How are the public funds ?" "We are not very rich, sire.

But there is one way in which money may very readily be gained.

There was some talk this morning about the Huguenots, and whether they should dwell any longer in this Catholic kingdom.

Now, if they are driven out, and if their property were taken by the state, then indeed your Majesty would at once become the richest monarch in Christendom." "But you were against it this morning, Louvois ?" "I had not had time to think of it, sire." "You mean that Father la Chaise and the bishop had not had time to get at you," said Louis sharply.

"Ah, Louvois, I have not lived with a court round me all these years without learning how things are done.
It is a word to him, and so on to another, and so to a third, and so to the king.