As punctual as the priestess Hero, Louise lifted up the trap-door at the last stroke of the hour of two, and found the king on the steps, waiting for her with the greatest respect, in order to give her his hand to descend.

The delicacy and deference shown in this attention affected her very powerfully.

At the foot of the staircase the two lovers found the comte, who, with a smile and a low reverence distinguished by the best taste, expressed his thanks to La Valliere for the honor she conferred upon him.

Then turning towards the king, he said: "Sire, our man is here." La Valliere looked at the king with some uneasiness.
"Mademoiselle," said the king, "if I have begged you to do me the honor of coming down here, it was from an interested motive.

I have procured a most admirable portrait painter, who is celebrated for the fidelity of his likenesses, and I wish you to be kind enough to authorize him to paint yours.