They had just
received a signal favor. The government of Strasbourg, considered
as the key of France and Alsace, had been given in reversion to
the comte de Stainville, brother of the duc de Choiseul. Certainly
this choice was a very great proof of the indulgence of the king,
and the moment was badly chosen to pay with ingratitude a benefit
so important. This did not hinder the duchesse de Grammont, and
all the women of her house, or who were her allies, from continuing
to intrigue against me. It was natural to believe that the king
would not permit such doing for a long time, and that should he
become enraged at them, that I should attempt to soothe his anger.
Matters were in this state, when one morning, after his accustomed
routine, the duc de Choiseul requested a private audience of the
king. "I grant it this moment," said the prince, "what have you
to say to me?"
"I wish to explain to your majesty how excessively painful is the
situation in which I am placed with regard to some of the members
of my family. All the females, and my sister at their head, attack
me about a quarrel which is strange to me, and with which I have
declared I would not meddle."
"You do well, monsieur le duc," said the king, with cool gravity,
"I am much vexed at all that is going on, and have resolved not
to suffer it any longer.
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