As it was after awhile generally remarked among those present that the musketeer was reserved, and wished for an opportunity for conversing secretly with Aramis, the Epicureans took their leave.

Porthos, however, did not stir; for true it is that, having dined exceedingly well, he was fast asleep in his armchair; and the freedom of conversation therefore was not interrupted by a third person.

Porthos had a deep, harmonious snore, and people might talk in the midst of its loud bass without fear of disturbing him.

D'Artagnan felt that he was called upon to open the conversation.
"Well, and so we have come to Vaux," he said.
"Why, yes, D'Artagnan.

And how do you like the place ?" "Very much, and I like M.Fouquet, also." "Is he not a charming host ?" "No one could be more so." "I am told that the king began by showing great distance of manner towards M.Fouquet, but that his majesty grew much more cordial afterwards." "You did not notice it, then, since you say you have been told so ?" "No; I was engaged with the gentlemen who have just left the room about the theatrical performances and the tournaments which are to take place to-morrow." "Ah, indeed! you are the comptroller-general of the _fetes_ here, then ?" "You know I am a friend of all kinds of amusement where the exercise of the imagination is called into activity; I have always been a poet in one way or another." "Yes, I remember the verses you used to write, they were charming." "I have forgotten them, but I am delighted to read the verses of others, when those others are known by the names of Moliere, Pelisson, La Fontaine, etc." "Do you know what idea occurred to me this evening, Aramis ?" "No; tell me what it was, for I should never be able to guess it, you have so many." "Well, the idea occurred to me, that the true king of France is not Louis XIV." "_What!_" said Aramis, involuntarily, looking the musketeer full in the eyes.
"No, it is Monsieur Fouquet." Aramis breathed again, and smiled.