That attachment at least of the mind, which appears so delicious, and is so dangerous, seems to have been encouraged by the princess; and the duke presumed so far on her good graces, that, after his departure, he secretly returned upon some pretence, and, paying a visit to the queen, was dismissed with a reproof which savored more of kindness than of anger.[*] Information of this correspondence was soon carried to Richelieu.

The vigilance of that minister was here further roused by jealousy.

He, too, either from vanity or politics, had ventured to pay his addresses to the queen.

But a priest, past middle age, of a severe character, and occupied in the most extensive plans of ambition or vengeance, was but an unequal match, in that contest, for a young courtier, entirely disposed to gayety and gallantry.

The cardinal's disappointment strongly inclined him to counterwork the amorous projects of his rival.