Towards eight o’clock in the morning a messenger from M. le Duc d’Orleans came to remind me of the Regency Council at eight o’clock, and to attend it in my mantle.  I dressed myself in black, because I had only that suit with a mantle, and another, a magnificent one in cloth of gold, which I did not wish to wear lest it should cause the remark to be made, though much out of season, that I wished to insult the Parliament and M. du Maine.  I took two gentlemen with me in my coach, and I went in order to witness all that was to take place.  I was at the same time full of fear, hope, joy, reflection, and mistrust of M. le Duc d’Orleans’ weakness, and all that might result from it.  I was also firmly resolved to do my best, whatever might happen, but without appearing to know anything, and without eagerness, and I resolved to show presence of mind, attention, circumspection, modesty, and much moderation.

Upon leaving my house I went to Valincourt, who lived behind the hotel of the Comte de Toulouse.  He was a very honourable man, of much intellect, moving among the best company, secretary-general of the navy, devoted to the Comte de Toulouse ever since his early youth, and possessing all his confidence.  I did not wish to leave the Comte de Toulouse in any personal fear, or expose him to be led away by his brother.  I sent therefore for Valincourt, whom I knew intimately, to come and speak to me.  He came half-dressed, terrified at the rumours flying over the town, and eagerly asked me what they all meant.  I drew him close to me and said, “Listen attentively to me, and lose not a word.  Go immediately to M. le Comte de Toulouse, tell him he may trust in my word, tell him to be discreet, and that things are about to happen to others which may displease him, but that not a hair of his head shall be touched.  I hope he will not have a moment’s uneasiness.  Go! and lose not an instant.”

Valincourt held me in a tight embrace.  “Ah, Monsieur,” said he, “we foresaw that at last there would be a storm.  It is well merited, but not by M. le Comte, who will be eternally obliged to you.”  And, he went immediately with my message to the Comte de Toulouse, who never forgot that I saved him from the fall of his brother.

CHAPTER XCII

Arrived at the grand court of the Tuileries about eight o’clock without having remarked anything extraordinary on the way.  The coaches of the Duc de Noailles, of Marechal de Villars, of Marechal d’Huxelles, and of some others were already there.  I ascended without finding many people about, and directed the two doors of the Salle des Gardes, which were closed, to be opened.  The Bed of justice was prepared in the grand ante-chamber, where the King was accustomed to eat.  I stopped a short time to see if everything was in proper order, and felicitated Fontanieu in a low voice.  He said to me in the same manner that he had arrived at