r retired also? I have lately been
compelled (from perceiving how deeply the duke was manoeuvering against
me) to send him a copy of this agreement. Under other circumstances I
might have availed myself of this writing, but now it matters not; the
blow which dismisses me proceeds from other hands than his, and I am
willing to leave him the consolation of remaining in power a few days
after myself. Give him, then, this useless document; and now, farewell,
my pretty cousin, let us take a last embrace."

Upon which the chancellor, presuming until the last upon our imaginary
relationship, kissed my cheek, and having put into my hands the paper in
question, retired with a profound bow.

This ironical leave taking left me stupefied with astonishment, and well
I presaged my coming disgrace from the absurd mummery the chancellor had
thought fit to play off.

Comte Jean, who had seen M. de Maupeou quit the house, entered my
apartment to inquire the reason of his visit. Silent and dejected, I
allowed my brother-in-law to take up the paper, which he read without
any ceremony. "What is the meaning of this scrawl?" cried comte Jean,
with one of his usual oaths; "upon my word our cousin is a fine fellow,"
continued he, crushing the paper between his fingers. "I'll engage that
he still hopes to keep his place; however, one thing consoles me, and
that is, that both he and his parliament will soon be sent to the right
about."

Our conversation was interrupted by the entrance of Chamilly, who came
to acquaint me that the king was sleeping, and did not wish to be again
disturbed that night. Remembering my usual omnipotence in the chateau,
I was about, like a true idiot, to prove to Chamilly that the king's
interdict did not extend to me, when I was stopped in my purpose by
the appearance of the duc d'Aiguillon; and as it was now nearly eleven
o'clock at night, I could scarcely doubt his being the bearer of some
extraordinary message.

CHAPTER XLIV

The duc d'Aiguillon brings an order for the immediate
departure of madame du Barry--The king's remarks
recapitulated--The countess holds a privy council--Letter to
madame de Mirepoix and the ducs de Cosse and d'Aiguillon--
Night of departure--Ruel--Visit from madame de Forcalquier

I said I did not expect the duc d'Aiguillon; and the grief which was
spread over his features, and the large tears which stood in his eyes,
persuaded me but too plainly that al