The Prince of Conde is equally ambitious, even more grasping, and much more talented.

There is no one else, save men like Chavigny, the father of our friend here, de Noyers, and some others of good family, honest and capable business men, but who would speedily become mere ciphers; and Cardinal Mazarin, who has just been appointed to the council." "Do you know him, sir ?" Hector asked.
"I have seen him more than once.

He is said to be very clever, and it is no secret that he is nominated to the council on Richelieu's recommendation, which speaks volumes in his favour, for Richelieu was a judge of men, and must have believed, when recommending him, that Mazarin would render good service to France.

But however clever he is he cannot replace the great cardinal.

On him was stamped by nature the making of a ruler of men.