In the dim light the bright Star gleamed on his breast.

He was M.Colbert de Croissy.

He stood on the lowest step, peering at us through the gloom.
"Who speaks of the King of France here ?" he said suspiciously.
"I, Simon Dale, gentleman-in-waiting to the Duke of Monmouth, at your Excellency's service," I answered, advancing towards him and making my bow.
"What have you to say of my master ?" he demanded.
For a moment I was at a loss; for although my heart was full of things that I should have taken much pleasure in saying concerning His Majesty, they were none of them acceptable to the ears of His Majesty's Envoy.

I stood, looking at Colbert, and my eyes fell on the Star that he wore.

I knew that I committed an imprudence, but for the life of me I could not withstand the temptation.