Turenne was called to Paris, where he received the honours that were due to him for the skill and bravery by which, with altogether insufficient forces--raised, equipped and paid to a large extent from his private purse--he had for two years guarded the Rhine frontier from invasion by the united forces of Bavaria and Austria.

Hector's regiment had been left at Philippsburg when Turenne marched away; but the marshal told him that there was no occasion whatever for him to remain with it during the winter.

He thought indeed that it would be advantageous that he should pay a short visit to Paris, present himself to Mazarin, and then go down and see how matters fared with the estate, to which he had paid but a flying visit.
He therefore set out without delay, Turenne entrusting him with some despatches to the cardinal.
"They are of no great importance," he said, "but it is always well for an officer returning to Paris to carry despatches with him.

It shows that he has the hearty approval of his commander in leaving his post for a while, and that he has distinguished himself in a special degree to be thus selected.

I have several times in my despatches had occasion to speak of the excellent service rendered by your regiment, and it will ensure you a good reception at court.