That the family into which he should introduce me being both powerful and esteemed, I should need no other patrons; and though at first on the footing of a servant, I might be assured, that if my conduct and sentiments were found above that station, I should not long remain in it.

The end of this discourse cruelly disappointed the brilliant hopes the beginning had inspired.

"What! forever a footman ?" said I to myself, with a bitterness which confidence presently effaced, for I felt myself too superior to that situation to fear long remaining there.
He took me to the Count de Gauvon, Master of the Horse to the Queen, and Chief of the illustrious House of Solar.

The air of dignity conspicuous in this respectable old man, rendered the affability with which he received me yet more interesting.

He questioned me with evident interest, and I replied with sincerity.