sidence in Paris. The interview of the king and the illustrious
stranger took place at Versailles. Christian VII came thither in the
state-carriage, and was conducted by the duc de Duras into the apartment
of the dauphin, where he remained until Louis XV was prepared to receive
him. I had heard much discussion about this reception. It was said, that
to make a distinction between sovereign of a petty state and that of the
superb kingdom of France, it was requisite that the former should await
for some time the audience which the latter accorded. I am sure that
when the peace with Frederick was agitated, the face of Louis XV was not
more grave and serious than during this puerile debate about etiquette.

The duc de Choiseul, who had the control of foreign affairs, was in the
apartment to receive his Danish majesty, with his colleagues, the duc
de Praslin, the comte de Saint-Florentin (whom I have called by
anticipation duc de la Vrilliere), M. Bertin, M. Mainon d'Invau,
controller of the finances, and M. de Jarente, bishop of Orleans and
one of the ministry. He kept himself somewhat in the background, as
tho' from humility. The duc de Choiseul came up to him, and said, with a
smile,

"Monseigneur, what brings you in contact with a heretic?"

"To watch for the moment of penitence."

"But what will you do if it become necessary to teach him his _credo_?"

M. de Jarente understood the joke, and was the first to jest upon his
own unepiscopal conduct, replying to the duc de Choiseul,

"There is a person present who knows it; he will whisper it to me, and,
if necessary, the _Veni Creator_ also."

The king of Denmark was congratulated by the duc de Choiseul,
who discharged this duty with as much grace as wit. Afterwards M.
Desgranges, master of the ceremonies, having announced that Louis XV was
visible, the king of Denmark, preceded by his gentlemen and the French
ministers and lords, went to the king's cabinet, in which two arm-chairs
precisely alike were prepared, but his majesty of Denmark positively
refused to be seated. He entered into conversation, and felicitated
himself on seeing a monarch, whose renown filled Europe, and whom
he should take as his model. During this conversation Christian VII
displayed the greatest amiability. Our king, speaking to him, said, "I
am old enough to be your father"; to which he replied, "All my conduct
towards you shall be that of a son." This was thought admirable; and
at the termin