The business with the King which had brought M.de Perrencourt so stealthily to Dover was finished, or was even now being accomplished; his presence and authority had reinforced Madame's persuasions, and the treaty was made.

But in these high affairs I had no place.

If I would find my work I must look elsewhere, to the struggle that had arisen between M.de Perrencourt and his Grace the Duke of Monmouth, in which the stakes were not wars or religions, and the quarrel of simpler nature.

In that fight Louis (for I did not trouble to maintain his disguise in my thoughts) had won, as he was certain to win if he put forth his strength.

My heart was sore for Mistress Barbara.