This he accomplished with his customary adroitness.

It was soon obvious, even to so dull and so base a nature as that of the Duke, that it was his best policy to continue to cultivate so powerful a friendship.

It cost him little to crouch, but events were fatally, to prove at a later day, that there are natures too malignant to be trusted or to be tamed.

For the present, however, Alencon professed the most friendly sentiments towards the Prince.

Solicited by so ardent and considerable a faction, the Duke was no longer to be withheld from trying the venture, and if, he could not effect his entrance by fair means, was determined to do so by force .-- He would obtrude his assistance, if it were declined.