You must yourself have remarked how much you have been considered in all the circumstances." D'Artagnan bowed with respect.
"That," continued the cardinal, "arose not only from a feeling of natural equity, but likewise from a plan I have marked out with respect to you." D'Artagnan became more and more astonished.
"I wished to explain this plan to you on the day you received my first invitation; but you did not come.

Fortunately, nothing is lost by this delay, and you are now about to hear it.

Sit down there, before me, d'Artagnan; you are gentleman enough not to listen standing." And the cardinal pointed with his finger to a chair for the young man, who was so astonished at what was passing that he awaited a second sign from his interlocutor before he obeyed.
"You are brave, Monsieur d'Artagnan," continued his Eminence; "you are prudent, which is still better.

I like men of head and heart.

Don't be afraid," said he, smiling.