It is refreshing to meet with one who, although he must have distinguished himself vastly, is still modest and simple, without a shadow of conceit or of self consciousness.

He spoke as frankly to us as if we were two waiting maids at a cabaret.

However, men of that stamp may always be made useful, and I would rather have the devotion of a young officer like that, who is, I should say, likely to rise to high rank, than that of half a dozen men ready to lay their hearts at the feet of the first comer, and who are as ready to change mistresses as sides." By this time the door had closed behind Hector.

The queen was sitting on a sofa, with the little king by her side.

Mazarin stood a pace behind her.