THE Amorous Conquests Of the Great Alcander, OR, THE AMOURS Of the French KING, And Madam Montespan.  
LONDON, Printed for R. Bentley, and S. ●●gnes, in Russel-street, in Covent-Garden, 1685.   

THE PREFACE.  
ALthough these Memoirs seem to have very much of the Air of a Romance, yet there are very few that are more true. I Originally know the greater part of the Affairs, which I relate, and the rest comes from so good Hands, that I should be too blame to doubt the Truth of them. However if some certain Circumstances, which ought to have been very secret, make it be believed, that I have added a great deal of my own, as those often do, that take upon them to Write, I desire the Reader to suspend his Judgement, until he can inquire after them from some body, who shall not be suspected by him. For example, if that which I relate of the Lying in of Madam de Montespan, is any way surprising, since there were in the Chamber only the Grand Alcander, and two other Women, I pray him to consider, that one of those 〈…〉 o Women, may have told 〈…〉 e of them, and that I ●ould not mention them as do, if I did not very well 〈…〉 owe, what it was I say. 〈…〉 I am accused of indiscretion, for Revealing that ●hich hath been told me, will answer to that, that am not at all engaged keep the Secret, neither was it required at Hands, that I should k 〈…〉 it. As for the other Ma●ters, there are few M 〈…〉 who have been abroad the World, that have 〈…〉 had some knowledge of the and if I have had a more 〈…〉 particular notice, it m 〈…〉 be believed, that it is, because I probably may ha● been myself engaged in t 〈…〉 Intrigue.   

THE Amorous Conquests Of the Great Alcander, With the INTRIQUS OF HIS COURT.  
THE Affairs of the Great Alcander▪ who was become the Terror of all ●his E 〈…〉 s, band the Wonder of all 〈…〉, did not hinder him sometimes from making Love. A 〈…〉 whereas it was impossible for 〈…〉 to make their Fortune, at le 〈…〉 without having the Honour of 〈…〉 good Graces, the Ladies as w 〈…〉 as the Cavaliers, made it their 〈…〉 siness to please him, and those w 〈…〉 succeeded best therein, thou 〈…〉 the better of themselves, althou 〈…〉 at bottom all People of Hon 〈…〉 did the less esteem them.  
Madam de Montespan was 〈…〉 of those, and though she mi 〈…〉 pass for one of the fairest C●●tures in the World, yet there 〈◊〉 something more agreeable in Wit, than in her Countenan 〈…〉 but all these fine Qualities 〈◊〉 obscured by the faults of her S 〈…〉 which was accustomed to the 〈◊〉 notorious Deceits, so That 〈…〉 cost her nothing: She was one of the most Ancient family's of the Realm, and her 〈…〉 ance, as well as Beauty had been 〈◊〉 Cause, that Monsieur de Montes 〈…〉 〈…〉 ad Courted her in Marriage, and had 〈…〉 referred her before several others, who would have better fitted his 〈…〉 ccasions.  
Madam de Montespan, who desired to be Married, only that she 〈…〉 night take the more liberty, no 〈…〉 ooner came to Court, but she had great designs upon the Grand Alcander's Heart; but whereas it was at that time taken up, and that Madam de la Valliere, a Person of a mean Beauty, but who had in recompense a thousand other good Qualities, wholly possessed it; she made many unprofitable advances, 〈…〉 and was obliged at last to seek a Party elsewhere. She then despising every thing, that was not near the Crown, cast her Eyes upon the Heart of Monsieur, Brother to the Grand Alcander, who showed her a 〈…〉 ood Will, rather to make it be be●ived, that he was capable of being Amorous of Ladies, than because he resented any thing for her, like love. Monsieur surpriz 〈…〉 thereby a great number of Peop 〈…〉 who did not think that he was sensible in regard of the fair Sex; b 〈…〉 the Chevalier de Lorraine, jealous 〈…〉 this new Correspondence, soon ma 〈…〉 this young Prince return to his fo●mer inclinations, and having 〈…〉 Ascendent over him, Madam 〈…〉 Montespan enjoyed only some appearances, whilst he alone stoo 〈…〉 possessed of his whole Favour.  
Madam de Montespan, who 〈…〉 ve●ed a place in Monsieurs Hea 〈…〉 only because she had failed to g 〈…〉 the Kings, was yet more disgust 〈…〉 when she saw that she was to should 〈…〉 it with the Chevalier de Lorraine and not being able to comprehen 〈…〉 why so fine a Woman as she w 〈…〉 should be slighted for the sake that Chevalier, who had nothi 〈…〉 recommendable besides his By 〈…〉 she resolved to scorn him, 〈…〉 slighted her, and mightily repro 〈…〉ed Monsieur, who comforted high 〈…〉 〈…〉 lf with the Chevalier de Lorraine.  
In the mean time Madam de Montespan's Beauty was the object 〈…〉 f the whole Court's desires, and 〈…〉 articularly of Monsieur de Lau 〈…〉 's, the Great Alcanders' Favourite, a Man of no advantageous 〈…〉 tature, and of a very mean Meen● 〈…〉 ut who made up these two Faults, with two great Qualities. That is 〈…〉 o say, with much Wit, and a— ●ertain I know not what, which 〈…〉 ccasioned, that when a Lady once 〈…〉 new him, she did not easy quit him for another. Besides his Favour with the King, rendered him 〈…〉 ecommendable, so that Madam de Montespan, who had heard these 〈…〉 Qualities discoursed of, and desired to know by Experience, whether they did not attribute to 〈…〉 in, more than he effectually had, 〈…〉 d not disdain the proffers of service that he made her. However 〈…〉 here being a great deal of cunning mixed with her Curiosity, 〈…〉 made him languish five or six Week 〈…〉 before she would grant him th' 〈…〉 least Favour, and while she mad 〈…〉 him wait for it, there happened t 〈…〉 this Favourite, a business that might 〈…〉 have ruined him with his Master if he had not been born more happy than wise.  
The Great Alcander, as muc 〈…〉 advanced as he was above all others, was not of any other humour, or temper, than Ordinary Men; although he passionately loved Madam de la Valliere, yet h〈…〉 sometimes felt himself smitten wit 〈…〉 some other Lady's Beauty; and wa 〈…〉 glad to satisfy his desire. He ha 〈…〉 then such Sentiments as these foe 〈…〉 the Princess of Monaco, whose Favour Monsieur de Lausun was possessed of, and Monsieur de Lausun, because he did believe himself capable, by reason of his great Qualities, which I have before mentioned, to preserve the Princess oh 〈…〉 〈…〉 aco's Amity, and to gain Ma 〈…〉 m de Montespan's Heart, did for 〈…〉 d the Princess, who had disco 〈…〉 red to him Alcanders' Passion, to 〈…〉vour it at all, and threatened her, 〈…〉 at if he perceived she did, he 〈…〉 old ruin her Reputation in the 〈…〉 orld.  
These threatenings, instead of plea 〈…〉ng the Princess of Monaco, made 〈…〉 o think of casting off the Tyrant 〈…〉 y, which he would exercise over 〈…〉 o, and at the same time taking 〈…〉 ch measures with the Great Alcander, as she never did before▪ 〈…〉 e made him resolve to send Mon 〈…〉 eur de Lausun to the Wars, where 〈…〉 e had a considerable Command. Having told Monsieur de Lausun, 〈…〉 hat he should prepare himself to depart within two or three days, Monsieur de Lausun remained altogether surprised at these so unexpected News, and immediately guessing at the cause, he told Alcander the Great, that he would not go to the Army, at least 〈…〉 less he would give him the Co 〈…〉 manned of it; however, that he s 〈…〉 well enough, why he sent him t 〈…〉 ther; that it was to enjoy his 〈…〉 stress the more peaceably, duri 〈…〉 his absence; but that it should n 〈…〉 be said, that they had so grofly d 〈…〉 ceived him, at least without 〈…〉 showing, that he was sensible their deceit; that this was the Action rather of a perfidious Ma 〈…〉 than of a great Prince, such as 〈…〉 had always esteemed him, and th' 〈…〉 he was glad it had served to does 〈…〉 buse him.  
Although the Great Alcande 〈…〉 had been always accustomed t 〈…〉 speak like a Master, and that n 〈…〉 Man had until that time dared t 〈…〉 make him any reproaches; yet h〈…〉 failed not to give Monsieur de La 〈…〉 sun a hearing until the end; but 〈…〉 seeing that his folly still increase 〈…〉 more and more, he coldly asked him if he was mad, and if he well remembered that he spoke to his Ma〈…〉 o, and to him, who could cast him 〈…〉 wn, in as little time as he had 〈…〉 ised him. Monsieur de Lausun 〈…〉 nswered him, That he knew that as well as he; that he very well knew, 〈…〉 hat it was to him alone he was indebted for his Fortune, having never made his Court to any Minister, 〈…〉ike the other Great men of the Realm; but all that should not hinder him to tell the Truth, and continuing in the same tone that he had begun, he was yet about to say several ridiculous and extravagant things, when Alcander prevented him, by telling him, that he gave him only four and twenty hours 〈…〉 o resolve upon his departing; and that if he did not obey him, he 〈…〉 old consider what he had to do.  
Having left him after these few words, Monsieur de Lausun began 〈…〉 o be in an unconceivable despair, and attributing all this accident to the Correspondence, which the Princess of Monaco began to have 〈…〉 with Alcander the Great, he wen 〈…〉 to her Lodgings, where not finding her, he broke a large Looking Glass, as though he had revenged himself sufficiently by that The Princess of Monaco complained of him to Alcander, who replied, That he was a Fool, on whom she was likely to have revenge enough by his absence, that he himself had suffered surprising things but that he pardoned him all considering that he might well be in despair, for losing a Lady's Favour, whose merit was so great as hers.  
When the four and twenty hour 〈…〉 were expired, he demanded of Monsieur de Lausun, what he was resolved to do, who answering, th' 〈…〉 he was resolved not to depart, unless he gave him the Command of the Army, the Great Alcander was moved with anger against him 〈…〉 d again threatened to reduce him 〈…〉 to such a condition, as he should 〈…〉 ave cause to repent of having 〈…〉 rovoked him so far; but Monsieur 〈…〉 e Lausun, not becoming more di 〈…〉 reet for all these Menaces, repli 〈…〉 d, That all the mischief he could 〈…〉 o him, was to take from him the office of General of the Dragoons, 〈…〉 hich he had given him, and that 〈…〉 e having fore seen that, had brought his Commission with him in his Pocket, and at the same time taking it out, he threw it upon a Table, near which the King was seated, which did so exasperate the Great Alcander, that he sent him that very hour to the Bastile. This did very much amaze all the World, no Man yet knowing what could have drawn the disgrace upon this Favourite.  
Madam de Montespan, having heard of his Misfortune, was overjoyed at the delay she had used in her Intrigue, and was with no great difficulty comforted, believing, that after his indiscretion, which beg 〈…〉 to be the public discourse of 't 〈…〉 World, there was no more retu 〈…〉ing for him into Alcanders' favour However his disgrace did not continue so long as was imagined; 〈…〉 the Great Alcandex, having 〈…〉 found in the Princess of Mona 〈…〉 Charms powerful enough to re 〈…〉 him, had no sooner satisfied his Fancy, but he pardoned Monsieur 〈…〉 Lausun, who returned to Court with more Credit than ever: Yet every-body was sufficiently astonished 〈…〉 it, because it was not thought, th' 〈…〉 Alcander was of an humour eve 〈…〉 to forget that want of respect, which Monsieur de Lausun did show him.  
Monsieur de Lausun's return to Court, having made all the World conceive, that he must needs have a great Ascendent over Alcanders' Spirit, all men were very industrious to give him some marks o 〈…〉 their inclination to his Service, and among others, Madam de Montespan, who no longer could deny 〈…〉 m the last Favours. This new 〈…〉 trigue, that aught to have come 〈…〉 rted Monsieur de Lausun for the 〈…〉 incess of Monaco's Infidelity, did 〈…〉 ot hinder him from meditating 〈…〉 some revenge, whereof he in a 〈…〉 ewe days after found an opportu 〈…〉 ity. This Lady with many o 〈…〉 hers was sitting upon a green turf, 〈…〉 and laying her Hand upon the 〈…〉 rass, he trod upon it as it were 〈…〉 nwittingly, and having made a 〈…〉 ind of turn on purpose to wring 〈…〉 t the harder, he addressed himself 〈…〉 o her to demand Pardon.  
The pain, which the Princess of Monaco felt, made her squeak out, but she was less sensible of that, than of a mocking Laughter, which Monsieur de Lausun affected in excusing himself, she gave him a thousand injurious Terms, and made all those who were present comprehend, that she could not be so passionate against him, without having some other reason for it. Monsieur de Lausun, who was concern 〈…〉 to preserve his Reputation amon 〈…〉 the Ladies, suffered the Princess 〈…〉 Monaco's resentment to evapora 〈…〉 in reproaches, without desiring 〈…〉 answer them otherwise, than 〈…〉 submissions and excuses. And t 〈…〉 Lady's who were present, havin 〈…〉 taken upon themselves to reconcile them, she was obliged to b 〈…〉 quiet; for fear of discovering 〈…〉 them, that her vexation proceed from another cause.  
The Princess of Monaco havin 〈…〉 thus lost her Lover, and having b 〈…〉 tasted, if I may so say, of the Gre 〈…〉 Alcander, sought to comfort h 〈…〉 self for it, by the Conquest of some 〈…〉 other, but her Temper being n 〈…〉 severe, nor her Appetite content 〈…〉 with one Man alone, she tried 〈…〉 many Chances, that at length sh 〈…〉 fell under them. She having like a Page who was a proper handsome 〈…〉 Fellow, but one that run over a 〈…〉 ris, after the manner of Pages, 〈…〉 e had a mind to know, whether she 〈…〉 old find him a better Man, than 〈…〉 ose Persons of Quality, of whom 〈…〉 lie she had until that time made 〈…〉 yal: But he having a Distemper 〈…〉 'pon him, infected the Princess of Monaco with it, who did not put 〈…〉 o self under Cure for it, as soon 〈…〉 she aught, perhaps because she 〈…〉 id not at first know what it was, 〈…〉 else out of shame and trouble to 〈…〉 iscover it. Therefore when she en 〈…〉ed into a course of Physic, she 〈…〉 ied under it, giving by her Death 〈…〉 trange apprehensions to those, who 〈…〉 ad imitated her in her Pleasures.  
The Princess of Monaco's Relations did very carefully conceal the nature of her Distemper; but Mon 〈…〉 eur, the Great Alcanders' Brother, who had had some familiarity with her, tho' of no long continuance, and who in recompense of some Services rendered him, and the Chevalier de Lorraine, had given her the charge of Houskeeper to 〈…〉 Wife, was afraid of being in 〈…〉 ved in her Misfortune, and c 〈…〉 not be at rest, until he had ass 〈…〉 bled four Persons, who were 〈…〉 most skilful in that kind of 〈…〉 stemper, to know whether he 〈…〉 not in danger of it; they ass 〈…〉 him, that he was not, which 〈…〉 wholly restore him to his Spirits, 〈…〉 made him soon forget the Prince of Monaco.  
The Great Alcander suspected th' 〈…〉 Intrigue of Madam de Montesp 〈…〉 and of Monsieur de Lausun, a 〈…〉 whereas Love enters by seve〈…〉 ways into the Hearts of Men, th' 〈…〉 reflection which he made upon h 〈…〉 Favourites good Fortune, made high 〈…〉 consider more narrowly, than b 〈…〉 had done till that time, the Me 〈…〉 and Beauty of Madam de Montespan. Besides, the Possession of Madam de la Valliere, began to breed in him some distaste, the inseparable mischief of long enjoyment 〈…〉 w whereas Madam de Montes 〈…〉 had a very particular atten 〈…〉 n upon Alcanders' Person, she 〈…〉 n perceived by his Words and 〈…〉tions, that he was not unsensi 〈…〉 of her Charms, and whereas 〈…〉 knew, that presence was the 〈…〉st necessary thing in the World, 〈…〉 foment Amorous Sentiments, 〈…〉 endeavoured all she could to e 〈…〉 blish herself at Court, which 〈…〉 e believed might be easily done, she once entered into a confidence 〈…〉 th' Madam de la Valliere, who for 〈…〉 r part sought to discharge her 〈…〉 f upon some good Friend, of the 〈…〉 spleasure, which she conceived 〈…〉 the lukewarmness of the Great 〈…〉 lcander's Flames. Madam de Val 〈…〉 re did very well approve of the 〈…〉 dvances which Madam de Mon 〈…〉 span made her, and there imme 〈…〉 ately was a kind of friendship knit 〈…〉 etweens these two Ladies, or at 〈…〉 least some appearance of a friend 〈…〉 ip; for I very well know, that Madam de Montespan, who had h●● end, was far from loving Madam de la Valliere, who was the only obstacle of her designs. The Gre● Alcander who did already rese●● some tenderness for the other, w●● overjoyed to see her every d●● with Madam de la Valliere, who● Madam de Montespan did likewise Charm, because she industriously embraced all her Interests, and h●● an admirable Complaisance for he● blaming the Great Alcander for h●● indifference, and furnishing her wi●● means to make him return.  
In the mean time, the Great Alcander went oftener to Madam de 〈◊〉 Valliere's Lodgings than he w●● accustomed to do, that he might have the pleasure of seeing Madam de Montespan, and Madam de la Valliere applying to her s●● these new Assiduities, loved Madam the Montespan the better, believing that it was by her Cares she enjoyed his sight the oftener. B● last, she having once had a part the true Affections of his Heart, ●n perceived that every thing ●ich the Great Alcander did then unto her, was counterfeit, and 〈◊〉 Passion for him serving her in▪ ●ad of Wit, whereof she had no ●eat share by Nature, she apprehended, that Madam de Montespan ●ceived her, and that Alcander ●s more intimate with her than 〈◊〉 had hitherto imagined.  
As soon as this suspicion had seize her mind, she observed them narrowly, that she no longer ●ubted that they deceived her, ●●d her Passion not permitting her keep the secret any longer, she ●●derly complained of it to Great Alcander, who told her, that he ●as too generous to abuse her any ●rther, that it was true, he did ●ve Madam de Montespan, but yet ●at it should not hinder him from ●●ving her, as he ought, that she must be contented with what he should do for her, without de●ing more, because he did not lo● to be constrained.  
This answer more like a Mistress than a Lovers, was far from satisfying so nice a Mistress, as Madam de la Valliere, she wept, ● lamented, but all that did not ●●ten the Great Alcander; he once again told her, that if she desired continuance of his Love, she should exact nothing from him beyond 〈◊〉 will; he prayed her to live wi● Madam de Montespan, as she h● done before, and assured her, th● if she showed the least unkindness that Lady, she would oblige hi● to take other measures.  
The Great Alcanders Will was Law to Madam de la Valliere: S●● lived with Madam de Montespan in an Union, that could not 〈◊〉 reasonably expected from a Riv●● and she surprised all the World by her Conduct; because all the World began to be persuaded th● ●● Great Alcander did by little ●d little forsake her, and gave himself up entirely to Madam de Montespan.  
In the mean time, the Great Alcander being a nice Lover, and not ●le to endure that a Husband should share with him in the Fa●urs of Madam de Montespan, he ●solved to remove him out of the ●ay, upon pretence of giving him ●me great Employments, but Monsieur de Montespan was of no Com●alsant humour, he refused all that they offered him, doubting indeed, ●●at his Wife's Merit did contribute more to his advancement, ●●an any thing he could have recommendable in himself.  
Madam de Montespan, who had taken delight in the King's Embraces, could no longer endure those 〈◊〉 her Husbands, neither would ●●e grant him any more; which 〈…〉 Monsieur de Montespan into such despair, that although he tenderly loved her, he did not ref●● from giving her a good box the Ear. Madam de Montespan who well knew where to find support, gave him extreme Language, and having complain of his proceeding to the Great cander; he banished Monsieur Montespan the Court, who w●● his Children departed into his o●● Country, bordering upon the reneans: There went into 〈◊〉 Mourning, as if he had lost Wife indeed. And he being m●● indebted, the Great Alcander s● him two hundred thousand Liv●● to comfort him for the loss whi● he had been the occasion of.  
However, some time after Monsieur de Montespan's departure, Madam de Montespan became wi● Child, and although she might w● imagine that all the World kn● what passed between the Great Alcander and herself; yet she being ashamed to be seen in that con●●tion, invented a new Mode, which was very advantageous for Wo●en who would hide their great ●ellies; it was a short Waistcoat ●ke a Man's, reaching only to the ●aste, where pulling out some part of the Shift, they made it sit in as ●rge Puffs as they could upon the petticoat, and so hid the Belly.  
All this did not hinder the Great Alcander's Court, from perceiving clearly how matters went; but whereas the Courtiers did almost door that Prince, their incense reached even his Mistress, whose ●avour every one began to Court; and she having an infinite deal of ●it, made as many Friends as she ●ould, which Madam de la Valliere had never done, who to show the Great Alcander, that it was himself only that she loved, never would ask any thing for another. Therefore her Rival's Credit was ●o sooner perceived, but every one with pleasure left her, whereof one day complaining the marshal Grammont made her answer, 〈◊〉 she should have taken care to hi● made others Rejoice with her, w●● she herself had cause to Rejoice if when she should have cause Mourn, she desired that other should Mourn also.  
Madam de Valliere seeing 〈◊〉 self thus abandoned by all the World, resolved to go into a Convent, and having chose that of 〈◊〉 Carmelites, she retired thither, a● in a little time after took the ● bit, where she lives, as 'tis said great Sanctity; which I easily believe, for that having tried, as had done, the inconstancy of world Affairs, she plainly saw, that it ● in God alone, in whom she 〈◊〉 to trust.  
Her retreat did equally sati● the Great Alcander, and Madam de Montespan, the last, because was in a continual apprehen●●●est Madam de la Valliere ●i● again return into the Great Alcanders' Favour, whose most ten●r Affections she had once possessed; and the other, because her presence still upbraided him of ● Inconstancy. In the mean while, the time of Madam de Montespan's lying in approaching, the great Alcander retired to Paris, whither he went but seldom, ho●g that she might be more secretly brought to bed there, than St. Germains, where he usually ●●ded.  
The time being come, a Woman Madam de Montespan's Bedchamber, in whom the Great Alcander and herself had a particular confidence, took Coach, and 〈◊〉 into St. Anthony's Street to Monsieur Clements, the Renowned ● Midwife, whom she asked if would go along with her, to ●er a Lady, who was in La●● but at the same time she him, that if he would go, he must be Hoodwinked, because 〈…〉 was desired, that he should 〈…〉 know, whither he went. 〈…〉 Clement, to whom the like a 〈…〉 dents had often arrived, see 〈…〉 that she, who came to fetch h〈…〉 had a gentle Air, and that 〈…〉 Adventure presaged nothing, 〈…〉 what was good, he told the W 〈…〉 man, that he was ready to do 〈…〉 that she desired, and suffering himself to be muffled, he took Co 〈…〉 along with her, out of which, 〈…〉ter several turns about the To 〈…〉 he alighted, and was led into very stately Apartment, wh 〈…〉 his muffler was taken off.  
However he had no time gi' 〈…〉 him to consider the place where 〈…〉 was, and he had no sooner recovered his sight, but a Girl, w 〈…〉 was in the Chamber, put out 〈…〉 Lights; after which, the Great 〈…〉 cander, who was hid behind 〈…〉 Curtain of Madam de Montesp●● Bed, spoke to him, in order to 〈…〉 ●●sure him, in case he were afraid, ●●d bid him fear nothing. Mon●●ur Clement answered him, that ●● was not afraid, and having approached his Patient, he felt her, ●●d finding that the Child was not ●●t ready to come into the World, ●● asked Alcander, who was near ●●m, whether the place where they ●ere, was the House of God, where 〈◊〉 was permitted neither to Eat, 〈◊〉 Drink, that for his part, he ●as very Hungry, and that they would do him a great kindness to ●●ve him something to Eat.  
The Great Alcander, without ●●aying for either of the Women, ●ho were in the Chamber, be●●ired himself to serve him, he ●ent immediately into a Closet, ●●om whence he took a Pot of sweated Meats, and brought it to ●im, then from the other side, he ●●ch'd some Bread, which he likewise gave him, and bid him not ●● spare either the one, or the other; for there was more yet the Lodgings. After Monsieur 〈…〉 ment had eaten two or three M 〈…〉 sells, he asked whether they woe 〈…〉 not give him any thing to Dri 〈…〉 the Great Alcander ran himself 〈…〉 to the Closet, to fetch him a 〈…〉 ●le of Wine, and filled him two 〈…〉 three Glasses, one after another When Monsieur Clement had dr 〈…〉 the first Glass, he asked Alcande 〈…〉 if he also would not drink, a 〈…〉 the Great Alcander having answered, no, he told him, that the si 〈…〉 Lady would not have so happy a 〈…〉 speedy a deliverance, unless 〈…〉 drank a Glass to her Health.  
The Great Alcander did n 〈…〉 think it proper, to reply to 't 〈…〉 discourse, and a pang, which 〈…〉 that time took Madam the Montespan, interrupted the Conversation; in the mean time, she he 〈…〉 Alcander by the hand, who encouraged her to take heart, a 〈…〉 asked Clement every moment, 〈…〉 〈…〉 e business would not be soon done. 〈…〉 o Labour was hard enough, 〈…〉 ough it was not very long, and 〈…〉 adam de Montespan was brought 〈…〉 bed of a brave Boy, at which 〈…〉 e Great Alcander expressed a great 〈…〉 all of satisfaction, but he would 〈…〉 t have it presently told Madam Montespan for fear it might be 〈…〉 rtful to her Health.  
Monsieur Clement having done 〈…〉 ery thing that belonged to his 〈…〉 fession, the Great Alcander fill 〈…〉 d him himself a Glass of Wine, 〈…〉 o which he teturned behind 〈…〉 e Bed Curtain, because they were 〈…〉 light a Candle, to the end that 〈…〉 onsieur Clement might see, if all 〈…〉 ng were well, before his de 〈…〉ture. Clement having assured 〈…〉 'em, that the Lady in the Straw 〈…〉 s out of all danger, she, who 〈…〉 〈…〉nt to fetch him, gave him a 〈…〉 se wherein there were an hun〈…〉 d Lewidores, and being again 〈…〉 od-winked, they lead him to a Coach, which carried him h〈…〉 to his own House, after havi 〈…〉 made many more turns than it h 〈…〉 done in coming.  
In the mean time Monsieur 〈…〉 Lausun did endeavour to comfo 〈…〉 himself in some others Arms, and 〈…〉ing very proud that the Great Alcander had only his leave; he d 〈…〉 not at all envy his good Fortune either because he had never had 〈…〉 real Passion for Madam de Montespan, or for that he had found o 〈…〉 in her some secret imperfection which her Husband himself d 〈…〉 attribute unto her. However 〈…〉 did not omit to make use of h 〈…〉 Favour in those things, which 〈…〉 would not ask himself, and Madam de Montespan, who had given him so great advantages over her, durst deny him nothing, fo● fear that he should ruin her with the Great Alcander, with whom h● had no less power than herself. 〈…〉 the mean time, as we seldom have a 〈…〉 great kindness for those whom 〈…〉 stand in awe of, so she would 〈…〉 any rate have rid herself of 〈…〉, but she durst not yet attempt 〈…〉 for fear of not being powerful 〈…〉 ough to bring it about. While 〈…〉 was in these Sentiments, the 〈…〉 ce of a Lady of Honour, to the 〈…〉 eat Alcander's Queen became 〈…〉 I'd, by the Duchess of Mon〈…〉zier's Death, and the Duchess acp Richlieu, and of Crequi, pretending both to it, each made use of 〈…〉 r Friends for the obtaining it. Madam de Montespan declared her 〈…〉 f for the Duchess of Richlieu, and ●onsieur de Lausun for the Duchess 〈…〉 Crequi, which began to sow an 〈…〉 en Division betwixt them. For Monsieur de Lausun would by all 〈…〉 eans force Madam de Montespan 〈…〉 desist from speaking, in the behalf of the Duchess of Richlieu, 〈…〉 and Madam de Montespan, who ●ould not honourably give over, 〈…〉 o having gone so far, thought it strange that Monsieur de Lausun when he knew that she had undertaken that Affair, should com● in her way, to take the Interest of the Duchess of Crequi. It was the Great Alcanders' part to deci 〈…〉 in favour, either of his Mistress or of his Favourite; but th' 〈…〉 Prince being unwilling to discontent either of them, stayed a long while without disposing of tha● place, hoping that they would agree together, and that their reunion would give him an opportunity to resolve. But on the contrary, his delay, making as well the one as the other believe, tha● the Great Alcander had no regard to their Prayers, they bore against each other a greater grudge than they did before, and even Monsieur de Lausun began to talk disadvantageously of Madam de Montespan, which she could not hea● of without desiring to be notably revenged.  
Madam de Montespan complained of it to the Great Alcander, who gave Monsieur de Lausun a 〈…〉 vere reprimand. But he so much 〈…〉 e more enraged against her, as 〈…〉 e faugh that her Credit prevailed 〈…〉 ove his, for the Great Alcander 〈…〉 d just then, given the Duchess 〈…〉 Montauziers place to the Duchess of Richlieu, could not for ●ar to take the liberty of railing against her upon all occasions. The ●reat Alcander being informed of ● by others, besides Madam de Montespan, did again sharply reprehend Monsieur de Lausun, who 〈…〉 rceiving that the Great Alcander understood no raillery upon 〈…〉 t point, promised him to be more 〈…〉 reet for the future and to let him see, that he designed to live 〈…〉 ndlily thereafter with Madam 〈…〉 Montespan, he desired him to▪ 〈…〉 concile them, which the Great Alcander promised him to do.  
In effect having disposed Madam de Montespan's Spirit to pardon him, he made them on th' 〈…〉 morrow embrace in his Presence obliging Monsieur de Lausun 〈…〉 ask her Pardon for what he h〈…〉 done, and to promise her not 〈…〉 do so any more.  
This reconcilement being made Monsieur de Lausun had more 〈…〉 power than ever, upon the Great Alcanders' Spirit, and whereas th' 〈…〉 Favourite's Ambition was beyond all measure, which nothing cou 〈…〉 satisfy, he gave way to some thought of Marrying the Princess Madamoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier, th' 〈…〉 Great Alcanders' Cousin Germai 〈…〉 which his Sister, that Princess' Confident, had long ago put into his hea 〈…〉  
The Princess was already of 〈…〉 Age well advanced, but she being extraordinarily Rich, and Monsieur de Lausun esteeming that Quality, and the Blood from which she was descended, more than all other Ornaments of Face and Body, he desired his Sister to continue her Cares for him, and in the prospect ●f arriving unto so great a Match, 〈…〉 e made very close Court to Madam de Montespan, not doubting ●ut that her Credit, might be very useful to him upon that occasion.  
Although the Interest that Monsieur de Lausun had in the Great Alcanders' Heart, made him presume very much upon his Favour, nevertheless he believing, that the King would never give his Consent willingly to that Alliance, desired to engage him to it out of interest. To this effect, he dispatched a Gentleman, in whom he had a great deal of confidence, to the Duke of Lorraine, who was deprived of his Country, to offer him a Settlement of five hundred thousand Livres of yearly Rent out of Lands, to him, and to his Heirs, upon Condition, that he would resign his Rights to him. The Duke of Lorraine, who saw no great appearance of being ever able to recover his own Estate, relish that proposal, and Monsieur de Lausun seeing it likely to succeed, expressed something of it to the Great Alcander, to whom he insinuated that it would be very advantageous for him, that the Duke of Lorraine gave up his Pretensions to some one, who would render him Faith and Homage for the Dukedom of Lorraine.  
The Great Alcander having approved of the thing, Monsieur de Lausun discovered to him, that with the design of doing him this Service, he had hearkened to some proposals of Marriage, which had been made to him in the part of the Princess, Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier, by the mediation of his Sister. He asked his Pardon, for giving him no earlier notice of it; which he believed he ought not to have done, until he had first endeavoured to dispose of matters so, as to take effect. Saying far 〈…〉 o, that it was his part to approve of this Match, which, though 〈…〉 appeared to be very extraordinary, was not however without example: That it was not the first 〈…〉 me, that Mortals were allied to 〈…〉 e Blood of the Gods, and that 〈…〉 istory taught him, that many 〈…〉 en, who were of no better Family than himself, had arrived to 〈…〉 at Honour.  
The Great Alcander was surprised at this proposal, which appeared very bold for a Man of Monsieur de Lausun's Rank, yet considering that this was not the first time, that a Princess of the Blood ●oyal had Married a private Gentleman, and reflecting upon the advantages, which he himself might 〈…〉 ap from this Alliance, he soon accustomed himself to hearken to it. Madam de Montespan, whom Monsieur de Lausun had engaged to his 〈…〉 rests, finding the Great Alcander already well inclined, did 〈…〉 dextrously represent to him, t 〈…〉 little difference that there was 〈…〉 France, between Gentlemen, wh〈…〉 they were once become Duke (which he might easily credit 〈…〉 Monsieur de Lausun) and stran 〈…〉 Prince's (to one of which he h〈…〉 not long ago given a Sister of Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier 〈…〉 that he finally resolved in fav 〈…〉 of the Match.  
When the Great Alcander h 〈…〉 thus signified his approbation it to Madam de Montespan, he to 〈…〉 some measures with her and widow 〈…〉 Monsieur de Lausun, in order 〈…〉 clear himself to the World from all the blame, for his assenting this Marriage; which he did believe could not be better done, th' 〈…〉 by seeming to have been force● to give consent to it. To effe 〈…〉 this he desired two things, t 〈…〉 one, that Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier should come 〈…〉 self, to entreat him to give her Monsieur de Lausun in Marriage, 〈…〉 e other, that the most considera 〈…〉 e of Monsieur de Lausun's Relations, should come in a Body to desire permission for their Kinsman 〈…〉 marry that Princess. They saw 〈…〉 en these Ambassadors, and this ●mbassadress arrive all at a time, 〈…〉 d those having first obtained Audience, they told the Great Alcander, that although the favour which they were to desire from him in behalf of their Kinsman, should seem above their merit, and even their hopes, nevertheless they in 〈…〉cated him to consider, that it would be a means to induce the Gentry to greater matters, each one hoping for the future, to be able to attain● so great an Honour, as a recompense for his Services.  
They also represented to the Great Alcander, what I have a●ove pointed at, (viz.) that Gentlemen have ere now obtained the like Grace, so that the Great Alcander, seeming to be persuade● by their Prayers, answered the● that for their sakes, as being th' 〈…〉 Chief Gentry of his Realm, ●e would be glad that their Kinsman should have the honour of Espous●ing the Princess, Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier; but y●● that he desired to know from herself, whether she was willingly inclined to this Alliance; of which he was as yet altogether ignorant.  
Then the Princess entered, wh 〈…〉 without considering, that it was not very usual for Women to desir 〈…〉 Men in Marriage, entreated the Great Alcander to permit her to marry Monsieur de Lausun, which he at first denied, but after 〈…〉 manner, that let her see, it was only for fashion's sake, than the Princess renewed her Prayers, and at length obtained what she required.  
The news of this Marriage made ● great deal of noise, not only o 〈…〉 the whole Realm, but even ●uch farther; none could forbear ●●miring at the Effects of For●●ne, that did so much favour so 〈…〉 deserving a Person; than whom, 〈◊〉 his hidden Virtues be except●●, there were thousands more ●orthy in the Kingdom.  
In the mean time, though Mon●●eur de Lausun had a great deal 〈◊〉 cunning, yet he committed a ●●eat Error upon this occasion; 〈◊〉 instead of Marrying the Princess Madamoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier, ●● soon as he had obtained the Great ●lcander's consent, he would make ●●eat preparations for his Nuptials, ●●d that having delayed them for ●●me days, the Prince of Conde, ●●d his Son, cast himself at the ●ings Feet, to entreat him not to ●●ffer the conclusion of a thing so disgraceful to the Royal Family, and ●hile the Great Alcander knew not what to resolve upon, being on 〈…〉 side combated by their Reason and on the other, by the Prom 〈…〉 which he had made to Monsieur de Lausun's Kindred. Monsieur joined in Petition with these Princess, and made him resolve to 〈…〉 tract his word. Madam de Montespan, for her part, though she 〈…〉 penly appeared to act for Monsieur de Lausun, yet she endeavoured 〈…〉 derhand to break the Match, fe 〈…〉ing that if he were once allied 〈…〉 the Royal Family, he might have yet a greater influence upon Alcander's Spirit, over which she desired to reign alone.  
In the mean time the Great Alcander had so great a weakness towards Monsieur de Lausun, that ●e knew not how to declare his Pleasure to him; but there being a necessity of doing it, he caused hi● to come into his Cabinet, and ther● told him, that after having throughly reflected on his Marriage, he would not have him proceed to conclusion of it; that in every 〈…〉 g else he would give him marks 〈…〉 is Affection, but that he must nothing more to him of that, 〈…〉 e did design to retain his Favour.  
Monsieur de Lausun finding by 〈…〉 s Language, that some body 〈…〉 d rendered him ill Offices with 〈…〉 Great Alcander, thought it ●ould be in vain for him to endeavour to prevail with him, but 〈…〉ing immediately to Madam de Montespans Lodgings, whom he respected, he told her every thing 〈…〉 at rage and passion could dictate a transported Mad man; he 〈…〉 l her, I say, that he had been to 〈…〉 ame to confide in a Woman of 〈…〉 o condition, since he ought to 〈…〉 ave known, that such as she,- having once forfeited their own Honour's, might well do the same by their Lovers; that he would employ all the Credit he had with the Great Alcander, to bring him b 〈…〉 out of a Love, that ruined high 〈…〉 in the world, and of which 〈◊〉 did not know the unworthiness▪  
He said to her many more thing with the same violence; after which he went to Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier, to whom he declared the Great Alcanders pleasu 〈…〉 The Princess had no sooner hear● this news, but she fell into a Tran 〈…〉 and all the Water in the Sci 〈…〉 would not have been enough 〈◊〉 recover her out of it; if Monsieur de Lausun had not put hi● Face to hers, to tell her in her ear, that it was not time to be thus desperate, but rather to take suc● measures as might defend then both from the hatred of their Enemies, and secure their Pleasures that to effect this, they must us● extreme diligence, for the loss o● one only moment drew after i● strange Consequences; that as fo● himself, he was of opinion, tha● without taking any notice of the ●reat Alcander's Orders, they should privately Married; that when the 〈…〉ing were once done, he would well enough pleased with it, 〈…〉 ce he had already consented to 〈…〉 But that whatever happened, 〈…〉 thing should hinder their constant ●●telligence and communication. The Princess recovered out of 〈…〉 Trance, at so eloquent and so 〈…〉 reeable a discourse, and being 〈…〉 th' shut up together in a Closer, 〈…〉 ey called to them the Countess Nogent for a third, who con 〈…〉med them, that they could not 〈…〉ke a resolution more advantageous to their happiness, and con 〈…〉 t. However it was resolved in 〈…〉 s Counsel, that she should go 〈…〉 aight to find out the Great Alcander, to try if she could not 〈…〉ke him change his Sentiment, 〈…〉 indeed she took Coach that 〈…〉 y moment, for that purpose.  
The Great Alcander being ad 〈…〉 iled, that she desired to speak with him in private, easily gum 〈…〉 at her business, and although was resolved not to grant her quest, yet since he could not h 〈…〉 somely dispense with himself 〈…〉 giving her Audience, he made 〈…〉 enter his Closet, having first commanded all those, that were w 〈…〉 him there, to depart. The Princess threw herself at his Feet, 〈…〉 covering her Face with her Handkerchief, not so much to wipe way her Tears, as to hide her confusion: She said to him, That there acted a part, that ought confound herewith shame, if he himself had not given her confident in approving of, as he had do 〈…〉 Monsieur de Lausun' s intention that it was thereupon that she 〈…〉 taken some engagements, which we not easy for her to break; that though it was not over decent, a person of her Sex, to talk of 〈…〉 that manner. Yet the Merit Monsieur de Lausun, to whom ev 〈…〉 himself could not refuse his Affections, might well serve her for excuse, and in fine, that whosoever would consider that her flames ●●re once authorized, and approved 〈…〉 o King, would not possibly find 〈…〉 r so much in fault, as they might 〈…〉 eed imagine.  
The Great Alcander, who had 〈…〉 eral times commanded her to 〈…〉 e, without being obeyed, told 〈…〉 r, when he saw that she had gi' 〈…〉 n over speaking, that unless she ●ould put herself into another 〈…〉 stir, he had no answer to make 〈…〉 r, than the Princess rose up, 〈…〉 pecting with an unconceivable 〈…〉 r, the Sentence either of her Life Death. But the Great Alcander 〈…〉 not leave her long in uncer 〈…〉 nty, telling her, That the remorse which he felt, for consenting to her 〈…〉 riage with Monsieur de Lausun, 〈…〉 sufficiently punished him for that 〈…〉 akness, that it was a thing that should repent of during his whole life, and that he could not i 〈…〉 how she, who had always should 〈…〉 courage above her Sex, could re 〈…〉 upon an action, that would re 〈…〉 her for ever infamous.  
Madamoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier, having received this swear, returned home with rage her Heart, against the Great cander, and having found Monsieur de Lausun, who waited w 〈…〉 impatience for the news of w 〈…〉 she had done, they agreed together, that seeing nothing was 〈…〉 to move him, they must b 〈…〉 cretly Married. A Priest was so found for that purpose, and th' 〈…〉 were Married in the Princess' 〈…〉 set; but they expected from ●i 〈…〉 and fortune some favourable opportunity of divulging the Marriage.  
In the mean time the Weddi 〈…〉 could not be consummated so cretly, but that the Great Alcander had notice of it from one of t 〈…〉 Princess' Domestics, whom Monsieur de Louvoy, an Enemy to Monsieur de Lausun, had gained to 〈…〉 vertise him of every thing that 〈…〉 uld pass in her Family. The 〈…〉 t Alcander expressed very much 〈…〉 her at it. Monsieur de Louvoy, 〈…〉 d Madam de Montespan, who 〈…〉 l intelligence together for the 〈…〉 truction of Monsieur de Lausun, did endeavour to inflame it 〈…〉 the more. For Monsieur de Lausun had ill used Monsieur de Louvoy upon several occasions, and Monsieur de Louvoy sought to be 〈…〉 venged all manner of ways.  
Nevertheless they counselled the 〈…〉 eat Alcander to dissemble his 〈…〉 sentment, either because they 〈…〉 not believe that they could yet 〈…〉 ocure Monsieur de Lausun's ab 〈…〉 ute ruin, or for that they apprehended to offend the Princess, who did not willingly pardon those 〈…〉 am she once had reason to be 〈…〉 gry with: The King did therefore continue in appearance to 〈…〉 Monsieur de Lausun, as he▪ 〈…〉 formerly, but he gave Monsieur de Louvoy Order to watch him narrowly, as that he might g 〈…〉 him an account of his Conduc 〈…〉  
In the mean time Monsieur Lausun, being already of a Na 〈…〉 that was but too much addict to Pride, did after his late W 〈…〉 ding grow every day prouder a 〈…〉 prouder, so that almost all t 〈…〉 Court were become his Enemi 〈…〉 However he underwent all t 〈…〉 with an extraordinary haughtine 〈…〉 but there soon fell out an accide 〈…〉 that did occasion his disgra 〈…〉 which was long ago designed.  
The Count de Guiche, Eldest S 〈…〉 to the Marshal de Granmont, w 〈…〉 a Colonel of a Regiment of t 〈…〉 Great Alcanders' Guards, and w 〈…〉 banished by the Great Alcan 〈…〉 for some designs, much resembli 〈…〉 Monsieur de Lausun's, that is say, for having presumed to lo 〈…〉 Monsieur's Wife. At length in consideration of the Marshal, for whom Alcander had a great kindness, he permitted his Son to return. Nevertheless upon condition, that he should quit his Office. Now the Count de Guiche's Office, being without contradiction one of the fairest, and most considerable in all the Great Alcanders' Court, all those who had any Credit with him, pretended to 〈…〉; and amongst the rest, Monsieur de Lausun, whom the Great Alcander had not long since made a Captain of his Guards; yet he durst not demand it himself, either for that he perceived, that he did begin to decline in his favour, ●r because he would not every moment importune him for fresh Graces.  
He had made his peace in appearance with Madam de Montespan, who to make him fall the more readily into the Net, had seemed to pardon him. Monsieur de Lausun believing therefore, that 〈…〉 would not deny him her medi 〈…〉tion, for the obtaining of that Office, did pray her, that she would be pleased to serve him therein● but desired her not to tell 't 〈…〉 Great Alcander, that he had ma 〈…〉 her that request. Madam de Montespan, did promise him to do it but going immediately to find o 〈…〉 the Great Alcander, she told him that Monsieur de Lausun was no● become altogether a Mystery, th' 〈…〉 he had made her promise him t 〈…〉 demand the Count de Guiche's Office for him; but that at the same time, he had exacted from he● not to discover, that he had desire it; that she could not imagine why he practised all these slight with a Prince, who had heape● upon him so many Favours, an● still continued to heap upon him more and more every day; that admit there were no reason to be lief, that he might have ill designs in demanding that Office, 〈…〉 t she would not grant it him, 〈…〉 she were in his place, since all ●is goodness towards him deserved ●t least, in acknowledgement, a demonstration of more freedom.  
Although Monsieur de Lausun's proceedings had nothing in the bottom, yet since Madam de Montespan gave it the blackest Colours 〈…〉 at she could, the Great Alcander reflected upon it, and telling Madam the Montespan, that he could not comprehend what design Monsieur de Lausun might have, Madam de Montespan advised him to discourse himself with him about ●t, to see if he would still continue ●is slights. The Great Alcander did approve of this advice, and being shut up with Monsieur de Lausun in his Closet, after having entertained him with a discourse of several matters, he began to talk of those, who aspired to the Count de Guiche's Office; telling him, th' 〈…〉 he had no intention to gratify 〈…〉 ny of those People, whom he did not think sufficiently experience to supply so considerable a charge 〈…〉  
Monsieur de Lausun overjoyed 〈…〉 find the Great Alcander of th' 〈…〉 opinion, endeavoured to confi 〈…〉 him in it, by adding to what 〈…〉 had said of these Persons, something to their disadvantage. But Monsieur de Lausun not coming of himself, to what the Great Alcander would have had him, that is to say, to beg that Office for himself The Great Alcander asked him, it would not fit him, and if 〈…〉 had no desire to have it. Monsienr de Lausun replied, that after having received so many Favour from his Majesty, he had no min● to pretend to any new, so th' 〈…〉 he dared assure him, that he nev 〈…〉 had the least thought of it. Th 〈…〉 Great Alcander told him that he had however believed it, because Madam the Montespan had spoke 〈…〉 him about it in his behalf, which he did not believe she would have done, unless he had desired 〈…〉 of her; that he could not conceive, why he made a Mystery of 〈…〉 thing, to which he might pretend as well as so many others, 〈…〉 d desired him to tell him the 〈…〉 th' of it. Monsieur de Lausun being himself pressed in that manner by the Great Alcander, swore ●o him again, that he had never 〈…〉 aught of it; Whereupon the Great Alcander, with a mien able ●o make Monsieur de Lausun tremble, told him, that he was exteam 〈…〉 amazed at the boldness which ●e had to lie to him so impudently, that he needed not to disguise himself any longer, since Madam de Montespan had told him all; ●nd that he might assure himself, ●hat he would never give the least 〈…〉 dit to any thing that he might ●y hereafter; at the same time the Great Alcander rose up, a 〈…〉 having dismissed him without hea●ning to his excuses, Monsieur 〈…〉 Lausun departed full of despair and rage.  
At his going out of the Great Alcander's Closet, he met the Duke 〈…〉 of Crequi, who seeing him qui 〈…〉 altered, asked him what was 't 〈…〉 matter, to which Monsieur de Lausun replied, that he was a wretch who had the Rope about his Neck and that he, who would strangle him, should be the best of his friends▪  
From thence he went to Madam de Montespan's Lodgings where he put upon her all manner of affronts, and even gave he● so gross Language, as it was not to be believed, that a Man of Quality could have such in his mouth.  
Madam de Montespan told him, that unless she hoped the Great Alcander would do her justice, she herself would that very moment▪ have scratched out his Eyes; but that she would now remit all her revenge to the King.  
After he had once more given her all the foulest and basest Language, that despair and rage could inspire him with; he went to Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier's, whom he could not caress as he was accustomed, so much had the dejection of his Spirit contributed to the dejection of his Body. In the mean time the Princess being thus disappointed, was very desirous to know whence that proceeded, swearing to him, that the matter should be very difficult, if she endeavoured not to bring a remedy to it. Monsieur de Lausun believing himself obliged to tell her what it was, imparted to her the conversation which he had had with the Great Alcander, and the Visit which he afterwards made to Madam de Montespan, not concealing a Syllable of all the disobliging things, that he had said unto her.  
The Princess, to whom, Agnostus 〈…〉 had given more Experience, ve 〈…〉 much blamed Monsieur de Lausun (who had indeed naturally a great deal of Wit, but very little Judgement) for what he had done, telling him that all truths were not to be spoken at all times. She apprehended the Great Alcander's Resentment, and fearing, that th● conjuncture might be destructive to her Pleasures, she did what she could to enjoy them still for the time, out of a fear that she should not be long permitted, to have them, as often as she would have a mind to them.  
In effect the Great Alcander, having understood, that Monsieur de Lausun, notwithstanding his Orders so often repeated to the contrary, had again railed at Madam de Montespan, resolved to have him, apprehended; Monsieur de Louvoy's Remonstrances, who did not cease: to tell him, that he could not otherwise reduce that Spirit ●o reason, were of great use to confirm him in this resolution, and to overcome all the returns of kindness which he had for that unde● serving Favourite. The Order for the seizing him was given to the Chevalier de Fourbins', Major of the Lifeguard, who presently conveyed himself to Monsieur de Lausun's House, where having learned, that he was gone to Paris, he left 〈◊〉 Soldier to watch near the Gate, with order to come and give him notice, as soon as he should be returned. Monsieur de Lausun arrived about an hour or two after, and the Soldier having given the Chevalier de Fourbins' notice of it, the Chevalier de Fourbins' having first placed some Guards about the House, entered into it, and found him near the fire, little dreaming of his misfortune. For as soon as he saw the Chevalier come towards him, he asked him, if the Great Alcander had sent for him to which the Chevalier de Fourbins' answered, No, but that he had sent him to demand his Sword that he was sorry to be charge● with such a Commission, but where as he was obliged to do whatever his Master commanded him, he could not dispense with himself from executing it.  
It is easy to judge of Monsieur de Lausun's surprise, at so unexpected a Compliment, for although he had given the Great Alcander cause to deal much more rigorously with him, yet since Men an● more apt to flatter themselves, than to do themselves Justice, he believed that the kindness which the King had always shown towards him, would prevail above his resentment. He asked the Chevalier de Fourbins', whether he might not speak with the King, but the Chevalier having told him that it was forbidden, he gave himself over to despair. They kept as ●rict a Guard upon him all that ●ight, as they could have done ●●on the greatest Criminal in the World, and the Chevalier de Fourbins' having on the morrow de 〈…〉vered him into the hands of Mon 〈…〉 ur d'Artagnan, Captain Lieutenant of Dragoons, Monsieur de ●ausun looked upon himself as a 〈…〉 ined Man; because Monsieur de 〈…〉 tagnan had never been his friend, 〈…〉 d, he believed, that he was cho 〈…〉 out on purpose, to make the Great Alcander's indignation the ●etter known.  
Monsieur d'Artagnan, having 〈…〉 ken Orders from Monsieur de 〈…〉 voy by the Great Alcanders ●ommand, conducted Monsieur de Lausun to Pierre Anoise, and from 〈…〉ence to Pignerol, where they 〈…〉 him up in a Room with 〈…〉 Windows, not setting him 〈…〉 speak with any one whomsoever, and having only some Books for his Companions, together w 〈…〉 his Valet de Chambre, who was no permitted to go out.  
The Affliction, which he conceived to see himself fallen from so high a Fortune into so deplorable a Condition, soon reduc 〈…〉 him to that extremity, that 〈…〉 life was despaired of, and he being once fallen into a Lethargy, it w 〈…〉 so credibly believed, that he w 〈…〉 deceased, that a Courier was d 〈…〉 patched to the Great Alcander, 〈…〉 give him notice of his Death; b 〈…〉 in six hours afterwards, there a 〈…〉 ved another, who brought the Ne 〈…〉 of his return to life again, at why 〈…〉 there was neither joy nor grief 〈…〉 pressed, I mean in general, eve 〈…〉 one esteeming him already as ● Man, who was dead at least to t 〈…〉 World.  
In the mean time, Madamoisel 〈…〉 d'Orleans Monpensier, being in de 〈…〉 pair, because the pleasures, which she had expected to enjoy with hi● were so suddenly vanished, suffered 〈…〉 much the more torment, in that 〈…〉 durst not make the least appear. However the most intimate of her Friends endeavoured all they ●ould to lessen her Affliction; but 〈…〉 ce they were not always with 〈…〉 o, and especially by night, du 〈…〉ng which the Senses are usually 〈…〉 he most tormented, they rather contributed to render her more wretched by thus renewing the remembrance of her misfortune, than brought her any comfort. ●et her greatest Misery was, that 〈…〉 e durst not complain; for since 〈…〉 r Marriage was secret, she truly 〈…〉 dged that her Sorrows must be also secret, unless she would resolve 〈…〉 expose herself to the laughter, not only of her Enemies, but ●●en of all France, who had their eyes turned upon her, to see after ●hat manner she would take her ●●od Friends disgrace. Nevertheless that did not hinder her from taking the Man who mana 〈…〉 Monsieur de Lausuns business; a 〈…〉 making him her Steward; nor fr 〈…〉 receiving into her Service his Gentleman, and the most faithful 〈…〉 his Domestics, who were o 〈…〉 joyed to save themselves in 't 〈…〉 Port, after their Masters Shipwra 〈…〉  
In the mean time, the Great ●●cander, just as if Monsieur de L●●sun had never been his Favouri●● heard every thing that was said him, without being concerned 〈…〉 it, or even without answering 〈…〉 it; which was the reason that the● who were still his Friends, w 〈…〉 were but very few in number dared no longer to speak in his 〈…〉 half. Neither did hardly any p 〈…〉 sum to Petition for the Count 〈…〉 Guiche's Employment; for all m 〈…〉 knowing, that it had been a stumbling block to that Favourite, th' 〈…〉 seared, lest it might have the sa 〈…〉 effect for others, as it had for him yet while they were in daily 〈…〉 〈…〉 ectation of the Man, to whom 〈…〉 e Great Alcander would give it, 〈…〉 ey were all surprised, when one ●orning at his rising, he told the 〈…〉ke de la Fevillade, that if he could 〈…〉 ocure fifty thousand Crowns, he ●ould give him the rest to pur 〈…〉 se the Count de Guiche's Employment, to whom he must pay 〈…〉 own six hundred thousand Li●es, before he could have his Re 〈…〉 nation. The Duke de la Feuilla●● smilingly answered the Great Alcander, that he should easily pro●●re them, if he would be his security; and after having seriously thanked him for the Favour which 〈◊〉 did him, he took leave of him ●o go to Paris, to fetch the sum, 〈…〉 at the Great Alcander demanded of him.  
The News of what the Great Alcander had done for him, being spread amongst all the Courtiers, he ●et a great number of them in the 〈…〉 tichamber, and upon the Stairs, who came to make him their Compliments; but without half hea●ing them out, he returned in 〈…〉 the Great Alcander's Chamber, 〈…〉 whom he said, that Men need 〈…〉 longer have recourse to Saints 〈…〉 see Miracles, since His Majesty d 〈…〉 greater than all the Saints in Paradise; that when he came in th' 〈…〉 Morning he had not been regarded by any body, because none di 〈…〉 believe that his Majesty would d 〈…〉 that which he had done for high 〈…〉 but that as soon as the favou 〈…〉 which he had granted him, w 〈…〉 known, all pressed with emulation one of another to make him proffers of their Service; but that they were proffers of Service after the Court Mode only, that is to say● that no man had offered him h 〈…〉 Purse, to take thence the fifty thousand Crowns which he wanted  
The Great Alcander laughed a 〈…〉 Duke of Feuillade's jest, and seeing him return in as much haste as he came, he told him that he need not 〈…〉 o so fast, if he had nothing to 〈…〉 o at Paris, but to seek the Mo●ey; that he was willing to lend 〈…〉 him, but upon condition, that 〈…〉 e should pay it again, when he 〈…〉 re able.  
Thus the Great Alcander having 〈…〉 a day ruined one Favourite, rai 〈…〉 d another almost in as little time; 〈…〉 r it is apparent, that the morning whereon the King made the Duke de la Fevillade this Present, ●is Affairs were in so bad a con 〈…〉tion, that one of his Coach Hor 〈…〉 s being dead, he had not money enough by him to buy another.  
Although Monsieur de Lausuns disgrace had deprived the Court ●●dies of one of their best Com 〈…〉 tants, yet since every moment presented them with fresh Men to enter the Lists, the vigour of those did comfort them for the loss of the other; and he was no sooner ●ut of sight, but they forgot all his Braveries. Among the young Men, who presented themselves 〈…〉 supply his place, the Duke of Longueville was without doubt the most considerable both for Bir●● and Fortune; for he was descended from Princess, who had p 〈…〉 sest the Crown, before it fell 〈…〉 that Branch, from whence the Gre●● Alcander was sprung, and he ha● an Estate of six hundred thousand Livres a year, in Land, to maintain so Illustrious a Descent. A● for his Person, his Youth was accompanied with a Je ne sai qui● that rendered him very Charming wherefore although he was neither of so good a Presence, nor of so graceful an Air, as many other● were, yet he failed not to please all the Women in general; so that he no sooner appeared at Court● but they all had designs upon hi● Person.  
The Mareschaless de la Ferte was one of those, and thirty seve● 〈…〉 thirty eight years, which had 〈…〉st over her head, not permitting 〈…〉 r to hope, that he would pray 〈…〉 her before so many others, who were much younger and fairer 〈…〉 an herself, she believed that it 〈…〉 old not be amiss for her to ●ake him some advances, and that 〈…〉 ease advances might serve her in 〈…〉 ad of Merit. One day that the ●uke of Longueville, with several 〈…〉 hers, was at play at her House, which was the usual Rendezvous of 〈…〉 the People of Quality, who had nothing to do, she entreated him 〈…〉 come to see her, at an hour in 〈…〉 e morning, that she knew none 〈…〉 se would be there, at which time, 〈…〉 e had the pleasure of entertaining him with all freedom; but 〈…〉 very little purpose, for the young 〈…〉 inee was as yet so raw in Amorous Mysteries, that he did no understand the meaning of an hundred wanton lo●ks, and ●●ish tricks, which would have sufficiently advertised any other, that had b 〈…〉 more experienced than himself▪  
Nevertheless, seeing that 〈◊〉 Mareschaless, old as she was, h 〈…〉 not displeased him, he came 〈…〉 gain on the morrow to see her the same hour, and finding her her Toilet, he told her that would make her a Present of admirable Powder; the Maresc 〈…〉 less asked him what Powder it w 〈…〉 and the Duke of Longueville h 〈…〉ving replied, that it was pol 〈…〉 ville, he had hardly let the w 〈…〉 fall, when she cried out, that 〈◊〉 would dispense with him fro 〈…〉 sending for it, that it was an ab 〈…〉 minable Powder, and that she, w 〈…〉 had invented it, deserved to 〈◊〉 burnt. She immediately asked t 〈…〉 Duke of Longueville, whether did make use of it, and the Duke 〈…〉 having answered, Yes; She bid h 〈…〉 not come near her, for that Powder was worse than the Plague. T 〈…〉 Duke, who did not know wh 〈…〉 〈…〉 e meant, desired her to explain 〈…〉 e Riddle, and the Mareschaless 〈…〉ving enquired of him, whether 〈◊〉 had not heard the Count uxes Story, and he having repli 〈…〉, No; she told him that he must 〈◊〉 informed of it from himself, and 〈…〉 r that she did believe that he 〈…〉 old use no more Polleville.  
She would not tell him any 〈…〉ing more until her head was 〈…〉 essed, but her dressing Woman 〈…〉ing gone, she then told him, that 〈…〉 e Count de Saux having had 〈◊〉 Assignation with Madam de 〈…〉 vures, did not come off with honour, by reason of Polleville; and that she verily believed, that the same thing would befall him, 〈…〉 he were in the like Rencounter. That reproach made the Duke of Longueville laugh, and whereas the force of youth made him believe, that he did not hate the Mareschaless whom he had found a handsome Woman at her looking Glass; he told her that he had 〈◊〉 day used Polleville, but that 〈◊〉 would make it appear, that 〈◊〉 same thing should not befall h〈…〉 as did happen to the Count 〈◊〉 Saux. Whereupon he began 〈…〉 caress her, and the Maresch 〈…〉 seeming to be angry at his b 〈…〉ness, to provoke him the more 〈…〉 resisted him, until she was n 〈…〉 the Bed, upon which she let h 〈…〉 self fall, and there she tried, th' 〈…〉 what was said of the Count 〈◊〉 Saux, was an effect of his weakness, and not of Polleville.  
The Duke of Longueville ove 〈…〉 joyed at his Adventure, used 〈◊〉 like a young Man, which did n 〈…〉 at all displease the Mareschaless She entreated him to be secret, and made him understand, that she had a severe Husband, who would take nothing for raillery, if he on 〈…〉 had happened to discover, that the had any familiarity together. The Duke of Longueville promised he 〈…〉 that he would act very discreetly, and that she should have reason to be satisfied with his Conduct, but he, 〈◊〉 his part desired her not to 〈…〉 mmit any infidelity against him, 〈…〉 ding that he would forsake her 〈…〉 at very moment, wherein any 〈…〉ing of that nature should arrive 〈◊〉 his knowledge.  
That Law was very severe to the Mareschaless, who till then had believed, that one Man was too 〈…〉 tle for one Woman, but she be 〈…〉 g much in love with the Duke, 〈…〉 d besides, having just then experienced, that he was worth two ordinary Men she resolved to struggle with her Nature to keep her 〈…〉ord with him, as long as she 〈…〉 uld. Therefore from that day, 〈…〉 e dismissed the Marquis Deffiat, 〈…〉 ho endeavoured to obtain her 〈…〉 avour, and would certainly have 〈…〉 und speedy success, had it not 〈…〉 en for the Duke of Longueville's prohibition.  
The Marquis of Deffiat was ● little Man, wilful and brave, though he did not love the W 〈…〉 addicted to Pleasures, and uncapable of reasoning, when some 〈…〉 cy had once taken him in the h 〈…〉 He found much severity in 〈◊〉 Mareschaless' command, w 〈…〉 whom he was almost come to bargain, and not doubting, but 't 〈…〉 there was some other Lover in 〈◊〉 Field, he immediately suspect the Duke of Longueville. His suspicions being fallen upon him, though she received Visits from many others, he was vexed to h 〈…〉 to do with a Prince, with who he durst not fight without expressing himself to dangerous consequences.  
However, his Passion being more strong than his Reason, he would before he quarrelled with him, certainly informed, if he were 〈◊〉 in a mistake, and having for the purpose sent several Spies abro 〈…〉 〈…〉 e was one day advised of a meeting that those Lovers had together; whereupon he wrapped himself up in a great Cloak, and stood watching before the Door, that he might be the more certain, whether it were true or no. When he had seen with his own Eyes, that he had been told nothing but 〈…〉 ruth, he resolved to quarrel with the Duke of Longueville upon the first opportunity, and having met him soon after, he told him in his 〈…〉 are, that he desired to see him with his Sword in hand, the Duke of Longueville answered him without any emotion, that he ought to learn to know himself, and that she might fight with his equal, but as for him, he had been instructed never to meddle with Fellows, whose Ancestors have not long been known.  
This was a sensible reproach to the Marquis de Deffiat, of whose 〈…〉 raction the World had no great Opinion; nevertheless since th' 〈…〉 were several others in the pl 〈…〉 where he had spoken to the Duke of Longueville, he went from him without making any thing appe 〈…〉 and without giving any suspici 〈…〉 of what he had said unto him. The Duke of Longueville depart 〈…〉 in a little time after, but having several Pages and Lackeys in h 〈…〉 train, Deffiat believed it prop 〈…〉 to wait for some more favourable opportunity to get satisfaction▪ bot 〈…〉 for the affront which was just th' 〈…〉 given him, and for the stealing a way of his Mistress from him.  
In the mean time, the Duke of Longueville, seeing that Deffiat did not follow him, took that for an effect of his Cowardice, which was only an effect of his Judgement; so that he began to speak ill of high 〈…〉 upon that score, which being reported to Deffiat, put him into suc 〈…〉 an excess of anger, that he reso 〈…〉 ved to be revenged, though it should 〈…〉 ove his utter ruin▪ To this effect he employed two or three 〈…〉 ies, to bring him notice when the Duke of Longueville went abroad alone, which he often did, having besides his Intrigue with the Mareschaless, some Amours in the 〈…〉 own, which gave him employment, 〈…〉 d within two or three days after, one of his Spies having ad 〈…〉 ertised him, that the Duke went but all alone in a Chair, and was 〈…〉 one to some appointment, he po 〈…〉ed himself upon the way, and 〈…〉 s the Duke returned about two hours after Midnight, he presented himself before him with a Cane 〈…〉 n one hand, and a Sword in the other, and called to him to come out, or he would use him scurvily; the Duke of Longueville, having immediately caused his Chair-men to stop, would have handled his Sword, but Deffiat assaulting him before he had time to draw it, gave him some blows with the Cane, which the Chair men seeing, they took the Staves out of the Chair, and would have knoc 〈…〉 the Marquis on the head with them▪ if he had not judged it proper 〈◊〉 avoid their fury, by a speedy flight▪  
It is easy to comprehend the Duke's despair, after so sensible an affront, and how much he desired to revenge it; he forbade the Chair-men ever to speak of this accident, neither did he ever speak of it himself to any, but to one of his best Friends, who advised him to make no complaint of it, for altho' the Great Alcander would not fail to give the Marquis an exemplary punishment; yet he did not believe, that a Prince, who had received such an affront, aught to revenge himself by the Ministry of another; he told him, that he had nothing else to do, but to cause his Enemy to be Assassinated, which indeed was the only method he could take upon such an occasion, for although it were not generous 〈◊〉 commit actions of that nature; 〈…〉 t, since to Challenge Deffiat ●ould expose him again▪ to be 〈…〉 aten, it was not just, and especially for a Prince, to receive two 〈…〉 ronts at the same time.  
The Duke being resolved, what 〈…〉 o happened, to follow this advice, 〈…〉 ght after nothing more than 〈…〉 me opportunity of accomplishing it; but it was a very difficult matter; because Deffiat after having committed such an extravagancy, never went abroad without being well attended, and always stood upon his Guard. In the mean time, it happened that the Mareschaless de la Ferte became big with Child, which very much alarmed her; for whereas he did not lie with her Husband, who had long lain bedrid with the Gout, she well imagined, that if he once came to know it, he would lock her up immediately for the rest of her life. That was therefore a necessity of us 〈…〉 a great deal of precaution to conceal her great Belly from him but she discovered it to the Duke of Longueville, who overjoyed 〈◊〉 see himself likely to have O 〈…〉 spring, although he was as yet but very young himself, loved the Maresehaless the more tenderly for i 〈…〉 When she was four or five Months gone, she would no longer virtue to go into the Marshal Chamber; but sitting up at pla 〈…〉 all night, she lay in Bed all day causing her meat to be brought thither to her, and never rose, until the Gamesters returned, before whom, she never stirred from her Seat, for fear they should discover, that which she earnestly desired, should be concealed from all the World.  
Although the Marshal mistrusted nothing, yet he failed not to find fault with that manner of living, and having sent his Wife 〈…〉ord, that he would be glad to 〈…〉ak with her, she ventured into 〈…〉 s Chamber, where he reprehend 〈…〉 her for it to purpose; but the Mareschaless, who desired only some pretence not to return thither any 〈…〉 o'er, seemed to be very much offended at his correction; so that he discourse growing hot between 〈…〉 'em, they gave each other a great deal of ill Language, which gave the Mareschaless an opportunity to tell him, that he should quarrel with her when she came next to see him, and at the same time 〈…〉 itting his Chamber, she never 〈…〉 et her foot in it again, until after her lying in.  
When she was within a Month of six Weeks of her time, she feigned an indisposition to rid herself of the Company that frequented her, and her time being come, she lay in in her own House, just as if she had been with Child by her own Husband. It was Monsieur Clement that delivered her, a 〈…〉 the Duke of Longueville who was present at her Labour, made him promise to keep it secret, and gave him 200 Pistols.  
In the mean time Monsieur Clement had many such windfalls, f 〈…〉 in a little time after, Madam 〈◊〉 Montespan being again with I'll 〈…〉 by the Great Alcander, she had recourse to him, and he was brought after the same manner, and with the same Ceremony as he had been before; however there was some difference in his reward; he having had this last time two hundred Lewidores, whereas he had only one hundred the first time and the same measures were always observed with him, as often as there was use for him; he having had as far as to four hundred Lewidores, for the fourth Child that he delivered Madam the Montespan of: But whether it were that it appeared a little too extraordinary to this Lady, who was naturally very saving, or that she had some other reasons for it, she having again conceived by the Great Alcander, and being obliged to go into the Country, she sent to bargain with Clement, to send her one of his Deputies to Maintenon, where she had resolved to lie in. She passed there for one of the Marchioness of Maintenon's best Friends, so that the Deputy, who delivered her, did not know, that he had brought the Great Alcander's Mistress to bed.  
In the mean time, to return to the Duke of Longueville, who finding (as I have already said) no opportunity to be revenged of Deffiat, he was obliged to make himself ready to follow the Great Alcander, who had declared War with the Hollanders. This Campagne was extremely glorious to this Great Prince; but fatal to the Duke of Longueville, for he being am 〈…〉 sed at a debauch, an hour or two before the Great Alcander made h 〈…〉 Troops pass over the Rhine, th' 〈…〉 Wine caused him unhappily to discharge a Pistol against the Enemies, who already talked of surrendering themselves, which was the reason that they discharged again upon him, and upon the Chief of the Great Alcander's Army, of which several were slain, and the Duke of Longueville among the rest, who was the cause of this misfortune.  
The News of it being carried to Paris, the Mareschaless almost died with grief▪ as well as many other Ladies, who had an interest in that young Prince's Person▪ he was also generally lamented by all Men, except Deffiat, who was thereby rid of a powerful Enemy. In making an Inventory of his Papers, they found his last Will and Testaments, which he had made a little before his departure. All men were surprised to see, that in it he did knowledge the Son which he had the Mareschaless for his natural▪ Son, to whom he left five hundred thousand Livres, in case 〈…〉 happened to die before he were 〈…〉 tied.  
This News being soon published through the whole Town, the Mareschaless was advised of it by Ma 〈…〉 de Bertillac her good Friend, 〈…〉 o at the same time, warned her 〈◊〉 have a care, lest it should reach her▪ Husbands Ears. The Mareschaless grew almost mad to see her 〈…〉 iness become thus public; but 〈◊〉 time brings comfort to every 〈…〉ng, she bore it the best in the World, and could at last hear it 〈…〉 coursed of without blushing. the Great Alcander, knowing that the Duke of Longueville, had a Son by the Mareschaless, was very glad 〈◊〉 it. For whereas there was a 〈…〉 at resemblance between the Duke of Longueville's advent 〈…〉 and his own; I would say, where 〈…〉 the Son, which the Duke left behind him, was born of a Mar 〈…〉 Woman, as well as those which the Great Alcander had by Mad 〈…〉 de Montespan; he desired, that th' 〈…〉 should serve him for a precedent legitimate his own Children, whenever he should have a mind to 〈◊〉 and he sent an Order to the Parliament of Paris, to legitimate the Duke of Longueville's Son, without any obligation to name the Mother, which was however contrary to the Laws and Customs the Realm.  
When the first noise, which the News had made, was a little over the Mareschaless, who saw her Reputation lost amongst all People of Honour, resolved to cast off 〈◊〉 the little continency she had le 〈…〉 She tried all those who were gl 〈…〉 to be contented with the Duke Longueville's leave, and widow 〈…〉 the leave of several others, and 〈…〉ving tied a strong Friendship with Madam de Bertillac, who was 〈…〉 e of the fairest Creatures in all 〈…〉 ris, they became each others Confident, and tasted all manner of Pleasures. The Mareschaless had a Foot man, who was since 〈…〉 oak on the Wheel, and had one of the finest heads of Hair in the World, and detraction would have it, that he had a great share of her good Affections because it was observed, that she made some difference between him, and her other Footmen.  
Madam de Bertillac's great intima 〈…〉 y with the Mareschaless, did not 〈…〉 t all please Monsieur de Bertillac her Father in Law, who feared lest that whilst his Son was in the Army, his Daughter in Law might be debauched; but that was a thing already done; for she had not been able to hear the Mareschaless discourse of the pleasure that there was in playing a Husband falls 〈…〉 without having a desire to 't 〈…〉 what it was. However Monsie●● de Bertillac held as strict a hand 〈…〉 ver her as she could, he had 〈◊〉 Eye upon her, and often recommended to her to have her honour before her Eyes. But he was to● much employed with the keeping of the Great Alcanders' Treasure which that Prince had trusted to him, so that as it was difficult for him to be able to answer fo● his Daughter in Laws conduc● so it was easy for his Daughter in Law, to make him think we●● of it.  
In the mean time, Madam d● Bertillac, being one day gone t● a play with the Mareschaless, wher● the last had seen le Basque th● vaulter dance, she told the other● that she fancied, that a Man who had such a supple back, was an admirable performer, and said, tha● she had a great desire to make a trial of him herself. The Mareschaless' Ingenuity having obliged Ma 〈…〉 m de Bertillac to open also her 〈…〉 art, she told her, that she really 〈…〉 ieved, there would be a great 〈…〉 all of pleasure in doing what she 〈…〉 d, but that for her part, if she was curious of any thing, it was 〈…〉 f knowing whether Baron the 〈…〉 maedian, was as agreeable a Per 〈…〉 n in Conversation, as he was upon the Stage. This confidence was 〈…〉 llowed by the approbation of the Mareschaless; she exalted Baron's Merit, to the end that Madam de Bertillac might commend le Basque, and each encouraging the other to prove this Adventure otherwise than in the Idea, they were 〈…〉 o sooner gone from the Play, but they resolved to write to these two Men, to desire their Company for one moment.  
Baron and le Basque were very much surprised at the Honour that was done them, and having not failed to give them a civil answe 〈…〉 the interview was at St. Clou, from whence the Ladies returned so w 〈…〉 contented, that they agreed between themselves, that it should not be the last time that they would see them. They afterwards imparted to each other what had happened to them, and they went both obliged to confess unanimously, that it was not always men o 〈…〉 Quality that rendered the ablest Service. As for the men, each of them had not the same cause of contentment. If Baron were satisfied with his fortune, le Basq 〈…〉 was unsatisfied with his; he found the Mareschaless insatiable; and he told Baron, that although he much wearied himself at the Play, yet he had rather be obliged to dance there all day, than be with her only one hour; Baron did comfort him with the good fortune he had in being in Favour with a Woman of great Quality, and he was fool enough to feed himself with this Chimaera.  
In the mean time Madam de Bertillac gave herself over to that 〈…〉 ravagance, that she could not 〈◊〉 a moment without Baron, and having understood that he had lost very considerable sum at play, 〈…〉 e forced him to take her Jewels, which were well worth twenty thousand Crowns. But it happened to her misfortune, that one of her Father in Laws Friends being 〈◊〉 go to some public Meeting, 〈…〉 e prayed him to borrow them 〈…〉 t her of his Daughter in Law, 〈…〉 d Monsieur de Bertillac being very glad to oblige that Lady, bid Madam Bertillac lend them to her, which did extremely perplex her. She having at first appeared surprised, Madam de Bertillac did believe, seeing that she was a Gam 〈…〉 r, she had played away or 〈…〉ed some part of them, and 〈…〉 essing her to tell him where, to the end that he might fetch them out, she confounded herself m 〈…〉 and more, by saying, sometim 〈…〉 that she had lent them one of her Friends, and sometimes that th' 〈…〉 were with a Jeweller, who h 〈…〉 them to mend. Monsieur de Bertillac, who was a man of Experience, plainly perceived that there was some Mystery in the mat 〈…〉 but not being able to get any thing more out of her, he was forced to declare the business in his Daughter in Laws Family, who after several Stories, did at length confess, that she had given them Baron; however she endeavoured 't 〈…〉 disguise it, under the name 〈◊〉 lending them. Her Relations went immediately to the Player, who 〈◊〉 first denied the matter, believing that they spoke to him only o 〈…〉 of suspicion, but understanding in a moment after, that Madam de Bertillac herself had been obliged to discover him, and that they had already acquainted the Great Alcander with it, so that it would 〈…〉 ove almost his ruin, he chose 〈◊〉 restore them, and avoided thereby a great deal of trouble.  
Monsieur de Bertillac believing, that his Son, who was in the Army, ●ould not fail being advised of what 〈…〉 ad passed, bethought himself, that it was best for him, to give him notice of it himself, before any other; but Madam de Bertillac, who had a great power over her Husband's Spirit, having prevented him by a Letter, Monsieur de Bertillac was very much surprised, when instead of thanks, as he expected from his Son, he received nothing but complaints, as if his Wife were 〈…〉 ill in the right. Madam de Bertillac carried her cunning yet farther; she desired her Husband to suffer her to retire into a Convent, saying that she could no longer 〈…〉 ve with Monsieur de Bertillac, who used her after such a manner, as had he not been her Father Law, she should have believe that he had been amorous of 〈◊〉 since he was become so Jealous▪  
These News tormented her Husband, who tenderly loved her, a 〈…〉 was very far from believing 〈◊〉 false, and attributing all the f 〈…〉 to his Either, the rest of the Campagne did seem to him to last thousand years, he was in so much haste to go and comfort this d 〈…〉 Spouse. In the mean time he desired his Father to leave his W 〈…〉 in repose, of whose Virtue he w 〈…〉 sufficiently persuaded, to believe none of all those Reports, which ran abroad to her disadvantage and as for her, he wrote to her 〈◊〉 no means to go into a Conve 〈…〉 unless she desired to make him d 〈…〉 with Grief; to have patience until the end of the Compagne, a 〈…〉 after that he would put every thing in order. In effect, as soon as 〈◊〉 returned, he would not hear a 〈…〉 thing to her prejudice; he lived with her as he was accustomed, and if she had not died in a little 〈…〉 me after▪ she had gained so great 〈…〉 n influence over him, that she 〈…〉 old have done whatever she had pleased, without any contradiction from him.  
Madam de Bertillac's Death made the Mareschaless examine herself. She told some of her Friends that she would renounce all the Vani 〈…〉 es of the World, but since she had said as much after the Duke of Longueville's Death, and yet had performed nothing of it, it was not believed that she would keep her word any better this time, than she did the other. In which 〈…〉 one were deceived, for her Husband's Death having set her at liberty, to live after her own Mode, 〈…〉 e made an infinite number of Rascals, who were yet more un 〈…〉 orthy, succeed le Basque. The Chevalier Grippefer kept her until he was weary of her, to wh 〈…〉 the Abbot of Lignerac succeed 〈…〉 and as she gave him a part of 〈◊〉 Bed, she obliged him to give 〈◊〉 a share of his Purse. At last 〈◊〉 Abbot of Lignerac, having qui 〈…〉 the Mother in Law for the Daughter in Law, she is at this day 〈…〉 duced to give herself up to 〈◊〉 little du Pré, who not only give her some of his Orvietan, but a 〈…〉 teaches her all the tricks of Ca 〈…〉 and of Cunning, wherewith the bubble together all new come 〈…〉 and those, who are fools enough to expect fair play with a W 〈…〉 man, who hath so long since anounced all Honour and Hon 〈…〉 sty.  
The Mareschaless' Example has moved the Duchess de la Fer 〈…〉 to be not more Virtuous. However she being younger, and, as she thought, fairer, she did not judge 〈…〉 it proper to expose herself to a 〈…〉 the World, as her Mother in Law did but on the contrary, pre 〈…〉 ming that she had Beauty enough 〈◊〉 touch the Great Alcander's Sons 〈…〉 art; she began not to make Court 〈◊〉 him, but Love, and that so o 〈…〉 nly, that the whole World could 〈…〉 t look upon her Impudence, 〈…〉 ithout blushing for her.  
The Mareschaless de la Motte her Mother, who had been Governant 〈◊〉 the Great Alcanders' Son, and who had Married another of her daughters to the Duke of Vanta 〈…〉 r, of whose Conduct she was 〈…〉 ready not too well satisfied, soon 〈…〉 rceiving her Daughter's designs, 〈…〉 solved to stop the course of them, to preserve what was left of Repu 〈…〉tion in her Family. She there 〈…〉 re told the Duchess de la Ferte; 〈…〉 ll that a Mother's Experience and Authority could dictate to her: ●ut all her Remonstrances did no other good, than to make her Daughter conceal from her, while 〈…〉 e exposed to the Eyes of all others, designs that made the l 〈…〉 moderate murmur. For one d 〈…〉 having found the Great Alcander Son in a good humour, she s 〈…〉 very confident things to him, a 〈…〉 the Prince having praised the B 〈…〉 ty of her Hair, which was ind 〈…〉 very fair, and of a beauteous Colour, she told him, that if he h 〈…〉 seen her Head undressed, he wou 〈…〉 have been much better pleased with them, that when he pleased she would give him that satisfaction and stooping her Head at the same time, to show him what quantity she had of them, she put her hand into a place, which decenc 〈…〉 forbids me to name, while the young Prince considered only her head, possibly without mindin 〈…〉 what she did. The Prince b 〈…〉ing then very young, the Duchess de la Ferte's action made high 〈…〉 more ashamed than it did her, and retreating back a step or two, his confusion increased when he sa 〈…〉 that his Shirt hung out before, and 〈…〉 at he must put it up again. The 〈…〉 ush, which at the same time appeared in his Face, with some other circumstances that were ob 〈…〉 ved, made it conceived, that 〈…〉 e Lady had not altogether lost her time while she stooped down; 〈…〉 t she, not being the more out of ●ountenance for that, told the Prince, who was putting up his 〈…〉 rt, that it was not very decent 〈◊〉 do what he did before Ladies, 〈…〉 d that if her Husband should 〈…〉 ance to come by, it would be enough to make him Jealous.  
The Prince gave her no leisure 〈…〉 o pursue a discourse, the matter of which was disagreeable to him, 〈◊〉 that after he went away, she 〈…〉 l two or three Ladies of her acquaintance, that she had seen a 〈…〉 n who was no man, and they 〈…〉 ot knowing what she meant by 〈…〉 at, and yet desiring to know it, 〈…〉 e told them, that she had been just then to see the Great Alcanders' Son, who nevertheless co 〈…〉 never be his Son. They pressed 〈◊〉 to explain the Riddle, which would not do, although they treated her; but these Ladies 〈…〉ving understood the young Pri 〈…〉 Adventure, did easily guests at 〈…〉 rest, and it was not difficult to 〈…〉 lief, but that the disorder, wh 〈…〉 in he appeared, was the Duchesses own handy work.  
The Great Alcander, having be advised of it, told the Marescless de la Motthe, that he was 〈◊〉 at all satisfied with her Daughter, and he commanded her warn the Duchess to have a m 〈…〉 honourable Conduct; otherwise should be obliged to tell her Husband to look after it. In the me 〈…〉 time, this Husband was a m 〈…〉 who took no great care, either of his Wife's Reputation, or of 〈◊〉 own, and provided that he might drink, and frequent Baudy-hou 〈…〉 valued not what men talked of, 〈…〉 r what might happen; he was 〈…〉 stantly with a company of lewd 〈…〉 ung Fellows, whose brave exhibits did consist only in promoting a Debauch, even to the last 〈…〉 tremity. So that the Wenches, 〈…〉 w bold or impudent soever they 〈…〉 ere, never saw them enter their 〈…〉 uses without trembling.  
About this time they did act a 〈…〉 olick, that went a little too far, 〈…〉 d that made a great deal of noise, 〈…〉 h in the Court and Town; for 〈…〉 o having spent the whole day with some Courtesans, where they had committed a thousand disorders, 〈…〉 ey Supped at the three Spoons in Bear 〈…〉 t; where being overtaken with Wine, they took up a Wafer▪ ma 〈…〉 r, whose manly parts they cut 〈◊〉, and put them in his Basket. This poor wretch seeing himself 〈◊〉 the hands of these Executions, alarmed not only the whole ●ouse, but even the whole Street with his Cries and Lamentatio 〈…〉 But although there came abo 〈…〉 them many People, who would have dissuaded them from so 〈◊〉 humane an Action, yet they would not give over, and the operati 〈…〉 being finished, they sent away t 〈…〉 unhappy Wafer-maker, who we 〈…〉 to die at his Master's House.  
This excess of debauchery, rather of madness, being known to the Great Alcander, he conceived a dreadful anger at it. B 〈…〉 the greater part of these despe 〈…〉 men having Relation to the C 〈…〉 of the Court, and even to the Ministers, he thought it proper, consideration of their Families, content himself with their Banishment, and their Kindred found the Sentence so mild, in comparison what they deserved, that they returned thanks to the Great Alcander for it, seriously confessing, th' 〈…〉 so enormous a Crime did merit nothing less than Death.  
The Marquis de Camardon and the Chevalier Gripesou, who had been concerned in the Debauch, and who were always the first to draw the others on, were a little mortified before their departure. For this last, who was the Son of the Famous Monsieur Gripesou, was entertained by his Father with a good Cud 〈…〉 elling in the presence of a great many People; as he was a great Politician, he was very glad that it should be told the Great Alcander, that he could not hear of so 〈…〉 rrid an irregularity without giving it some chastisement. As for the Marquis de Camardon, the Great Alcander said in discourse concerning him, that he should not, during 〈…〉 is life, ever pretend to be a Duke, and that he would always be more ready to give him marks of his disdain, than to do any thing for him, that might raise his Fortune. However we now see, that the Great Alcander has forgot his word, unless it will be said, that it was no● to the Marquis of Camardon th●● he hath lately granted the Dignity of a Duke, but to Madamo●●selle de Laval, whom Camardo● hath Married.  
The noise which this Frolic● had made, being a little pacified the Kindred of those who were Banished, did solicit their return while the Duchess de la Fer●● wished that her Husband might no● return so soon, having very good reasons for it, which I will relate in few words. When she perceived that she in vain pretended to the Conquest of the Great Alcanders' Son, she fell to the first comer, with whom she had no reason at all to be contented. For some body made her a very bad present, and she having no experience in a certain illness that incommoded her, took a resolution to go incognito to a Famous Surgeons House to be better informed of it. Being arrived there all alone 〈◊〉 a Hackney Chair, which made 〈…〉 m expect no great good from a Woman of her fashion, she declared her business to him without 〈…〉 y Ceremony, telling him, that some days since she felt some indisposition, which made her fear that her Husband, who was something debauched, had not had that consideration for her▪ which he ought 〈…〉 o have had. Then she desired him to examine the matter, and to tell her his opinion, and at the same time showing the Symptoms, she expected that the Chirurgeon would at least show himself pitiful in entering into her concern; but he, being accustomed to hear every day things cast upon the poor Husbands, whereof they for the most part were innocent, told her, that he was so wearied out with these kind of Stories, that he could no longer have any complaisance for those that told them, that without giving herself farther trouble in accusing her Husband, 〈◊〉 should think only of putting h 〈…〉 self into some speedy course of Cuckoe 〈…〉 because the Disease, which she ha 〈…〉 might become worse, if she should chance to neglect it.  
That Declaration amazed the Duchess, who had often heard her Husband speak of these kinds of Distempers, of which experienc 〈…〉 had rendered him skilful, and being very desirous to know, if that, which she had, were the greatest of all she inquired it of the Chirurgeon The Chirurgeon answered, No 〈◊〉 but that, as he had already told her, she must be speedily cured, or else it might become such. When she heard that, she told him, that she had so great a confidence in him, by reason of the Reputation which he had in the World, that she would put herself entirely into his hands; and at the same time naming herself, she surprised the Chirurgeon; who knowing that he had to do with a Person of the highest Quality, was troubled he had talked to her after the rate he had done. He asked her pardon for his having appeared so free in words, excusing himself, that since the greatest Prostitutes did frequently entertain him with the same Language, which she had used, he thought himself obliged to make her those answers that he did, he not having the honour to know her.  
The Duchess easily pardoned him, nevertheless upon condition, that he should soon dispatch the business, which the Chirurgeon promised her, if she would observe a certain rule of living. She told him, that she would do every thing that he should order her. And did even more; for she would keep her Bed while she took Physic, fearing, that if she had continued to live as she was accustomed to do, watching might have heated her Blood, and rendered her Cure more difficult.  
In the mean time, though she had no mind to see any body▪ yet since it was very tiresome for her to be alone continually, she permitted Monsieur the Advocate, the Master of Requests, to come and Visit her, who had long since made love unto her without being able to obtain any favour. Monsieur the Advocate was a Jews Son, of the City of Paris, who after having gotten an Estate of two Millions by his Usury, suffered himself to die with cold, for fear of laying out a penny upon a Faggot. His Mother was also of the Jewish Race. Nevertheless, with all that, he was esteemed a man of Quality, and tho' he was of the long Robe, yet he never was pleased, but when he was in the Company of Sword men, to whom he served for a Divertisement. He affected to appear a Huntsman, although he understood not one term of the Profession, and if he ever chanced to discharge a Gun, which he very seldom did, he turned his head back, lest the Fire should seize his Hair. Moreover he was a great Talker and a great Liar, but withal the best natured man in the World, offering every man his service, but never serving any man.  
The Reputation which he had of being no dangerous man with the Women, to whom it was said, that he could do neither good nor harm, having made the Duchess de la Ferte believe, that he would perceive less of the reason which kept her a bed, than any other, she 〈…〉 lowed him to come and Visit her, 〈…〉 and he putting a great value upon 〈…〉 t favour, returned her thanks proportionable to his Wit. He protested 〈◊〉 her, that after marks of so great distinction, he would live and die 〈…〉 t very humble Servant, and to give her more essential Testimonies of his Attachment, he swo 〈…〉 to her, that neither herself or a 〈…〉 of her Friends, should ever ha 〈…〉 a Suit depending, before him, b 〈…〉 right or wrong he would judge of their side, without ever e 〈…〉 mining the Merits of the Caus 〈…〉 it being enough for him to know that she had a concern in it.  
After a thousand other Protestations of Service of the like nature, he at length returned to the love, which he had so long ago ha 〈…〉 for her, and endeavouring to make his Eyes agree with his Words, he turned them languishing upon her ask her, if she was resolved to be his death. The Duchess de la Ferte told him, it was apparent 〈…〉 that she had no such design, as h〈…〉 himself might easily judge; since she had sent for him, well remembering, that he had several times told her, he could not live without seeing her. This answer made the Advocate begin again his Compliments, which would not have had 〈…〉 n end, if she had not interrupted them to ask him, how he managed Lovison D'Arquien. He blushed ●t that Question, and the Duchess, perceiving it, told him, that she esteemed men that had some Modesty, that it was indeed true, that this Girl being a common Whore, it was not over creditable to visit her; but since that the Count de Saux, the Marquis de Camardon, the Duke de la Ferte himself, and even all the Court did the same, it could not be more disgraceful for him to Visit her, than it was for so many Persons of Quality, that, provided he did not entertain her publicly, as was reported, there was no great harm in it; but for her part, she never would believe any such thing, having always thought him too discreet for that.  
Monsieur the Advocate, Master of Requests, having loudly affirmed that it was a lie, and even would have affirmed, that he had neve● seen her, if the Duchess had no● given him an opportunity to excuse himself, by turning the conversation as he had done. He therefore told her, that he had never been with Lovison D'Arquien but with Company, and thinking to say the finest things in the World, he swore to her, that wha● Beauty soever those kind of Women had, he made a very grea● difference between them, and a Person of her Merit; and at the same time endeavouring to give a description of her, he let her see, that though his Judgement was not very good, yet that he had a great Memory; for the Duchess remembered, that she had some days since read in a Book of Gallantry, all those things which he at that time applied to her.  
In the mean time she was almost scandalised at the Comparison ●●ich he seemed to have made between her and Lovison D'Arquien, 〈…〉 r notwithstanding the difference which he alleged, she could not forbear being offended at it, and probably for that being conscious of the course of life which she herself 〈…〉 ad, she took it as a private hint, which the Advocate would have 〈…〉 iven her; but when she considered, that he was of no malici 〈…〉 us Nature, and that these words had escaped him rather by chance, than out of any ill purpose, she appeased her anger, and the conversation ended without any sharpness.  
On the morrow he returned to Visit the Duchess, and found her very ill, she had that day taken strong Physic, and she very much complained of the pains which she suffered, attributing them to the Medicine, which she had taken, whereof there still remained about 〈…〉 alf in a Glass upon the Table. He took the Glass, and swallow●● the Medicine, saying, that he cou 〈…〉 not endure to see the Person, who● he loved best in the world, in pai● while he himself was in perfe 〈…〉 health.  
The Duchess could not fo● bear laughing at this extravagancy, which the Master of Reque●● did however cry up, as a mark 〈…〉 the greatest love that ever was but afterwards reflecting, that th●● Physic might possibly hinder hi● from going abroad on the mo●row, and consequently that 〈…〉 would not be able to see the Duchess all that day, he fetched suc● sighs and groans as made the Duchess laugh, and put an end to th●● Comedy; for the Gripes having immediately taken him, he hardly had time to get to his Coach and retire home.  
There being Mercury in the Medicine, he was sufficiently tormented all that night, and all the next day, and not being able to go to ●he Duchess', he writ to her a ●illet, of which I cannot give you ●he very words, they having ne●er fallen into my hands; but ha●ing heard it sufficiently talked of ●n the world, as of a very ridicuous thing, I can relate the sense, which here follows.  
That he could not have the Ho●●●r to see her all the day, because ●e was become like those common Women, who could not warrant themselves from acting lewdness with their Bodies, since they had got such 〈…〉 habit of it; that his own Body ●as so enured to certain things, which 〈◊〉▪ durst not name, that he must of necessity keep his Chamber, un●●l he was entirely recovered of his indisposition. In the mean time, 〈◊〉 prayed her to believe, that he did not take the Physic as a Remedy against Love, but to show her, that he should be amorous of her during his life.  
The Duchess read over and 〈…〉 ver again the Billet, with wond● how a man, who was fifty yea● old and upwards, and who ha● seen so much of the world, coul● be so great a Fool, and being very glad to continue diverting he●self with him, she was very impatient to see him again. The Advocate, after having suffered, fo● two days, all that could be suffered from that kind of Physic, came to tell her, that at length he was free● (thanks be to God) from the illness that he had endured; tha● he wished her health equal to tha● which he enjoyed, and that if h● knew, that the doing once more of that, which he had done, would advance her Cure, he was ready to devote himself to all manner of Torments for her love.  
The Duchess thanked him for his good will, and told him, that, beginning to be a little better, she was in hopes her Disease would soon leave her. That however as ●er Body recovered, her Mind grew ●●ck; that she wanted two hundred Pistols for an urgent occasion, and that not knowing where to get them, she could not take any rest ●●her day or night.  
Though the Advocate was, as have said before, a Rich man's ●on; yet three things did contribute to render him not much▪ at ●●s ease. The first was, that his ●●ther had left behind him a great ●any Children; the second was, ●hat his Jewish Mother, who possessed half the Estate, was still alive; and the other was, that he had purchased an Office, which had cost him a great deal, but brought him 〈…〉 no large revenue. All this (I say) was the cause, that he was often put to his shifts for ready money. He could not at that very ●our offer the Duchess the two hundred Pistols, which she had occasion for, but he promised to bring them to her on the morrow, 〈◊〉 indeed he did not break his wo●● which was a thing very extraordinary for him.  
I cannot tell what use the Duchess had for this money, it being b●yond my knowledge, but if I m●● be allowed to judge of it by th● Circumstances that followed th● Present, I will say, that it mu●● have been very great. For as soo● as she saw the Advocate arrive wit● a Purse, she embraced him wit● all the appearances of a great tenderness, and the Advocate being thereby provoked to things, whic● surpassed, it seems, his natural forc● endeavoured not to let slip an occasion, which was not every day presented to him, and against whic● the Duchess made no manner o● resistance.  
In fine, whether the Duchess had forgotten the rule of living▪ which the Chirurgeon had ordered her, or whether she imagined, that she had between her Arms some ●●dy more agreeable than the Advocate, she accorded him the last ●●vour for his money. As the Advocate was not very importunate, 〈…〉 contented himself with one sin●● Testimony of the Duchess' 〈…〉 mity, without desiring any more. 〈…〉 went home the most satisfied ●●n in the world, and musing ●●ly upon the Greatness, where●●to he was called, he became yet ●ore silly, and more vain than be●●re.  
In the mean time, being very ●●reful of his health, and having ●●●rd it said, that excess of every ●●ing was hurtful, he stayed three or ●●ur days without returning to the Duchess', at the end of which, 〈…〉 began to find himself unexpectedly ill. He could hardly be●●●ve at first what he saw, but at mygth knowing that the most in●●dulous had believed, when they ●●d seen, he began to be convinced, that he ailed something, and to the more assured of it, he had Council of Physicians, who told h●● that he was not deceived. In t●● mean time it cannot be said, wh●ther this accident filled him mo●● with spite, or with joy. For 〈◊〉 one side, if he thought that t●● Duchess had done ill by him, 〈◊〉 treating him so scurvily the fi●●● time, on the other side he considered, that she was still a Duchess, and Vanity having a gre●● power over him, he concluded wi●● himself, that the Favours of suc● Persons, be they what they wi●● were never to be despised. H● joined also another consideration to this reflection, to wit, that th●● accident being spread abroad in th● world would re-establish his Reputation among all Women, wh● having until then taken him for ● Kinsman of the Marquis de Lang●●● that is to say, for a man who mu●● have been divorced, if he had ha●● Wise, would now be obliged to 〈…〉 nfess themselves sometimes mistaken.  
It was for that reason also, that ●e had so publicly kept Lovison 〈…〉 ' Arquien, of whom the Duchess ●ad upbraided him, as is above re 〈…〉ed; but they had no better o 〈…〉 inion for all that of his performance, and there was still wanting this last circumstance to undeceive all the World. Instead therefore of concealing himself, as another would have done, he went publicly into a course of Physic, and ●is intimate acquaintance doubting ●is Disease, he confirmed them in ●●eir suspicion, and made a Gallantry of it, as any vain young ●●llow would have done.  
In the mean time this circumstance, which he believed so advantageous to his Reputation, 〈…〉 s more hurtful to his Fortune 〈…〉 he was a war. For being ei●●●r ill ordered in the beginning, or perhaps being of a temper difficult to be cured, he was oblige 〈…〉 to undergo a Flux. Moreover the Great Alcander, having hear 〈…〉 of his disorder, lost the little estee● he might have had of him, an● denied him the Office of May 〈…〉 of the City of Paris, which he w 〈…〉 inclined to give him upon the 〈…〉 commendation of Monsieur de P 〈…〉 pone his Brother in Law, who w 〈…〉 one of his Ministers.  
Monsieur the Advocate's adventure, which all the world fail 〈…〉 not to impute to the Duchess 〈…〉 la Ferte, gave the Mareschale● de la Motte her Mother very gre 〈…〉 vexation; neither was she bet 〈…〉 contented with the Duchess Vantadour, who accused her Hu●band of having given her a Cla 〈…〉 but who under the pretence, th● he was debauched, gave her s● up entirely to Monsieur de Til●●det, Monsieur de Louvoy's Con 〈…〉 German. The Duke of Vantad 〈…〉 was a little man, very false and dissembling, yet wanted no Cou●age. He, having had some hint ●f his Wives Intrigue, resolved to ●o watch her so narrowly, as to ●ake her in the Fact. For this purpose he permitted her to make a ●ourney with the Duchess D'Au●●nt his Sister, reasonably gues●ing, that if there were any truth 〈…〉 what was told him, the Gallant ●ould not fail to meet her upon ●er way. In the mean time he took ●orse to observe their motions, ●nd arrived every Evening incog 〈…〉 o in the same Inn, where his Wife lodged. He had not held this ●ourse above five or six days, when 〈…〉 saw Monsieur de Tilladet ar●ive Post, who was in such hast 〈…〉 see Madam de Vantadour, that 〈…〉 did not give himself time so ●uch as to take off his Boots, or ●●en to brush off the dust. He pretended to the Duke D'Aumont, ●●at he was also upon a Journey, and that chance had brought him into the Inn. But the Duke o● Vantadour, who knew very well what to think of it, not giving them leisure to enter into a long conversation, went up stairs immediately with his Sword in hand and he surprised the whole Company, who little dreamt of him and thought that he had been fa● enough off from thence.  
The Duke D' Aumont, who a● his first Marriage, had taken t● Wife Monsieur de Louvoy's Sister Monsieur Tilladets Cousin German took his part against the Duke o● Vantadour his Brother in Law alleging for a reason, that th● Duke had so little consideration for him, as to come even to b● Chamber, to assault a man, wh● had never given him any cause 〈…〉 be his Enemy; so with the he 〈…〉 of his Servants, he prevented a● mischief, and having understood that there was jealousy in t 〈…〉 case, he advised the Duchess of Vantadour, to beware going with her Husband, who would carry her away by force, which advice she punctually followed.  
Madam de Vantadour's denial put her Husband into an absolute fu●y, and he being very quarrelsome, challenged the Duke D'Aumont to fight, and gave him mighty abusive Language; but the Duke D'Aumont did not think himself obliged to take any notice of it, because it proceeded from a man, who had no great esteem in the world.  
In the mean time, the Duke of Vantadour having been forced to depart without his Wife, complained to the Great Alcander, that the Duke D'Aumont had kept her from him, the Greatest men of the Court concerned themselves in this quarrel, and the Prince of Conde, who was the Duke of Vantadour's Kinsmad, said very bitter things to the Mareschaless de la Motte, who, pretending to excuse her Daughter an● the Duke D'Aumont, endeavoure● to dishonour the Duke of Vantadour. The Great Alcander did forbid fight on either side, and having taken cognisance of the business, he laid all the blame upon the Duke, and he permitted his Wife either to return to him or to retire into a Religious House▪ as it should seem good unto her.  
Neither of these two conditions did very well please the Duchess, who had rather have had a third, had it been in her choice, which was to remain with the Duchess D'Aumont her Sister, where she might have every day seen Monsieur de Tilladet; but the Great Alcander having pronounced the Sentence, it was her part to submit to his Judgement, which she did, by retiring into a small Convent in the Suburb of St. Mar●eau. Monsieur de Tilladet saw her there twice or thrice incognito, by the Superiors consent.  
In a little time after, the Exiles, whom I have some while since mentioned, returned to Court, and were obliged to behave themselves more discreetly. The Duke de la Ferte found his Wife recovered, but the Advocate's Cure was not yet perfected, and although he at first comforted himself with the hopes of having (as I have already said) a better Reputation; yet it cost him so dear, that he heartily wished, he had long ago renounced all the Vanities of the world, and left the filth wherein he wallowed. At length his Chirurgeon having finished the Cure, he soon forgot the sickness he had ailed, and having heard the business of the Duke D'Aumont and the Duke of Vantadour talked of, and his way being to procure reconciliations, he told them both, that he was very much troubled at his not having been in health at that time, otherwise he would have rendered them tha● Service.  
In the mean time he having th● colour of one already dead, every body asked him, if he were no● returned out of the other world he was at first much perplexed t● give it an answer, but being a● length hardened to these kind 〈…〉 questions, he himself would begin laughing at them with the others which put an end to all the raillery that was made about him. On● day the Duchess de la Ferte ha●ing a mind to be pleasant upon him he being naturally very brutish, answered her— Zwouns, Madam, it ill becomes you to laugh at that condition, which you yourself did put me in, believe me, this was the first, and shall be the last time while I live, that I will have to do with you, and though I have kept Company with Lovyson D'Arquien a whole year, which I now will freely confess unto you: I never have had the least reason to complain of her, when as I have been with you hardly a minute, and yet I shall have reason to repent of it, during my whole life.  
The Duchess could not suffer these reproaches from the Advocate without entering into a dreadful passion. She took up the Tongues, and struck him with it with all her strength, and making ill Language succeed her blows, she said, that things were come to a fine pass indeed, when a pitiful Citizen, such as he was, durst presume to make himself so familiar with a Woman of her Quality, that, allowing what he had said to be true, yet the Honour was too great for him. She bid him get out of her House, otherwise she would make him leap out at the Windows, and she pushed him towards the Door with the end of the Tongues. Monsieur the Advocate, who saw that there was no jesting with her, threw himself at her Feet, and begged her pardon, he owned that he had wronged her, but to excuse himself, h● said, that it was out of impatience to see her insult over him, imagining that she did it only out of contempt, that that was the reason of his complaints, though indeed there was no fault to be found with her niceness, and that if she had been present at his torments she should have seen him endure them with so great a Resignation that she would have confessed him to have been a true Martyr o● Love.  
All these reasons did not soften the Duchess' Spirit, which was haughty and disdainful; and having made him depart her Chamber, she forbid him ever to come again into her sight, unless he would expose himself to a much more rude entertainment. The Advocate went away with a very heavy heart, fetching deep sighs, and ha●ing a very great mind to cry, but being to pass the Court of de la Ferte's House, which is very ●arge, and fearing to meet some body, he kept back his tears until he was in his Coach.  
As soon as he was in it, there came one of the Mareschal de la Ferte's People, to tell him, that his Master would speak with him before he went away, which caused him to endeavour still to restrain them, and after having adjusted his Perruque and his Band, which were in a little disorder, he went up into the Marshal's Apartment, where he found a very handsome Lady with some Gentlemen, who were all there for a quarrel which they had together. The Marshal told him that he had given him the trouble of coming up, to see if there were any means to compound a difference between these People, without obliging them to come before a general Assembly of the Mareschals of France, and there being already some proceedings had on either side, and those regarding him (for the Great Alcander had granted the hearing o● all things of this nature to the Advocate) he would be glad to know his opinion of it.  
Monsieur the Advocate asked, what the matter was, and the Marshal having told him that he must needs have seen the Informations, the Master of Requests answered, that his Secretary had not yet laid them before him, which served for a good excuse. The Marshal knowing that it was an established Custom with him, to let his Secretary do all the business, told him, that the Lady, whom he saw there before him, complained, that a Gentleman who was also there present, had dishonoured her by scandalous Stories▪ for which she demanded satisfaction; that though there were no Witnesses, yet the thing was a verred by the Gentlemans own confession, who maintained, that, far from having injured the Lady, he was very much in the right; that to justify that, he reported, how that he had passionately loved her, and had sought after all opportunities of serving her; that he had rendered her so consideable a service as to furnish her at one time with 200 Pistols, but that in recompense she had given him nothing but a Disease, which had kept him three entire Months in his Bed; that he, believing he had reason to complain of it, had published, that this Lady was not cruel, but yet that he would have no more of her Favours at that price.  
Monsieur the Advocate hearing a Story that had so great a relation with his own, believed that his Intrigue was discovered, and that some body must have harkened at the Duchess' Door; being therefore quite out of countenance, he blushed and grew pale again, and wrapping himself up in his Cloak, he told the Marshal that he jeered him, and took his way towards the Door, without saying any thing more. The Marshal, who was in his Bed, not being able to run after him, called him back; but seeing that he would not return, he commanded the Captain of his Guards, not to suffer him to go away so, because he had need of him to compound that business. Monsieur the Advocate made a difficulty of turning back, telling the Captain that Monsieur the Marshal only rallied with him: But the Captain having told him, that there was no jesting in the case, and that what the Marshal did, was because he desired to do those Persons service; he reentered the Chamber, and the Marshal asked him since when he had given over making composition between Gentlemen, a reproach which he made him, because he knew, that under pretence of such business, he neglected other Affairs which did appertain to the Duty of the Office, which he had in the Great Alcanders' Council.  
After that Monsieur the Advocate had excused himself as well as he could, they began to handle the matter in question, and without waiting for a deduction of all the Particulars, he decreed, that the Gentleman should be sent to Prison, from whence he should not be set free, until he had asked the lady's pardon, who to thank him for his favourable Decree, made him a very low reverence. The Advocate's Sentence was punctually followed by the Marshal, and the Gentleman was sent into Prison. In the mean time Monsieur the Advocate being retired home, he called for Pen, Ink and Paper and writ a Billet to the dutch 〈…〉 de la Ferte, whereof here is a Copy.  
The Advocate's Letter to the Duchess de la Ferte.  
I Could not make you a greater satisfaction for my fault, than that which I have done in going from your Chamber. A Gentleman, who had the same quarrel with a Lady as I have with you, hath been sent to Prison, and besides I have condemned him to recant all that he hath-said, though possibly he might have told nothing but the truth, as well as myself. If the same reparation may satisfy you; Order me only into what Prison you will have me go, and, I will punctually obey you, having resolved to be for my life your Prisoner of Love.  
The Duchess de la Ferte found he Advocates Character in this Letter, which was, to say the siliest things in the world, when ●e thought to say the finest. She had a mind to make him a very sharp answer, but judging that it would argue more of resentment, than of disdain, she continued silent, which did extremely afflict Monsieur the Advocate. Who besides the pleasure which he took in being great with a Duchess, saw himself thereby deprived of dining with her, which was very commodious for him, and which he often did, he himself being no Housekeeper, and the Duchess lodging near him. At length seeing that his disgrace did still continue, he addicted himself entirely to the Duke of Vantadour, whom he advised to be reconciled to his Wife. He was the secret Mediator of the Reconciliation, and finding there, what he had lost in the other place, that is to say, as muc● quality at least as with the dutch 〈…〉 de la Ferte, a fine Woman, and good Table, he stuck close to th● Table, and endeavoured to gai● the Woman, who, being more reserved in her Pleasures than her Sister, did reject the Advocate, the ver● first time he would have spoken t● her, in such a manner that he du 〈…〉 not expose himself to a second denial▪  
In the mean time the Duke and the Duchess de la Ferte▪ held o● the same course of life as they had begun. The Duchess had th● Abbot of Lignerac for a Gallant and his money was to him instead of merit. As for the Duke, h● stoptat nothing, and being a ma● that neither minded or esteemed perfect love, he found Mistresses as often, and as many as he pleased, in the public places, and his passion being soon satisfied, he did frequently beat them, after having embraced them, and thus he made blows succeed his Caresses, as sometimes his Embraces succeeded ●lows. One day that he made a ●ebauch in one of those places with ●he Duke▪ the Foix, Camardon, and ●ome others, Camardon told him, ●hat he wondered, that he who lo●ed to relish Pleasures in their pure ●ature, had not once caused his Wife to come and lie with him sometimes, at Lovyson D'Arquin's, 〈…〉 at Madelon du Pre's, that he would have found there a thousand times more satisfaction than at home, and ●hat if he would make a trial of it, ●e would without doubt be of the same opinion.  
Though the Duke de la Ferte was not over curious upon his Wife's score; yet he found fault with what Camardon had said, of bringing her into a place of Debauchery, and the Duke of Foix, who was Camardon's Brother in Law, approved of what Monsieur de la Ferte said, adding, that the Duchess de la Ferte was not a Woman come into those kind of places. C●mardon answered him, that she w● one that might come thither well as any other, as also his Widow 〈…〉 who was yet more scrupulous th' 〈…〉 the Duchess de la Ferte. Th● if they would only lay a Wag● with him of an hundred Pistol he would undertake to bring the both thither, when he pleased, a● being earnest in affirming the matter, he made the whole Comp●ny laugh, who knew him to b● man infinitely agreeable, and of 〈…〉 excellent Wit. He in the mean ti 〈…〉 retracted nothing from what I had proposed, but framing a resolution of letting them see the e●fect of what he told them, he dextrously changed the discourse, that there was no farther reflect on made upon what he had said  
Within five or six days afterwards, Camardon was to visit h〈…〉 Sister the Duchess de Foix, an● told her that he had made a match ●ith the Duchess de la Ferte to 〈…〉 into St. Germains Fair, and that 〈…〉 she would go along, he would 〈…〉 rry them both thither some morn●ng; but that she must not tell her Husband of it; that the Duchess ●e la Ferte would also conceal it 〈…〉 am hers, and that there were certain reasons, why they should know nothing of it, until they were arrived in the Fair. The Duchess ●e Foix assented to it without informing herself farther of those reasons. The Match being made, ●nd the day appointed to be the 〈…〉 morrow, he then took her in his Coach, and went to fetch the Duchess de la Ferte, to whom he had said as much.  
As they were upon the way, some part of the Coach broke all on the sudden, and the two Ladies being frighted with the danger of being over-turned, cried out to the Coachman to hold, who immediately obeyed the● All this was but a trick designe● by Camardon, in order to make demonstration to their Husband● that he had told them nothing b 〈…〉 what he was sure of performing In the mean time having helped out the Ladies, he very hastil● asked his Coachman, what wa● the matter, and quarrelled wit● him very much in appearance, because he had not seen whether the Coach was in order, before his coming▪ out. Then he told the Ladies that there was no staying for them in the Street, that he was well acquainted with a Citizen hard by, to whose house they had best go, and repose themselves, while the Coach was refitting.  
These Ladies, having no other choice to make, willingly assented to it, and being come to a house they were there received by a Woman, who showed them a great deal of Civility. She brought them in 〈…〉 a very handsome Chamber, and 〈…〉 tertained them very well, while 〈…〉 mardon was in another Room writing two Notes to the Duke 〈…〉 Foix, and de la Ferte, by which ●e desired them to come speedily 〈…〉 him at Madelon du Pre's, which ●as the very place whither he 〈…〉 d brought their Wives.  
The Duke's de Foix, and de 〈…〉 Ferte, having received these ●otes, hastened to the place appointed. Camardon ran to meet 〈…〉 'em, and desired them not to be 〈…〉 oubled at the pains that they had 〈…〉 ken; that he would show them 〈…〉 o of the finest Women in Town, ●hom du Pre had lately discovered; and immediately opening to 〈…〉 'em the Chamber Door, wherein 〈…〉 e Duchess' de la Ferte and de 〈…〉 ix were, he presented the Ladies 〈…〉 them, desiring them both to use 〈…〉 'em so well, as not to let them ●o away in discontent. 'Tis easy to judge of the astomishment th' 〈…〉 these two Dukes were in, but th' 〈…〉 of the Duchess' was much greate● who knowing where they were had a mind to be seriously angr● with Camard●n: But he rallying them all four, obliged them to laugh at it along with him, and having bespoke a Dinner, they all fi 〈…〉 dined together in that honest plac● though the Women made a show as if they would not stay there an● longer.  
Nevertheless when they perceived, that it was their Husband pleasure, they were persuaded t● stay; and to pass away the time while they expected Dinner, they desired du Pre to give them a fight of her Nuns; which she did, because, imagining that they wer● all of the same Sisterhood, she woul● not disoblige those, who well deserved to be Abbesses of the Convent.  
In the mean time, the Advo●ates disgrace still continued; but misfortune having at that time ●appened to the Chevalier de Lig●erac (the Abbot de Lignerac's Brother) who had been sent into Prison at the request of an infinite num●er of People, whom he had cheated, the Duchess de la Ferte scent ●o inquire for him, and told him, ●hat she would pardon him, provided he could get the Chevalier ●e Lignerac out of Prison. Mon●●eur the Advocate, who knew of ●he Intrigue between the Abbot ●nd herself, thought it very hard, ●hat he must be employed for his rivals Brother, and that his Pardon ●ould be obtained at no other Price: ●ut she having heretofore punished him for telling truth, he durst ●ot then gainsay her, and he promised her, that if the Chevalier de ●ignerac were not freed from his imprisonment, it should not be ●or want of his employing all his ●redit in order to it.  
Monsieur the Advocate found 〈…〉 obstacle in his undertake, 〈…〉 the Chevalier de Lignerac's C 〈…〉tors were perpetually crying in t 〈…〉 Judges Ears, and having made appear that he had once already Mortgaged his Estate, and that 〈…〉 afterwards had borrowed two hundred thousand Crowns upon it, 〈…〉 Judges let Monsieur the Advocate know, that it was impossib 〈…〉 for them to set him free, and th' 〈…〉 was all the account he could gi' 〈…〉 the Duchess.  
He very much apprehended, th' 〈…〉 she would not be satisfied with th● denial; but the Duchess who loved a multitude, and who w 〈…〉 sometimes vexed for not seeing him told him, that she was obliged 〈…〉 the pains which he had take● and that he might return to h● House, as often as he had a min● to it. Monsieur the Advocate thre● himself at her Feet to thank he● He embraced her Knees, and protesting to her an eternal fidelity, ●e told her, that her Sister the Duchess of Vantadour, had not ●alf her Merit; that should he live 〈…〉 thousand years, he would not ●e able to love her one quarter 〈…〉 an hour; that she would certainly say, that he had no great Wit, because he never could speak ●ne single word to her, but he did ●ot care what Reputation he had with her; provided she would con●ider, that so great an indifference ●or so amiable a Person, could not proceed but from the love which ●e had for her.  
As he ended these words, one of the Duchess of Vantadour's Footmen came in, and having presented her with a Note from her ●ister, she took it and read what ●ollows.  
The Duchess of Vantadour's Le●ter to the Duchess de la Ferte.  
ONE of my very good Friend hath a b 〈…〉ness depending b●fore Monsieur the Advocate, and 〈…〉 believes it so delicate, that he endeavours to get it recommended 〈…〉 him, by all those who have any Credit with him: If I had foreseen th● accident, I should willingly ha' 〈…〉 hearkened to a great deal of Nonsense, which he would have said 〈…〉 to me; but not having the gift 〈…〉 Divination, and besides, loathing 〈…〉 sottish a conversation, I desired hi● something roughly not to continue 〈…〉 any longer. This makes me believ● that he has no great good will for me I have therefore recourse to yo● intercession to recommend my Friend business to him, which I pray y 〈…〉 to do, as you would your own, an● you will oblige a Sister, who is entirely Yours.  
The Duchess de la Ferte, to whom Monsieur the Advocate had ●ost then protested, that he could ●ever express the least love to the Duchess of Vantadour, seeing the contrary in this Letter, had more ●han once a desire of showing it ●o him, to divert herself; but ●earing least it might be a prejudice to the Gentleman, whom her Sister recommended, she put the Letter into her Pocket, and sent ●way the Footman, whom she commanded to tell her Sister, that she would do what she desired. The footman being gone, Monsieur ●he Advocate, who was the most ●urious man in the world, would ●in have known what the Letter contained, and not being satisfied with what the Duchess told him, who endeavoured to put the change upon him, he took an opportunity to put his hand into her Pocket, 〈…〉 d having snatched it thence, he told her, that he would immediately see all their secrets.  
The Duchess, who for the ●bove mentioned reasons wou 〈…〉 gladly have prevented him fr 〈…〉 seeing it, endeavoured to tear from him, but not having be able to do it, she told him, th' 〈…〉 he would extremely disoblige he unless he would restore the Lette● that very moment. But Monsie● the Advocate believing that th● more she endeavoured to have 〈…〉 again, it was of the greater consequence, withdrew a little aside to read it. The Duchess was n 〈…〉 able to hinder him, and he wa● excessively surprised, to find therein such unexpected matters.  
Then he told the Duchess, tha● Madam de Vantadour said what wa● not true, that he had never spoke● to her of any thing, and that t● let her see, that he never had any esteem for her, he would cause he Friend to lose his business. Th● Duchess de la Ferte told him, tha● he must not do it for her sake; 〈…〉 at it was no longer her Sister's 〈…〉 siness, but her own, that therefore it was not with the Duchess of Vantadour, that he was a●out to quarrel, but with the duchess de la Ferte. Madam de 〈…〉 Ferte found much difficulty to 〈…〉 ain this point upon him, but ha●ing told him, that she did not be●●eve any thing of what Madam ●e Vantadour had writ unto her, ●ho had a fault common to all 〈…〉 e Women, to wit, to take the ●east glance for a declaration of ●ove, she thereby gave him occa●ion to justify himself to her. Mosieur the Advocate alleging. that ●he Duchess of Vantadour must then ●ave interpreted to her own advantage some innocent regards, the Duchess endeavoured to confirm him more and more in that opinion, and so insensibly brought him again into a good humour, and he afterwards promised to do all, for the Gentleman, that sh● could desire.  
While all this past, Madam too a Maid of Honour, whose Beauty created desires in all the Cou●tiers, and Jealousy in all her Companions. She was of a most ravishing shape, so that detractic● that is used to catch at every thing was here at a loss, all confessing that they had never seen any thing so accomplished, as this amiable Pe●son. The Great Alcander, who 〈…〉 that time loved Madam de Mo●tespan rather out of an habit, tha● out of passion, had no sooner see her, but he was charmed with he● But he being unwilling to ma 〈…〉 love any more like a young ma● but like a great King, employe● a third Person to discourse it wit● her; and to the end that his proffers of Service might be the be●ter received, he accompanied ther● with a Pearl Necklace, and a pa 〈…〉 of Diamond Pendants of great v●lue.  
In the mean time Madam de Montespan was in a mortal fear, lest this young Beauty should rob her of the Prince's Heart, with whom she had very lately had a filling out some few days before. For pretending that he ought to treat her still as he had done in the beginning, the taxed him for having no greater complaisance for her, and because the Great Alcander made answer, that they had been too long acquainted to observe so much Ceremony, she was so transported with passion, as to say very disobliging things unto him. She began with reproaching him of all that she had done for him; that she had forsaken her House, her Children, her Husband, and even her Honour for him; that there was no manner of Complaisance that she did not continually express to engage him; but that he was of late become very cold and indifferent; that if years had brought upon her any imperfections, he ought not to attribute them to her, but to time, that destroys all things; however that she did not yet perceive (thanks be to God) that there was so great an alteration in her Person; but that for him she could say, nevertheless without having any design to anger him, that though he had great cause to be thankful to nature, yet that he was not exempted of all manner of faults; that he had one great one among the rest, which he perhaps never perceived; but that she had been very sensible of it, without ever making any complaint, because she believed that none ought to take such particular notice of those they loved.  
The Great Alcander, whom no body durst ever upbraid before, was extremely moved to hear Madam de Montespan say these things, for whom he had done no less than she had done for him; for if she had forsaken her House, Children, and Husband to stick to him, he had abandoned for her the care of his Reputation, which was very much blemished, for having loved a Wom●n, who had so great reasons to be more discreet. However, since we are more sensible of the injuries which we receive from those that we love, than we are of those which we receive from Persons indifferent to us, he suffered not this reproach to fall thus to the ground, but demanding of Madam de Montespan, what his faults than were, he provoked her to declare them, by informing her of her own; at which Madam the Montespan was so concerned, that she replied unto him, that if she had those imperfections whereof he did accuse her, yet that she had not in the least any offensive smells about her.  
This being as much as to say, that the Great Alcander was not without them, it is impossible to express how ill he took this reproach. He told Madam the Montespan such things, as were enough to have touched her home, and to have made her recollect herself if she had any sense of Virtue yet remaining. But having entirely given herself over to her passions, she was no more moderate in the answer, which she gave him, than she had been in the beginning of this Conversation.  
While they quarrelled thus vehemently with each other, the Prince de Marsilliac came to the Closet Door wherein they were, and the Great Alcander having given him power to enter any where, without demanding leave, he had his Foot already within the Door, when he understood by the sound of the Prince's voice, that he was in anger; this made him stop short, and being desirous to know, whether he might enter, he began to call out aloud Doorkeeper, Doorkeeper; and there being none in the way, he called out louder yet, who is here, that will give me an answer. The Great Alcander, who gave ear to every thing that he said, truly guesed, after having given him such permission, that he did so out of discretion, and being glad to have an opportunity to break up so disagreeable a conversation, he told the Prince of Marsilliac, that he might come in; which was the reason that Madam de Montespan endeavoured to constrain herself, for fear that the report of her disgrace, which she was willing to conceal, should spread over the whole Court.  
She departed in a moment afterwards, and left the Great Alcander at liberty to open his heart to the Prince of Marsilliac, who had a great share of his confidence, and to whom he had given in less than one year, above one hundred thousand Livres in places, for immediately after Monsieur the Lausun's disgrace he forced him to take the Government of Berry, which that Favourite had possessed, and which he was unwilling to accept of, because, having never been his Friend, he was afraid, lest the world should say, that he had provoked the Great Alcander to cause him to be imprisoned, in order to benefit himself of his spoils.  
The Great Alcander looked upon this delicacy to be so much the more excellent, as it was rare amongst Courtiers, and since it could proceed only from a great heart, he had yet a greater esteem for him. Sometime after he again gave him the place of great Master of the Wardrobe, void by the Death of the Marquis de Saintry, who was killed at the passage of the Rhine, but he gave it him after so obliging a manner, that the Present was less considerable for its greatness alone, than for the goodness which the Great Alcander expressed towards him, when he made it. For he told him, that he gave him that place only to accommodate his Affairs, and not to incommode them; that if it were more profitable for him to sell it, than to keep it, he himself would find out a Chapman, and make him give a Million for it.  
Thus the Great Alcander still continued to give marks of his amity to the Prince of Marsilliac, and the other Courtiers looked upon him as a kind of Favourite, but also as one much more worthy to possess that place, than Monsieur de Lausun, who despised all the world, as if there had been no man worthy to approach him. In the mean time this Favour, which failed not to create a jealousy in all the rest, increased yet the more, by reason of the cold indifferency, wherein the Great Alcander was fallen for Madam de Montespan, and of the new passion, which he resented for Madam de Fontanges, who was that Maid of Honour to Madam, th' 〈…〉 I have before mentioned. For th● Great Alcander having communicated both the one and the other t● the Prince of Marsilliac, he w 〈…〉 willing that he should be the manager of that Maiden's good Graces in which he was likely to find n 〈…〉 great difficulty, she being come t 〈…〉 Court with a design only to pleas 〈…〉 the Great Alcander.  
In effect, her Kindred seeing he● so fair and well shaped, and having a greater passion for their own Fortune, than care for her Honour, they made a Purse among themselves to enable her to come to Court, and to maintain there an expense honourable and conformable to the Post, wherein she was entered, and they having given her proper instructions, she put them in practice from the very moment that the Prince of Marsilliac had spoken to her in the Great Alcanders' behalf. She therefore told him, that she received with joy the Declaration which he just then had made unto her: That the Great Alcander had such charming Qualities to make himself be beloved, that she must of necessity be very ill-humoured not to be charmed with his passion: But that however, she could place no great confidence in it, as long as Madam de Montespan possessed his Favour as she did; that she was nice, and could not believe any thing of what she had then heard out of his mouth; that if she had been capable of kindling any fires in his heart, they were only fires that would be almost as soon quenched as they were kindled, for the Great Alcander would no sooner have satisfied his desire, but he would return to Madam de Montespan.  
The Prince of Marsilliac, who desired to succeed the first time in his Embassy, replied to that, that if the future may be guest at by things, that are passed, there was no great appearance, that the Great Alcander, who was displeased with Madam de Montespan, would ever return to her; that he was constant when he once gave himself up to any one, and that if he had forsaken Madam de la Valiere, it was, because she herself had contributed very much unto it, by an unequality of Spirit, that did not please the Prince. That she might have heard, how that Madam de la Valiere before her entering into a Convent for good and all, had gone into one contrary to the Great Alcanders' pleasure, who was obliged to fetch her out, after which time she did nothing but discourse to him of the remorse of her Conscience, which by little and little weaned him from her, the Great Alcander being unwilling to oppose her Salvation: That then he loved Madam the Montespan, and would it may be have loved her still, if she had not behaved herself towards him after a manner, that might possibly have befitted a private man's Mistress, but not the Mistress of so power▪ a Prince, as was the Great Alcander, towards whom she ought to have shown a more submissive and complaisant humour; that he would instruct her how to carry herself, as occasion should require, but that for the present, she need only tell him something that might set the King's mind at rest. Then he advised her as a good Friend not to let slip so fair an opportunity, saying, that if she lost it through her own fault, she would repent of it for all her life.  
Then he related to her the quarrel that the Great Alcander had had with Madam de Montespan, that lady's Insolence, and the King's Resentment. This last Circumstance having convinced her more than all his reasons, she sent the Great Alcander word, that if she had been obliged to him for the Present which he had made, and which I have already mentioned, she was much more so, for what he had ordered the Prince of Marsilliac to tell her, and that she was ready to give herself up to him, provided she might have him entirely to herself.  
In the mean time Madam de Montespan, who mistrusted this Intrigue, employed all her Friends, in order to regain the Great Alcander's confidence. Monsieur de Louvoy, who was one of them, and even the most affectionate among them, advised her to seek out an opportunity of speaking with him in private. But the Great Alcander retaining still his anger, and carefully avoiding all occasions of being alone with her, it was hard for her to find such an opportunity; until Monsieur de Louvoy told her, to be at a convenient hour in the place, where the Great Alcander was accustomed to meet his Council, and ●otake her time when he was come ●hither, ●o reconcile herself with ●im.  
Madam de Montespan, having approved of this advice, failed not ●o be at the designed place. The Great Alcander being come thither, was very much surprised to meet her there, instead of the Ministers. In the mean time Monsieur de Louvoy, who was willing to give Madam de Montespan time to do her business, went into a Room adorning to the Chamber where they than were, and seeing there seven or eight Gentlemen of the Court, who were used to come thither to show themselves, when the Great Alcander went either in or out, he took a Candle off of a Stand, pretending to search for a Diamond, which he said he had lost, rightly guessing, that some of the Servants belonging to the Chamber would come to assist him in his search, and one being come to that purpose, he softly whispered him, as he gave him the light that he should cause all those, who were in the Room to depart, and that he should tell the Doorkeeper not to let any body enter, no no● even those, who were summoned to the Council.  
Thus without its being perceived that it proceeded from him, he rid himself of all the importunate; and instead of a Council there was held that day a long Conference between the Great Alcander, and Madam de Montespan In the mean time, all knowing that Monsieur de Louvoy stayed in the Chamber, they believed him to be shut up with the Prince, and the other Ministers, who were sent back without being suffered to enter grew jealous of it, not knowing to what to attribute this long conversation, which occasioned that there was no Council held that day, which never happened before, the Great Alcander being usually very punctual in all his actions.  
Though this Conference seemed to have re accommodated all matters, the Great Alcander returning according to his custom to Madam the Montespan's Lodgings, yet the Prince ceased not to pursue his Amorous enterprise. He saw Madam the Fontange in private, he gave her marks of affection, and received the same from her, which could not be so secret, but that it was soon known to the whole Court.  
The Great Alcander was so well satisfied with this new Conquest, that he gave the Prince of Marsilliac, the place of Chief Hunt's man, for a reward of his having procured 〈…〉 for him. In the mean time the Great Alcander, who had the luck to find fruitful Mistresses, having understood that Madam de Fontange was big with Child, he prepared a House for her; and this Lady, being much unlike Madam d● Montespan, whose avarice reached even to baseness, was generous even to prodigality; he therefore gave her a man to restrain this liberal humour; and to take care that she might subsist upon an hundred thousand Crowns a Month, which he gave her. This Superintendant was the Duke of Novallies, at which every body was extremely surprised, his Devotion seeming incompatible with an Employment that made him look into several little reckonings which he might have well passed over: But since every one was resolved to think in the first place on their own Fortune, and in the second place upon God. The Duke of Novallies, very far from refusing this Employment, gave the Great Alcander thanks for having bestowed it upon him before many other Pretenders, and divided his time between the Great Alcander, Heaven, and Madam de Fontanges. In the mean time, Madam de Montespan endeavoured to support ●er self the best she could. She en●eated the Great Alcander, to be ●eased to come at least to her lodgingss as he was used to do, ●nd she endeavoured to insinuate ●o all the world, that her Credit ●as yet greater than was imagined; ●hat the Great Alcander's love for Madam de Fontanges was only a ●ansitory love, of which he would ●on be weary; and that at last, ●e would return to her more Amorous, than he had ever been be●ore. Those of her Party endeavoured also to give some Credit 〈…〉 these false reports; but when 〈…〉 was seen, that the Prince did 〈…〉 dict himself entirely to his new ●assion, every one Courted Madam 〈…〉 Fontanges' Favour, who procured good Places for some of her friend's, and for the greater part ●f her Family.  
Madam de Montespan, seeing th' 〈…〉 the Great Alcander weaned himself from her every day more an● more, conceived so great a rage 〈…〉 it, that she began publicly 〈…〉 speak ill of Madam de Fontange She told every body, that the Gre●● Alcander could not be very cu●ous to love a Girl, who had had Intriqus in her own Country, wh● had neither Wit nor Breeding, an● who, at best, was but a Fair pie●● of Painting. She said a thousan● other things concerning her, muc● more vexatious than these, whic● far from bringing back the Gre●● Alcander, as she expected, turne● him the more from her.  
Madam de Fontange was brought to Bed in a little time after, an● they made use of that opportunity, as it was believed, to Poys●● her, which was attributed to Madam de Montespan; either for th● it was imagined, that one in th● vexation which she was in, must 〈…〉 necessity be induced to commit so great a Crime, or because it was believed, that a Lady in Madam de Fontange's Post, could die no other than a violent death. But be it what it will, she fell into a languishing condition presently after her lying in, by reason of a continual Flux of Blood, that, still remaining, hindered the Great Alcander to lie any more with her. However he did often Visit her, expressing to her, how sorrowful he was for the condition, whereunto he saw her reduced. But Madam de Fontanges, who perceived herself every day a dying, entreated him to suffer her to retire from Court, adding with tears, that the Malice of her Enemies was the cause, that she now had nothing else to think 〈…〉, but another World.  
The Great Alcander, who was very glad that she took order with the Affairs of her Salvation, and who also was sensibly concerned to be present at her sufferings, granted her what she desired, and sh● retired into a Convent in the Suburbs of St. James, whither 〈◊〉 daily sent to inquire news of her The Duke de la Fevillade went also thither twice or thrice a Wee● to Visit her from him, but he always brought back ill news: Fo● this poor Lady having all her noble Parts spoiled, either by the Poison, or by something else, saw he● self decline daily, and the Duke 〈…〉 la Fevillade one day, told the Gre●● Alcander, that she was past all hope● of recovery. In effect, she died i● a few days after, leaving after h●● death a greater suspicion of her having been Poisoned, than there h●● been during her sickness; for h●ving been opened, there were fo 〈…〉 within her some little black spe 〈…〉 fastened to her noble Parts, wh 〈…〉 are, as is pretended, signs of Poison  
The Great Alcander expressed a public sorrow for the loss of her, ●nd being willing to show, that ●he esteem which he had for her, continued even after her Death, he ●ave an Abbey to one of her Brothers, Married one of her Sisters ●ery advantageously, and did ma●y other things in Favour of her family. In the mean time Ma●am de Montespan did believe, that ●he King would now return to her; ●ut she was quite amazed to see Madam de Maintenon have all his confidence's, which put her into a despair, for it being herself, that ●ad raised Madam de Maintenon 〈…〉 what she was, she could not bear 〈…〉, that her own creature should be 〈…〉 instrument to destroy her.  
That which tormented her yet 〈…〉 e more, was, that she did not be●●eve, that there was any wantonness in their Correspondence, which consequently ought to be of a longer continuance; since it did not depend on a wand'ring love, that begins and often ends all in a day● In effect, the Confidence which the Great Alcander hath with Madam de Maintenon, is observed to continue still even to this day, notwithstanding all that Madam de Montespan could do to destrov it; and on the contrary, he expresses for her only a kind of decent respect, which is nothing else but the leave of the love of a man of Honour, who uses his Mistress so, rather for his own Reputations sake, than out of any sentiments of tenderness.  
It seemed that the Great Alcander having renounced Love, every body ought to have renounced it likewise, and that the Ladies after Madam the Montespan's example, who now pretends to Chastity, should also become chaste; but, their temper and inclination transporting them beyond all reason, they still remain in the same course of ●●fe. The Duchess de la Ferte is more immoderate than ever in her Pleasures, neither is the Duchess of Vantadour her Sister less wanton, though she manages her business with a little more discretion and conduct. As for the Mareschaless de la Ferte, she is at any man's service that will give most, and is endued with so great Humility after certain misfortunes, which have happened to her, resembling those that I have related of her Daughter in Law, that she hath made a vow never to refuse any body, provided that they have but money.  
As for what concerns Mademoiselle d'Orleans Monpensier; after having grieved during ten whole years for the Imprisonment of Monsieur de Lausun, she at length found a way to obtain his Liberty. For considering, that all the Riches in the world are nothing in comparison of ones own content, she hath appeased the Great Alcander's anger with the Principality of Dombe● and the County of d'Eu, which she hath assured to the Duke of Maine his natural Son. By this means Monsieur de Lausun is returned, not indeed to Court, but to Paris, where he is obliged to live as a private Man. For the Great Alcander would not permit his Marriage to be declared; but he is so often at the Princess' House, that it is all one as if he lodged there. In the mean time, this Princess is so jealous of him, that he wishes with all his heart he had never thought on her: She hath set Spies all about him, and he cannot make a step, that she is not advertised of; so that going out of one Prison, he is entered into another, which appears to him no less cruel. She hath given him some Land by the Great Alcander's consent; but it is all that she hath done for him, for she could not give him one penny of ready money, having lost all her Credit by this Marriage. For no man is willing to lend her any money, lest it should be hereafter said, that being in a Husband's power, she could not lawfully borrow. This is the occasion that there are four or five years past, since she began to build her House at Choisi, without having yet finished it; for the expense of it must be taken out of her yearly Revenue. But she would be comforted still for all these things, if Monsieur de Lausun were the same that he hath been heretofore. I would say, if he still possessed the same quality towards Ladies, that he once did: But it is reported, that he is now so pitiful a Fellow that way, that it is hard to believe, he had formerly been so brave. However, it is an imperfection that is common to several others; for it is known by experience, that every thing must have an end, and it is for that reason likewise, that the Princess at this day says, that he impudently lied who first said, that a good Horse never grows a Jade.  
FINIS.