"You are aware," he began, "that, in two days from this, the King is to be declared of age, and that he will proceed in state to the Parliament House?" "Certainly, monsieur, that is common talk; the citizens are very pleased." "Those who are peacefully disposed!" he exclaimed; then, sinking his voice to a whisper, he added, "but there are some still eager for mischief. It would be a pity if a tumult should arise during the King's progress. The soldiers, fortunately, can be depended on, but in addition, we require a band of gallant gentlemen to line the route. Can I rely on you for one?" "Assuredly," I replied, "I shall be glad to assist." "Then come to me at midnight to-morrow, and I will inform you where to station yourself." "Another adventure?" inquired Humphreys, when I returned to him. "Pouf! A bagatelle, nothing more! Le Tellier is anxious that I should have a good view of the procession. You will accompany the Queen, I suppose?" "The orders have not yet been issued. It is a good idea this of declaring the King of age; though he is only a youngster." "Fourteen," I said. "It is understood that his mother will continue to rule as before." "Just so. But in the King's name. Don't you see that it will cut the ground from under the feet of her enemies? While they would plot against the Regent, they will not dare to raise arms against the King. I call it a very sensible proceeding. People will have to choose sides now, either with the King or with his foes. If Conde and De Retz do not submit, they will be rebels. They must either obey or defy the King, and we shall have a plain issue." "It will keep Mazarin out, though." "Quite so. If I were you I should obtain a post under the young King." This was sensible advice, but considering myself still in Mazarin's employ, I decided to let the matter wait a while longer. Perhaps I might even yet hear from Belloc. On the morning of the eventful day I took my place, by Le Tellier's orders, about a hundred yards from the gates of the Palais de Justice. Other cavaliers, well armed, were stationed at short intervals along the line of route, making little show, but ready at any moment to pounce on any one endeavouring to stir up strife. As it chanced, Le Tellier's precautions were not required. There was a tremendous crowd, but the people were in the best of humour, and amused themselves by shouting "_Vive le Roi!_" with all their might. They cheered for the Queen-Mother as well, and, listening to them, one would have thought Paris the most loyal city under the sun. "_Ma foi!_" exclaimed the cavalier on my right, "it is wonderful; but how long will it last?" "Till the show is over most likely. The citizens love a pretty spectacle, no matter who provides it."