We all agreed that the rank was well earned, and I have no doubt that this new step has been just as honourably gained.

And how do you think matters are going ?" "I know nothing about it, sir, beyond the fact that it was not a secret that Enghien and Gassion were both in favour of advancing at once into Flanders, and capturing the Spanish strong places before they could gather another army together." "No doubt that would be the best way, but I should doubt very much if Enghien will be allowed to carry out his plans.

You see, the king's will, appointing a council to act in concert with Conde, Orleans, and the queen, has been set at nought.

The queen is absolute regent, and Mazarin is her minister--just as Richelieu was minister of Louis.

Of course this victory will put everyone in the best of temper, and make the way easy for Mazarin just at first, but a defeat would set all the cliques at work against him.
"It is quite true that the defeat would not be his fault, but for some mysterious reason or other the French always hold the ministers, for the time being, responsible for military disasters.