Then calling to Saint-Aignan, who approached with great humility, he said, "I hope, comte, that Mademoiselle de la Valliere will kindly confer a little of her friendship upon you, in return for that which I have vowed to her eternally." Saint-Aignan bent his knee before La Valliere, saying, "How happy, indeed, would such an honor make me!" "I shall send your companion back to you," said the king.

"Farewell! or, rather, adieu till we meet again; do not forget me in your prayers, I entreat." "Oh! no," said La Valliere, "be assured that you and heaven are in my heart together." These words of Louise elated the king, who, full of happiness, hurried Saint-Aignan down the stairs.

Madame had not anticipated this termination, and neither the Naiad nor the Dryad had said a word about it..