CHAPTER V.
TOBY.
Two hours after the surintendant's cortege had set off by Aramis' directions, conveying them both toward Fontainebleau with the fleetness of the clouds, which the last breath of the tempest was hurrying across the face of the heavens, La Valliere was closeted in her own apartment, with a simple muslin wrapper round her, having just finished a slight repast, which was placed upon a small marble table.

Suddenly the door was opened, and a servant entered to announce M.Fouquet, who had called to request permission to pay his respects to her.

She made him repeat the message twice over, for the poor girl only knew M.Fouquet by name, and could not conceive what she could possibly have to do with a surintendant of finances.

However, as he might possibly come from the king--and, after the conversation we have recorded, it was very likely--she glanced at her mirror, drew out still more the long ringlets of her hair, and desired him to be admitted.

La Valliere could not, however, refrain from a certain feeling of uneasiness.