The superintendent endeavored again to question Louis XIV., but did not succeed in obtaining a reply.

He imagined there had been some misunderstanding between Louis and La Valliere in the park, which had resulted in a slight quarrel; and that the king, who was not ordinarily sulky by disposition, but completely absorbed by his passion for La Valliere, had taken a dislike to every one because his mistress had shown herself offended with him.

This idea was sufficient to console him; he had even a friendly and kindly smile for the young king, when the latter wished him good night.

This, however, was not all the king had to submit to; he was obliged to undergo the usual ceremony, which on that evening was marked by close adherence to the strictest etiquette.
The next day was the one fixed for the departure; it was but proper that the guests should thank their host, and show him a little attention in return for the expenditure of his twelve millions.

The only remark, approaching to amiability, which the king could find to say to M.
Fouquet, as he took leave of him, were in these words, "M.