Yes, but that does not prevent its being necessary to watch that Madame Dubarry does not cause some scandal this evening.” ” On the contrary, it proves the necessity of such a measure.” ” Here is the maitre d’hotel ; hush ! give your orders to Eafte and join me in the dining-room with you know whom ? “ Louis rose and passed into the dining-room, while Richelieu made his exit by the opposite door. Five minutes afterward, he rejoined the king accompanied by the baron. The king in the most gracious manner bid Tavern ey good evening. The baron was a man of talent, and replied in that peculiar manner which betokens a person accustomed to good society, and which puts kings and princes instantly at their ease. They sat down to table. Louis XV. was a bad king but a delightful companion ; when he pleased, his conversation was full of attraction for boon companions, talkers, and voluptuaries. The king, in short, had studied life carefully, and from its most agreeable side. He ate heartily, made his guests drink, and turned the conversation on music.
