guiche attempts to mitigate, warning him that his behavior could have consequences. Meanwhile, De Guiche visits Monsieur, who is preparing to meet his future wife, Madame Henrietta, and is obsessed with his own appearance. De Guiche secures an appointment for Mademoiselle de la Valliere as a maid of honor, despite the Chevalier de Lorraine's objections. As the group prepares to depart for the ceremony to bring Madame Henrietta to Paris, Raoul becomes visibly upset when he overhears a comment about Mademoiselle de la Valliere being lame, revealing his own personal interest in her. The scene ends with the group setting off amidst fanfare and celebration, while Raoul's emotions simmer just below the surface.
The story continues with the arrival of the brilliant and animated company at Le Havre, where they are met with chaos and confusion as they search for accommodations. The Comte de Guiche encounters Manicamp, who is dressed in a violet velvet suit, and they engage in a witty conversation. Meanwhile, De Wardes and De Guiche discuss the Duke of Buckingham's rumored love for Madame, and De Guiche becomes increasingly agitated. The group eventually decides to follow De Guiche, who leads them to the house destined for the residence of the queen dowager of England and her daughter. Along the way, they are accompanied by a crowd of people, whose cheers and applause seem to bode well for the success of De Guiche's mysterious project. As they approach the house, the wind blows strongly from the harbor, creating an ominous atmosphere. Raoul, who has been observing the scene with interest, remains calm and collected, while De Wardes and De Guiche continue to exchange heated words. The chapter ends with the group arriving at the house, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
The French court awaits the arrival of the English fleet carrying Madame Henrietta, the future wife of Monsieur, at Le Havre. Despite the rough seas, De Guiche and Raoul bravely set out in a small boat to greet the princess and her mother. They successfully reach the flagship and are received with admiration for their courage. De Guiche is immediately smitten with Madame Henrietta and struggles to maintain his composure. Meanwhile, the Duke of Buckingham, who is also in love with Madame, becomes increasingly agitated and jealous as he watches De Guiche's interactions with the princess. The admiral, however, remains firm in his decision to delay the disembarkation of the princesses until the sea is calmer, despite Buckingham's protests. As the day progresses, the weather improves, and the French court prepares to receive the princesses, while De Guiche and Buckingham engage in a subtle rivalry for Madame's attention.
The scene unfolds with the Duke of Buckingham, still reeling from his unrequited love for Madame Henrietta, attempting to disembark from the ship ahead of the princess and her mother. However, he is thwarted by the queen's orders and forced to precede them to prepare their accommodations. Upon arriving at the Hotel de Ville, Buckingham is met with a surprise: a series of tents, adorned with the flags of France and England, have been erected by De Guiche and his companions. Buckingham, feeling his authority and pride threatened, demands that the tents be removed, but De Guiche and Manicamp refuse, citing the king's authority and the need for shelter. The situation escalates, with Buckingham becoming increasingly agitated and De Guiche remaining calm but firm. Raoul intervenes, addressing Buckingham's behavior and warning him to respect the princess and the French royal family. Buckingham, realizing the futility of his actions, eventually calms down and embraces Raoul, leading to a reconciliation between the French and English parties. The procession of the princess arrives, and order is restored, thanks in large part to Raoul's diplomatic efforts.
The night falls on the town where the French and English courts are gathered to celebrate the arrival of Madame Henrietta, the future wife of Monsieur. De Guiche, one of the French nobles, is seen to be deeply distressed and Raoul, his friend, tries to comfort him. De Guiche reveals that he is not suffering from physical pain, but rather from emotional turmoil. Raoul presses De Guiche to admit the true cause of his distress, and it becomes clear that De Guiche is struggling with his own feelings for Madame Henrietta. Meanwhile, Buckingham, the Duke of England, is also shown to be pining for Madame Henrietta, and the two men's unrequited loves are revealed to be a source of tension and conflict. Raoul, who had earlier spoken to Buckingham about the importance of respecting the princess and the French royal family, now observes De Guiche and Buckingham watching Madame Henrietta's apartment, their eyes filled with longing and desire. The scene ends with Raoul reflecting on the complicated web of relationships and desires that surrounds him, and worrying about his own love affair, fearing that others may be coveting his beloved, Mademoiselle de la Valliere.
The procession of Madame Henrietta, the future wife of Monsieur, makes its way from Le Havre to Paris, accompanied by a grand escort and festivities in every town they pass through. De Guiche and Buckingham are both smitten with Madame, but she seems indifferent to their affections. Meanwhile, De Wardes tries to provoke Raoul into a duel, insulting his father and D'Artagnan, but Raoul remains calm and composed, refusing to engage in a fight until they reach Paris. Buckingham intervenes, defending Raoul and D'Artagnan, and De Wardes becomes increasingly agitated. Eventually, Raoul and De Wardes do engage in a sword fight, but Raoul easily gains the upper hand and disarms De Wardes. After the fight, Raoul and Buckingham form a bond of friendship, with Buckingham offering to look out for Raoul's safety and Raoul accepting his friendship.
The Duke of Orleans, Monsieur, meets his future wife, Madame Henrietta, and is immediately struck by her beauty. However, the Chevalier de Lorraine, Monsieur's favorite, seems unimpressed and makes several disparaging comments about Madame's appearance. De Guiche, who is also in love with Madame, is questioned by Monsieur and the Chevalier about his opinion of her, but he tries to avoid giving a direct answer. Meanwhile, Raoul, who is in love with Mademoiselle de la Valliere, tries to visit his friends, but they are all busy with their own pursuits. He eventually receives a visit from Malicorne, who brings him letters that he had written to Mademoiselle de la Valliere, but which had been returned unopened. Malicorne also brings a letter from Mademoiselle de Montalais, which hints that Mademoiselle de la Valliere is in Paris, but the meaning of the letter is unclear. Raoul is eager to learn more, but Malicorne is sworn to secrecy. Raoul agrees to help Malicorne gain admission to the royal wedding ceremony, where he hopes to find Mademoiselle de la Valliere.
Raoul is surprised to see Mademoiselle de la Valliere and Mademoiselle de Montalais at the royal court, where they have been appointed as maids of honor to Madame. He is shocked and seeks an explanation from Montalais, who reveals that she had intercepted his letters to La Valliere and had kept her appointment as a maid of honor a secret from him. La Valliere eventually confesses that she came to Paris because Raoul was no longer at Blois, and he, overcome with emotion, proposes marriage to her. La Valliere, after some hesitation, accepts his proposal by placing her hands in his, and then quickly departs. Raoul is left feeling elated and committed to their union, seeing it as a way to protect La Valliere from the corrupting influences of the court.
Raoul travels to Blois to seek his father Athos' consent to marry Mademoiselle de la Valliere, one of Madame's maids of honor. Athos, though initially reserved, eventually agrees to give his consent and even offers to accompany Raoul to Paris to speak to the king about the marriage. However, Athos' manner remains grave and serious, causing Raoul to feel a sense of unease. As they discuss the matter, Raoul asks if there is a secret reason for Athos' initial disapproval, but Athos deflects the question. The conversation takes a turn when Raoul mentions being reproached for not knowing who his mother was, and Athos becomes pale and angry. Raoul reveals that he defended his honor with his sword, but spared his adversary's life due to the king's prohibition on dueling. Athos decides to seek the king's permission to draw his sword against the man who insulted him, and as a condition for signing Raoul's marriage contract, demands to know the name of the man who made the comment, which Raoul eventually reveals to be the Vicomte de Wardes.
Monsieur, the king's brother, is feeling jealous and unhappy in his marriage to Madame Henrietta, and he expresses his concerns to his mother, Anne of Austria. He complains that his wife is too often surrounded by her English attendants and that the Duke of Buckingham, in particular, seems to be paying her too much attention. Monsieur accuses the duke of being his wife's lover and threatens to take action against him. However, Anne of Austria calms him down and advises him to be patient and not to act rashly, warning him that any conflict with the Duke of Buckingham could have serious diplomatic consequences. She offers to help resolve the situation and asks Monsieur to send the duke to her, promising to handle the matter discreetly. Monsieur agrees to follow his mother's advice and sets out to find the Duke of Buckingham, who is likely to be attending Madame Henrietta's levée.
The Duke of Buckingham is summoned by the queen-mother, Anne of Austria, who intends to persuade him to leave France. The duke, who is in love with Madame Henrietta, is reluctant to depart, but the queen-mother uses her maternal affection and gentle tone to convince him that it is necessary. She assures him that no one will mock or command him, and that she will ensure his reputation remains intact. The duke, overcome with emotion, eventually agrees to leave, but not before the queen-mother extracts a promise from him to return in two years. As he departs, the duke exclaims "Forever!", indicating his deep sorrow and sense of loss. The queen-mother, meanwhile, reflects on the enduring power of love and youth, and how it can remain hidden in the heart, even as one ages.
King Louis XIV receives Athos and Raoul, and Athos requests the king's consent for Raoul to marry Mademoiselle de la Valliere. However, the king is not enthusiastic about the match, citing Mademoiselle de la Valliere's lack of wealth and beauty. Despite Athos' efforts to persuade the king, Louis XIV ultimately decides to oppose the marriage, citing his desire to secure a better future for Raoul. The king asks Athos to tell Raoul that he will speak with him the next morning, and Athos agrees, though he is aware that the king's decision will be disappointing to Raoul. Meanwhile, Raoul receives letters from the Comte de Guiche and the Duke of Buckingham, both of whom request his presence, and he sets out to attend to these matters, unaware of the king's decision regarding his marriage.
The scene unfolds with Raoul visiting De Guiche, who is conversing with De Wardes and Manicamp. De Guiche confides in Raoul about his love for Madame Henrietta and his jealousy of the Duke of Buckingham, who he believes is also in love with her. De Guiche asks Raoul to arrange a meeting with Buckingham, which Raoul agrees to do. Meanwhile, D'Artagnan appears and interrupts the conversation between Buckingham and Fouquet, allowing Raoul to speak with the duke. However, their conversation is interrupted by Monsieur, who informs Buckingham that he knows of his planned departure from France. Buckingham confirms that he will be leaving the next day, which leads to a reconciliation between him and De Guiche. Later, De Wardes makes a comment about Buckingham's departure being a "strategic retreat," which angers Raoul. The situation escalates, with D'Artagnan intervening and inviting De Wardes to his apartments for a conversation, hinting at a potential duel. Raoul, De Guiche, and Buckingham are also invited to join them, setting the stage for a potentially dramatic confrontation.
The scene continues with D'Artagnan, who has invited a group of gentlemen, including De Wardes, De Guiche, Buckingham, and Raoul, to his apartment. D'Artagnan confronts De Wardes about his accusations of a past misdeed, and De Wardes reveals that he has been seeking revenge against D'Artagnan for a shameless action he committed against De Wardes' father. However, Athos intervenes and recounts the true story of the past event, revealing that the woman involved was actually the one who had attempted to kill D'Artagnan and was later involved in the murder of Buckingham's father. D'Artagnan apologizes for his past actions and asks for De Wardes' forgiveness, which De Wardes grants, albeit reluctantly. The scene ends with De Wardes challenging Buckingham to a duel, which Buckingham accepts, and the two men agree to meet in Calais in 34 hours to settle their dispute.
Athos and D'Artagnan discuss Raoul's potential duel with De Wardes, and Athos decides to return to Blois, feeling out of place in the corrupt and intrigue-filled environment of Paris. D'Artagnan then meets with Baisemeaux, the governor of the Bastile, who is deeply in debt due to a contract he made with Tremblay and Louviere, and is now desperate to find Aramis, who is his surety, to settle his accounts. Baisemeaux owes Aramis a large sum of money, which is due the next day, and if he fails to pay, he will lose everything. D'Artagnan advises Baisemeaux to seek out Fouquet, who may be able to help him find Aramis, and Baisemeaux sets off to do so, giving D'Artagnan his word of honor to keep the matter secret. D'Artagnan is left to ponder the strange affair and Aramis's possible motives for involving himself in Baisemeaux's financial troubles.
The scene unfolds at the king's card-table, where Buckingham's departure has seemingly lifted the mood of the previous evening. However, beneath the surface, tensions and rivalries simmer. Madame Henrietta shines with her wit and beauty, captivating the king and the court, while Buckingham's unrequited love for her is palpable. Meanwhile, Fouquet, the superintendent, is dealt a severe blow when the king demands four million francs from him, a sum that Fouquet is unsure he can provide. Fouquet confides in Aramis, who remains calm and collected, assuring Fouquet that he will find a solution. Aramis requests fifty thousand francs from Fouquet, which is revealed to be part of a larger sum to pay off a bond related to the appointment of Baisemeaux, the governor of the Bastile. The conversation hints at a deeper intrigue involving Aramis and Fouquet, with the governor's appointment potentially serving as a means to exert influence and control. As the night wears on, Fouquet departs, still uncertain about his ability to meet the king's demands, while Aramis remains confident that a solution will be found.
Aramis, dressed as a simple citizen, visits the Bastile and meets with its governor, Baisemeaux. The governor is overly polite and obsequious, clearly eager to please Aramis. They discuss the governor's financial troubles and Aramis's punctuality in bringing him a payment of 50,000 francs. Baisemeaux explains how he manages the prison and its finances, including the different rates he charges for prisoners of various ranks. Aramis shows interest in the prison's registers and Baisemeaux shares with him the names of some of the prisoners, including a young man named Seldon who was imprisoned for writing a distich against the Jesuits. Aramis also inquires about a prisoner named Marchiali, and Baisemeaux whispers to him that Marchiali's crime is that he resembles a high-ranking person. The conversation is interrupted by the announcement of breakfast, and the two men proceed to the dining room. Throughout the conversation, Aramis appears to be gathering information and observing Baisemeaux's behavior, while Baisemeaux is trying to impress and please him.
Aramis visits the governor of the Bastile, M. de Baisemeaux, and they share a breakfast together. During their conversation, Aramis shows interest in the prisoners, particularly one known as "second Bertaudiere" who is boarded at fifteen francs. Baisemeaux reveals that this prisoner is kept in a relatively comfortable room and is well-fed, but Aramis remains skeptical. The governor offers to take Aramis on a tour of the Bastile to show him the conditions of the prisoners, including second Bertaudiere and another prisoner named Seldon, who wrote a distich against the Jesuits. As they prepare to leave, Baisemeaux orders the jailer to bring some food to the prisoners, including some luxuries for second Bertaudiere. Aramis and Baisemeaux then set off on their tour, with Aramis pretending to be an architect, and the governor warns him not to take any notes or drawings. As they ascend to the prison cells, Aramis is seemingly overcome with emotion, his head bowed and his eyes dim, as he follows Baisemeaux through the gloomy dungeons.
Aramis, disguised as an architect, visits the Bastile to see the prisoner known as "second Bertaudiere" who is being held in a relatively comfortable room. The prisoner, a young man, is well-dressed and seems resigned to his fate. Aramis is deeply affected by the young man's story and his resemblance to someone he knows. The young man tells Aramis that he was taken from his home and brought to the Bastile, and that he has never known his parents. He also mentions that a woman has visited him three times, veiled and in a carriage. Aramis is convinced that a murder was committed and that the young man is being held prisoner to prevent him from revealing the truth. After the visit, Aramis obtains a receipt from the governor, Baisemeaux, for a debt of 150,000 francs, and hints that he may try to obtain the young man's pardon. The chapter ends with Aramis leaving the Bastile, deep in thought and determined to uncover the truth about the young prisoner.
Madame de Belliere and Madame Vanel engage in a conversation filled with tension and underlying hostility. Madame Vanel reveals that she has heard rumors of Madame de Belliere's supposed love affair with the Duke of Buckingham, which Madame de Belliere denies. However, it becomes clear that Madame de Belliere is actually in a relationship with the Superintendent, M. Fouquet. Madame Vanel, who is revealed to be motivated by jealousy and a desire for revenge against M. Fouquet, informs Madame de Belliere that M. Fouquet's fortune and influence are declining, and that he will soon be ruined. She also hints that she may seek to console M. Fouquet and offer him advice, which would be a betrayal of Madame de Belliere's trust. The conversation ends with Madame de Belliere, overwhelmed by emotion and humiliation, retreating to her oratory, while Madame Vanel steals a letter from M. Fouquet that Madame de Belliere had been reading, confirming her suspicions about their relationship.
Madame de Belliere, after being informed of the impending downfall of her lover, M. Fouquet, begins to take action to secure her own financial future. She calls for her goldsmith, M. Faucheux, and inquires about the value of her jewels and gold plate. She decides to sell them, despite the potential loss of value, and instructs M. Faucheux to dispose of them separately and to create fake replacements to avoid suspicion. The marquise also decides to melt down her silver plate and sell it, using the pretext that she wants it remodeled. She receives a large sum of money from M. Faucheux and has it transported to a carriage, where she directs the coachman to take her to Saint-Mande. Throughout the chapter, the marquise's determination and resourcefulness are highlighted as she takes steps to protect herself from the potential consequences of Fouquet's downfall.
Madame de Belliere visits the Superintendent, M. Fouquet, at his residence, bringing with her a large sum of money as a gift to help him with his financial troubles. However, Fouquet is hesitant to accept the money, citing his honor and reputation. Madame de Belliere, who has been in love with Fouquet for some time, eventually reveals her true intentions and offers him not only the money but also her love. After some hesitation, Fouquet accepts both the money and Madame de Belliere's love, and they embrace. The chapter explores the complex emotions and motivations of the characters, particularly Madame de Belliere's desire to help Fouquet and her willingness to sacrifice her reputation and honor for him.
The Duke of Buckingham and De Wardes engage in a duel on a small island in the sea, just off the coast of Calais. The duel is fierce, with both men exchanging blows, but ultimately Buckingham gains the upper hand and wounds De Wardes in the breast. As the tide rises, Buckingham rescues De Wardes from drowning and orders his sailors to take the Frenchman to shore, prioritizing his safety over his own. De Wardes is carried to dry land, where he begins to recover, and Buckingham's secretary leaves a purse of gold with the fishermen to ensure De Wardes receives proper care. Meanwhile, Buckingham himself is helped into a boat, badly wounded, and the scene ends with the duke's attendants tending to him as he sets sail for England.
The scene unfolds with Monsieur, the king's brother, feeling jealous and left out as he observes the merry gatherings in Madame's apartments, where De Guiche, Manicamp, and others are enjoying themselves in her presence. Monsieur's arrival disrupts the festivities, and the group scatters, leaving Madame alone with her husband. The duke's anger and frustration grow as he feels neglected and unappreciated, and he eventually storms out of the room, causing a commotion. Meanwhile, the Chevalier de Lorraine, who has been absent, returns, and Monsieur's mood shifts as he welcomes his favorite back. The chapter highlights the complex web of relationships and emotions within the royal court, particularly the tensions between Monsieur, Madame, and De Guiche, as well as the intrigue surrounding the Chevalier de Lorraine's influence over the prince.
The Chevalier de Lorraine returns to the Duc d'Orleans, who is pleased to see him. The chevalier explains that he withdrew from the court because he felt his presence was no longer desired, and that he had heard rumors of De Guiche's attentions to Madame. The duke becomes agitated and asks the chevalier to explain himself, and the chevalier describes how he feels jealous of the favor shown to De Guiche by the duke and Madame. The chevalier offers to mediate between the duke and De Guiche, and leaves to find De Guiche. However, instead of finding De Guiche, the chevalier discovers that he has sneaked into Madame's apartments through a secret door, accompanied by musicians. The chevalier returns to the duke and suggests that they dine with Madame, who is angry with the duke. The duke agrees, and they head towards Madame's apartments, with the chevalier secretly arranging for the secret door to be guarded, trapping De Guiche inside.
Monsieur, the king's brother, becomes increasingly jealous of the attention his wife Madame Henrietta is giving to the Comte de Guiche. He confronts her and Guiche, causing a scene, and later complains to his mother, Anne of Austria, about the situation. Anne of Austria tries to calm him down and advises him to be patient, but Monsieur is determined to take action. He asks his mother to intervene and have Guiche dismissed from his household, but she refuses. The king, Louis XIV, becomes aware of the situation and decides to intervene himself, planning to speak with Madame Henrietta and Guiche to resolve the matter. He intends to use his charm and authority to put an end to the rumors and suspicions surrounding Guiche's relationship with Madame Henrietta, and to prevent his brother from taking any drastic measures.
The king visits Madame Henrietta in her apartments, where she is still upset over her husband Monsieur's jealousy and the departure of the Duke of Buckingham. Madame Henrietta skillfully manipulates the conversation, turning the tables on the king and making him forget his original intention of mediating between her and Monsieur. She complains about Monsieur's behavior, suggesting that he is more in love with himself than with her, and implies that the king's own feelings for her may be more than fraternal. The king, increasingly enthralled by Madame Henrietta's charm and beauty, finds himself defending her and promising to support her against Monsieur's jealousy. As the conversation becomes more intimate, the king and Madame Henrietta form a secret alliance, with the king swearing to forget the past and support her in the present. The chapter ends with the king, visibly smitten, leaving Madame Henrietta's apartments, while the courtiers speculate about the nature of their conversation.
The king's feelings for Madame Henrietta, his sister-in-law, continue to grow, and he becomes increasingly smitten with her. Meanwhile, De Guiche, who is also in love with Madame, receives a visit from the Chevalier de Lorraine, who advises him to stay at the court and not to leave, despite Raoul's warnings that his presence may be misinterpreted. The king announces that he will be attending a ballet, and De Guiche decides to stay and participate in the performance, despite Raoul's continued warnings. At the ballet, the king's behavior towards De Guiche becomes cold and distant, and he eventually orders De Guiche to retire to his estates in Normandy. De Guiche is devastated by the king's rejection, and Madame Henrietta seems indifferent to his fate. The chapter ends with De Guiche collapsing in despair, feeling betrayed by the king and Madame Henrietta.
The royal court is at Fontainebleau, where elaborate festivities are taking place, and Madame is the center of attention. Monsieur, the king's brother, is feeling increasingly jealous and left out, as he observes the king's affection for Madame. He decides to take matters into his own hands and plans to collect his own court and take Madame to Moret, but his plans are thwarted when he discovers that everyone has already left for a bathing excursion in the Seine. Monsieur is furious and feels humiliated, and he confronts his mother, Anne of Austria, about the situation. He also overhears the young queen, Maria Theresa, complaining to Anne of Austria about the king's neglect and his devotion to Madame. Monsieur's jealousy and anger boil over, and he has a violent outburst, whipping a groom and breaking porcelain in his apartments. The chapter ends with Monsieur in a state of frenzy, demanding attention and feeling like he is being ignored and disrespected by the rest of the court.
The royal court is at Fontainebleau, and the king, Madame, and the courtiers have gone on a bathing excursion in the Seine. Madame, dressed in a long white veil, is the center of attention, and the king is visibly smitten with her. As they prepare to leave, the king offers his hat to Madame and helps her mount her horse, a magnificent Andalusian breed. The group then sets off at a hand gallop, with the king and Madame riding together, followed by the courtiers. Along the way, they make jokes and remarks about their neighbors, including Monsieur, who is not present. As they approach the chateau, they are received by the acclamations of the crowd. However, when Madame tries to visit Monsieur, she is told that he is asleep. The king goes to rejoin the queens, but instead of being met by Maria Theresa, he is greeted by Anne of Austria, who takes him to her apartment for a private conversation. The nature of their conversation is unknown, but the king's annoyed expression as he leaves suggests that it was not pleasant.
The king receives a mysterious note from Madame, his sister-in-law, and decides to visit her in the gardens of Fontainebleau. They meet on a bench, surrounded by courtiers who are engaged in a game of chasing butterflies. The king and Madame discuss Monsieur's jealousy and the king's own feelings for her. Madame assures the king that she regards him as a brother, but the king confesses his own romantic feelings for her. As they talk, they are aware of being watched by the courtiers and take care to maintain a facade of innocence. The king tells Madame about the queen's jealousy and how it has affected Monsieur's behavior. Madame responds with sympathy and understanding, and the king is deeply drawn to her. As they part ways, the king and Madame exchange a lingering touch, and the king is left to ponder the complexities of their relationship.
The king and Madame Henrietta continue their conversation, discussing the king's feelings for her and the need to distract Monsieur from his jealousy. Madame Henrietta suggests that the king should feign interest in one of her maids of honor, Mademoiselle de la Valliere, in order to alleviate suspicion. The king agrees, and they discuss the details of their plan, with Madame Henrietta advising the king to approach his pretended infatuation with La Valliere gradually, rather than suddenly. The king promises to be prudent and to follow Madame Henrietta's guidance, and they part ways as the rest of the court approaches. The king is determined to carry out his plan and to make it seem convincing, while Madame Henrietta is satisfied with the arrangement and feels that it will help to protect her own reputation and relationships.
The king prepares for the ballet, trying on his costume and giving orders for the evening's festivities. He meets with Colbert, who informs him that the expenses for the ballet have exceeded expectations, and the king agrees to pay for them out of his own pocket. Meanwhile, De Guiche, who had been banished from the court, unexpectedly appears, dressed and ready to participate in the ballet. The king is surprised and somewhat annoyed, but De Guiche's presence adds to the success of the evening, and he dances beautifully, although he is clearly unhappy and feels that he has lost the favor of Madame. The king, on the other hand, shines as the star of the ballet, and his performance is met with thunderous applause. As the evening wears on, De Guiche becomes increasingly despondent, feeling that he has been supplanted by the king in Madame's affections. The ballet ends with a grand finale, and the king and Madame take their bows, surrounded by the cheering crowd.
The king's ballet performance at Fontainebleau has come to an end, and he has danced beautifully, but De Guiche, who is in love with Madame Henrietta, is devastated by her indifference towards him. De Guiche meets Mademoiselle de la Valliere, who is one of Madame's maids of honor, and they talk about their shared unhappiness. De Guiche is still reeling from Madame's rejection, and La Valliere is suffering because the king will not allow her to marry her lover, Raoul. Meanwhile, Madame is preparing for her next appearance, and the king is becoming increasingly infatuated with her. The scene shifts to the park, where La Valliere and her friends, Montalais and Tonnay-Charente, are walking and talking about their lives and loves. They discuss De Guiche's unhappiness and La Valliere's own romantic troubles, and they decide to take a walk in the woods, enjoying the freedom and beauty of the night. As they walk, they stumble upon De Guiche and Raoul, who are also talking about their romantic troubles. The two young men pass by, and the girls continue on their way, eventually coming to a stop under a large oak tree, where they sit and talk about their dreams and desires.
The scene unfolds with Mademoiselle de Montalais, Mademoiselle de Tonnay-Charente, and Mademoiselle de la Valliere walking in the woods at Fontainebleau, discussing their lives, loves, and the complexities of relationships. They talk about the court, the king, and the various men who are in love with them, including De Guiche, Raoul, and M. de Montespan. La Valliere is accused of being a coquette, despite her protests that she is not. The conversation becomes more intimate and revealing, with the girls sharing their thoughts on love, virtue, and the dangers of being overheard. As they talk, they are unaware that they are being listened to by an unseen presence, and La Valliere's words about the king spark a reaction that fills her with terror and regret. The girls flee the woods, fearing that they have been overheard, and La Valliere is overcome with emotion, realizing that she may have said too much.
The king and his companion, Saint-Aignan, are out for a walk when they hear the sound of women crying for help. They rush to the scene and find Mademoiselle de la Valliere, one of Madame's maids of honor, fainting in the arms of her friends. The king orders a surgeon to be fetched and arranges for La Valliere to be taken to the chateau. He then uses this opportunity to approach Madame and speak to her, while also trying to maintain the illusion of being indifferent to La Valliere's situation. Meanwhile, Madame reminds the king that he needs to pretend to be passionate about La Valliere in order to avoid suspicion. The king visits La Valliere and expresses his concern for her well-being, all while trying to navigate the complex web of relationships and alliances within the royal court.
The king's feelings for Madame Henrietta continue to grow, and he becomes increasingly smitten with her. Meanwhile, De Guiche, who is also in love with Madame, receives a visit from the Chevalier de Lorraine, who advises him to stay at the court and not to leave. The king announces that he will be attending a ballet, and De Guiche decides to stay and participate in the performance. At the ballet, the king's behavior towards De Guiche becomes cold and distant, and he eventually orders De Guiche to retire to his estates in Normandy. De Guiche is devastated by the king's rejection, and Madame Henrietta seems indifferent to his fate. Later, the king visits Mademoiselle de la Valliere, who has fainted, and holds her in his arms, revealing his true feelings for her. The news of the king's affection for La Valliere spreads quickly throughout the court, and Monsieur, the king's brother, informs his wife, Madame Henrietta, about the situation. Madame Henrietta is shocked and hurt by the news, feeling that the king has betrayed her trust. She confronts the king, who tries to downplay the situation, but Madame Henrietta is unconvinced. The king's actions have sparked a chain of events that will have far-reaching consequences for the characters involved.
The chapter begins with Monsieur, the king's brother, feeling satisfied and content after a pleasant evening. However, his mood soon changes when the Chevalier de Lorraine hints at the king's feelings for Madame Henrietta, Monsieur's wife. The Chevalier de Lorraine attempts to stir up trouble by suggesting that the king is jealous of De Guiche, who has returned to the court after being banished. Meanwhile, Madame Henrietta is concerned about her reputation and the potential consequences of the king's actions. She meets with one of her maids of honor, Athenais, and instructs her on how to handle a situation where they may have been overheard by the king while discussing him in a less-than-flattering manner. Madame advises Athenais to claim that they knew the king was listening and were merely joking, in order to avoid any potential repercussions. As they walk in the garden, they stumble upon De Bragelonne and the Comte de Guiche, who are discussing their love interests. Madame conceals herself and listens in on their conversation, eager to hear what they have to say about her.
Madame Henrietta, having overheard De Guiche's conversation with Raoul, confronts him about his feelings and judgment of her character. De Guiche, realizing she has heard everything, is overcome with emotion and shame. Madame Henrietta, however, surprises him by being understanding and gentle, and she asks him to renounce his love for her and to preserve his life. She offers him her friendship, but De Guiche refuses, preferring to die from love rather than live for friendship. Madame Henrietta, seeing the depth of his passion, eventually succumbs to her own feelings and tells De Guiche to love her, as it cannot be otherwise. The chapter ends with De Guiche, overjoyed and trembling, offering his arm to Madame Henrietta, and they return together, their relationship forever changed.
The Chevalier de Lorraine is searching for a mysterious gentleman who accompanied Madame Henrietta, but his pursuit is interrupted by a meeting with Monsieur Fouquet and the Bishop of Vannes, Aramis. The chevalier is forced to abandon his search and engage in conversation with Fouquet, who is concerned about his own happiness and the potential consequences of his success. Aramis advises Fouquet to visit Madame and to pay his court to Mademoiselle de la Valliere, one of Madame's maids of honor, as a means of counteracting the growing influence of M. Colbert. Fouquet agrees and decides to present his cameos to La Valliere. Meanwhile, Colbert approaches Fouquet and asks him to offer a fete to the king in his gardens at Vaux, which Fouquet accepts, despite knowing it will cost him a significant amount of money. Aramis whispers to Fouquet that he has saved him, implying that the fete will be a means of Fouquet's salvation, but Fouquet believes he has been ruined.
The king, having dismissed Saint-Aignan, receives a visit from Fouquet, who has arrived at Fontainebleau in response to the king's summons. Fouquet brings with him the Bishop of Vannes, Aramis, who is introduced to the king. The king is impressed by Aramis's remarkable face and engages in a conversation with him, during which Aramis shows his intelligence and tact. After Aramis's departure, the king speaks with Fouquet, praising him for his generosity and administrative skills. Fouquet, in turn, praises Colbert, the king's accountant, as a skilled clerk, but implies that he is too focused on economy and order. The king, sensitive to the nuances of the conversation, begins to see Fouquet in a new light and develops a greater esteem for him. Meanwhile, Fouquet's praise of Colbert is laced with subtle criticism, suggesting that the king's festivities at Fontainebleau could have been even more magnificent. The chapter ends with the king reflecting on the conversation and realizing that Fouquet has indirectly criticized the arrangements made by Colbert, leaving the king to ponder the implications of their conversation.
The scene takes place at Fontainebleau, where the king's friend, Saint-Aignan, is searching for De Guiche to gather information about Mademoiselle de La Valliere. Saint-Aignan finds De Guiche standing under a tree, gazing at Madame's window, and attempts to engage him in conversation. De Guiche is reluctant to talk, but Saint-Aignan persists, trying to extract information about La Valliere. De Guiche reveals that he obtained a position for La Valliere in Madame's household, but refuses to discuss her further, citing his concern for his friend who is in love with her. Saint-Aignan, frustrated and curious, decides to leave, but not before De Guiche warns him to be discreet about La Valliere. As Saint-Aignan walks away, he overhears a conversation between a woman and a man in the trees above, and his attention is diverted from his original goal.
The scene takes place at Fontainebleau, where Saint-Aignan is searching for information about Mademoiselle de La Valliere. He overhears a conversation between Montalais, one of Madame's maids of honor, and Manicamp, who has climbed a tree to speak with her. Manicamp is trying to convince Montalais to help him find De Guiche, who has gone into hiding after being exiled from the court. Montalais eventually agrees to let Manicamp down from the tree, and he jumps to the ground, followed by Malicorne, who has been waiting in the shadows. As they prepare to leave, Saint-Aignan appears, having overheard the entire conversation. He offers to guide Manicamp through the labyrinthine paths of the garden to find De Guiche, and Manicamp accepts, leaving Montalais to deal with Malicorne, who wants to discuss their future prospects. The chapter ends with Saint-Aignan leading Manicamp away, while Montalais watches them go, feeling embarrassed and anxious about the potential consequences of their nocturnal meeting.
Malicorne, having been thrown out of his hotel by a mysterious Franciscan monk, seeks refuge with Montalais, one of Madame's maids of honor. Montalais and Malicorne discuss their plans and interests, including Malicorne's desire for a position in Monsieur's household and Montalais's connections with the royal court. They also talk about the complex web of relationships and alliances within the court, including the king's feelings for Madame Henrietta and La Valliere, and the potential consequences for Raoul, who is in love with La Valliere. Meanwhile, Saint-Aignan appears and offers Malicorne a room in his apartments, revealing that he is aware of the secrets and intrigues of the court and is willing to use this knowledge to his advantage. Malicorne and Montalais accept Saint-Aignan's offer, and the three of them form an alliance to further their own interests and gain power within the royal court.
The chapter delves into the mysterious events surrounding the inn called the Beau Paon in Fontainebleau. Malicorne, who had been staying at the inn, is eventually expelled by the landlord after a mysterious traveler arrives, claiming to have engaged the apartment and room that Malicorne had been occupying. The traveler is revealed to be a man of importance, and his arrival is accompanied by a procession, including a Franciscan friar who is carried on a litter. The chapter explores the intricate web of relationships and alliances within the royal court, as well as the secrets and mysteries surrounding the inn and its occupants. Through a series of flashbacks and conversations, the chapter sheds light on the events leading up to Malicorne's expulsion and the arrival of the mysterious traveler, revealing a complex plot involving deception, intrigue, and hidden agendas.
The chapter introduces a mysterious traveler, revealed to be Aramis, who arrives at the Hotel of the Beau Paon in Fontainebleau. He is accompanied by a Franciscan monk, who is actually a high-ranking member of the Jesuit order. The monk, who is suffering from a severe fever, is tended to by a physician named Grisart, who is also a member of the Jesuit order. The monk reveals that he is a Jesuit of the eleventh year, implying that he has reached a high level of initiation and knowledge within the order. He demands that Grisart tell him the truth about his condition, and Grisart reveals that he has only two hours to live. The monk accepts this prognosis and asks Grisart to send for a confessor, indicating that he wishes to make a final confession before his death. The chapter ends with Grisart leaving to prepare a cordial to prolong the monk's life, while the monk falls into a senseless state.
The chapter revolves around the dying Franciscan, who is the general of the Jesuit order. He summons several individuals, including the Baron de Wostpur, the Spanish Cardinal Herrebia, and the Venetian Marini, to reveal important secrets that could impact the order's power and influence. However, none of these secrets seem to impress the Franciscan, who is searching for something more substantial. Eventually, Aramis, also known as the Chevalier d'Herblay and the bishop of Vannes, arrives and reveals a significant secret that he has kept for 15 years, obtained through Madame de Chevreuse. The Franciscan is impressed and names Aramis as his successor, passing on the ring of supreme authority. Before dying, the Franciscan entrusts Aramis with several tasks, including the overthrow of the pope, the payment of a debt to a Bremen merchant, and the retrieval of compromising papers from a lady in Anvers. Aramis accepts these tasks and sets out to fulfill them, marking the beginning of his journey as the new leader of the Jesuit order.
The scene takes place in the gardens of Fontainebleau, where Montalais and La Valliere are walking and discussing the latest events at court. Montalais is trying to extract information from La Valliere about her feelings for Raoul, but La Valliere is evasive and secretive. Meanwhile, Raoul appears, booted and spurred, and announces that he is leaving for England on a mission for the king. La Valliere is visibly distressed by the news, and Raoul senses that something is troubling her. He confesses his love for her and asks her to forgive him for speaking frankly, but La Valliere is unable to respond. As Raoul prepares to leave, La Valliere bursts into tears, and Montalais comforts her. After Raoul's departure, Athenais arrives and suggests that the three young women come to an understanding about their conduct and Madame's desires regarding the situation. The chapter ends with Athenais beginning to explain Madame's intentions and the young women listening intently.
The chapter revolves around the Comte de Guiche, who is in love with Madame Henrietta, the wife of Monsieur, the king's brother. De Guiche meets with Manicamp, who advises him to make amends with Monsieur and to use the pretext of Raoul's departure for England to approach him. Meanwhile, Raoul visits Madame Henrietta to take his leave and receives a letter from her to deliver to her brother, the King of England. Madame Henrietta and Raoul discuss their mutual acquaintances and friends, including De Guiche and La Valliere. The prince, Monsieur, is in a good humor and decides to make amends with De Guiche, inviting him to dinner and to play cards with him and Madame Henrietta. De Guiche agrees, but only on the condition that Monsieur grants a place in his household to his friend Malicorne. Monsieur agrees and offers Malicorne the position of chief usher of the apartments, which comes with the opportunity to make a significant amount of money. The chapter ends with De Guiche and Manicamp discussing the details of the appointment and the potential benefits it may bring to Malicorne.
The chapter revolves around a story told by Monsieur de Saint-Aignan at Madame's reception, where he recounts the tale of a Dryad and a Naiad. The story is an allegory, with the characters of Tyrcis and Amyntas representing the king and another courtier, and the shepherdesses Phyllis, Amaryllis, and Galatea symbolizing various ladies of the court. As Saint-Aignan tells the story, he cleverly weaves in flattering descriptions and allusions to the king and the ladies present, causing them to blush and smile. The king, however, begins to feel uneasy, sensing that the story may be heading in a direction that could be uncomfortable for him. Meanwhile, Madame Henrietta, the king's sister-in-law, is determined to extract the most entertaining and compromising details from the story, and she presses Saint-Aignan to continue, despite the king's growing unease. The chapter ends with Saint-Aignan agreeing to sketch the portraits of the shepherdesses, which promises to be a delicate and potentially revealing task.
The story continues with Saint-Aignan telling a tale of a Dryad and a Naiad, which is an allegory for the events at the royal court. The king's sister-in-law, Madame Henrietta, interrupts the story and reveals that she has also heard a version of the tale from a Naiad, which contradicts Saint-Aignan's narrative. Madame Henrietta's story suggests that the king and Saint-Aignan were foolish to try to spy on the ladies of the court, and that they were outwitted by the women. The king becomes annoyed and embarrassed by the story, and the assembly begins to laugh and whisper among themselves. The king tries to regain control of the situation, but Madame Henrietta's story has already caused a stir. Meanwhile, La Valliere, one of the ladies of the court, becomes overwhelmed and faints, and the king takes his leave, retiring to his own side of the palace. The chapter ends with Saint-Aignan following the king, feeling despair and defeat.
The king is still reeling from the events of the previous evening, where he was ridiculed by Madame and her maids of honor. He is angry and humiliated, but tries to maintain his dignity and composure. Saint-Aignan, his courtier, tries to advise him on how to handle the situation, but the king is too proud to listen. Meanwhile, the king receives a note from La Valliere, one of Madame's maids of honor, asking for an audience with him. The king is intrigued and decides to grant her the audience, but in secret. He and Saint-Aignan come up with a plan to sneak into the rooms where the maids of honor are lodged, using a key that Malicorne, a friend of Saint-Aignan's, has in his possession. The king's intentions are not entirely clear, but it seems that he wants to confront La Valliere and perhaps clear up any misunderstandings. As they prepare to set out, the king's emotions are still in turmoil, and he is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding La Valliere and the events of the previous evening.
The king, still reeling from the events of the previous evening, decides to visit Mademoiselle de la Valliere in secret, accompanied by Saint-Aignan. They make their way to her rooms, where they find her in a state of distress. The king reveals himself and confronts La Valliere about her supposed jest at his expense. La Valliere, desperate to clear her name, confesses her true feelings to the king, telling him that she has loved him since the first day she met him. The king, moved by her words, begins to believe her and eventually forgives her. As they talk, La Valliere becomes overwhelmed with emotion and faints. The king, filled with passion and affection, kisses her hands and vows to respect and protect her. He then takes his leave, leaving La Valliere to recover from their intense encounter.
The chapter revolves around the conversation between Fouquet and Aramis, where they discuss various topics including the Belle-Isle affair, the king's feelings for Madame Henrietta, and the potential consequences of Fouquet's actions. Aramis advises Fouquet to focus on gaining the favor of the king and to use his wealth and influence to achieve his goals. They also discuss the possibility of Fouquet's downfall and the potential rise of a new king. Meanwhile, Aramis reveals his own ambitions and confidence in his abilities, leaving Fouquet feeling both impressed and intimidated. The chapter ends with Aramis departing, leaving Fouquet to contemplate his words and the potential implications of their conversation.
The king, still enchanted by his conversation with La Valliere the previous evening, is eager to spend more time with her during the royal promenade. Despite the gloomy weather, the king decides to proceed with the promenade, and the courtiers follow his lead. As they walk through the forest, the king lingers behind with La Valliere, taking her hand and leading her down a secluded path. Meanwhile, the rest of the courtiers continue on their way, some of them noticing the approaching storm but hesitant to interrupt the king's romantic escapade. The atmosphere is tense with anticipation, both from the impending storm and the king's obvious infatuation with La Valliere.
The king and La Valliere take shelter under an oak tree during a storm, and their conversation reveals their deepening feelings for each other. La Valliere expresses her concerns about the potential consequences of their relationship, including the queen's jealousy and the king's marriage. The king reassures her that he will protect her and that his feelings for her are genuine. Meanwhile, Fouquet and Aramis observe the scene from a nearby grotto, discussing the implications of the king's infatuation with La Valliere and the need to retrieve a letter that Fouquet wrote to her. After the storm passes, the king escorts La Valliere back to her carriage, showing her excessive courtesy and protection, which is noticed by the queen and Madame. The chapter ends with Aramis and Fouquet deciding to change their tactics and for Fouquet to declare himself La Valliere's friend and servant, rather than trying to become her lover.
The superintendent, Monsieur Fouquet, visits Mademoiselle de la Valliere to retrieve a letter he had written to her, but she denies receiving it. Fouquet is unsure if she is telling the truth or not. He then meets with his friend, Aramis, who is suspicious of the situation and advises Fouquet to investigate further. They call for Fouquet's valet, Toby, who had delivered the letter, but he is nowhere to be found. It is discovered that Toby has taken one of Fouquet's horses and fled, leading Aramis to believe that Toby is a traitor and that the letter has fallen into the wrong hands. Aramis warns Fouquet that the letter could be used against him and that he should take steps to protect himself. Fouquet is concerned but tries to downplay the situation, while Aramis is more cautious and advises him to be prepared for any eventuality.
The chapter revolves around Anne of Austria's plan to regain influence at court by hosting a lottery in her apartments, where two beautiful diamond bracelets will be given away. She invites the young queen, Maria Theresa, and Madame, the king's sister-in-law, to attend the event. Anne of Austria's goal is to keep Madame close to her and prevent her from spending time with the king, who is easily swayed by her charm. Through her conversation with Madame, Anne of Austria reveals her own feelings of jealousy and insecurity, as well as her desire to maintain her position at court. Meanwhile, the king is preoccupied with his own thoughts and feelings, and the chapter ends with Anne of Austria reflecting on her past and the advice she would have received from her friend, Madame de Chevreuse, if she were still alive.
The chapter describes a grand event at the royal court, where the queen-mother, Anne of Austria, hosts a lottery with two beautiful diamond bracelets as prizes. The king, Louis XIV, attends the event and is drawn to Mademoiselle de la Valliere, one of the maids of honor. Despite the fact that La Valliere's name was not on the list of participants, the king gives her the bracelets, causing a stir among the courtiers and sparking jealousy in Madame, the king's sister-in-law. The king's actions are seen as a public display of his favor towards La Valliere, and the chapter ends with the courtiers reacting to the news and speculating about the king's intentions.