From the very moment when the dark truth was revealed to him, every gentler feeling seemed to disappear; pity, kindness of consideration, the religion of hospitality, all were forgotten.

In the bitter pang which wrung his heart, he, still too weak to hide his sufferings, was almost on the point of uttering a cry of alarm, and calling his guards to gather round him.

This letter which Colbert had thrown down at the king's feet, the reader has doubtlessly guessed, was the same that had disappeared with the porter Toby at Fontainebleau, after the attempt which Fouquet had made upon La Valliere's heart.
Fouquet saw the king's pallor, and was far from guessing the evil; Colbert saw the king's anger, and rejoiced inwardly at the approach of the storm.

Fouquet's voice drew the young prince from his wrathful reverie.
"What is the matter, sire ?" inquired the superintendent, with an expression of graceful interest.
Louis made a violent effort over himself, as he replied, "Nothing." "I am afraid your majesty is suffering ?" "I am suffering, and have already told you so, monsieur; but it is nothing." And the king, without waiting for the termination of the fireworks, turned towards the chateau.

Fouquet accompanied him, and the whole court followed, leaving the remains of the fireworks consuming for their own amusement.