This
consummate hypocrite seized the present opportunity of renewing
his assurances of an unalterable attachment to me, vowing an
eternal friendship. I was weak enough to believe him, and when
I gave him my hand in token of reconciliation, I espied the marechale
standing behind him, making signals to me to distrust his professions.
I know not the reason of this conduct on the part of the duc de l
a Vrilliere, but I can only suppose it originated in his considering
the king in less danger than he was said to be; however, I suffered
him to lead me to the chamber of the invalid. When Louis XV
saw me return, he inquired why I had quitted him? I replied,
because I was fearful of wearying him; upon which he assured
me, that he only felt easy and comfortable so long as I was with him.
"But, perhaps, there is some contagion in my present complaint?"
exclaimed he, as though labouring under some painful idea.
"Certainly not," replied I; "it is but a temporary eruption of
the skin, which will, no doubt, carry off the fever you have
suffered with."
"I feared it was of a more dangerous nature," answered the king.
"You torment yourself needlessly, sire," said I; "why should
you thus create phantoms for your own annoyance and alarm?
Tranquillize yourself, and leave the task of curing you to us."
I easily penetrated the real import of his words; he evidently
suspected the truth, and was filled with the most cruel dread
of having his suspicions confirmed.
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