Memoirs of Louis XIV and His Court and of the Regency — Complete Flashcards
Louis de Rouvroy, duc de Saint-Simon · Public domain edition · 458 cards · 122 chapters
Saint-Simon’s memoirs argue that court life under Louis XIV and the Regency was shaped by favor, etiquette, and hidden maneuvering. The deck covers his entry into service, the Namur siege, the Chartres marriage, palace customs, and his father’s career under Louis XIII.
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Chapter 1 · Question
How did Saint-Simon begin his memoirs, and under what circumstances?
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Chapter 1 · Answer
Saint-Simon began his memoirs in July 1694, when he was colonel of a cavalry regiment bearing his name, in the camp of Guinsheim on the old Rhine, in the army commanded by the Marechal Duc de Lorges. He was moved by reading history and personal memoirs of the times since Francis I, and resolved to keep his writings secret from everybody to avoid the annoyances they might bring.
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CHAPTER I4 cards
How did Saint-Simon begin his memoirs, and under what circumstances?
Saint-Simon began his memoirs in July 1694, when he was colonel of a cavalry regiment bearing his name, in the camp of Guinsheim on the old Rhine, in the army commanded by the Marechal Duc de Lorges. He was moved by reading history and personal memoirs of the times since Francis I, and resolved to keep his writings secret from everybody to avoid the annoyances they might bring.
Chapter 1
What rule did the King set for entering the service, and how did Saint-Simon enter?
The King rigidly required that none entering the service, except his illegitimate children and the Princes of the blood royal, be exempt from serving a year in one of his two companies of Musketeers, then passing as private or subaltern in a cavalry or infantry regiment before purchasing a regiment. Saint-Simon's father begged admission for him into the Musketeers, and the King placed him in Maupertuis's company.
Chapter 1
What happened with the sacks of grain during the siege of Namur?
Because roads and waggons failed, the King ordered his household troops to carry sacks of grain on horseback to a village for Luxembourg's army. Some Gendarmes and light horse refused and threw down their sacks. Saint-Simon arrived with the Musketeers and loaded his sack before their eyes; Marin, the supervising brigadier, praised him, the rest took up their sacks, and Marin reported the service to the King.
Chapter 1
How did the weather affect the siege of the castle at Namur?
After the town capitulated, the siege of the castle began, but fine weather turned to rain of extraordinary abundance and persistence. The King's tents could only be reached by fascine paths renewed daily, trenches filled with mud and water, cannon transfers took three days, waggons became useless, and horses lived on leaves. Saint-Simon says without the King's presence the siege might never have succeeded, and had the place held ten days longer, anything might have happened.
Chapter 1
CHAPTER II.4 cards
Whom did the King and Madame de Maintenon wish Mademoiselle de Blois to marry?
They wished to marry Mademoiselle de Blois, second daughter of the King and Madame de Montespan, to the Duc de Chartres, the King's sole nephew. The author notes the King had considered this for four years and had already taken first steps toward it, despite the scandal caused by earlier marriages of the King's illegitimate daughters to Princes of the blood.
Chapter 2
How did Dubois help bring about the Chartres marriage?
Dubois, formerly a valet who became the Duc de Chartres's instructor and then his governor after Saint Laurent's death, was used by the Chevalier de Lorraine to gain the young Duke's consent. He gained the Duke's confidence, made him fear his father and the King, and filled him with hopes, managing at least to ward off a direct refusal.
Chapter 2
How did Madame react to the announced marriage?
Madame, mother of the Duc de Chartres, had extracted a promise from her son to refuse, and was tongue-tied when the King announced the match. She wept openly in the gallery, refused to look at her son or husband, gave the King a rude pirouette, and the next day boxed her son's ear before the whole Court.
Chapter 2
What was an 'Apartment' at the palace?
An Apartment was an assemblage of the whole Court in the grand saloon from seven in the evening until ten, when the King sat down to table, and afterward in a salon at the end of the grand gallery. There was music, then gambling tables including lansquenet and billiards, plus a refreshment room. It was held three times a week in winter, with comedy on other evenings.
Chapter 2
CHAPTER III4 cards
How did Saint-Simon's father first gain Louis XIII's favor as a page?
He noticed the King's impatience at delays in changing horses and turned the head of the fresh horse toward the crupper of the one the King was quitting, letting the active King jump from one horse to the other without setting foot to the ground. Pleased, the King asked for this same page whenever he changed horses, and the father grew daily in favor.
Chapter 3
Why did Louis XIII reprimand Saint-Simon's father over the letter to Bellegarde?
The father wrote to the exiled Duc de Bellegarde, a friend in disgrace. The King said he did not fault him for writing to friends in disgrace, but faulted the disrespect of omitting 'Monseigneur' to a duke and peer. He tore the letter in two and told him to rewrite it after the hunt with the proper address.
Chapter 3
How did the father respond when Louis XIII explained his restraint toward Mademoiselle d'Hautefort?
The father had offered to act as the King's intermediary, assuming his reserve came from timidity. The King explained that though he was enamoured, the more facility he had as King to gratify himself, the more he must guard against sin and scandal, and forbade any similar discourse. Saint-Simon says this was a thunderbolt: the idea of the King's timidity vanished before a virtue so pure and triumphant.
Chapter 3
What injustice ended Saint-Simon's father's court career under Louis XIII?
Chavigny had left Picardy's towns badly supplied; the father's uncle at La Capelle repeatedly requested stores without success, and the town fell. When the towns were retaken, Chavigny urged punishing the governors, including the uncle. The father pleaded the real state of the case in vain, demanded permission to retire, and withdrew to Blaye until Richelieu's death.
Chapter 3
CHAPTER IV4 cards
Why did Louis XIV abandon the advantageous position at Gembloux in June?
The King declared on 8 June that he would return to Versailles and sent a large detachment to Germany, despite the army's superiority over the Prince of Orange. Saint-Simon states that Madame de Maintenon, through tears at parting and letters afterwards, brought about this resolution, overruling the Marechal de Luxembourg's pleas.
Chapter 4
How did the Prince of Orange react to the French retreat?
He called it a miracle he could not have hoped for, saying he could scarcely believe it, but that it had saved his army and the whole of the Low Countries. Earlier he had entrenched in haste and written to the Prince de Vaudemont that he was lost without a miracle.
Chapter 4
What was the outcome of the battle of Neerwinden on 29 July?
After twelve hours of fighting under a blazing sun, the French entirely routed the Prince of Orange. The enemy lost about twenty thousand men, including many officers; French losses were not more than half that. The French took all the enemy's cannon, eight mortars, many artillery waggons, standards, and some pairs of kettle-drums.
Chapter 4
How did Daquin lose his position as the King's first doctor?
Daquin, a creature of Madame de Montespan, had lost nothing of his credit by her removal, but never got on well with Madame de Maintenon, who looked coldly on friends of her predecessor. She seized an opportunity when the King was unusually angry with Daquin to obtain his dismissal; it came like a thunderbolt, the King having spoken to him kindly the previous evening. Fagon replaced him.
Chapter 4
CHAPTER V4 cards
What precedence did the Duc de Luxembourg claim among the peers?
M. de Luxembourg, proud of his military victories, claimed precedence over seventeen dukes, including Saint-Simon, seeking to move from eighteenth rank among the peers to the second. The chapter lists those he wished to supersede, beginning with the Duc d'Elboeuf and including the Duc de Saint-Simon. Nearly everyone at Court and in the town favored his claim, though not the King.
Chapter 5
How did M. de Luxembourg acquire the Piney peerage title?
He was the only son of M. de Bouteville, who took the Luxembourg name and arms on marriage. The Piney peerage passed through females, but the heirs were an idiot son confined at Saint Lazare and a nun at the Abbaye-aux-Bois. Bouteville used influence, notably his patron the Prince de Conde, to release both and induce them to surrender their possessions and titles, then pursued legal recognition.
Chapter 5
How does Saint-Simon characterize Chief President Harlay?
Saint-Simon calls Harlay a perfect hypocrite: without faith, law, God, or soul; a cruel husband, barbarous father, and tyrannical brother. He affected probity and justice but sold himself once interest or favor appeared, maintaining strict fairness only 'between Peter and Paul.' Learned in law and letters, he governed his company with unmatched authority and was devoted to M. de Luxembourg's cause.
Chapter 5
How did the dukes prevent Harlay from judging their case?
Invoking the maxim that whoever is at law with the son cannot be judged by the father, the dukes resolved that one of them should sue Harlay's son, the Advocate-General. After the Duc de Rohan declined, Harlay himself inadvertently revealed that the Duc de Gesvres, his relative, could be sued. Gesvres received a summons, Harlay was declared unable to judge, and the case was postponed until the next year.
Chapter 5
CHAPTER VI4 cards
How did the King punish the Princesse de Conti over her letters to Clermont?
The King intercepted the correspondence, summoned the Princesse de Conti, told her he knew of her weakness for Clermont, and showed her her own letters plus letters in which Clermont spoke contemptuously of her to Mademoiselle Choin. As a cruel punishment he made her read the whole of those letters aloud to him. La Choin was driven away the next day, and Clermont was stripped of his office and sent to a distant part of the kingdom.
Chapter 6
How did the Abbe de Caumartin ridicule M. de Noyon at the Academie?
Caumartin, then Director of the Academie, composed a confused, bombastic discourse in Noyon's own style that seemed to praise him while turning him into a laughing-stock. He even showed the draft to Noyon, who was charmed and made only small corrections. At the crowded reception, attended by the King and Court, Caumartin delivered it with grave slowness, and the audience was delighted. Noyon remained oblivious until Pere la Chaise convinced him of the humiliation.
Chapter 6
Why did the King's plan to punish Caumartin with a lettre de cachet fail?
The King ordered Pontchartrain to rebuke Caumartin and send him a lettre de cachet exiling him to his abbey in Brittany. Pontchartrain carried out the rebuke but not the exile, pointing out that Noyon himself had revised and corrected the speech, so he had only himself to blame. He added that Caumartin was sorry and willing to beg pardon. The lettre de cachet thus fell to the ground, though Noyon's anger did not.
Chapter 6
How did M. de Noailles scheme to regain the King's favour?
Noailles proposed to go to Catalonia, feign illness on arrival, and request recall while suggesting M. de Vendome succeed him, carrying the letters patent with him to avoid delay. The King was delighted, since it advanced his illegitimate children and slighted the Princes of the blood without open conflict. The secret was betrayed in execution, however, because Noailles sent for Vendome before any reply could arrive, and the letters patent revealed the prearrangement.
Chapter 6
CHAPTER VII4 cards
Why did the Dutch mock Harlay during the 1695 peace talks, and how did he reply?
Harlay was sent to Maestricht to sound the Dutch about peace. Because his paleness and thinness were extraordinary, they insinuated they took him as a sample of France's reduced state. Without anger he replied pleasantly that if given time to send for his wife, they might conceive another opinion of the realm, since she was extremely fat and highly coloured. He was then rather roughly dismissed.
Chapter 7
How did the Duke of Hanover punish the Count of Koenigsmarck and his wife, and what did the Consistory decide?
Believing his wife and the Count guilty, the Duke had Koenigsmarck arrested and thrown into a hot oven, and sent his wife to her father, who shut her in a castle guarded by the Duke's people. A Consistory assembly annulled the marriage only as regarded the Duke, so he could remarry while she could not; her children were declared legitimate, though the Duke did not remain persuaded of that last article.
Chapter 7
How did the King take the government of Brittany from Chaulnes and give it to the Comte de Toulouse?
The King, occupied with aggrandising his natural children, forced M. de Chaulnes to give up the government of Brittany he had long held, conferring it on the Comte de Toulouse. This evaded his promise to his brother that the first vacant government would go to the Duc de Chartres. Chaulnes's friend and heir received the successorship to the government of Guyenne as recompense. Chaulnes and his wife obeyed but could not hide their sorrow.
Chapter 7
Why did Saint-Simon prefer Mademoiselle de Lorges over the richer Mademoiselle de Royan?
A match with Mademoiselle de Royan would have been noble and rich, but she was an orphan and Saint-Simon was alone; he wanted a father-in-law and family to lean upon. He was drawn to the probity, integrity and freedom of Marechal de Lorges, and to Madame de Lorges's virtue and good sense. He calls his marriage on 8 April 1695 the happiest day of his life.
Chapter 7
CHAPTER VIII4 cards
How did Fénelon obtain the position of preceptor to the Duc de Bourgogne?
The Duc de Beauvilliers, governor of the children of France, needed a preceptor and turned to Saint Sulpice, where he had long confessed and which he protected. The Sulpicians praised Fénelon's piety, intelligence, and talents and proposed him. Beauvilliers met him, was charmed, and appointed him. Once installed, Fénelon made it his first care to win the favor of Beauvilliers and his brother-in-law the Duc de Chevreuse.
Chapter 8
How did Madame Guyon come to stay at Saint Cyr, and why?
Fénelon, wanting to become complete master of Madame de Maintenon and displace the Bishop of Chartres as her confidant, persuaded her to let Madame Guyon enter Saint Cyr so they could converse more easily than at the Hôtel de Chevreuse or Beauvilliers. Guyon went two or three times, then Madame de Maintenon, relishing her more and more, had her sleep there, and their meetings grew longer.
Chapter 8
How did the Bishop of Chartres expose Madame Guyon's doctrine to Madame de Maintenon?
The Bishop of Chartres, a profound theologian, got wind of the strange doctrine and had two trusted ladies admitted to Saint Cyr as if to become Guyon's disciples. He fully instructed them; they feigned enchantment with the new doctrine, and Guyon took them into her most intimate confidence. They reported everything to the Bishop, who let matters run until the right moment, then disclosed all to Madame de Maintenon.
Chapter 8
What happened to Madame Guyon after her doctrine reached Madame de Maintenon?
She was driven from Saint Cyr and forbidden to spread her doctrine elsewhere; when her secret disciples still gathered, she was ordered to leave Paris. She feigned obedience but went only to the Faubourg Saint Antoine, continued receiving her flock secretly, was detected again, and was sent to the Bastille, well treated but allowed to see nobody and not to write. Earlier she had signed a recantation before M. de Meaux.
Chapter 8
CHAPTER IX4 cards
Why did Archbishop Harlay of Paris fall out of favor with the King and Madame de Maintenon?
Harlay had opposed the declaration of Madame de Maintenon's marriage to the King, even though he had been one of the three witnesses to that marriage. The clergy, sensing his fall, took pleasure in revenging themselves on him for the domination he had exercised. Unaccustomed to this decay of power, he withdrew to the Duchesse de Lesdiguieres and died of epilepsy at Conflans on August 6, 1695.
Chapter 9
How did the Bishop of Orleans react to being named to the cardinalship?
The King led him to the Cardinals de Bouillon and de Fursternberg and announced his nomination to the cardinalship. The Bishop, who little expected such a scene, fell at the King's feet and embraced his knees. He was known for piety, modesty, and giving away his wealth for good works, and the simplicity with which he sustained the nomination increased the universal esteem in which he was held.
Chapter 9
What condition did the King attach to Cavoye's appointment as Grand Marechal des Logis?
The office had become vacant, and the King offered it to Cavoye on condition that he marry Mademoiselle de Coetlogon, the Queen's waiting-woman who had long loved him to madness and been treated brutally by him. Cavoye hesitated but was obliged to submit. They married, and she continued to shower him with caresses before all the world, which he received with constrained gravity.
Chapter 9
How did Madame de Miramion escape Bussy Rabutin after he carried her off?
Bussy Rabutin, known for his 'Histoire Amoureuse des Gaules' and the disgrace it brought, wished absolutely to marry the rich young widow and carried her off to a chateau. Upon arriving, she pronounced before everyone assembled a vow of chastity and dared Bussy to do his worst. Discomfited, he set her at liberty and tried to accommodate the affair. She then devoted herself to works of piety.
Chapter 9
CHAPTER X4 cards
Why did Saint-Simon rush to Fontainebleau instead of staying in Paris?
He had permission from the Marechal de Choiseul to leave the army and go to Paris, but he did not want the King to learn of his early return without seeing him, fearing the King might think he had come back secretly. He therefore hastened to Fontainebleau, where the King received him kindly but remarked that he had returned a little too early.
Chapter 10
How did Saint-Simon get a portrait of M. de La Trappe?
He paid Rigault, then Europe's leading portrait painter, a thousand crowns plus expenses to accompany him to La Trappe and paint from memory. Saint-Simon introduced Rigault as a stammering officer so the monk would sit for him unknowingly. Three sittings were needed; Rigault later broke the agreement, showed the portrait, and sold copies for over twenty-five thousand francs.
Chapter 10
Why was Madame de Saint Geran banished from Court?
Madame la Duchesse hosted doubtful company and gay suppers at her house in the park of Versailles called the 'Desert.' The King, angry, forbade these parties and named certain guests, but did not include Madame de Saint Geran, who was in her first year of mourning, though he intimated disapproval. She attended a late supper anyway; learning this, the King banished her twenty leagues from Court.
Chapter 10
Why did the King expel the Italian actors?
The Italians had long been tolerated for filthy or impious stage material that only provoked laughter, but they performed a piece called 'The False Prude,' in which Madame de Maintenon was easily recognized. Crowds flocked to it; after three or four consecutive performances, they were ordered to close their theatre and leave the realm within a month.
Chapter 10
CHAPTER XI4 cards
How did the Prince of Baden react to the French army's sudden departure from camp?
The Prince of Baden could not credit the news until he saw it himself. He was filled with astonishment and admiration, asking those around whether they had ever seen such a retreat, and said he could not have believed an army so numerous could disappear in an instant. Saint-Simon calls it an honourable and bold retreat.
Chapter 11
What accident befell Blansac's infantry column during the night retreat?
While leading a column through the wood after nightfall, some of Blansac's men heard enemy cavalry who had lost their way. The cavalry spoke in German about running, prompting a discharge from the French, answered by pistols. Without orders the whole column fired twice; five captains were killed and some subalterns wounded, though Blansac was unhurt.
Chapter 11
Why did Louis XIV resent recognizing the Prince of Orange as King of England?
Years earlier the King had offered his illegitimate daughter, the Princesse de Conti, in marriage to the Prince of Orange, and was flatly refused; the Prince said the House of Orange married legitimate daughters of great kings, not their bastards. The King never forgot these words and long showed his indignation, even against his own interest.
Chapter 11
How did Santeuil, the Latin poet, die at Dijon?
M. le Duc, hosting Santeuil during the Assembly of the States of Burgundy, forced him to drink champagne one evening, then emptied a snuff-box full of Spanish snuff into a large glass of wine and made him drink it as a joke. Santeuil was seized with vomiting and fever and died within twice twenty-four hours, penitent and receiving the sacrament.
Chapter 11
CHAPTER XII4 cards
How did Charles IV of Lorraine attempt to remarry while his wife was alive?
He bribed a courier to bring false news of the Duchesse Nicole's death, circulated the report throughout Brussels, wore mourning, and fourteen days later, in April 1637, married the widow Madame de Cantecroix. When it emerged that Nicole was alive and had never even been ill, the couple continued to treat her as dead and lived openly as if married.
Chapter 12
What mystery surrounded the Moorish woman at the convent at Moret?
Placed there young by Bontems, the King's valet, she was carefully attended but never shown to visitors. The Queen and Madame de Maintenon watched over her welfare. She once exclaimed 'My brother is hunting!' on hearing Monseigneur hunt. It was rumoured she was a daughter of the King and Queen hidden for her colour, with a miscarriage story spread; whether true remained an enigma.
Chapter 12
How did Peter the Great receive the English ambassadors in Holland?
Annoyed that England sent no embassy, he delayed the audience, then fixed it aboard a large Dutch vessel he was examining. He had word sent that he was in the 'top' and would see them only there. The ambassadors, unused to rope-ladders, were forced to climb; he received them with full majesty, replied graciously, then laughed at their fear, punishing them for arriving late.
Chapter 12
Why was the Abbe de Caudelet deprived of the bishopric of Poitiers?
The Abbe de la Chatre, enraged at anyone made bishop before him, circulated the calumny that Caudelet had gambled all Good Friday. In truth, after the services were over, he played piquet an hour at the Marechale de Crequi's request. The bishopric was taken from him and he retired to Brittany in solitude and piety; his brother proved the accusation false, but the King refused to grant him another living.
Chapter 12
CHAPTER XIII4 cards
Why did Charnace have the peasant tailor's house moved?
Charnace wanted to clear the peasant's cottage and garden from the middle of his long avenue in Anjou, but the man refused to sell despite large offers. While the tailor was confined indoors making a Court suit, Charnace had the house measured, planned, and rebuilt a short distance away, with a similar garden, and the old site levelled. The King laughed when he heard of it, and Charnace got his avenue free.
Chapter 13
What happened between the Prince de Conti and the Grand Prieur at Meudon?
After supper they quarrelled over a card game. The Grand Prieur, emboldened by the King's favour, used words too strong even for an equal; Conti retorted by attacking his honesty at play and courage in war. The Grand Prieur threw down the cards and demanded satisfaction with the sword. Monseigneur's arrival stopped the fight, and the King sent the Grand Prieur to the Bastille for several days. The affair was later accommodated through Monseigneur's intercession, with the Grand Prieur apologising before his brother M. de Vendome.
Chapter 13
Why did the King form a camp at Compiegne in 1700?
The author says the King wanted to show Europe, which believed his resources exhausted by a long war, that in peacetime he was still fully prepared for arms. He also wished to give Madame de Maintenon a superb spectacle, under pretext of teaching the young Duc de Bourgogne his first lesson in war. Sixty thousand men assembled, commanded by Marechal de Boufflers under the young Duke, and the King had the troops ordered to look their best.
Chapter 13
Why did the ambassadors refuse the King's invitation to the camp?
They claimed a distinction the King would not grant. When lodgings are allotted, the quartermaster writes 'for Monsieur Such-a-one' on those meant for Princes of the blood, cardinals, and foreign princes, but for no others. The King refused to have 'for' written on the ambassadors' lodgings, so they stayed away. The author calls the distinction silly because it brings no advantage, and the King was much piqued, saying he should only allow them at Court at audience times.
Chapter 13
XIII.3 cards
Why did Louis XIV prefer ministers and generals who were not superior to him?
The author argues that Louis XIV's jealousy of superiority made intellect, education, and high principle in others objects of suspicion and then hatred. He wished to reign by himself, so he chose ministers for their ignorance rather than knowledge, and took credit for instructing his generals and even his cooks. Flattery became the sole means of approaching him.
Chapter 14
Why did Louis XIV decline battle against the Prince of Orange near Heurtebise in 1676?
After listening to his generals, some for and some against giving battle, the King decided against it and withdrew, even though the enemy admitted French forces were so superior that victory must have followed an attack. The army was much discontented, and the fault drew cruel railleries at home and in foreign courts. He soon left the army and returned to his mistress.
Chapter 14
What did the Duc de Saint-Simon identify as the real cause of the Dutch war?
Saint-Simon argues the Dutch war was pushed by Le Tellier and Louvois, who feared Colbert's success and credit, and who easily put a new war into the King's head. He says the King allowed himself to be pushed into it, and that his love for Madame de Montespan made it unfortunate for his glory and kingdom.
Chapter 14
CHAPTER XIV4 cards
Why did M. de La Trappe's chosen successor, D. Francois Gervaise, fall from grace?
Gervaise had lived regularly and gained La Trappe's confidence, but once appointed successor his manners changed and he brought disorder to the monastery. He was then detected under circumstances that blasted his character, his companion in guilt was brought before La Trappe, and he resigned and left. Later a filthy letter to a nun was discovered, ending his hopes of favor with Pere la Chaise.
Chapter 15
What did Saint-Simon do after the Princesse d'Harcourt forced the Duchesse de Rohan from her seat?
Saint-Simon thought the insult should not be borne, conferred with M. de la Rochefoucauld and other friends, and the opinion was that the Duc de Rohan should complain to the King. Learning the Lorraines meant to pre-empt this by complaining first about Madame de Saint-Simon and Madame d'Armagnac, he told the King that same evening of his wife's part only, leaving Rohan's complaint for the morrow.
Chapter 15
How did the King respond to the Duc de Rohan's complaint about his wife's treatment?
The King, already fully informed, received Rohan well, praised Madame de Rohan's respect and moderation, declared Madame d'Harcourt very impertinent, and said hard words about the Lorraines. Madame de Maintenon, who favored Madame d'Harcourt, had trouble persuading him not to exclude her from the next Marly journey; she got a severe reprimand, a scolding, and had publicly to ask pardon of the Duchesse de Rohan.
Chapter 15
What two gambling tragedies does Saint-Simon report, and how did each man's fate end?
Reineville, a lieutenant of the body-guard and a distinguished general officer, lost more than he could pay, disappeared, and was recognized twelve or fifteen years later serving among the Bavarian troops to earn his bread unknown. Permillac, a man of much intelligence, lost more than he possessed and shot himself in bed one morning; he was much liked in the army and Saint-Simon mourned him.
Chapter 15
CHAPTER XV4 cards
What did the farrier of Salon claim the white-clad woman told him to do?
He said a dazzling woman in white, claiming to be the King's late wife, appeared to him three times near a tree by Salon. She ordered him to go to the King or a minister of state and deliver her message, promising God's aid and that a secret known only to the King would prove his truthfulness. She threatened him with death if he neglected the commission.
Chapter 16
How did the King respond to M. de Duras's contemptuous remark about the farrier?
Duras joked that the man was mad or the King was not noble. The King stopped, turned round—something he scarcely ever did—and replied that if so, he was not noble, for he had discoursed long with the farrier, found him full of good sense, and was far from mad. The author notes this gravity surprised those nearby.
Chapter 16
What did the King do for the farrier after their interviews?
The King paid all the farrier's expenses, gave him a gratuity, sent him back free, and wrote to the Intendant of the province to take particular care of him and never let him want for anything for the rest of his life. The farrier returned to his trade without airs or boasting.
Chapter 16
What explanation did some people offer for the farrier's visions?
Some persuaded themselves the affair was a trick and the farrier its dupe. They said Madame Arnoul, reputed a witch and secretly intimate with Madame de Maintenon since her Scarron days, caused the three visions to force the King to declare Madame de Maintenon queen. The author states the truth was never known.
Chapter 16
CHAPTER XVI4 cards
Why did Louis XIV stop paying for courtiers' apartment changes in 1700?
The King declared he would no longer bear the expense of the changes courtiers made to their apartments, which had cost him more than sixty thousand francs since the Court left Fontainebleau. It is believed that Madame de Mailly caused this determination, since for the previous two or three years she had made changes to her apartments every year.
Chapter 17
Why did the nuncio Delfini leave without a farewell audience or customary gift?
Cardinals considered it a lowering of their dignity to treat the King's illegitimate sons, Messieurs du Maine and de Toulouse, as Princes of the blood, since Richelieu and Mazarin had not given the Princes of the blood their hand. Delfini refused to visit them, negotiations lasted a month, and he received neither farewell nor secret audience, nor the customary silver vessel worth eighteen hundred francs.
Chapter 17
How did Madame de Maintenon come to be married to Scarron?
Returning young and poor from America, where she had lost her father and mother, Madame de Maintenon landed at Rochelle and fell into the hands of Madame de Neuillant, who lived in Poitou. Madame de Neuillant took her home but would not feed her without return, so Madame de Maintenon kept the granary key and measured out corn for the horses. Madame de Neuillant brought her to Paris and married her to Scarron to be rid of her.
Chapter 17
What reprimand did M. de Navailles receive from M. le Prince in Flanders?
Serving under M. le Prince in Flanders, M. de Navailles received a strong reprimand for his ignorance. M. le Prince wanted to find the exact position of a little brook his maps did not mark, and to assist the search M. de Navailles brought a map of the world. The chapter mentions another occasion but the text breaks off.
Chapter 17
CHAPTER XVII3 cards
Why did the King refuse Chateauneuf's request for his son La Vrilliere to succeed him?
The chapter does not explain the King's reason; it only states that Chateauneuf was much vexed that the King refused this favour. La Vrilliere then schemed: on hearing of his father's death at five in the morning, he sent for the Princesse d'Harcourt and asked her to propose his marriage to Mademoiselle de Mailly without dowry, if the King granted him his father's appointments. The King agreed.
Chapter 18
What did Le Notre say about the Colonnade at Versailles, and how did the King react?
When the King pressed him for an opinion, Le Notre said, 'Of a mason you have made a gardener, and he has given you a sample of his trade.' The King kept silence and everybody laughed. The author explains the criticism was true: the Colonnade was intended as a fountain but was out of place in a garden. Le Notre was first designer of the great French gardens and died at eighty-eight.
Chapter 18
Why did the Comtesse de Verrue finally yield to M. de Savoie?
She had repeatedly told her husband and mother-in-law of Savoie's advances, but they dismissed her fears; her mother-in-law accused her of vanity, and her husband urged her to attend the fetes. She feigned illness and went to Bourbon, where her father agreed she should stay away. But the Abbe de Verrue, himself in love with her, turned to hate after her repulse and injured her with her family, so the author says her virtue yielded to bad treatment.
Chapter 18
CHAPTER XVIII4 cards
What was William III's plan for dividing the Spanish succession?
William III proposed giving Spain, the Indies, the Low Countries and the title of King of Spain to the Archduke, second son of the Emperor; Guipuscoa, Naples, Sicily and Lorraine to France; and the Milanese to M. de Lorraine as compensation for his territory. The author says the war-weary French King accepted readily, and M. de Lorraine could not refuse a plan backed by England, France and Holland.
Chapter 19
Why did the Emperor reject William III's partition plan?
The Emperor wanted the entire Spanish succession for the House of Austria and would not accept seeing Austria driven from Italy, as the plan would have done. He declared it unheard of and unnatural to divide a succession under such circumstances, and refused to discuss it until the King of Spain died. His resistance leaked the whole scheme to the Spanish King.
Chapter 19
What obstacles faced the five-noble Spanish party favoring the Dauphin's son?
Two obstacles stood in their path: Maria Theresa had solemnly renounced all claim to the Spanish throne on her marriage, repeated at the Peace of the Pyrenees; and the King of Spain loved the House of Austria and would oppose aggrandizing a rival house. The nobles argued the renunciations bound only to prevent France and Spain uniting on one head, which the Dauphin's three sons made moot.
Chapter 19
How did Cardinal Portocarrero and the new Confessor influence the King of Spain's will?
Portocarrero, a determined enemy of the Queen, was admitted to the secret party. He was charged with dismissing the King's Austrian Confessor, and succeeded so well that a reliable replacement was installed. The two ecclesiastics then pressed the dying King on the succession, and with no Austrian or friendly adviser near, he proposed consulting the Pope, whose reply favored a son of France. The King then made a new will and burned the old one.
Chapter 19
CHAPTER XIX4 cards
Why was the Princesse des Ursins chosen as Camarera Mayor to the new Queen of Spain?
The author explains that a Spanish lady could not be relied upon and a lady of the French court would not be fit for the post. The Princesse des Ursins was both French by birth and Spanish by marriage, had spent most of her life in Rome and Italy, and was a widow without children, making her seem just adapted for the office.
Chapter 20
How did the Spanish ladies of the palace sabotage the French dishes at the wedding supper?
The author recounts that half the dishes were French and half Spanish, which displeased the palace ladies and some grandees. Under pretexts such as the weight or heat of the dishes, not one French dish reached the table—all were upset—while the Spanish dishes were served without accident. The King and Queen pretended not to notice, and Madame des Ursins said nothing.
Chapter 20
Why did Philip V. not visit the Queen privately the day after her refusal to go to bed?
After the Queen's refusal, Madame des Ursins consulted courtiers, and the Duke of Medina-Sidonia and Count San Estevan advised that the King should not visit the Queen the following night in order to mortify her and reduce her to terms. The advice was acted upon; the Queen was sorry that evening, and by the third day all was put right.
Chapter 20
What did Saint-Simon claim caused Catinat's disgrace and replacement by the Marechal de Villeroy?
The author argues Catinat was undone by intrigue: Vaudemont and Tesse plotted against him, aided by Chamillart and friends at Court, while Catinat's own virtue and simplicity left him without support. The enemy learned his plans immediately and always outnumbered him. After the loss at Capri, blame fell on Catinat, and the King replaced him with Villeroy.
Chapter 20
CHAPTER XX4 cards
How did Barbezieux react to Chamillart's elevation, and what caused his death?
Barbezieux resented Chamillart's rise but, unable to remedy it, gave himself up to debauch and dissipation. He built the costly house l'Etang near Saint-Cloud, where he feasted and rioted with friends. Committing excesses beyond his strength, he was seized with fever and died within days at age thirty-three, facing death steadily after the Archbishop of Rheims warned him, since he would not believe Fagon.
Chapter 21
Why did the King insist Chamillart hold both Finance and Secretary of State posts?
Chamillart wanted to give up the Finance, but the King, remembering the disputes between Louvois and Colbert, insisted he occupy both posts. The author describes Chamillart as worthy, clean-handed, polite, and patient, but limited in mind, obstinate, and easily governed by those who won his admiration. The King's tender regard sprang from this very incapacity: Chamillart confessed it, and the King took pleasure in directing and instructing him.
Chapter 21
What was the office of the 'pen' held by Rose, and how did the King regard him?
The 'pen' was the office of imitating the King's handwriting so exactly that real and counterfeit could not be distinguished; the author calls it being a public forger. Rose wrote all letters the King should or wished to write by hand but would not trouble to write, with dignity and fitness to each person. He was extremely faithful and secret, and the King put entire trust in him.
Chapter 21
How did the King resolve Rose's dispute with M. le Prince over the foxes?
M. le Prince, wanting to be rid of his neighbor Rose, put about four hundred foxes into Rose's park. Rose complained to the King, asking whether France had two Kings. The King promised to speak to M. le Prince, and ordered all the foxes removed, all damages repaired, and all expenses paid by M. le Prince. M. le Prince obeyed and never troubled Rose again, though Rose kept mocking him.
Chapter 21
CHAPTER XXI4 cards
Why did Monseigneur fall ill on the evening of March 19?
He had dined at Meudon on only a collation, then at the King's supper ate fish until nearly bursting. He was a great eater, like the King and the Queens his mother and grandmother. He lost consciousness while undressing; Felix bled him, and he was bled and given emetics, recovering after two hours. He kept his room eight or ten days and afterward ate less.
Chapter 22
Why did the fishwives of the Halles visit Monseigneur, and how were they received?
Paris loved Monseigneur, perhaps because he often went to the opera. The fish-fags of the Halles deputed four stout gossips to wait on him; they were admitted. One kissed him on both cheeks, the others his hand. They were well received: Bontems showed them the apartments and treated them to dinner, and Monseigneur and the King both gave them money. They had a Te Deum sung at Saint Eustache and then feasted.
Chapter 22
What did Monsieur argue to the King about the Duc de Chartres's lack of command?
Monsieur said his son was sick of treading Versailles's galleries and the Court's pavement, married yet left naked while his brothers-in-law were clothed in dignities and offices, against all policy and example. He called idleness the mother of all vice and said it was cruel to blame a young man forced into follies by him who forced him. The King was astonished at this straightforward language.
Chapter 22
Why did Monsieur refuse to be bled, and what did the author say resulted?
Tancrede, his head surgeon, was old and unskilful, and had missed fire once. Monsieur would not be bled by him, and refused another bleeder so as not to vex Tancrede. The author says he was too full, that the King had urged him to consent, and that he died in consequence. The author argues this refusal caused his death.
Chapter 22
CHAPTER XXII4 cards
How did the court at Marly behave immediately after Monsieur's death?
Within twenty-six hours of Monsieur's death, the Duc de Bourgogne began playing brelan at the King's order, saying the King did not wish the court to be dull and told him to set an example. Madame de Maintenon was heard singing opera tunes, and Monseigneur went wolf hunting the day after the death. The author notes the conduct was found scandalous, though only in whispers.
Chapter 23
Why did Monsieur's death relieve Madame la Duchesse de Chartres?
The author says she was glad to be delivered from Monsieur because he was a barrier between her and the King, leaving her at the mercy of her husband. She was also charmed to escape following Monsieur to Paris or Saint Cloud, where she felt like a foreigner and was exposed to Madame's contempt. She expected never to leave the Court again.
Chapter 23
How does the author characterize Monsieur's personality and court?
The author describes Monsieur as having only the bad qualities that distinguish women: weak, timid, easily led, quarrelsome in small matters, unable to keep secrets, and fond of spreading reports. Yet he loved rank and distinctions, was affable and polite, and made fine differentiations by birth and merit. His court at Saint Cloud offered games, music, and good cheer, making it a palace of delight.
Chapter 23
What did Madame de Maintenon reveal to Madame during their interview?
Madame complained of the King's indifference during her illness. Madame de Maintenon replied that the King said their common loss effaced the past, provided he had reason to be better satisfied in future regarding M. le Duc de Chartres and other matters. When Madame protested her innocence, Madame de Maintenon produced a letter from Madame to the Duchess of Hanover discussing the King's intercourse with Madame de Maintenon.
Chapter 23
CHAPTER XXIII4 cards
Why did Saint Aignan become the laughing-stock of the Court?
Saint Aignan told the King the story of the Abbess de la Joye, who gave birth at a Fontainebleau inn while fleeing her convent. The King and Court laughed heartily. Saint Aignan then learned the Abbess was his own daughter. He removed her, made her resign her abbey, and she hid in another convent for over forty years.
Chapter 24
What did Louis XIV promise the dying James II about the Prince of Wales?
On 13 September 1701 Louis XIV visited the dying James II at Saint Germain and told him he might die in peace, promising to recognise the Prince of Wales as King of England, Scotland, and Ireland. The author notes this contradicted Louis's recognition of the Prince of Orange at the Peace of Ryswick and risked driving England and Holland into alliance with the Emperor.
Chapter 24
How did William react to James II's death and the Prince of Wales's recognition?
William was at table with German princes in Holland when the news came. He said nothing except to announce the death, but blushed, pulled down his hat, and could not keep his countenance. He ordered the French ambassador Poussin driven out of London immediately; Poussin crossed to Calais. Austria, England, and Holland then signed the great offensive and defensive alliance against France and Spain.
Chapter 24
What happened between M. le Duc and the Comte de Fiesque at St. Maur?
At a supper with a few friends, a dispute over a historical point arose between M. le Duc and the Comte de Fiesque. M. le Duc, lacking better arguments, threw a plate at Fiesque's head and drove him from the table and house. Fiesque took shelter with the cure and returned to Paris next morning. After months, friends reconciled them, and they resumed good terms as if nothing had happened.
Chapter 24
CHAPTER XXIV4 cards
Why did Saint-Simon resign from the army after the Peace of Ryswick?
His regiment was disbanded and his company incorporated into Count d'Uzes's. He had served four campaigns at the head of his regiment with reputation, yet five officers junior to him were placed above him. He consulted friends, who all advised quitting, though he agonized for nearly three months, knowing the King would be angered by anyone who ceased to serve.
Chapter 25
How did Louis XIV react to Saint-Simon's resignation, and how did he show it?
The King called Chamillart and said with emotion, "here is another man who quits us!" For three years he spoke to Saint-Simon no longer, scarcely glanced at him, and never alluded to the letter. Yet he distinguished him by having the candle handed to him at undressing, and favored Madame de Saint-Simon with invitations to Trianon suppers, excluding only the husband.
Chapter 25
What happened to Saint-Simon's preface on Louis XIII in the medallic history?
Three academicians were charged with explaining the medals. Saint-Simon was asked to write the preface portion on Louis XIII, on condition of secrecy. His essay was praised, but the three men were affrighted: the plain truths about Louis XIII outshone their gilded account of the following reign. They weakened or cut everything, then abandoned his writing and printed the history with no notice of Louis XIII beyond noting his son's accession.
Chapter 25
How does Saint-Simon describe King William's death and its aftermath?
William, worn out by lifelong labors, suffered a wasting of health with shortness of breath worsening his asthma. He consulted physicians, including Fagon, under forged names; Fagon said he must prepare for a speedy death. A fall hastened his end. He died 19 March 1702, ordering everything with surprising tranquillity. Anne was proclaimed queen; Louis XIV forbade mourning even to William's relatives, an act Saint-Simon calls probably without example.
Chapter 25
CHAPTER XXV4 cards
What did the Cardinal de Coislin say about Canaples marrying Mademoiselle de Vivonne?
Canaples, brother of the Marechal de Crequi, wished to marry the no-longer-young Mademoiselle de Vivonne, distinguished by talent, virtue and high birth but penniless. The Cardinal de Coislin told Canaples he was too old to marry; when Canaples said he wanted children, the Cardinal exclaimed "Children! But she is so virtuous!" Everyone laughed, and the marriage proved sterile.
Chapter 26
How did the Duc de Coislin respond when the Rhingrave locked the door to escape his compliments?
The Duc de Coislin's politeness passed all bounds. When the Rhingrave, visiting Paris, ran out and double-locked the door to escape the Duke's farewell compliments, Coislin opened the window of his low apartments, leaped into the court, and reached the entrance before the Rhingrave—though he put his thumb out of joint, which Felix the surgeon set right.
Chapter 26
How did the Duc de Coislin punish President Novion for sitting in front of him at the Sorbonne?
Novion, Chief President of the Parliament, seated himself in front of Coislin, who was nearly last in ducal precedence. Coislin silently placed an arm-chair in front of Novion, imprisoning him. He refused all pleas, including from Cardinal de Bouillon and M. le Prince, until M. le Prince guaranteed Novion would leave immediately. Novion departed in confusion; the King praised Coislin and ordered Novion to apologize, but Coislin generously spared him.
Chapter 26
How did the Marechal de Lorges convert to Catholicism, and how did Saint-Simon describe his death?
Lorges, raised a Protestant, consulted both Bossuet and the Protestant minister Claude without telling either about the other. Bossuet's arguments convinced him, and he became a steadfast Catholic. Saint-Simon records that he died on 22 October 1702 from an unskilful operation for the stone, and describes the family's grief, his own love for Lorges as a father, and Madame de Saint-Simon's near-fatal sorrow.
Chapter 26
CHAPTER XXVI4 cards
Why did Madame de Maintenon favor the Princesse d'Harcourt, according to Saint-Simon?
The author traces their friendship to the fact that Brancas, the Princess's father, had been one of Madame de Maintenon's lovers. He argues no weaker claim could have induced her to favor someone so unworthy. He adds that Madame de Maintenon, having long languished in obscurity, was dazzled by the very name of Princess, even an assumed one.
Chapter 27
What happened when Madame de Maintenon caught the Princesse d'Harcourt playing cards instead of attending prayers?
At a Fontainebleau fete, the Marechale de Villeroy persuaded her to play instead of going to evening prayers. When Madame de Maintenon unexpectedly visited the Marechale's apartments, the Princess cried out that she was ruined and dropped the cards. Madame de Maintenon asked, 'Is this the way that you go to prayers?' then commanded both to continue playing.
Chapter 27
How did the Duc and Duchesse de Bourgogne torment the Princesse d'Harcourt at Marly?
They played repeated pranks: crackers along the avenue leading to her lodgings, which terrified her; a cracker under her piquet chair, abandoned when warned it would maim her; Swiss guards with drums rousing her from sleep; and a night raid in which they entered her chamber with a false key and pelted her with snowballs until her bed was soaked.
Chapter 27
How did the Princesse d'Harcourt's servants retaliate against her treatment?
She paid them badly and beat them. Her servants conspired: one day they drew the coach up on the Pont Neuf, and the coachman, footmen, ladies and chambermaid all left her to shift for herself. On another occasion a new chambermaid, after days of slaps, locked the door, beat and kicked her, left her on the ground, double-locked the room and fled.
Chapter 27
CHAPTER XXVII3 cards
Why was Madame des Ursins considered well suited to be Camerera Mayor to the Queen of Spain?
The author explains she was a widow without children, French by birth, had been in Spain, and had spent much of her life at Rome and in Italy—a middle term between a French court lady and an unreliable Spanish one. She was of the house of La Tremoille, her husband was chief of the house of Ursins, a Spanish grandee, and she was on good terms with the Duchess of Savoy, the Queen of Portugal, and Cardinals d'Estrees and Portocarrero.
Chapter 28
What does the author say about Philip V's character and upbringing?
The author argues Philip was bred in submission and dependence because, until Charles II's testament, he was expected to remain a subject; his mind was purposely narrowed and beaten down for reasons of state, and his natural docility assisted this. His great piety weakened his mind, and joined to lively passions made separation from his Queen disagreeable and dangerous, so he let her guide him in all things.
Chapter 28
What happened to Cardinal Portocarrero after he opposed Madame des Ursins?
Madame des Ursins first tried to create coldness between Portocarrero and Cardinal d'Estrees, succeeding so well that Portocarrero wished to quit the junta. She persuaded him to stay, and to flatter his vanity gave him command of a regiment of guards—which the priest, archbishop, primate and cardinal accepted, and was laughed at by everybody. The two cardinals later reconciled, but disagreements with her continued.
Chapter 28
CHAPTER XXVIII4 cards
Why did Louis XIV appoint the Duke of Berwick to command the Portuguese front?
Madame des Ursins proposed Berwick, illegitimate son of James II, hoping to please the King and Queen of England. Louis consented out of regard for his brother monarch and, the author notes, a natural affection for bastards. Because Berwick had never commanded an army, the King stipulated that the skilled officer Pursegur accompany him to assist with counsel and advice.
Chapter 29
How did Orry deceive Pursegur about supplies for the French troops?
At Madrid, Orry assured Pursegur that magazines along the route to Portugal were fully stocked and all money ready. Pursegur, having found nothing wanting so far, believed him and praised Orry to the King. Reaching the frontier himself, he discovered not a single preparation had been made; everything Orry showed him on paper was fictitious. He at once wrote to contradict his earlier praise.
Chapter 29
How did Louis XIV arrange the fall of Madame des Ursins despite Spanish resistance?
After Pursegur's letter exposed Orry, the King decided to banish Madame des Ursins to Rome and dismiss Orry, but acted cautiously to avoid offending the Spanish King and Queen. He first sent only a reprimand, then recommended Philip head the Portuguese army in person. Once Philip was separated from the Queen and her favourite, the King wrote demanding the Queen dismiss her Camerera Mayor and ordered Madame des Ursins to leave Spain for Italy.
Chapter 29
What happened to Madame des Ursins after she was ordered to leave Spain?
She delayed departure, going only to Alcala and then Bayonne over five weeks. She pressed for an audience at Versailles; Madame de Maintenon obtained permission for her to stay in France at Toulouse. The Spanish King and Queen obstructed Louis's wishes to force her recall, and the King, weary of resistance, allowed her to come to Versailles. She reached Paris in January 1705 and was soon received alone by the King.
Chapter 29
CHAPTER XXIX4 cards
Why did Courtin pay back forty thousand francs and ask to be recalled?
Courtin had taxed the estates of his friend M. de Chaulnes lightly, then found in going over his accounts that he had relieved Chaulnes at the expense of other parishes, overcharging them by forty thousand francs. The trouble this caused him made him repay the money and ask to be recalled, saying he could not pass his life doing wrong. The request was eventually granted.
Chapter 30
How did Fieubet get Courtin's hidden watch and money taken by the robbers?
After thieves robbed them near Saint Germain, Courtin boasted of having saved his watch and fifty pistoles by slipping them into his trowsers. Fieubet called the thieves back, told them Courtin had swindled them out of these things, and cited Courtin's own words. Courtin, astonished and indignant, surrendered them without a word, then would have strangled Fieubet had the latter not been stronger.
Chapter 30
Why did the Duchesses refuse to make the collection for the poor?
The house of Lorraine shirked this duty, which a lady named by the Queen or Dauphiness performed at fetes, to give itself a new distinction and assimilate its rank to the Princes of the blood. When Madame de Montbazon refused on grounds of pretended illness, other Duchesses and ladies of quality followed, so the collection fell into all sorts of hands and sometimes was not made at all.
Chapter 30
What dispositions did the French generals make before the battle of Hochstedt?
The author argues the generals chose ground badly. A brook ran parallel to the army with a long quagmire before it, nearly separating Tallard's two lines. Tallard placed twenty-six battalions, six dragoon regiments and a cavalry brigade in Blenheim village on his extreme right, an entire army merely to hold it. A large space was left between the troops and the brook, letting the enemy cross at ease.
Chapter 30
CHAPTER XXX4 cards
What was the outcome of the naval battle between the Comte de Toulouse and Admiral Rooks near Malaga?
The fleets fought from ten in the morning until eight in the evening on 24 September, with nearly equal numbers of vessels. The Comte de Toulouse could claim victory: his ship dismasted Rooks's vessel and pursued it toward Barbary. The enemy lost six thousand men, a Dutch Vice-Admiral's ship was blown up, and others were sunk or dismasted. The French lost no ship or mast, but fifteen hundred soldiers or sailors were killed or wounded, along with many distinguished men.
Chapter 31
Why did the Comte de Toulouse abandon a second attack on Rooks's fleet, and what did that decision cost?
Toulouse wanted to attack again the next day and argued that a victory would first deliver Gibraltar, which had been left with a garrison of only forty men and had easily fallen to the enemy. But D'O, the mentor of the fleet whose counsel the King had expressly ordered him never to act against, opposed the plan with disdainful determination, so Toulouse gave way. The fleet was greatly annoyed, since Gibraltar would have been found in the same abandoned state.
Chapter 31
Why did the Duchesse de Lesdiguieres resist marrying M. de Mantua, and how was the matter resolved?
She was surprised and afflicted, and testified to her father, the Marechal de Duras, her repugnance at submitting to the caprices and jealousy of an old Italian debauchee, her horror at being left alone with him in Italy, and reasonable fear for her health. Saint-Simon, Pontchartrain, and M. le Prince all pressed her in vain. She asked Chamillart to implore the King not to insist, and the King, flattered by her wish to remain his subject, let the affair end and praised her.
Chapter 31
How was the marriage of M. de Mantua and Mademoiselle d'Elboeuf finally celebrated, and how did the King react?
The Lorraines pursued the match despite the King ordering Madame d'Elboeuf to stop pressing it. At Nevers, Madame de Pompadour proposed celebrating at once; the Bishop had just died and the Grand Vicar refused, so a chaplain married them in the hotel. Afterward Mantua cried out for the company to return, then mounted his horse and did not see them again until Italy. The King was much annoyed at his orders being disobeyed, and the Lorraines excused themselves by claiming they feared an affront from Mantua.
Chapter 31
CHAPTER XXXI4 cards
How did the Duc de Bourgogne regard his wife's feelings toward him?
The Duc de Bourgogne was passionately in love with his wife and was not as well made as Nangis, but the Princess returned his ardor so perfectly that until his death he never suspected her glances had wandered to anyone else. The chapter presents this as his settled conviction, not as an objective fact about her conduct.
Chapter 32
What deception did Maulevrier use to remain at Court instead of joining the campaign?
Possessed by love or ambition, Maulevrier pretended to have a chest ailment, put himself on a milk diet, and made believe he had lost his voice. He kept himself from uttering an intelligible word for a whole year, thereby evading the campaign and staying at Court, where he could speak low to the Duchesse de Bourgogne before everyone without suspicion.
Chapter 32
How was Maulevrier removed from the situation, and on what pretext?
Tesse persuaded his son-in-law Maulevrier to follow him to Spain. He spoke to Fagon, who understood matters at once and said that since so many remedies had failed, Maulevrier must go to a warmer climate, as a winter in France would inevitably kill him. He went to Spain as a remedy, and the King and Madame de Maintenon raised no objections.
Chapter 32
How did Maulevrier's conduct in Spain end his hopes of reward?
Maulevrier became a favorite of the Queen of Spain and expected to be made grandee of Spain. The Duc de Grammont, ambassador at Madrid, wrote to the King about rumors of Maulevrier's audacious conduct toward the Queen and the reward it would meet. The King sent a strong letter to the King of Spain and prohibited Maulevrier from accepting any favor.
Chapter 32
CHAPTER XXXII3 cards
Why did Madame de Saint-Simon and Madame de Lauzun attend the palace performance despite M. de Duras dying?
They wished to stay away, but feared the King's anger, since he had recently been angry that ladies neglected to go full dressed to Court performances. Madame de Bourgogne approved their wish but doubted the King would. They compromised: they dressed, went to the performance room, and left under pretext of finding no seats, with Madame de Bourgogne agreeing to explain their absence. Saint-Simon cites this to show the King thought only of himself.
Chapter 33
Why did the Comte de Toulouse not expose Pontchartrain to the King?
Toulouse, thwarted by Pontchartrain throughout the war, resolved to expose him. The very day he intended to see the King, Madame Pontchartrain cast aside her timidity and begged him with tears not to ruin her husband. Toulouse was softened, saying his resolutions fell from his hands at the thought of her sorrow after the fall of her brutal husband. Pontchartrain was saved, but Saint-Simon says it cost the State dearly.
Chapter 33
What did Madame des Ursins gain by delaying her return to Spain?
Encouraged by the Archbishop of Aix and her brother, she delayed to make Madame de Maintenon uneasy and gain advantage. When pressed to leave, she argued she had been driven from Spain like a criminal and must return with honour, publicly. The result exceeded her hopes: a twenty-thousand-livre annual pension, thirty thousand for her journey, her blind brother M. de Noirmoutiers made hereditary duke, and her brother the Abbe de la Tremoille made cardinal.
Chapter 33
CHAPTER XXXIII3 cards
How did Ninon escape the Queen-mother's order to retire into a convent?
The Queen-mother, provoked by the disorder Ninon caused among the most brilliant youth, sent an order to retire into a convent without naming any particular one. Ninon courteously told the officer that, since the choice was left to her, she chose 'the convent of the Cordeliers at Paris' — an impudent joke that so diverted the Queen that she left her alone thereafter.
Chapter 34
How does Saint-Simon describe the conduct and reputation of Ninon's household?
The author argues her house showed an external respect and decency rarely preserved even by princesses of the highest rank in their intrigues. There was no gambling, loud laughter, disputes, or talk of religion or politics, but much elegant wit and news of gallantries without scandal. She kept one lover at a time, told him frankly when wearied, and her influence kept deserted lovers from revenge.
Chapter 34
Why did the King rage at Courtenvaux over the new Swiss attendants?
The King had secretly authorized Bontems to engage extra Swiss as spies, ordered to watch and report on people throughout his residences. Courtenvaux, commander of the Cent-Suisses, resented these men as an encroachment on his authority and loudly railed at them, drawing the whole Court's attention to the change and exposing the spy system the King hid carefully. The King's furious reprimand ended with 'Get out.'
Chapter 34
CHAPTER XXXIV4 cards
How did Vendome's army address him, and how did this spread?
Vendome accustomed his subalterns, then the whole army, to call him "Monseigneur" and "Your Highness." The habit spread like gangrene until even lieutenant-generals and distinguished people dared not address him otherwise. The author presents this as evidence of Vendome exploiting the subserviency of the French character.
Chapter 35
What did the King grant Vendome regarding command in Italy in 1706?
Vendome asked to be appointed commander of the Marechals of France; the King refused that but granted a stepping-stone: a letter signed by the King promising that if a Marechal of France were sent to Italy, that Marechal was to take commands from Vendome. Vendome was content and resolved to obtain all he asked later.
Chapter 35
Why does the author say promotion and army discipline had deteriorated?
The author argues generals owed promotion to favour and fantasy, and the King thought giving patents gave capacity. Promotion by length of service made application unnecessary, except where Louvois recommended officers he could control. Louvois persuaded the King to direct armies from the cabinet, keeping generals in leading-strings. Luxury and ignorance spread, and officers no longer deliberated together.
Chapter 35
What happened at Calcinato, and what did the victory achieve?
Vendome attacked Prince Eugene's troops on the heights of Calcinato, drove them back, killed three thousand, and took twenty standards, ten cannon, and eight thousand prisoners. It was a rout rather than a combat, the enemy being inferior in force and without Eugene. He returned the next day, restored order, and forced Vendome onto the defensive; the author says the victory led to nothing.
Chapter 35
CHAPTER XXXV3 cards
Why did the siege of Barcelona make no progress, according to Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon attributes the failure to the engineers, who were slow, ignorant, and venal. Under a new royal rule, they received payment whenever they moved their guns, so they spent their time shifting guns uselessly to collect the recompense. The arrival of a superior enemy fleet then cut off supplies by sea, and the siege was raised on the night of 10–11 May after fourteen days' bombardment.
Chapter 36
Why did La Feuillade's conduct doom the siege of Turin, per Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon argues La Feuillade, young and vain, wanted all the honour of the siege for himself. Backed by his father-in-law Chamillart, he ignored advice, countermanded d'Orleans's orders once the prince left, and allied with Marsin. Saint-Simon says this vanity, not military necessity, caused the disastrous failure of the siege of Turin, as d'Orleans's counsel was repeatedly overruled.
Chapter 36
What did an intercepted letter reveal about d'Orleans's proposed strategy?
D'Orleans had proposed disputing the enemy's passage of the Tanaro, a confluent of the Po, or forcing them to battle. An intercepted letter in cypher from Prince Eugene to the Emperor, which fell into French hands, later proved this was the right course. But the proof came too late because the decyphering table had been forgotten at Versailles.
Chapter 36
CHAPTER XXXVI3 cards
How did the King's financial strain in 1707 affect Madame de Montespan's allowance?
Because of war expenses and losses, the King had already cut his New Year presents, and in 1707 he reduced Madame de Montespan's annual gift from twelve thousand Louis of gold to eight thousand. She showed no surprise, saying only that she was sorry for the poor, to whom she gave generously.
Chapter 37
What was the outcome of Rodes's gold-mining scheme in the Pyrenees?
Rodes, a mining speculator, claimed he had found many gold veins in the Pyrenees and promised that with eighteen hundred workmen he would produce a million francs' worth of gold each week, or fifty-two million a year. The King's government supported him, but after waiting some time no gold appeared, and the money spent was pure loss.
Chapter 37
Why did Vauban's tax-reform book fail and what happened to him?
Vauban proposed abolishing all imposts and substituting taxes on land and on trade and industry. The author argues the book failed because it would have ruined financiers, clerks, and functionaries by forcing them to live at their own expense. The King received him ill, seeing him as led astray by love for the people; Vauban died a few months later consumed with grief.
Chapter 37
CHAPTER XXXVII4 cards
How did Saint-Simon first learn he was to be ambassador to Rome?
The papal nuncio Gualterio came to Saint-Simon's chamber about an hour after midday, embraced him, and told him to shut the doors so they would not be seen, then announced he was to go to Rome as ambassador. Saint-Simon made him repeat it twice, it seemed so impossible. Gualterio asked him to keep it secret, saying the appointment would soon be officially announced.
Chapter 38
How did the King come to choose Saint-Simon for the Roman embassy?
Torcy later told Saint-Simon that the King, wanting a Duke as ambassador, took an almanack and read the names of the Dukes from M. de Uzes until he reached Saint-Simon. He remarked that Saint-Simon was young but good, heard a few opinions, shut the almanack, and decided without going further, ordering the appointment kept secret. Saint-Simon learned this over ten years later.
Chapter 38
What advice did three ministers give Saint-Simon about his wife?
All three ministers, unknown to each other and without Saint-Simon soliciting them, counselled him to keep none of his embassy affairs secret from his wife, to seat her at the end of the table when reading or writing despatches, and to consult her with deference on everything. Saint-Simon relished this advice, and said he had long followed it and continued to do so all his life, finding her counsel wise and useful.
Chapter 38
Why did the King ultimately send no ambassador to Rome?
About mid-April, after a council, Chamillart told Saint-Simon the King had decided to send no ambassador to Rome. The Abbe de La Tremoille was already there, had been made Cardinal, and would remain to attend to embassy affairs. Saint-Simon later attributed the change to Madame de Maintenon and M. du Maine. He felt he had lost the King's favour, which worsened daily.
Chapter 38
CHAPTER XXXVIII4 cards
What did Madame de Montespan urge her husband to do when she suspected the King's love?
She warned him as soon as she suspected the King was in love with her and told him once there was no doubt. She entreated him to take her to his estates of Guyenne and leave her there until the King had forgotten her or chosen another mistress. He refused; the author says her conduct was more her husband's fault than her own.
Chapter 39
What penances did Madame de Montespan adopt after her conversion under Pere de la Tour?
She gave nearly all she had to the poor and worked hours daily making shirts for them. Her table became frugal, her fasts multiplied, and she wore hidden rough linen plus bracelets, garters and a girdle armed with iron points that often wounded her. Her tongue had its own penance, and she asked pardon of her husband.
Chapter 39
How did Louis XIV react to Madame de Montespan's death?
His insensibility was so extreme that Madame de Bourgogne could not hide her surprise. He replied tranquilly that since he had dismissed her he had reckoned on never seeing her again, so she had been dead to him from that time. The author notes the grief of their children displeased him, and they dared not wear mourning for an unrecognised mother.
Chapter 39
What did Madame de Nemours say about the Pater and forgiving enemies?
Asked whether she said the Pater, she replied yes, but that she passed by without saying the clause about pardon for our enemies. The author describes her as bad-tempered and unforgiving, and notes she would never see or speak to her kinsfolk the Matignons, spitting when one passed below the King's window.
Chapter 39
CHAPTER XXXIX4 cards
What role did the two oldest Dukes play at the King's communion?
At the Pater, the chaplain whispered the names of the Dukes present to the King, who named the two oldest. During the priest's communion the King knelt behind a folding seat and took hold of a cloth; the two Dukes each held a corner, the elder on the right, the other on the left, while two chaplains held the corners on the altar side, all kneeling.
Chapter 40
How did the Princes of the blood alter the communion ceremony at the Assumption?
They arranged that M. le Duc served alone at the altar at the King's communion, with no Duke called to join him. Saint-Simon notes the Duc de la Force and the Marechal de Boufflers, who ought to have served, were both present. He wrote to Boufflers that this had never happened before and was contrary to all precedent, and complained to M. d'Orleans, who was in Spain.
Chapter 40
Why did the King object to Fontpertius joining M. d'Orleans's suite for Spain?
The King balked at the name, calling Fontpertius the son of a Jansenist, a silly woman who ran everywhere after M. Arnould, and said he did not wish the man to go. D'Orleans replied that the son was far from being a Jansenist since he did not believe in God. The King softened and allowed it, reasoning there was no harm.
Chapter 40
What happened to the planned invasion of Scotland in support of the King of England?
Thirty vessels were armed at Dunkerque under Forbin, and four thousand men brought from Flanders. But preparations were too slow, and the English fleet appeared and blockaded Dunkerque. The troops were landed, then re-embarked after the King of England protested. Then he caught the measles at Dunkerque and could not sail, despite begging to be carried aboard in blankets.
Chapter 40
CHAPTER XL4 cards
How did Brissac trick the court ladies at evening prayers?
Brissac appeared in the King's place, lifted his baton, and cried that the King was not coming, so the guards withdrew. The ladies murmured, most blew out their candles and left the chapel. The King then arrived and was astonished at the empty chapel. Brissac explained the joke, dwelling on the ladies' piety, and the King and courtiers laughed heartily.
Chapter 41
What did the King say when told the Duchesse de Bourgogne might have no more children?
The King burst out in anger, asking what it was to him since she already had a son, and the Duc de Berry could marry and have one. He said it did not matter who succeeded him, as all were equally his grandchildren. He added that he was glad she was hurt, since he would no longer be annoyed by doctors' and matrons' objections to his journeys.
Chapter 41
Why did the King personally show Samuel Bernard around Marly?
The finances were exhausted and Desmarets could get no loans; Bernard, the richest banker in Europe, refused to advance anything despite being owed much. Desmarets told the King only flattery could move Bernard's vanity. So the King invited Bernard to walk with him and showed him everything graciously. Bernard was enchanted and said he would rather ruin himself than leave the King embarrassed; Desmarets then drew far more than planned.
Chapter 41
How did M. de Leon plan to marry Mademoiselle de Roquelaure without parental consent?
After the marriage negotiations broke off over money, de Leon went to the convent and proposed they marry despite their parents. He procured a coach matching Madame de la Vieuville's, with her arms and livery, forged a letter in her hand and seal, and sent it on the morning she usually summoned Mademoiselle de Roquelaure. The young lady showed the letter to the Superior, who did not even examine it.
Chapter 41
CHAPTER XLI3 cards
Why was M. d'Orleans delayed at Madrid before his campaign?
The author explains that M. d'Orleans found nothing prepared and everything in disorder at Madrid, forcing him to work many hours daily to obtain the most necessary supplies. This delay was maliciously interpreted at Paris as love for the Queen, a report spread by Madame la Duchesse and believed everywhere except in Spain, where the true reason was known.
Chapter 42
What was the toast that made Madame de Maintenon and Madame des Ursins enemies of M. d'Orleans?
At supper, vexed with Madame des Ursins, M. d'Orleans made a coarse but humorous toast alluding to the two women who governed France and Spain — one the captain, the other the lieutenant. Guests laughed but did not repeat the words. Both women learned of it, were enraged, and never pardoned him; the author says they swore his ruin.
Chapter 42
What did Vendome say to Duc de Bourgogne before the retreat at Oudenarde?
As the army fell into disorder at night, Vendome told the Duc de Bourgogne imperiously, before everybody, that he came to the army only on condition of obeying him. Later, when retreat was decided, Vendome added that he knew the Prince had long wished to retire. The author says these words were taken in a double sense and left no doubt of their meaning.
Chapter 42
CHAPTER XLII4 cards
Who did Saint-Simon blame for the disaster at Oudenarde?
Saint-Simon attributes the losses at Oudenarde—many killed and wounded, four thousand men and seven hundred officers taken prisoner, and many missing—entirely to the laziness and inattention of M. de Vendome. He notes that Vendome's many friends at Court and in the army instead laid the blame on Monseigneur le Duc de Bourgogne, exactly as Saint-Simon had foreseen when he first warned M. de Beauvilliers.
Chapter 43
How did Madame de Bourgogne respond to the attacks on her husband?
Madame de Bourgogne, though gentle and timid, was roused by the insults to her husband. Having learned the true state of the case, she gained Madame de Maintenon's support, prompting the King to order Alberoni and d'Evreux to keep silent. She wrote to her husband that she had more aversion and contempt for Vendome than for anyone in the world, and Saint-Simon says she kept her word.
Chapter 43
What did Saint-Simon bet, and what happened to him afterward?
Saint-Simon offered to bet four pistoles that there would be no general battle and that Lille would be taken without being relieved. Cani accepted, and Chamillart held the stakes. News of the bet spread and caused an uproar; Vendome's partisans used it to damage Saint-Simon in the King's eyes, and he lost the King's favour for more than two months without suspecting it.
Chapter 43
How did Louis XIV react to the crisis of the siege of Lille?
The King demanded news and could not understand why no couriers came; he wrote to Vendome to relieve Lille, then sent another courier ordering Monseigneur de Bourgogne to lead the army if Vendome refused. Saint-Simon notes the King sometimes showed firmness that surprised rather than edified, going out hunting or walking daily so the Court could not learn news until his return.
Chapter 43
CHAPTER XLIII4 cards
Why did the King send Chamillart to the army?
The King sent Chamillart to the army to compose the disputes between the Duc de Bourgogne and M. de Vendome over defending the Escaut. The author notes the oddity of a penman and financier acting as arbiter between generals on delicate war operations. Chamillart continued to admire Vendome and treated the Duc de Bourgogne with little respect, both at the army and afterward in conversation with the King.
Chapter 44
How did the King learn of the action at the Escaut?
The action was kept secret from the King until the Duc de la Tremoille, whose son had fought there, revealed it. Annoyed that the King said nothing of his son's conduct, he mentioned the passage of the Escaut and his son's regiment's losses. The King, surprised, questioned him and admitted before everybody that he knew nothing of it. Chamillart then explained that Madame de Maintenon had thought it best not to trouble the King.
Chapter 44
What did Gamaches say to the Duc de Bourgogne returning from mass?
Gamaches, a free-tongued man who had been at the army, said aloud on a critical day when he would rather have seen the Duke on horseback: "You will certainly win the kingdom of heaven; but as for the kingdom of the earth, Prince Eugene and Marlborough know how to seek it better than you." The author calls such sallies too public to produce good effect; they were suffered but not attended to.
Chapter 44
How was the Duc de Bourgogne received on his return to Court?
He arrived on December 11th a little after seven in the evening, looking gay and laughing, which the author and others blamed as misplaced gaiety after a sad campaign. The King embraced him with tenderness and asked if he would not speak to the Princess. Monseigneur's reception was only pretty good; he said it was the son's duty to seek the father, not his to seek the son.
Chapter 44
CHAPTER XLIV.4 cards
What unusual effects did the winter of 1709 have on rivers, the sea, and even liquor bottles?
The frost came suddenly on Twelfth Night and lasted nearly two months. In four days the Seine and all other rivers froze, and the sea froze along the coasts so as to bear heavily laden carts. Spirituous liquors broke their bottles in heated rooms at Versailles; Saint-Simon saw bottles frozen solid on a chimney-piece, with pieces of ice falling into glasses.
Chapter 45
How did the government respond to the grain crisis, and with what result?
Commissioners scoured the provinces, granaries were filled, prices were fixed by force in Paris, and unsold corn was seized at market close. Those who sold below the fixed rate were cruelly punished. Saint-Simon argues these steps increased scarcity and poverty, even though enough corn existed to feed France for two years.
Chapter 45
How did Louis XIV react to the Parliaments of Paris and Burgundy addressing the grain crisis?
The King flew into a passion and forbade the Paris Parliament from meddling with the corn question, though the chancellor calmed him by framing its offer as respectful. He severely reprimanded the Burgundy Parliament and summoned its president, who nearly lost his post despite blameless conduct. Saint-Simon argues the King's jealousy of his absolute authority blocked remedies.
Chapter 45
What financial measures and failures marked the state of France in 1709?
Payments on customs, loans, and Hotel de Ville dividends were suspended or cut. The coinage was re-minted with value raised a third above intrinsic worth, profiting the King but ruining private people and trade. Samuel Bernard's bankruptcy shook Lyons; he had issued twenty million in notes and received fourteen million in assignats. Saint-Simon calls the oppression mysterious, daring, and cruel.
Chapter 45
CHAPTER XLV4 cards
Why did Vendome's pay and command get revoked after the Candlemas ceremony?
After returning from Flanders, Vendome complained to the King about Pursegur, a lieutenant-general attached to M. de Bourgogne. Pursegur then gave the King a two-hour account of Vendome's incapacity, ignorance of war, and insolence. The King, long convinced of Pursegur's truthfulness, saw through Vendome and he fell from favour, losing his general's pay and command.
Chapter 46
How does Saint-Simon characterize the Prince de Conti's charm and his feelings toward friends?
Saint-Simon says Conti's face was charming and even his defects had grace; he pleased cobblers and ministers alike, delighting the Court and armies. Yet the author argues Conti loved nothing: he had and desired friends as others have furniture. He was also avaricious, greedy of fortune, and unjust, though humble as a courtier.
Chapter 46
Why was the Prince de Conti in disgrace with the King and Madame de Maintenon?
Intercepted letters had excited Madame de Maintenon's hatred and the King's lasting indignation against Conti. His riches, talents, agreeable qualities, and great reputation became crimes in him, and the contrast with M. du Maine bred daily irritation and jealousy. Even his pure blood was a reproach, and his friends were odious.
Chapter 46
How was Vendome humiliated at Marly through Madame de Bourgogne's actions?
At Marly, playing brelan, Monseigneur sent for Vendome as a fifth player. Madame de Bourgogne said his presence was painful to her and begged he be dispensed with; Monseigneur sent for another. She then asked Madame de Maintenon to have the King bar Vendome from Marly, which the King granted, and Vendome never returned.
Chapter 46
CHAPTER XLVI.4 cards
Why did the Jesuits invent the heresy of Jansenism, according to Saint-Simon?
The author argues the Jesuits invented Jansenism to weaken their opponents. The Molinists, following Pere Molina's Jesuit-backed book on grace, faced opposition in France and Rome; instead of defending themselves they accused their critics of a heresy attributed to Cornelius Jansenius. Thus opposing Molina's doctrines made one a "Jansenist"—an ideal heresy, the author says, with neither author nor follower.
Chapter 47
How did Pere Tellier become confessor, and what was Saint-Simon's judgment of him?
After Pere La Chaise's death, the King, fearing Jesuit vengeance, had the Ducs de Chevreuse and de Beauvilliers secretly seek a successor—but they were duped and Tellier was chosen. Saint-Simon calls him harsh, cruel, deceitful, savagely laborious, and devoted above all to his Society's interests; even the Jesuits feared him. Fagon, watching his first audience, judged him a cursed fellow.
Chapter 47
What happened to Port Royal des Champs in October 1696?
A decree in council ordered the abbey's suppression. On the night of 28–29 October troops invested it; next morning the inmates were shown a lettre de cachet and given a quarter-hour's warning. Coaches with an elderly woman in each carried the nuns to separate monasteries ten to fifty leagues away, escorted by mounted archers. Later the cemetery was cleared, the buildings razed, materials sold, and the ground ploughed and sown.
Chapter 47
What did Pere La Chaise reportedly warn the King about choosing a Jesuit confessor?
Marechal related that La Chaise, feeling old, begged the King to choose his successor from among the Jesuits. He said the company contained many minds and characters that could not be answered for and must not be reduced to despair; an unlucky blow is soon given, and had been given before. Saint-Simon notes Henry IV recalled the Jesuits from fear, and says the King was not superior to him.
Chapter 47
CHAPTER XLVII4 cards
How did Louvois react to being publicly reprimanded by Louis XIV over the Trianon window?
Saint-Simon says Louvois returned home in fury and despair, told his confidants he was lost and that the King forgot all his services over a few inches, and vowed to leave the trowel to the King, bring about a war, and arrange matters so the King would have good need of him. He kept his word: Saint-Simon credits him with causing the war from the Cologne double election, carrying flames into the Palatinate, leaving William free in his English project, and forcing Savoy into the enemy camp.
Chapter 48
What did Saint-Simon advise Beauvilliers to do when he learned Harcourt would enter the Council?
Saint-Simon told Beauvilliers to see the King early the next morning, say he had been informed Harcourt was about to enter the Council, argue that State affairs would suffer, allude to the King's recent coldness, and declare with respect and submission that he was equally ready to keep serving or to give up his appointments as the King wished. Beauvilliers followed this exactly; the King refused to hear of resignation and appeared more satisfied with him than ever.
Chapter 48
How did Madame de Maintenon's plan to install Harcourt in the Council of State fail?
She worked to remove Beauvilliers and extract the King's promise that Harcourt would be received, and a secret arrangement was made for Harcourt to appear by accident and be called in. But Beauvilliers' interview changed the King's mind: Harcourt waited in vain through two Councils, and when Maintenon finally reminded the King of his promise, he replied in confusion that he had thought better of it, since Harcourt was on bad terms with all the Ministers and might embarrass them.
Chapter 48
How does Saint-Simon characterize M. le Prince in his obituary?
Saint-Simon grants him more ability of all kinds than any man, extending to arts and mechanics, plus valour, discernment, grace, and politeness when he pleased. But he also calls him abjectly servile even to lackeys, an unnatural son, cruel father, terrible husband, detestable master, and pernicious neighbour, without friends, jealous, suspicious, restless, choleric, and ruled by impetuosity and avarice — while still difficult to resist when he deployed his pleasing qualities.
Chapter 48
CHAPTER XLVIII.4 cards
Why did Chamillart and Torcy send rival peace negotiators abroad?
Chamillart, having succeeded Louvois, decided he should imitate him by handling everyone's business. With the King's knowledge he sent agents to Holland and elsewhere to negotiate peace, though that department belonged to Torcy. Torcy sent his own agents too, and instead of cooperating the two sets of envoys thwarted each other, making France's government look ridiculous and giving foreign powers a pretext to ignore its peace proposals.
Chapter 49
How did the Imperialists treat the Pope after he recognized the Archduke as King of Spain?
The Imperialists had entered the Papal States, laid them under contribution and ravaged them. Even after the Pope yielded and recognized the Archduke as King of Spain, they continued to treat him with disdain and ravage his territories. Their minister at Rome even held a comedy and ball against the Pope's express ban on amusements, saying he had promised the ladies a fete and could not break his word.
Chapter 49
Why was M. d'Orleans not sent back to Spain to command?
Madame des Ursins and Madame de Maintenon had not forgiven his mockery of them as the 'she-captain' and 'she-lieutenant,' and worked for his disgrace. Des Ursins asked that he not be sent to Spain, claiming he had leagued with her enemies there and that his secretary Renaut kept secret intercourse with them. When the King asked d'Orleans about his relations with her and received a weak reply, he decided d'Orleans had better not return.
Chapter 49
What did d'Orleans admit to Saint-Simon about the Spanish throne?
D'Orleans admitted that several Spanish grandees had told him Philip V. could not survive and proposed he hasten the King's fall and take his place. He said he rejected this with indignation, but promised that if Philip fell of himself, without hope of rising, he would not object to mounting the vacant throne, believing he would thereby preserve Spain to the King's house. Saint-Simon advised him to confess to the King and ask pardon.
Chapter 49
CHAPTER XLIX4 cards
What mistake did Chamillart make when he spoke to the King about the rumors of his fall?
Chamillart addressed the King only in a half-and-half way and committed the capital mistake of not naming the successor that public rumor mentioned. The King appeared touched, gave assurances of friendship, and from that day the reports died away, so the Court thought him perfectly re-established. Saint-Simon notes he does not know whether Chamillart was then near destruction or whether the conversation set him up again.
Chapter 50
How did the Marechal d'Harcourt's sarcasm at Madame de Maintenon's damage Chamillart?
Asked whom he would put in Chamillart's place, the Marechal coldly named M. Fagon, the old doctor. He maintained seriously that the doctor would make a better minister, having some intelligence to offset his ignorance, while nothing could be expected of a man both ignorant and stupid. Saint-Simon says it is inconceivable how damaging this sarcasm proved.
Chapter 50
How did Chamillart react when the two Dukes came to announce his dismissal?
He was alone working in his cabinet. Seeing their consternation, he said if the matter concerned only him they might speak, as he had long been prepared for everything. He listened without change of countenance, said the King is the master, hoped another would please him better, wrote letters of thanks, and left without complaint, murmur, or sighs, showing the greatest magnanimity.
Chapter 50
Why did the King rebuke Voysin early in his tenure as Secretary of State?
Voysin foolishly told the King he would at first leave everything to his Majesty but later take more on himself. The King, used to Chamillart leaving everything to him, was offended, drew himself up, and told Voysin his duties were to receive and expedite orders, nothing else. He then examined the projects, prescribed measures, and stiffly dismissed him.
Chapter 50
CHAPTER L4 cards
What did Saint-Simon believe was the only way for M. le Duc d'Orleans to recover his position?
Saint-Simon argued that the Duke could only recover his standing by giving up his longtime mistress, Madame d'Argenton, and announcing the separation to the King. The Duke had fallen out of the King's favour, was hated by Madame de Maintenon and Monseigneur, and was viewed unfavourably by the public because of scandals in his private life. Saint-Simon enlisted the Marechal de Besons to help persuade him.
Chapter 51
What rumours about M. d'Orleans did Saint-Simon repeat to him to spur reform?
Saint-Simon told the Duke of reports that he meant to repudiate the wife the King had forced on him, marry the Queen Dowager of Spain and use her gold to pursue the Spanish throne, then marry Madame d'Argenton after the new wife's death. He also noted wretches spreading a slur about the Duke not being Monsieur's son. The Duke reacted with terror and grief.
Chapter 51
How did M. d'Orleans finally act on the plan, and how did the King and Madame de Maintenon respond?
After an emotional struggle, the Duke sent to ask Madame de Maintenon for an audience, saw her, then spoke to the King immediately after mass. Madame de Maintenon was surprised and delighted, promising he would stand better than ever with the King and that Madame d'Argenton would be treated considerately. The King seemed much surprised but spoke coldly, which Saint-Simon attributed to astonishment.
Chapter 51
What settlement did M. d'Orleans make for Madame d'Argenton after the rupture?
Madame d'Argenton was free to live anywhere except Paris and its appanages. The Duke assured her 45,000 livres a year, most of the capital going to their legitimised son, and promised to pay all her debts to the day of the rupture so no creditor would trouble her. She kept her jewellery, plate and furniture, worth about 400,000 livres; the total liberality came to about two million livres.
Chapter 51
CHAPTER LI2 cards
How did Saint-Simon describe the Duc d'Orleans's conduct in the marriage affair?
He called him like a motionless beam, stirred only by redoubled efforts, and said he had to use main force to bring him to activity. Saint-Simon suspected the Duke was restrained by knowledge of the irremediable events in Spain. He even wrote and dictated the Duke's letter to the King and pushed him into the presence.
Chapter 52
What retrenchments did the King announce for Marly, and did they take effect?
Annoyed by public murmurs about Marly's expense during an unfortunate war, the King said he would no longer feed the ladies there: he would dine simply alone, sup daily at a table for sixteen with his family, and assign tables to the Princesses and to Mesdames Voysin and Desmarets. Saint-Simon says no real change was made except in name.
Chapter 52
CHAPTER LII4 cards
What event at the start of the chapter is described as causing great joy?
On Saturday, 15 February, the King was woken an hour early because Madame la Duchesse de Bourgogne was in labour. At three minutes and three seconds after eight she gave birth to a Duc d'Anjou, who became Louis XV. The child was soon after sprinkled by Cardinal de Janson in the birth chamber, then carried in the King's sedan chair to the King's apartments, and the accouchement passed very well.
Chapter 53
Why did Cardinal de Bouillon flee to the enemy camp, and how did he behave there?
His lawsuit against the monks of Cluni was decided against him in the Grand Council of Paris, the last drop that confirmed his long-held resolve. Using permission to visit his abbeys, he went to Picardy, then crossed into the enemy camp and joined the Duke of Marlborough and Prince Eugene. He flattered them with talk of France's misery, popular discontent, and exhausted finances, sparing nothing that perfidy or ingratitude could suggest.
Chapter 53
How did the King respond to Cardinal de Bouillon's flight, and what came of it?
The Cardinal wrote an insolent, extravagant letter announcing his flight, which the King received on 24 May. The King gave it to D'Aguesseau, attorney-general, and ordered a felony suit, and wrote to Rome enclosing a copy. The letter drew little approval, people thinking the King had forgotten his dignity. The Parliament issued an arrest order, but the suit stalled on the immunity of cardinals, and the cause fell by its own weakness.
Chapter 53
What was the author's view of French cardinals in France?
The author argues that a French cardinal in France is the friend of the Pope but the enemy of the King, the Church, and the State, often a tyrant to clergy and ministers, free to do as he likes without punishment. He says princes should favour those at Rome rather than raise their own subjects, who can seize three or four hundred thousand livres a year in benefices, a quarter of which would more than recompense an Italian.
Chapter 53
CHAPTER LIII3 cards
Why did Villars's standing with the King and Madame de Maintenon change after he told them the truth?
Villars had risen by giving a rosy, flattering account of everything and never finding difficulties. When at the summit of favour he finally reported the wretched state of magazines, garrisons, and unpaid troops, the picture was so hideous that the King and Madame de Maintenon found it easier to rage than reply. They began to see him as the world did—ridiculous, impudent, lying—and to shun him.
Chapter 54
What was Berwick's rapid advancement, and what family arrangement did he obtain in the letters-patent of Duke and Peer?
Bastard of James II, Berwick arrived in France at eighteen, was lieutenant-general at twenty-two, commanded in Spain at thirty-three, became Grandee and Chevalier of the Golden Fleece at thirty-four after Almanza, and Marshal of France at thirty-six. Made Duke and Peer, he had his son of the first marriage formally excluded from the letters-patent so only sons of the second bed were entered.
Chapter 54
Why did Berwick want his eldest son excluded from the French letters-patent?
Berwick hoped for a revolution in England restoring the Stuarts and his English wealth and honours. He wished his eldest son to succeed to his English dukedom and estates, the second to be Duke and Peer of France, and the third Grandee of Spain. Saint-Simon says the scandal at the King's complaisance was great, since a cadet was put over his elder brother.
Chapter 54
CHAPTER LIV4 cards
What happened to Madame la Duchesse de Berry at the supper at Saint-Cloud?
She and M. d'Orleans—she more than he—got so drunk that the company could not manage her. Despite efforts to sober her, she had to be carried drunk to Versailles. All the servants saw her state and did not keep it to themselves, yet the incident was hidden from the King, Monseigneur, and Madame de Maintenon.
Chapter 55
Why did Stanhope's plan prevail over Staremberg's advice after the allied victory?
Staremberg wanted to beat Bay's army of eighteen thousand and advance gradually into Spain. Stanhope insisted his Queen had ordered him to march on Madrid when possible, to proclaim the Archduke King there. Staremberg admitted the project was dazzling but useless and dangerous; he yielded as the feebler of the two, and the time lost in dispute saved the defeated army.
Chapter 55
How did the Queen of Spain rally the nation after the Court left Madrid?
Holding the Prince in her arms at a palace balcony, she spoke to the assembled people with such grace, force, and courage that the impression spread everywhere and gained the provinces. She sold all she possessed, received even ten pistoles with her own hands, and said she wished to lead her troops with her son in her arms.
Chapter 55
What did the Spanish people do to the Archduke's army in Madrid?
No one would supply the army with subsistence for man or beast, even when offered money; prayers, menaces, and executions were useless. Castilians believed it dishonourable to sell anything to the enemy. Meanwhile they formed a new army and restored the King, who re-entered Madrid on the 2nd of December amid incredible acclamations.
Chapter 55
CHAPTER LV4 cards
What financial scheme did Desmarets revive, and who had earlier proposed it?
Desmarets revived the Royal Tithe, a tax on all property of each community and private person. Saint-Simon notes that the Marechal de Vauban and Boisguilbert had earlier proposed it as a simple tax that would suffice for all, abolish every other impost, and flow entirely into the King's coffers. Both men had been disgraced when the idea was rejected.
Chapter 56
How did Pere Tellier's consultation resolve the King's scruples about seizing his subjects' wealth?
The King told Marechal that scruples had tormented him for taking his subjects' wealth. Pere Tellier consulted skilful doctors of the Sorbonne, who decided that all the wealth of his subjects belonged to the King, and that when he took it he only took what was his own. The King said this decision removed his scruples and restored his calm.
Chapter 56
What did the Royal Tithe actually yield, and how was it used?
Saint-Simon reports that the tax produced far less than the finance bureau had imagined, and the King paid no one a farthing more than before. The expected relief ended in smoke. One result was that the King could augment all his infantry with five men per company. The edict was registered amid stifled sobs and published amid piteous complaints.
Chapter 56
What happened to the eldest son of the Marechal de Boufflers after the Jesuits whipped him?
The fourteen-year-old boy, whipped by the Jesuits for a youthful folly also committed by the two sons of D'Argenson (who were spared), was seized with despair and fell ill the same day. The heart was seized, the blood diseased, the purples appeared, and he died within four days. The King sent condolences and promised the remaining son what the other had received.
Chapter 56
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What did Du Mont secretly tell Saint-Simon that Monseigneur believed about him?
Du Mont revealed that Monseigneur, in a rage, had accused Saint-Simon of saying that once the Duc de Berry's marriage was arranged, Madame la Duchesse and the Princesse de Conti should be driven away, after which 'the great imbecile'—meaning Monseigneur himself—could easily be governed. Monseigneur threatened to set the Duc de Bourgogne against Saint-Simon and separate himself from him entirely.
Chapter 57
What conditions did Du Mont impose on Saint-Simon regarding the secret?
Du Mont made Saint-Simon promise not to show that he knew the information and not to make use of his knowledge in any way without Du Mont's consent. He also begged Saint-Simon, for a long time at least, to behave with the utmost prudence. Only much later, with difficulty, did Saint-Simon obtain the timid Du Mont's consent to act.
Chapter 57
How did the affair with Monseigneur get resolved, according to Saint-Simon?
After a long time, having obtained with difficulty the consent of the timid Du Mont, Saint-Simon had Madame de Saint-Simon speak to the Duchesse de Bourgogne, who undertook to arrange the matter. The Duchesse spoke to Monseigneur and showed him how ridiculously he had been deceived. Monseigneur admitted he had been carried away by anger and that it was unlikely Saint-Simon would have thought of anything so wicked.
Chapter 57
How did Monseigneur's illness begin, and what did the King do?
Monseigneur met a priest carrying the Host to a smallpox patient at Chaville and, having only had the disease lightly when young, feared it greatly. On Thursday the 9th a fit of weakness seized him while dressing. The King, at first only half informed, went to Meudon after mass, forbidding his children and all who had not had smallpox to go there.
Chapter 57
CHAPTER LVI4 cards
What did the apothecary Boulduc privately tell Saint-Simon about the Duc de Berry's illness?
Boulduc, the King's apothecary and a friend of the Saint-Simons, whispered to Saint-Simon that the Duc de Berry would not recover, and that his malady was, with some little difference, the same as that of which the Dauphin and Dauphine died. He repeated this the next day and never varied, saying on the third day that none of the attending doctors thought differently.
Chapter 58
Why did Louis XIV refuse to let the doctor Chirac see the Duc de Berry?
The King refused because all the other doctors were in accord, and he feared Chirac, who might differ with them, would embarrass them. Chirac was a famous doctor belonging to M. d'Orleans, and the Duchesse de Berry had sent Coettenfao to request him. The King's refusal kept the medical team unanimous in the Duc's treatment.
Chapter 58
How does Saint-Simon describe the character of the Duc de Berry?
Saint-Simon calls him the best, gentlest, most compassionate and accessible of men, without pride or vanity but not without dignity. He had medium intellect, good sense, loved truth, justice and reason, and was the most gay and frank of the three brothers. Yet his scanty education made him timid before strangers, and he feared the King so much he could barely speak to him.
Chapter 58
What happened to the Duchesse de Berry's pregnancy after the Duc's death?
She was pregnant when her husband died and hoped for a boy, counting on enjoying more liberty as a widow. She miscarried on Saturday, the 16th of June, and was delivered of a daughter who lived only twelve hours. The little corpse was buried at Saint-Denis, with Madame de Saint-Simon at the head of the procession.
Chapter 58
CHAPTER LVII4 cards
How did Versailles learn of Monseigneur's condition at Meudon?
A servant of Madame la Duchesse de Berry, formerly in the Saint-Simons' household, arrived terrified and reported that the Duc de Bourgogne had whispered to M. le Duc de Berry, whose eyes turned red, and that he left the table followed by the whole company. Saint-Simon ran to the Duchesse de Berry's, found nobody, and followed everyone to the Duchesse de Bourgogne's, learning Monseigneur had received extreme unction and was beyond hope.
Chapter 59
How did the Duc d'Orleans react to Monseigneur's death, and why did it surprise Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon was astonished to see tears streaming from the Duc d'Orleans' eyes, given their terms. Orleans said he was surprised himself, that Monseigneur had treated him well when uninfluenced, and that his grief would not last, since in a few days he would find motives of joy; but blood, relationship and humanity moved him. He then wept and sobbed bitterly in a corner.
Chapter 59
How did the courtiers' outward grief at Versailles differ from their real feelings?
Saint-Simon describes faces painted to the life: the indifferent tranquil, the interested showing grief or hiding joy. Valets and chamber-women cried indiscreetly, showing they were about to lose something. Some pumped up sighs and praised Monseigneur's goodness; the discomfited cabal wept bitterly; the wisest meditated on consequences and their own interests. Those who saw the event as favourable tried to look grave, but their eyes betrayed them.
Chapter 59
How did the Duc and Duchesse de Berry react to Monseigneur's death?
The Duc de Berry shed abundant tears, which Saint-Simon calls bloody for their bitterness, and uttered sobs, cries and even yells; he was so overcome that his people undressed him, put him to bed and called the doctor. The Duchesse de Berry showed furious grief based on interest rather than affection: dry sullen lulls, then torrents of tears and restrained gestures, yet evident care for her husband.
Chapter 59
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After Monseigneur's death, how did the new Dauphin respond to the King's wish about visiting Meudon?
The King indicated to M. de Beauvilliers that he would prefer the new Dauphin not go often to Meudon. The Dauphin at once declared he would never set foot in that palace and would never quit the King. He kept his word and never afterwards paid a single visit to Meudon.
Chapter 60
How did the King's treatment of the Dauphin change in the first fortnight at Marly?
The King, generally severe beyond measure with his legitimate children, showed the most marked graciousness for this prince. The change was evident to everybody at Marly within the first fortnight. The Dauphin, aided by his wife's influence with the King and Madame de Maintenon, redoubled attentions and secured the King's favour, transforming from timid and retiring into easy and frank.
Chapter 60
What order did the King give his ministers regarding the Dauphin, and why did it shock the Court?
The King ordered his ministers to work with the Dauphin whenever sent for, and whether sent for or not to make him acquainted with all public affairs, given once for all. The Court was astonished because this was directly opposed to the King's tastes, disposition, maxims and usage, and it tacitly transferred to the Dauphin a large part of the disposition of public affairs, reducing the ministers' power.
Chapter 60
CHAPTER LIX4 cards
What did Boudin, the Dauphine's chief doctor, warn her and the Dauphin about at Marly?
Boudin warned the Dauphine, and separately the Dauphin, that there was a plot to poison them both. He repeated the warning in a terrified manner to everyone in the salon. The King questioned him privately; Boudin insisted his information was good yet admitted he did not know its source, a contradiction the memoirist highlights.
Chapter 61
What happened to the snuff-box the Duc de Noailles gave the Dauphine?
The Dauphine received a box of Spanish snuff from the Duc de Noailles, took some, and left the box on her cabinet table. That evening she fell ill with fever. When her ladies went to fetch the box it could not be found, which raised dark suspicions. The Dauphine used snuff with Madame de Maintenon's knowledge but not the King's.
Chapter 61
Did Saint-Simon believe the Duc de Noailles poisoned the Dauphine?
No. Saint-Simon says the Archbishop of Rheims believed to his dying day that Noailles had poisoned the Dauphine with the snuff-box, citing Noailles's manner and other proofs. Saint-Simon never could believe it, tried to shake the Archbishop's conviction, and asked him to keep silent. Others who knew the box's history also did not suspect Noailles.
Chapter 61
What happened to the Dauphin after the Dauphine's death?
The Dauphin, already ill, had hidden his fever to stay at his wife's bedside. On Saturday the 13th he went to Marly, where Saint-Simon saw livid marks on his face and a fixed, wild look. The King had doctors feel his pulse, found it bad, and ordered him to bed. He obeyed and rose no more, believing Boudin's warned plot had been executed.
Chapter 61
CHAPTER LX4 cards
What did the doctors conclude about the Dauphin's and Dauphine's deaths?
When the bodies were opened before the full faculty, most doctors saw signs of a very subtle, violent poison that had consumed the interior of the body. Only one doctor, Marechal, dissented, warning that persuading the King of secret enemies would kill him by degrees. The report spread rapidly through Court and city, and public indignation fell on M. d'Orleans.
Chapter 62
Why does Saint-Simon argue M. d'Orleans could not have poisoned the Dauphin?
Saint-Simon argues d'Orleans had an interest directly opposite to M. du Maine's: he had everything to gain by the Dauphin's and Dauphine's lives, and only a monster vomited from hell could have committed the crime. By contrast, du Maine, head of the cabal, had all to gain and nothing to lose by their deaths, and worked to circulate the accusation.
Chapter 62
How did Saint-Simon behave toward M. d'Orleans during the poisoning rumors?
Saint-Simon says he was distinctly the only person who spoke to d'Orleans as before, sitting beside him in the salon and walking with him under the King's windows. Friends warned he would fall into disgrace; he held firm, believing one should not desert a friend believed innocent. He was later pressed to withdraw to La Ferme and returned after about a month or five weeks.
Chapter 62
What did the Princesse des Ursins' agent Chalais do regarding the Cordelier monk?
Chalais traveled secretly for eighteen days, arrested a middle-aged Cordelier at Bressuire who cried he was lost, and took him to the prison of Poitiers. The monk had been returning from Italy and Germany as far as Vienna. Chalais then reported to the King at Marly, and dreadful rumors spread that d'Orleans had poisoned the Dauphin and Dauphine through this monk, though the monk was far away at the time of the deaths.
Chapter 62
CHAPTER LXI4 cards
Why did the King insist on Madame la Duchesse de Berry travelling despite her fever?
She was about three months pregnant and feverish, and M. Fagon judged travel imprudent. Neither she nor M. d'Orleans dared raise it; M. de Berry was rebuffed, and appeals by Madame and Madame de Maintenon, backed by Fagon, failed. The King grew angry after days of dispute and conceded only that the journey be made by boat instead of coach.
Chapter 63
What happened to the Czar's army on the Pruth, and how did he escape?
The Turks drew the Czar across barren deserts; of his sixty thousand men he lost over thirty thousand, and the rest starved. A woman he had taken from a drummer and publicly married proposed bribing the Grand Vizier. Dazzled by gold and jewels, the Vizier signed a treaty letting the Czar retreat with provisions, in exchange for Azof, Black Sea forts and vessels, the King of Sweden's return, and war expenses.
Chapter 63
How did Marshal Catinat die, and how does Saint-Simon characterize him?
Catinat died very old at his small house of Saint-Gratien near Saint-Denis, where he had retired and rarely left, receiving few friends. Saint-Simon praises his virtue, wisdom, modesty, disinterestedness, and skill as a captain, noting his simple dress, equipage, and furniture. He deplored luxury, the confusion of ranks, and the extinction of emulation, saying only a climax of dangerous disorder could restore order.
Chapter 63
How did Vendome die, and what does Saint-Simon say of him?
At Vignarez he ate fish to excess for nearly a month, fell ill, and died on 10 June 1712, aged fifty-eight. His household fled or robbed him; he could not sign a will, had no priest, and was left with a few valets who dragged off his bedclothes. Saint-Simon calls him the haughtiest of men and a very bad general, and says his death restored life and joy to all Spain.
Chapter 63
CHAPTER LXII.4 cards
What obstacle delayed the peace between France and England?
Queen Anne and her Council feared that the king of Spain would claim the French crown if the little Dauphin died, and no power would allow the two principal crowns of Europe on one head. Treaties, renunciations, and oaths seemed weak guarantees, since the King had already broken them, so greater solemnity was sought.
Chapter 64
Why did the English propose assembling the States-General?
The English, used to their parliaments, believed France's States-General held similar authority and that such authority would best support the King's renunciations. They argued the King of Spain must renounce France and France renounce Spain to break the double bonds. The French explained the States-General's powerlessness, and the English saw their help would be vain.
Chapter 64
How did the Duchess of Shrewsbury change women's head-dresses?
The Duchess declared the towering head-dresses of brass wire, ribbons, and hair ridiculous. Though the King could not banish them in over ten years, her taste and example made women abandon the extreme height for simpler, more convenient styles almost at once, and these lasted even then.
Chapter 64
What happened when the Duc de Berry tried to reply at the renunciation ceremony?
After the Chief-President's compliment, the Duc de Berry took off his hat, looked around, and could only repeat 'Monsieur' several times before falling silent, to the confusion of all. The Chief-President bowed as if the reply were finished. Berry later wept, saying he was dishonoured, and blamed his education for stifling him.
Chapter 64
CHAPTER LXIII4 cards
What did the bull Unigenitus condemn, according to Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon says the bull condemned in set terms the doctrines of Saint-Paul, Saint-Augustin, and other fathers—doctrines he claims were always adopted by the Popes, Councils, and the Church itself. He reports that this condemnation shocked the cardinals and that the Court, city, and provinces rose against the constitution once its nature was known.
Chapter 65
Which doctrine in Unigenitus alarmed Saint-Simon most, and why?
The bull condemned the doctrine that an unjust excommunication ought not to hinder one from doing one's duty, thereby asserting that it ought to hinder. Saint-Simon argues this makes the Pope master of every crown, since an excommunicated prince must abandon his claims and forces—so the Pope could take or give kingdoms at will.
Chapter 65
How did Father Le Tellier answer Saint-Simon's argument about a disputed succession?
Le Tellier replied that if the Pope excommunicated one disputant, such an excommunication would not merely be unjust but false, and that it was never decided a false excommunication should hinder duty. Saint-Simon countered that the people, soldiers, and lords could not grasp this subtle distinction between false and unjust in the heat of arming for war.
Chapter 65
What happened to peace with the Emperor in 1714?
Saint-Simon reports that towards the close of 1713 peace seemed so certain that the King disbanded sixty battalions, eighteen men per company of the guards, and one hundred and six squadrons, twenty-seven of them dragoons. After much debate, peace was signed at Rastadt on 6 March 1714, then published at Paris with a Te Deum and bonfires.
Chapter 65
CHAPTER LXIV4 cards
Why did Helvetius travel to Madrid in February 1714?
The Queen of Spain, long afflicted with the king's evil around her face and neck, was near death and begged Louis XIV to send Helvetius. Helvetius was reluctant and knew her condition was grave, but the King expressly commanded him. He traveled by postchaise with a second chaise following in case of breakdown, arriving in Madrid on February 11, 1714. He said only a miracle could save her; she died on the 14th.
Chapter 66
What sovereignty did Madame des Ursins seek, and how did the plan fail?
She wanted a bona fide sovereignty written into the peace treaty with the Emperor, and the King of Spain long refused any terms without it. Louis XIV threatened to abandon Spain, forcing the King to yield, and peace was concluded without the stipulation. She had planned to exchange the sovereignty for Touraine and Amboise, and had Aubigny build the palace of Chanteloup near Amboise, which she later gave to him.
Chapter 66
What was the wooden corridor at Medina-Celi, and how did Pere Robinet respond to it?
After the Queen's death, Madame des Ursins moved the King to the smaller Palace of Medina-Celi and had a roofed, glazed wooden corridor built from his cabinet to the children's apartment, where she lodged as governess, so they could meet unobserved. Work continued on Sundays and feast days. When the Comptroller asked Robinet whether it would continue, Robinet stalled, then said work might be done even on Easter for destroying something, but not for continuing the corridor.
Chapter 66
How did Pere Robinet end the rumors that Madame des Ursins would marry the King?
Robinet, the King's confessor and the only man he could speak to outside Madame des Ursins's control, let the King press him for French news, played mysterious, then said no one at Madrid doubted the King would do the Princesse des Ursins the honor of marrying her. The King blushed and replied, "Marry her! oh no! not that!" and left. Whether she learned of this or despaired of success, she then changed course.
Chapter 66
CHAPTER LXV4 cards
Who, according to Saint-Simon, orchestrated the fall of Madame des Ursins?
Saint-Simon argues our King (Louis XIV) was the author of the plot, the King of Spain consented and assisted through the extraordinary secret order to Amenzago to obey the Queen in everything, and the Queen acted the part charged by the two Kings. He cites the King's remark to Tory, the calm reception of the news, and Alberoni's account of the Queen's earlier vow to drive her away.
Chapter 67
How did the King of Spain treat Madame des Ursins after her arrest and exile?
He sent her a letter of simple civility saying he was sorry for what had happened, that he could not oppose the Queen's will, and that he would continue her pensions and see them punctually paid. Saint-Simon notes he was as good as his word: she regularly received them as long as she lived.
Chapter 67
What happened at Guadalaxara upon the Queen's arrival, and how was the marriage celebrated?
The Queen arrived the afternoon before Christmas at the fixed hour as though nothing had occurred. The King received her on the staircase, gave her his hand, and led her to the chapel where the marriage was at once celebrated, since in Spain the custom is to marry after dinner. He then led her to her chamber and went to bed before six, both rising for midnight mass.
Chapter 67
What restrictions did M. d'Orleans place on Madame des Ursins, and how did Saint-Simon navigate them?
M. d'Orleans begged the King to prohibit Madame des Ursins from appearing anywhere, Versailles included, where she might meet the Duchesse de Berry, Madame, Monsieur le Duc, and Madame la Duchesse d'Orleans, whose households were forbidden contact with her. Saint-Simon, her old friend, capitulated and was permitted two visits, promising not a third and that Madame de Saint-Simon would not see her at all.
Chapter 67
CHAPTER LXVII.3 cards
What did the King declare about his two bastards and their male posterity?
The King declared his two bastards and their male posterity, to all eternity, real princes of the blood, with full liberty to assume all their dignities, honours, and rank, and capacity to succeed to the throne in default of the others. The declaration was prepared and sent to the Parliament, and had been kept entirely secret until the news broke.
Chapter 68
How did Maisons arrange his first secret meeting with Saint-Simon?
Maisons sent a note appointing a meeting at eleven o'clock at night in the plain behind the Invalides, in a very mysterious manner. Saint-Simon went with an old coachman of his mother's and a lackey to throw his people off the scent. There was little moonlight, and Maisons awaited him in a small carriage, then mounted into Saint-Simon's coach.
Chapter 68
What did Saint-Simon tell M. du Maine after the declaration, and what did he call the King's determination?
Saint-Simon told M. du Maine that the Dukes claimed no precedence over the Princes of the blood, but that nobody should stand between them; since the intermediary rank no longer existed, they had only to rejoice. He called the King's determination monstrous, astounding, and frightful, an attack on the Crown and high treason, worse than high treason against the State's chief.
Chapter 68
CHAPTER LXVIII4 cards
Who did the King blame for the poisonings, and who encouraged his fears?
The King was kept in fear of poison by Madame de Maintenon and M. du Maine, who named M. d'Orleans as the author of these crimes. Marechal, the chief surgeon, though equally persuaded poison had been used, argued the opposite before the King only to spare him a useless torment. The author says nobody seriously doubted that poison had been used.
Chapter 69
What scheme did M. du Maine pursue through the King's will?
M. du Maine wished not only to be made a prince of the blood but also guardian of the heir to the throne, so as to dwarf the Regent's power. He aimed to strip M. d'Orleans of everything except the name of Regent and divide all real power between himself and his brother. The author says the King was induced by incredible art to sanction this scheme.
Chapter 69
How did Madame de Maintenon and du Maine overcome the King's resistance?
Having failed to lead him by pleasing him, they turned cold: serious, dejected, silent, offering nothing to conversation and barely answering. This made the King's leisure hours dull and empty and his diversions a burden. The author admits the deepest interior scenes cannot be known and says to describe them would be to write romance.
Chapter 69
What did the King say when handing his will to the Chief-President?
On 27 August at Versailles the King gave the Chief-President and Attorney-General a sealed packet, saying it was his will and that no one but himself knew its contents. He said the example of his predecessors and of his father's will showed what might become of it, but that they had tormented him and left him no repose: 'I have bought my repose.'
Chapter 69
CHAPTER LXIX4 cards
What scheme did Maisons propose for dealing with the King's will?
Maisons urged that at the moment of the King's death, sure troops and instructed officers, along with masons and locksmiths, should march to the palace, break open the doors and the wall, carry off the will, and ensure it was never seen. He pressed this violent plan on Saint-Simon and M. le Duc d'Orleans for a whole year, though the Duke rejected it with astonishment.
Chapter 70
Why did Saint-Simon consider Maisons's scheme dangerous?
Saint-Simon argued that seizing a public, solemn document by force of arms in the capital would arm the enemies of M. le Duc d'Orleans, who could justly cry out against the outrage with the country echoing them. If sedition occurred and blood were shed, universal hatred and opprobrium would deservedly fall on the Duke.
Chapter 70
How did the Duc de Beauvilliers calm England after Madame's poisoning?
The King sent Beauvilliers to carry condolences to the King of England and, under that pretext, to prevent the misfortune from breaking their friendship and union and to calm the fury of London. Saint-Simon says the King was not deceived: Beauvilliers's prudent dexterity brought round the King of England and even appeased London and the nation.
Chapter 70
What does Saint-Simon say about the venality of infantry regiments?
The King taxed the infantry regiments, which had risen to an excessive price. Saint-Simon argues this venality of the only path to superior grades is a great blot on the military system, stopping the career of many who would become excellent soldiers. He calls it a gangrene eating into all orders of the state, and notes it is happily unknown or little known elsewhere in Europe.
Chapter 70
CHAPTER LXX4 cards
What personal qualities does Saint-Simon attribute to the Duc d'Orleans?
The author describes him as gentle, affable, open, and of easy, charming access, with a natural eloquence on many subjects including government, finance, war, and the arts. He notes the Duke's singular memory for names and dates despite merely skimming books, and his lack of presumption. The author argues his gentleness and humanity toward enemies became faults, causing him embarrassments and misfortunes.
Chapter 71
Who was the Abbe Dubois and how does Saint-Simon characterize him?
Dubois was the young Duke of Orleans's tutor after Saint-Laurent died. Saint-Simon describes him as a little, wizened man with a weasel's face, whose gods were avarice, debauchery, and ambition, and whose means were perfidy, flattery, and foot-licking. He held that probity and honesty are chimeras, so all means were good to him. He was treacherous, ungrateful, and skilled in low intrigues.
Chapter 71
What did the Duc d'Orleans admire about England, according to Saint-Simon?
The author says the Duke loved liberty for others as well as himself, and praised England as a country with no banishments and no lettres de cachet, where the King may close his palace door to anyone but cannot keep a person in prison. He also enjoyed recounting how the Grand Prieur seduced one of Charles II's mistresses and defied the King until Louis XIV recalled him.
Chapter 71
What military abilities does Saint-Simon credit the Duc d'Orleans with?
The author says the Duke had much valour, foresight, judgment, coolness, and vast capacity, calling him captain, engineer, and army purveyor in one. He knew the strength of his troops, the names and companies of officers, and the distinguished members of each corps. He could make himself adored while keeping discipline and execute difficult things while unprovided with everything.
Chapter 71
CHAPTER LXXI3 cards
What did the Duc d'Orleans conclude after his attempts to summon the devil?
Saint-Simon says the Duc d'Orleans's curiosity, joined to a false idea of firmness and courage, led him to try to raise the devil and make him speak. He worked with obscure people, especially Mirepoix, sublieutenant of the Black Musketeers, passing whole nights in the quarries of Vanvres and Vaugirard uttering invocations. The Duc admitted to Saint-Simon that he never succeeded in hearing or seeing anything and at last gave up this folly.
Chapter 72
What did Saint-Simon conclude about the Duc d'Orleans's actual religious belief?
Saint-Simon says that although they often spoke on religion, he never could unravel the system the Duc had formed and ended persuaded that he wavered unceasingly without forming any religion at all. The Duc had too much enlightenment to be an atheist, yet could not blind himself to a God or an immortal soul, and was very ill at ease on the point. Saint-Simon's great foible was to pride himself on impiety.
Chapter 72
What government reform did Saint-Simon propose to the Duc d'Orleans for the Regency?
Saint-Simon's design was to overthrow the system in which Mazarin had imprisoned the King and realm, and to introduce the nobility into the ministry with the dignity due to them, gradually dismissing the pen and robe people from all employ not purely judicial. He proposed abolishing the offices of secretary of state for war and foreign affairs, replacing them with councils, and insisted on a distinct separation of these councils so the public would know where to address itself.
Chapter 72
CHAPTER LXXII4 cards
How did Louis XIV react when Torcy read him the London bets on his death?
Torcy, reading the Dutch papers privately to the King, came upon the London bets that his life would not last beyond the first of September and tried to skip them. Louis insisted on hearing the whole account. He pretended not to be touched, but was profoundly affected, and at table immediately afterwards could not keep himself from speaking of it, though without mentioning the gazette.
Chapter 73
What did Marechal tell Madame de Maintenon about the King's health, and how did she respond?
Marechal, a chief physician, told Madame de Maintenon that Fagon was grossly mistaken: the King had a slow internal fever, and with remedies and attention all would go well, but if allowed to grow there would be no resource. She grew angry, saying only Fagon's personal enemies could fault his opinion, and Marechal gained only her anger for his zeal.
Chapter 73
What regimen did Fagon impose on the King, and what did the autopsy reveal?
Fagon swaddled the King nightly in feather pillows to induce sweats, and had him eat iced fruits, melons, figs, sweetmeats, strong soups, spiced food and salad. The author argues this regimen turned his blood to gangrene and the sweats weakened him. The autopsy found organs so healthy he might have lived past a hundred, with a stomach and bowels double the ordinary size.
Chapter 73
According to the author, why did no remedies help the King until too late?
The author argues Fagon would never believe the King ill, and Madame de Maintenon backed him; Marechal's warnings were repulsed. The King himself felt his decline and sometimes said so to his valets, but Fagon reassured him and did nothing. The author says his friendship for Fagon restrained him, and Madame de Maintenon still more.
Chapter 73
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How did Louis XIV's hat gestures vary by rank, according to Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon describes a graduated politeness: Louis raised his hat fully for ladies, half off for titled people, merely touched it for the nobility, and removed it for Princes of the blood as for ladies. He doffed his hat to the humblest petticoat, even chamber-maids at Marly, and did not cover himself until he had left ladies he accosted. Indoors he was never covered.
Chapter 74
Why did Louis XIV choose the swampy valley of Marly for his retreat?
The author says the King, wanting something small and solitary without expense, rejected the fine view at Lucienne because it would ruin him. He chose a deep narrow valley behind it, shut in and inaccessible from its swamps, with a wretched village called Marly on a hillside. Its only merit was closeness, with no drain or means of having one.
Chapter 74
What does Saint-Simon say about the cost and outcome of the Eure project?
Louvois conceived the idea of diverting the river Eure between Chartres and Maintenon to supply Versailles' defective fountains. Saint-Simon says it cost enormous gold and men over several years, with hard labour and disturbed earth causing sickness and death; officers from sub-officers to generals had to remain on site. War interrupted it in 1688, and unfinished portions remain.
Chapter 74
How does Saint-Simon characterize Louis XIV's building taste, especially at Versailles?
The author argues the King liked to subjugate nature by art and treasure, building at Versailles without general design, jumbling beautiful and ugly, vast and mean. He calls the King's and Queen's apartments inconvenient, dull, close, and stinking, the gardens magnificent but in bad taste, and the forced water green, thick, and muddy. He says the King built nothing useful in Paris except the Pont Royal, by necessity.
Chapter 74
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According to Saint-Simon, how did Louis XIV's love affairs affect the state?
The author argues the King's amours were even more fatal to the state than his building mania: their scandal filled Europe, stupefied France, shook the state, and drew down maledictions under which the King was pushed near the precipice, with his legitimate posterity nearly extinguished in France. Saint-Simon calls these evils veritable catastrophes long to be felt.
Chapter 75
How did Madame de Montespan's position at Court manifest, and how did the Queen regard her?
Her accouchements were public and her circle became the centre of the Court, of amusements, hopes and fears of ministers and generals, and of wit. She was cross, capricious and haughty, so courtiers avoided passing under her windows. The Queen, who always loved La Valliere, said of Montespan, 'That strumpet will cause my death.'
Chapter 75
How did Madame de Maintenon first come to raise the King's children by Madame de Montespan?
Madame de Montespan, impressed with the widow Scarron at the Hotel d'Albret, proposed that her first children by the King, M. du Maine and Madame la Duchesse, be confided to her. A house in the Marais was given to her to lodge in with them, with means to bring them up in the utmost secrecy; later they were shown to the King and gradually avowed.
Chapter 75
What turned the King's aversion to Madame de Maintenon into growing favour?
The King could not endure her at first. Her letters to Madame de Montespan about M. du Maine's journeys were shown to him; he thought them well written and his aversion diminished. Madame de Montespan's ill-humour, which pained him, finished the work: Maintenon reproached her for it, and the King began to confide in and consult Maintenon.
Chapter 75
CHAPTER LXXVI4 cards
How does Saint-Simon characterize Madame de Maintenon's wit and manner?
The author describes her as a woman of much wit, polished by good company and knowledge of the world. He credits her with incomparable grace, an easy yet measured and respectful manner, and language that was gentle, exact, well expressed, and naturally eloquent and brief. He notes her best time was the era of the 'ruelles,' whose influence she always retained, later adopting an air of devoutness she wore admirably.
Chapter 76
What did Louvois do to stop the King from declaring his marriage?
Louvois reminded the King of his earlier promise never to declare the marriage. When he learned the King had again promised to declare Madame de Maintenon Queen, he went to the King, drew a little sword, offered the handle, and begged to be killed on the spot rather than see the King break his word. He then extracted a second promise that the marriage would never be declared.
Chapter 76
What does Saint-Simon argue were the effects of revoking the Edict of Nantes?
The author argues the revocation, made without pretext or necessity, was a frightful plot in which the new spouse was a chief conspirator. He claims it depopulated a quarter of the realm, ruined commerce, weakened France, subjected Huguenots to dragoons' pillage and torments that killed thousands, armed relatives against relatives, banished manufactures abroad, and filled the realm with perjury and sacrilege.
Chapter 76
Why did Madame de Maintenon work to disgrace Louvois?
After the King, at Louvois's urging, begged her never to speak of being declared Queen, she learned Louvois was responsible for the collapse of her hopes. Saint-Simon says she swore to obtain his disgrace and never ceased working at it, waiting for her opportunity and undermining him at leisure, using every occasion to make him odious to the King.
Chapter 76
CHAPTER LXXVII4 cards
How did Madame de Maintenon and the ministers arrange appointments behind the King's back?
They coordinated beforehand: she sent word to the minister, who then proposed a balanced list of names to the King, deliberately confusing his choice. When the King asked her opinion, she feigned incapacity, mentioned another name, then returned to the minister's candidate. The author argues that three-fourths of favours were thus disposed of by her, with the King suspecting nothing.
Chapter 77
According to Le Tellier, how did the King assert mastery over his ministers?
Le Tellier said that of twenty matters brought before the King, nineteen would pass as the ministers wished, but which one would fail was never known in advance. The King reserved this caprice to show he was master. After the affair fell through and he had shown his power, he became supple and flexible, and then was the time to obtain what was wanted.
Chapter 77
How did the King treat the health and comfort of his mistresses and daughters?
The author argues his hard-heartedness was extreme. Whatever indisposition they suffered, even those opposed to travelling or full court dress, they had to be squeezed into full dress, travel to Flanders, dance, attend fetes, and appear unaffected by heat, cold, wind, or dust, precisely to the hour. Fainting was a fault past hope of pardon. His daughters received the same treatment.
Chapter 77
What explanation did those in the sick-chamber give for the King's tranquillity during his final illness?
The doctors said the malady deadened bodily pain and calmed agitation of the mind. Those in the sick-chamber gave another reason: the Jesuits admit laity, even married, into their company, and these licentiates vow unrestricted obedience to the General and superiors, promising all service and protection to the Company, above all submission to their confessor.
Chapter 77
CHAPTER LXXVIII4 cards
What special privilege did the King grant at Marly during promenades?
At Marly, when leaving the chateau, the King said aloud, "Your hats, gentlemen," and immediately courtiers, officers of the guard, and everyone covered their heads, as he would have been displeased had they not. This lasted the whole promenade, four or five hours in summer, or in other seasons when he dined early at Versailles to walk at Marly without sleeping there.
Chapter 78
Who was allowed to sit at the King's table during his army repasts?
Only a limited number chosen by the King, and high military rank alone did not suffice. M. de Vauban was overwhelmed by the distinction at the siege of Namur, and the Abbe de Grancey received the same honour for exposing himself everywhere to confess the wounded. All clergy were excluded except cardinals, bishops, peers, or ecclesiastics holding the rank of foreign princes.
Chapter 78
What was the King's morning routine upon waking?
At eight o'clock the chief valet de chambre awoke the King. The chief physician, chief surgeon, and nurse entered; the nurse kissed him, the others rubbed him and often changed his shirt because he sweated a great deal. At the quarter, the grand chamberlain or first gentleman drew back the curtains and presented holy water, then a prayer-book. A short religious service followed, then the King dressed, doing almost everything himself with address and grace.
Chapter 78
How did the King's dinner at Court differ from grand dinners?
The dinner was always 'au petit couvert': the King ate alone in his chamber at a square table before the middle window, with three courses plus fruit, and courtiers stood by. Grand dinners were very rare, held only on grand occasions, and ladies were present. At the petit couvert, ladies were scarcely ever seen; the Marechale de la Mothe was admitted because she had been governess and was a Duchess.
Chapter 78
CHAPTER LXXIX2 cards
What did Saint-Simon protest to the Parliament before the King's will was opened?
Saint-Simon made a protest against certain usurpations, stating that the Dukes postponed further measures only because M. le Duc d'Orleans had promised their complaints would be attended to once public affairs were settled. He then appealed to d'Orleans to verify the truth of his statements, which d'Orleans did in a low, embarrassed tone.
Chapter 79
What did the will and codicil provide, according to Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon says they provided nothing but the grandeur and power of the bastards, Madame de Maintenon, and Saint-Cyr, plus the choice of the King's education and the council of the regency, by which d'Orleans was to be shorn of all authority to the advantage of M. du Maine. The codicil, he adds, left d'Orleans neither life nor liberty safe.
Chapter 79
CHAPTER LXXX4 cards
Why was the King's first Bed of Justice postponed, and what did the Regent do instead?
Louis XV caught a cold during the night before the Bed of Justice set for Saturday, 7 September, and suffered a good deal. The Regent came alone to Paris; the Parliament was informed of the countermand, and the Chief-President and the King's people were sent for to the Palais Royal. The Parliament, about to adjourn, was continued for the rest of the month for general business.
Chapter 80
What did the Regent do with the lettres de cachet, and with what result?
The Regent had the Secretaries of State bring lists of all lettres de cachet issued from their bureaux with the reasons for them, many of which were slight. Most had been drawn up against Jansenists and opponents of the constitution, some dated from earlier ministers and were long forgotten. He restored exiles and prisoners to liberty except those arrested for grave crimes or affairs of State, earning widespread blessings.
Chapter 80
What happened to the man imprisoned thirty-five years in the Bastille?
He had been arrested the day he arrived in Paris on a journey from Italy, and was never examined; people believed a mistake had been made. When told of his liberty he sadly asked what he could do with it: he had no money, knew no one in Paris or France, and assumed his relatives and property were gone. He asked to remain in the Bastille with food and lodging, which was granted.
Chapter 80
What did Lord Stair argue to the Regent about France and England's interests?
Stair, the English ambassador, argued that King George was a usurper, and that if anything happened to the young King, the Regent would also become a usurper on mounting the French throne, since the King of Spain was the real heir. Therefore France and England should march together: France assisting England against the Pretender, England assisting France against Spain. Saint-Simon says the Regent saw the snare but was seduced by its crookedness.
Chapter 80
CHAPTER LXXXI4 cards
What honours did Madame la Duchesse de Berry usurp, and how were they curtailed?
She usurped all the honours of a queen, going through Paris with kettle-drums beating despite Madame de Saint-Simon's objections. The Marechal de Villeroy complained to the Regent, who promised that while the King remained in Paris only his kettle-drums would be heard. She never had kettle-drums again, though she still used a raised dais, guards, and a players' harangue at the theatre until public criticism made her retreat to a small opera box.
Chapter 81
How did Rion gain and exercise power over Madame la Duchesse de Berry?
Rion, a poor lieutenant of dragoons with many siblings, was sent for by Madame Pons and soon became master of the Luxembourg. He made the Princess wait, jealous, and cry, controlling her dress, occupations, and company; she even sent messages during her toilet for his orders. If she acted without permission he treated her like a serving-wench. Saint-Simon notes she was submissive and passionate even in public, while Rion remained polite to everyone else.
Chapter 81
How did the Duchess combine scandalous life with religious observance at the Carmelites?
She took an apartment at the Carmelite convent in the Faubourg Saint-Germain, sometimes staying days, attended services, prayed long, and fasted rigorously. Two talented Carmelite nuns received her and told her frankly that from what they saw they would call her a saint, but her public life elsewhere was incomprehensible; their lectures were in vain. Saint-Simon presents this surprising conduct as a source of wonderment.
Chapter 81
How did the Regent divide his day between business and pleasure?
Until five in the evening he devoted himself exclusively to public business, ministers, and councils, taking only chocolate between two and three. After the day's council, business was banished; he went to the opera or Luxembourg, supped with mistresses and his 'roues,' and drank and talked filthily until bed. Saint-Simon argues he lost immense time in debauchery and in audiences too easily granted, and that once supper was ready nothing could interrupt it.
Chapter 81
CHAPTER LXXXII3 cards
What two objections did Saint-Simon raise against Law's bank plan?
Saint-Simon argued he lacked financial expertise but still opposed the bank on two grounds: first, the difficulty of governing it with enough foresight to avoid issuing more notes than could be redeemed on demand; second, that a bank suited to a free country like England would be pernicious in an absolute monarchy like France, where war, a minister's or mistress's avarice, or a king's prodigality might exhaust it and ruin note-holders.
Chapter 82
Why did Law want weekly private visits with Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon concluded that Law, a man of sense, did not expect to make him a financier. Rather, Law wished to draw near a servitor of the Regent who held the best post in his confidence and could speak freely of everyone; to gain Saint-Simon's friendship, learn the intrinsic qualities of people he only saw outwardly, and through him reach the Council to air grievances—especially about the Duc de Noailles, who secretly obstructed him.
Chapter 82
Who was Arouet, and why does Saint-Simon mention his exile?
Arouet, son of a notary employed by Saint-Simon's father and himself, was exiled to Tulle in early 1716 for some very satirical and impudent verses. Saint-Simon says he would not record such a trifle except that this same Arouet, having become a great poet and academician under the name of Voltaire, had also become a sort of personage in the republic of letters.
Chapter 82
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How did Alberoni gain control over Philip V of Spain?
The author argues Alberoni controlled Philip through the new Queen, whom he had won over during their journey from Parma to Madrid. With Madame des Ursins disgraced, Alberoni became prime minister, kept the King inaccessible to courtiers, and blocked anyone whose influence he feared, holding Philip as completely as Madame des Ursins had before.
Chapter 83
What secret arrangement did England and France make regarding Gibraltar?
England promised to return Gibraltar to Spain. The King of England required absolute secrecy until execution, so the negotiation bypassed Alberoni and Spanish ministers, going directly between the Regent and Philip V via a confidential agent. A Spanish general would march to Gibraltar, present the English King's signed order to the Governor, and take possession.
Chapter 83
Why did Saint-Simon think Louville was the worst choice as secret agent?
Saint-Simon argued that Louville's intimacy with Philip V made him most feared by the Queen and Alberoni, so they would work hardest to make his embassy fail in order to protect their credit and authority. Louville admitted the logic but had not dared refuse the mission, hoping success would secure him large arrears of pensions.
Chapter 83
How did Alberoni prevent Louville from seeing the King of Spain?
Alberoni sent a courier ordering Louville away from Madrid, then had Grimaldo deliver a royal order to leave the city. When Louville refused, Alberoni visited him personally, insisting the King would not see him. Grimaldo later threatened that the King's anger might override respect for an ambassador, so Louville departed after seven or eight days.
Chapter 83
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What did the Parliament hope to achieve by imprisoning Pomereu, Argenson's agent?
The Parliament, using its Chamber of justice, imprisoned Pomereu to find the thread of secret dealings and to humiliate Argenson and the Regent. It aimed to parade its power, terrify the public, and limit the Regent's authority, while appearing to protect the public against secret arrests and private imprisonments. The plan failed when the Regent had Pomereu removed by lettre de cachet within an hour.
Chapter 84
What arguments did Saint-Simon use to persuade the Regent not to destroy Marly?
Saint-Simon argued that Marly's upkeep was a drop in the ocean of royal expenses; that selling materials would yield nothing due to gifts and pillage; that Marly was a unique fairy palace famed for its fountains and a curiosity to strangers; that its destruction would resound through Europe with censure; and that it would wound the late King's memory and give the discontented and ancient court grounds to cry murder.
Chapter 84
What were the 'grandes entrees' and who was entitled to them?
The grandes entrees gave the right to enter the King's most retired apartments whenever the grand chamberlain and chief gentlemen of the chamber entered, allowing private conversation without permission or others' knowledge. They belonged to the grand chamberlain, first gentleman of the chamber, and grand master of the wardrobe on duty, plus the King's legitimate and illegitimate children and their spouses. Saint-Simon was first to receive them from the Regent.
Chapter 84
How did the different ranks of entrees differ in privilege?
The grandes entrees allowed entry to all retired places of the King's apartments. The second, simply called entrees, were purely personal and gave the right to see the King at his rising after the grandes and, with difficulty, during the day and evening. The chamber entrees allowed presence at the King's rising and at the booting ceremony. The cabinet entrees allowed waiting for the King after rising until he gave orders, and entering when he changed his coat.
Chapter 84
CHAPTER LXXXV4 cards
Why did Peter I abandon his plan to convert to Catholicism?
Peter wanted Catholic marriages to ally with European powers, so he secretly sent an agent to Rome, then Prince Kourakin for three years. Kourakin's faithful report on Rome's temporal pretensions convinced Peter he must be master in his own country and could not place anyone greater than himself there. The author says Peter then never again thought of turning Catholic.
Chapter 85
How did Peter I treat the patriarchate and become religious chief?
The Moscow patriarchs had held prodigious power, with the Czar leading their horse by the bridle at their entry into Moscow. Since Peter's grandfather there had been no patriarch, and Peter, like his father, never consented to one. After King William advised him to imitate England and head his own religion, Peter gradually became the real religious chief of his dominions.
Chapter 85
How did the Regent prepare for the Czar's 1717 visit?
The Regent sent the King's equipages and Du Libois to Dunkerque to pay expenses and render royal honours. He furnished the Queen-mother's Louvre apartment and the Hotel de Lesdiguieres, sent Neelle to Calais and Tesse to Beaumont, and appointed Verton to serve the Czar's tables. The Regent would gladly have dispensed with the visit, given the expense and Peter's touchy suite.
Chapter 85
How did the Duchesse de Lesdiguieres dispose of her wealth?
She left much to her servants and for pious purposes, and others received magnificent legacies, but she left nothing to her daughter-in-law, though the woman was poor and respectful to her. The author describes her as a sort of fairy who saw scarcely anybody, never went to Court, and lived amid consummate magnificence that was nearly deserted.
Chapter 85
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How did the Czar receive the Regent at their first meeting?
The Czar advanced a few paces, embraced the Regent with an air of great superiority, pointed to the cabinet door, and turned on his heel without a compliment. Inside were two armchairs facing each other; the Czar took the upper one. The Regent followed with Prince Kourakin as interpreter. The conversation lasted nearly an hour without public affairs being mentioned, and the Czar dismissed the Regent with only a slight return of his deep reverence.
Chapter 86
How did the Czar greet the young King on the King's visit?
The Czar received the King at the door, watched him alight, and walked with him at his left. Inside were two armchairs equally placed; the King took the right. The Czar then took the King under both arms, hoisted him up to his own level, and embraced him in the air. The King showed no fear. The Czar displayed grace, tenderness, and politeness mixed with greatness, equality of rank, and slight superiority of age.
Chapter 86
What did the Czar do at the Invalides on Whit Sunday?
At the Invalides the Czar wished to see and examine everything. In the refectory he tasted the soldiers' soup and wine, drank to their healths, struck them on the shoulders, and called them comrades. He much admired the church, dispensary, and infirmary, and appeared pleased with the establishment's order. The Marechal de Villars did the honours, and the Marechale came to look on; the Czar was very civil to her.
Chapter 86
How did the Czar behave when presented to Madame de Maintenon at Saint-Cyr?
Madame de Maintenon, expecting his curiosity, had buried herself in bed with all curtains closed except one half-open. The Czar entered, pulled back the window-curtains, then the bed-curtains, took a long stare at her, said not a word, received no word in reply, made her no kind of reverence, and went his way. Saint-Simon says she was much astonished and still more mortified, but the King was no more.
Chapter 86
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What did Alberoni see as the necessary basis of Spain's power, and how did he plan to fund it?
Alberoni believed, with reason, that a strong navy was the necessary basis of Spain's power. To create one, he endeavoured to economise public money and diminish the expenses of the royal household. He flattered the King with the idea that next year he would arm forty vessels to protect the commerce of the Spanish Indies.
Chapter 88
How did Alberoni control the King and Queen of Spain, and what was the Queen's position in this arrangement?
Alberoni persuaded the Queen to keep her husband shut up, as the Princesse des Ursins had done, since the King was attached to his spouse by temperament and conscience. By this means the Queen was jailoress and prisoner at the same time: constantly with the King, so nobody could come to her. Alberoni kept them both shut up, with the key of their prison in his pocket.
Chapter 88
How did Alberoni obtain the Cardinal's hat despite opposition at Rome?
A violent party at Rome opposed him, but his inflexible will and extreme cunning gained the day. The Pope, no longer able to resist the menaces of the King of Spain and dreading the vengeance of the all-powerful minister, consented to grant the favour. Alberoni was made Cardinal on 12 July 1717. No cardinal praised the promotion at the consistory, and many openly disapproved.
Chapter 88
What happened when the Marquis de Villena tried to enter the King's chamber, and how did Alberoni and the King respond?
Alberoni and the Queen resolved to refuse Villena admission. When a valet tried to stop him, Villena pushed in and approached the bed. Alberoni took his arm to remove him; Villena called him a little scoundrel and struck his ears and shoulders with his little stick. Alberoni escaped, and Villena was exiled to an estate thirty leagues from Madrid. The King, too ill, saw nothing and remained ignorant until Alberoni's fall.
Chapter 88
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What resolution did the Regent claim to Saint-Simon in the Palais Royal garden?
The Regent told Saint-Simon he was tired of his dissolute life, resolved to give up his gay parties, spend evenings soberly at home or with Madame la Duchesse d'Orleans, gain health and time for business, and abandon suppers of 'roues and harlots'—his own terms—for a prudent life suited to his age and station. Saint-Simon, surprised and delighted, thanked him for his confidence.
Chapter 89
How did the Regent reveal his promise to Saint-Simon was a trick?
The next day Saint-Simon learned that the Regent, no sooner at table, burst out laughing and applauded his cleverness, saying he had laid a trap into which Saint-Simon had fallen full length. He recited their conversation to the roues, to their marvellous joy and applause. Saint-Simon notes this was the only time the Regent diverted himself at his expense, and he never let on that he knew.
Chapter 89
What did the Bailli de Conflans report about the Regent's opinion of Saint-Simon?
Returning from the Regency Council with M. le Duc de Chartres and the Bailli de Conflans, the Regent praised Saint-Simon at length: happy to have a friend so faithful, unchanging, useful, sure, true, disinterested and firm, such as he could find in no one else. He told his son he wished to teach him to know Saint-Simon as a support and source of happiness. Conflans repeated this two days later.
Chapter 89
How does Saint-Simon describe Madame de Sabran and the Regent's mistresses?
Saint-Simon calls Madame de Sabran the most beautiful woman, with regular, touching beauty and noble bearing without affectation, seeming ignorant of her charms, deceitfully modest when it pleased her, witty, insinuating, merry and charming at table—exactly what the Regent wanted. She became his mistress. The Regent never contented himself with one mistress, but his mistresses had little power, knew no state secrets, and received little money.
Chapter 89
CHAPTER XC4 cards
Why did the late King tolerate Parliament's encroachments on the Dukes' privileges?
The author argues the late King was pleased to see all ranks mixed in confusion. He hated and feared the nobility and was jealous of their power, which in former reigns had often balanced the crown. He was therefore glad of any opportunity that weakened the noble order and robbed it of its dignity, and said nothing against Parliament's impudent enterprises.
Chapter 90
How did Saint-Simon distinguish the French Parliament from the English Parliament?
He says the English Parliament is charged with legislative administration, has the right to make and repeal laws, and the monarch can do little without its support. The French Parliament, by contrast, is but a tribunal of justice, with no control or influence over royal authority or state affairs. He argues it wrongly imagined itself armed with the highest powers.
Chapter 90
What did the Regent reply to Parliament's three requests about the money edict?
He said the edict was already registered at the Cour des Monnaies, a superior court, which sufficed; only once before had such an edict gone to Parliament, and then out of civility. The matter had been well sifted and was advantageous to the State; the Mint works could not be interfered with; and the King must be obeyed.
Chapter 90
What did Parliament's August decree against the Regent's authority demand?
By this decree the administration of the finances was henceforth to be entirely at the Parliament's mercy. Law, the Scotchman, who had been allowed some influence over state money matters under the Regent's favour, was to possess that influence no longer. In fact, all power on the part of the Regent over the finances was to be taken from him.
Chapter 90
CHAPTER XCI4 cards
Why did Saint-Simon propose holding the Bed of Justice at the Tuileries in secret?
Saint-Simon warned that the Duc du Maine and Maréchal de Villeroy, as the young King's guardians, would oppose a Bed of Justice by pleading the King's health, the heat, the crowd, and fatigue, possibly refusing to accompany him. His remedy was to hold it at the Tuileries, keep it secret until the morning, and notify attendees only hours before, leaving no time to object or interfere with troop arrangements.
Chapter 91
What obstacle about seating did Saint-Simon have to solve for the Bed of Justice?
A Bed of Justice required tiered seats for participants, and no room at the Tuileries had them. Erecting them openly would provoke questions and suspicions that could expose the plan. Saint-Simon went secretly to Fontanieu, controller of crown furniture, to arrange that the seats be erected at the very last moment—in time for the ceremony but too late for enemies to use the information.
Chapter 91
Why did Saint-Simon oppose M. le Duc's proposal to strip the Duc du Maine at the Bed of Justice?
Saint-Simon, though hostile to the bastards, argued one blow at a time was enough and striking at Maine's education post and rank simultaneously was dangerous. Maine had supporters and led a sort of party; his rage and wounded ambition might spark civil war. He urged this on the Regent and M. le Duc in two secret meetings, but M. le Duc was unshaken and Saint-Simon gave in.
Chapter 91
How was the Comte de Toulouse treated differently from his brother in the planned disgrace?
It was resolved that disgrace should fall on the Duc du Maine alone. The Comte de Toulouse, for his devotion to the State and excellent conduct since the late King's death, would be stripped of the title along with his brother but receive it back immediately, in acknowledgment of his services to the Regent as Councillor of State and as personal good feeling his qualities merited.
Chapter 91
CHAPTER XCII4 cards
Why was the Bed of justice held at the Tuileries rather than the Palais de justice?
The Regent, M. le Duc d'Orleans, told the Regency Council that the heat made it unadvisable to jeopardise the King's health amid the crowd at the Palais de justice. He therefore followed the example of the late King, who had sometimes summoned the Parliament to the Tuileries. He also used the occasion to have the Keeper of the Seals' lettres de provision registered at the start of the sitting.
Chapter 92
How did the Regent reassure Saint-Simon about the departing bastards?
When Saint-Simon warned that the two brothers were leaving, the Regent replied tranquilly that the Comte de Toulouse had asked permission to go out with his brother and had assured him they would be discreet. If not, the Regent said they would be well looked after, arrested if they left Paris, and that orders had already been given. Saint-Simon then sat down more tranquil.
Chapter 92
How did Saint-Simon treat the Duc de Noailles when asked what was happening?
The Duc de Noailles, enraged at counting for nothing in the preparations and devoured by curiosity, leaned across the table and begged Saint-Simon to explain. Saint-Simon, who was at daggers-drawn with him, turned with a cold and disdainful air, heard him out, looked at him, and turned away again without a word. That was his entire reply.
Chapter 92
What did Saint-Simon observe in the faces of the Council during the reading?
Saint-Simon examined the company: the Regent showed new authority and attention; M. le Duc was gay and confident; the Prince de Conti seemed absent and meditative; the Keeper of the Seals grave and firm; Marechal de Villars and Villeroy had irritated eyes; D'Antin seemed fettered and scared; the Marechal d'Huxelles hid despair; old Troyes showed only surprise and embarrassment.
Chapter 92
CHAPTER XCIII4 cards
Why did Saint-Simon oppose the King dining before the Bed of Justice?
He feared that if the King ate earlier than usual and then went immediately to the Bed of Justice, he might fall ill, which Saint-Simon calls a grievous inconvenience. He therefore had the question decided in the negative, and the King did not dine beforehand.
Chapter 93
How did Saint-Simon describe the Parliament's reaction to the Keeper of the Seals' second discourse?
He reports general consternation spreading over their faces, with scarcely one member daring to speak to his neighbour. The Chief-President showed bitter grief full of vexation, and shame and confusion were painted on him. Saint-Simon notes the Abbe Pucelle stood to hear better each time the Keeper of the Seals spoke.
Chapter 93
What did Saint-Simon observe about the Chief-President delivering the Parliament's remonstrance?
Saint-Simon says the remonstrance was full of subtle and impudent malice against the Regent and insolence against the King, yet the Chief-President trembled as he spoke. His voice was broken, his eyes constrained, and his flurry and confusion contradicted the venomous words he uttered.
Chapter 93
What satisfaction did Saint-Simon take in watching the Parliament during the Bed of Justice?
He delighted in seeing the haughty lawyers, who had dared to refuse the peers the salutation, prostrated on their knees rendering homage to the throne while the peers sat covered on elevated seats beside it. He saw this disproportion as pleading the cause of the peers, the 'laterales regis,' against the third estate.
Chapter 93
CHAPTER XCIV.4 cards
Whom did the Regent order Saint-Simon to inform of the Bed of Justice outcome?
The Regent, M. le Duc d'Orleans, required Saint-Simon to carry news of the Bed of Justice to Madame la Duchesse d'Orleans at Saint-Clerc. Saint-Simon protested, arguing he was an ill-chosen messenger because he had always been an open enemy of the bastards and she would see his presence as an insult. The Regent insisted, and Saint-Simon went.
Chapter 94
What did Saint-Simon learn at Saint-Cloud about knowledge of the Bed of Justice?
Saint-Simon expected Saint-Cloud to already know everything. Instead, the Marechale de Rochefort told him they knew only that a Bed of Justice had been held and were desperate to learn what passed there. Saint-Simon made her swear and repeat four times that nothing was known, then told her the news, astonishing her.
Chapter 94
How did Madame la Duchesse d'Orleans react to Saint-Simon's news?
She wept abundantly, said not a word, and uttered no cry. She told Saint-Simon it was better to learn bad news from a friend than from others, and later said her brother must be very criminal to be so treated. She then dictated the rest of a letter to the Regent, which Saint-Simon admired for its conciseness and fitness despite her sobs.
Chapter 94
How did Madame (the Regent's mother) receive the news of the bastards' humiliation?
Madame rose with eagerness to hear Saint-Simon's news. Joy spread over her face, and she repeated 'At last!', saying her son ought long since to have struck this blow but was too good. She was delighted at the humiliation of the Parliament and the bastards, and that her son had at last displayed some firmness.
Chapter 94
CHAPTER XCV4 cards
What was the aim of the Cellamare-Alberoni plot discovered in 1718?
The scheme was to plunge the realm into revolt against the Regent, M. le Duc d'Orleans, and place the King of Spain at the head of French affairs with a council and ministers named by him. A lieutenant, effectively a regent, would govern France—and that lieutenant was to be none other than the Duc du Maine. The plot was discovered before reaching maturity.
Chapter 95
How did Dubois learn of the conspirators' packet, and where were they arrested?
Saint-Simon admits uncertainty: whether Portocarrero's arrival seemed suspicious, whether Dubois corrupted the ambassador's people, or whether he simply wished to oblige the English regarding the bankrupt banker, he cannot say. What is certain is that Dubois had the three travellers—the two young men and the banker—arrested at Poitiers and their papers carried to him by courier.
Chapter 95
How did the Regent justify arresting a foreign ambassador?
The Regent argued before the council that the law of nations' protection does not extend to conspiracies, and that ambassadors forfeit that protection when they take part in plots, especially when they incite people against the state where they reside. He cited examples of ambassadors arrested for less, and said he would name nobody until the affair was fully unraveled.
Chapter 95
How did Cellamare behave during the search of his house?
Cellamare showed no fear or loss of composure during the roughly three hours of examination. He was civil to Le Blanc but treated Dubois with open disdain, and when Le Blanc took up a small casket he cried out to leave it—it was for Dubois—adding that Dubois had been a pander all his life and the casket held only women's letters. Dubois burst out laughing, not daring to grow angry.
Chapter 95
CHAPTER XCVI4 cards
Who did the Regent consult about the du Maine conspiracy, and what did they advise?
The Regent consulted Saint-Simon and M. le Duc in his private cabinet at the Palais Royal. M. le Duc urged that M. and Madame du Maine be arrested at once and imprisoned where they could cause no fear. Saint-Simon supported this, arguing there was not a moment to lose and that it was better to incur uncertain danger than wait for certain danger. The Regent accepted their advice after some debate.
Chapter 96
Where were M. du Maine and Madame du Maine imprisoned, and why those places?
M. du Maine was sent to Dourlens, chosen because Saint-Simon knew its governor, Charost, and his son, as men of probity and loyalty. Madame du Maine was sent to the chateau of Dijon, which belonged to M. le Duc, her nephew — a choice the Regent proposed jokingly, since it made M. le Duc his aunt's gaoler. M. le Duc gave way after objecting for form's sake.
Chapter 96
How did the Comte de Toulouse respond to his brother's arrest?
The Comte de Toulouse went to the Regent the very day of the double arrest and declared that he regarded the King, the Regent, and the State as one and the same thing. He said he would never fail in duty or fidelity toward them, was sorry for what had happened to his brother, but was in no way answerable for him. The Regent was charmed by this straightforward honesty.
Chapter 96
What happened to the faux sauniers after the du Maine arrests, and what did Saint-Simon conclude?
The faux sauniers, illicit salt traders, had grown to more than five thousand, armed and organized in Champagne and Picardy, secretly encouraged by those wishing to sow trouble. Directly after the arrests they laid down their arms, asked for and obtained pardon. Saint-Simon took this prompt submission as proof of who had employed them. He had proposed abolishing the salt tax as a remedy, but the Regent listened and did nothing.
Chapter 96
CHAPTER XCVII4 cards
What happened when Madame de Charlus's head-dress caught fire at the gaming supper?
At Madame la Princesse de Conti's, Madame de Charlus cracked a boiled egg and, reaching for salt, set her unfastened head-dress alight at a candle without noticing. Archbishop Le Tellier of Rheims seized it and threw it to the ground. She, unaware of the cause, threw her egg in his face, and the company laughed at his omelette and her hoary head.
Chapter 97
How did the Duc d'Orleans react when Saint-Simon read him the Philippiques?
Saint-Simon brought the poem but refused to read it aloud; the Regent read it himself in a low voice, apparently unmoved, until the passage accusing him of plotting to poison the King. He then changed countenance, wept, and called the poem too much, complaining of the enormous injustice. Saint-Simon says his horror convinced any unprejudiced observer of his innocence.
Chapter 97
What was the fate of Pere Tellier after his disgrace?
Tellier, former confessor of the King, was confined by his superiors at La Fleche with a four-thousand-livre pension from the Regent. Saint-Simon describes him as a tyrant of the Church, hated by fellow Jesuits, now under sharp superiors and equals who showed him contempt. He died after only six months there.
Chapter 97
What does Saint-Simon say about the Jesuits' treatment of their aged members?
The author argues the Jesuits are ungrateful to members who become useless through age or infirmity, leaving them in dreary solitude and begrudging their food. He cites three examples: a former rector and Roman assistant put in a garret, a sick man to whom Saint-Simon sent dinner for over five months, and an old priest who died at the Paris noviciate.
Chapter 97
CHAPTER XCVII.4 cards
Why did the cure of Saint-Sulpice refuse the sacraments to Madame la Duchesse de Berry?
The cure refused to administer the sacrament, or allow it to be administered, while Rion or Madame de Mouchy remained in the chamber or even in the Luxembourg. He declared this publicly before M. le Duc d'Orleans, who tried and failed to make him give way. The Cardinal de Noailles, as bishop, upheld the cure and formally prohibited the sacraments under those conditions.
Chapter 98
How did the Cardinal de Noailles support the cure's position?
After a long private conversation with the Regent and the cure, the Cardinal de Noailles said aloud before the assembled company that the cure had done his duty and should not give in. As bishop, diocesan, and superior, he prohibited the cure from administering the sacraments to Madame la Duchesse de Berry while Rion and Madame de Mouchy were in the chamber or in the Luxembourg.
Chapter 98
How did Madame de Mouchy respond when told of the clergy's resolution?
La Mouchy was astonished and annoyed. She spoke of her own merit and of the affront she said bigots wished to cast on her and the Duchess, who would never consent. She claimed the Duchess would die in her state if told. She then undertook to announce the resolution to Madame la Duchesse de Berry, adding her own embellishments, and quickly brought back a negative response.
Chapter 98
What did the cure do after the Cardinal left, and how did the illness end?
The cure posted himself against the chamber door and remained there four days and four nights, except for short intervals for food and rest at his nearby home, when two priests took his place. He feared clandestine administration of the sacraments. At last, the danger having passed, he raised the siege. Madame la Duchesse de Berry was safely delivered of a daughter.
Chapter 98
CHAPTER XCIX4 cards
Why did Saint-Simon refuse Law's offers of Mississippi shares?
Saint-Simon refused because he did not believe anyone could convert all he touched into gold, and he thought Law's system was a learned trick that transferred wealth from one person to another, enriching some at others' expense. He predicted the scheme would eventually collapse and ruin many people, and he said he abhorred gaining at the expense of others.
Chapter 99
How did Saint-Simon avoid the shares while settling his father's debts?
Saint-Simon proposed that the Regent indemnify him for his father's losses defending Blaye against the Prince de Condé's party, giving up warrants worth 500,000 livres to be burned. The Regent agreed, spoke to Law, and the warrants were burned gradually in the Regent's cabinet, which Saint-Simon described as the means by which he paid for what he had done at La Ferme.
Chapter 99
What obstacles stood in the way of Law's advancement to comptroller-general?
Law, a foreigner and a heretic, could not be naturalised without first abjuring, so a cleric had to be found to convert him; the Abbe Tencin, later publicly convicted of simony and fraud, performed this. Law also clashed with Argenson over the finances, but Argenson yielded, and Law was declared comptroller-general while Argenson kept the seals.
Chapter 99
How did the Prince de Conti force money from Law's bank?
After prayers and cringing failed, the Prince de Conti sent three waggons to Law's bank and drove them away full of money, which he made Law give him in exchange for paper he held. Law did not dare refuse and reveal the poverty of his metallic funds, but complained to the Regent, who reprimanded Conti severely.
Chapter 99
CHAPTER C4 cards
Why did Saint-Simon argue Law's bank could only work in a republic or England?
The author argues that a bank issuing notes as good as ready money could only succeed where finances are governed by those who furnish them, as in a republic or England. In an absolute, changing state like France, a king, mistress, minister, or favourites could overthrow it, and extreme necessities like those of 1707–1710 made solidity and discreet confidence impossible.
Chapter 100
What did the May 22, 1720 decree do to Mississippi shares and bank notes?
The decree of the Council of State diminished by degrees, month by month, the value of the Company of the Indies shares and Law's bank notes, so that by the end of the year their value would be reduced by one-half. Saint-Simon calls this turning tail in the language of finance and bankruptcy, and says it made people believe things were worse than they were.
Chapter 100
How were people seized for the Mississippi colonies treated, and with what result?
Persons without livelihood, sturdy beggars, and public creatures were carried off, but with so much violence and roguery that great murmuring arose. No care was taken for their subsistence; they were shut up at night without food in barns or dry ditches, and died in frightful numbers. The scheme was abandoned, those collected were freed, and Law became much detested.
Chapter 100
What did the Regent do to state interest rates, and how did the Parliament respond?
Persuaded by financial advisers, the Regent resolved to reduce to two per cent the interest on all funds, which relieved those who paid but cut down the income of state creditors who had lent at five per cent. He assembled financiers at the Palais Royal and passed the edict. The Parliament men refused to register it, but the Regent maintained his decree anyway.
Chapter 100
CHAPTER CI4 cards
What did the new edict of July 1720 establish, and why did it fail to satisfy the public?
It created an Indian commercial company meant to reimburse six hundred million bank notes by paying fifty thousand dollars a month, replacing the Mississippi scheme with something real. Even with the tobacco monopoly and other immense monopolies granted to it, the company could not meet public claims, and the public was already furious over the decree limiting coin holdings to five hundred livres.
Chapter 101
How did the crowd at the bank on 17 July 1720 end, and what happened to Law?
Ten or twelve people were stifled in the crush to obtain money. Three bodies were carried to the Palais Royal, but La Vrilliere, Le Blanc, and the lieutenant of police calmed the people and dispersed them. Law then went to the Palais Royal, was cursed in the streets, and was given a lodging there while his carriage windows and house were smashed.
Chapter 101
What punishment did the Regent impose on the disobedient Parliament, and why did Saint-Simon call it ridiculous?
The Regent resolved to exile the Parliament to Blois, but then substituted Pontoise, close to Paris. Saint-Simon argues this made the chastisement ridiculous, showed the Regent's vacillating weakness, and encouraged the Parliament to laugh at him. The Chief-President even obtained over 100,000 ecus and kept open table at Pontoise.
Chapter 101
How did Law finally leave France, and where did he end up?
At the end of 1720, with no more resources, Law secretly departed the realm and was sacrificed to the public. His flight became known only because the intendant's eldest son stupidly arrested him despite the Regent's passport. Law and his son went to Brussels, then Liege and Germany, offered his talents to princes who all declined, passed through the Tyrol and Italian courts, and retired to Venice, which did not employ him.
Chapter 101
CHAPTER CII2 cards
What dispute arose between M. le Duc and the Regent over Law's departure from France?
The Regent asked M. le Duc why he let Law leave the realm, claiming M. le Duc furnished the means. M. le Duc replied he never asked for Law's release; he had only sent the passports the Regent gave him. He denied ever requesting them and said he would have advised against letting Law depart. The Regent conceded M. le Duc never asked.
Chapter 102
What did the Council decide regarding the India Company's debt to the King and the bona fide shareholders?
The Company was considered debtor to the King because the bank was a governmental establishment. The Council decided other debtors should receive first attention, and that bona fide shareholders should not be ruined by the Company's debt to the King, nor should those who had left in time or bought shares cheaply profit from their misfortune. Commissioners were to be named to liquidate the papers and annul those not from real purchases.
Chapter 102
CHAPTER CIII4 cards
What was Alberoni's grand plan, according to Saint-Simon?
The author describes Alberoni's plan as taking from the Emperor all that the peace of Utrecht left him in Italy, dominating the Pope and King of Sicily, and depriving the Emperor of French and English help by stirring up the Regent through Cellamare and the Duc du Maine and sending King James to England. He also intended to move his pillaged treasures into Italy, where his cardinalship offered a safe asylum.
Chapter 103
Who was Donna Piscatori Laura and why did Alberoni fear her?
Laura was the Queen of Spain's nurse from Parma, later made her assoluta, or chief femme de chambre. Saint-Simon says she had intelligence, shrewdness, and ambition despite vulgar manners. Alberoni feared her favour with the Queen, whom he wished to possess alone, and wanted to send her back to Parma. The author suspects she was gained by the Regent's money and Dubois's intrigues.
Chapter 103
How was Alberoni dismissed and what did he carry off?
The King of Spain ordered Alberoni to withdraw at once, without seeing him or the Queen or writing to them, and to leave Spain within twice twenty-four hours, escorted by a guards officer. Few precautions were taken, so he carried off many papers, money, and jewels. It was later discovered the original will of Charles the Second was missing; Alberoni surrendered it only after being stopped and threatened.
Chapter 103
How did Alberoni behave while being conducted through France?
Saint-Simon says Alberoni, though impetuous and used to unlimited power, maintained self-possession, accepted everything without complaint, remained reserved in speech, and pretended to regard Morcieu as an escort of honour. He received no civility from the Regent or Dubois. Yet he twice wrote offering the Regent means to wage a dangerous war against Spain.
Chapter 103
CHAPTER CIV4 cards
Why did the King's presence not change the council's seating arrangement?
The King's armchair was always placed alone at the end of the table whether he attended or not, and the Duc d'Orleans sat on a stool like everyone else. The King often attended, usually staying to the last without moving or speaking, but his presence altered nothing in the order of the council's arrangements.
Chapter 104
How did the Abbe Dubois obtain the Archbishopric of Cambrai from the Regent?
Dubois claimed he had dreamed of being Archbishop of Cambrai. When the Regent resisted, Dubois cited precedents and asked who would consecrate him. The Regent named his chief chaplain, the Bishop of Nantes, as the only possible consecrator; Dubois immediately secured the Bishop's promise, then treated the appointment as settled, and so became Archbishop.
Chapter 104
How did Dubois justify attending council on the day he took orders?
When the Prince de Conti expressed surprise at his appearing on the very day of his ordination, Dubois coldly replied that Conti would not find it strange had he known ancient history better, since Dubois had merely followed the example of Saint-Ambrose, whose ordination he began to relate. Saint-Simon fled across the room, horror-struck at the comparison.
Chapter 104
Why did the Regent break his promise to Saint-Simon and attend Dubois's consecration?
Saint-Simon urged the Regent to stay away, and the Regent agreed, embraced him, and gave his word. But that night Madame de Parabere told the Regent she wished him to go: she had quarreled with Dubois, and if the Regent stayed away Dubois would blame her and ruin her credit. The Regent went.
Chapter 104
CHAPTER CV3 cards
Why did George I distrust and mistreat the Prince of Wales?
The author states George never believed the Prince was his own son. He had suspected his wife, the Duchess, of relations with Count Konigsmarck, whom he surprised leaving her chamber one morning and threw into a hot oven, shutting her up in a chateau for life. The Prince, personally innocent, resented his father's aversion and his mother's presence.
Chapter 105
Why was the Duc de la Force's embassy to England abandoned?
Dubois, anxious for his cardinal's hat through England's favor, named La Force to compliment George on the reconciliation. George, annoyed that his domestic squabbles had stirred all Europe, asked the Regent not to send a solemn envoy. The scheme had only been meant to please him, so the journey was dropped almost as soon as declared.
Chapter 105
What happened to Mlle. Pecoil's miserly father?
He was a wealthy, extremely avaricious wholesale dealer with a strong-box of money in a cellar behind an iron door with a secret lock. He disappeared; servants broke open the doors and found him dead inside the strong-box, apparently unable to find the secret spring after locking himself in — a horrible end.
Chapter 105
CHAPTER CVI4 cards
What two marriages did the Regent reveal to Saint-Simon in June?
The Regent told Saint-Simon that a reconciliation with the King and Queen of Spain had arranged two matches: the young King of France was to marry the Infanta of Spain when old enough, and the Prince of the Asturias, heir to the Spanish throne, was to marry Mademoiselle de Chartres, the Regent's daughter. The Abbe Dubois had negotiated it all quickly, and the Spanish marriage of the Infanta was the sine qua non of the other.
Chapter 106
Why did Saint-Simon urge secrecy about the marriages?
Saint-Simon argued the marriages should be kept profoundly secret until the Infanta's departure and the King's marriage were executed, to prevent the jealousy of all Europe. A union of the two royal branches had always been Europe's terror, and disunion its policy. He noted the Infanta was only three years old, born at Madrid on 30 March 1718, and the Prince of the Asturias only fourteen, born in August 1707.
Chapter 106
How did Dubois obstruct Saint-Simon's embassy preparations?
Dubois, vexed at Saint-Simon's embassy, resolved to ruin him. He avoided discussing arrangements, then preached magnificence and increased Saint-Simon's suite by a third, doubled details of table and stable, and forced hurried purchases. He added forty officers of cavalry and infantry, of whom Saint-Simon took only twenty-nine. Dubois also withheld instructions and delayed the public declaration of the embassy until Saint-Simon appealed directly to the Regent.
Chapter 106
How did the King and the public receive the marriage announcement?
The King was not gratified; at the first mention of marriage he burst out crying, and the Regent, M. le Duc, and M. de Frejus had trouble extracting a "yes" and getting him to the Regency Council, where he arrived with swollen red eyes. He gave a dry, low "yes" to the Regent's request to announce the marriage. Paris crowds soon came to compliment him, and he gradually recovered his spirits.
Chapter 106
CHAPTER CVII4 cards
What precedence did Dubois's verbal instructions require of Saint-Simon in Spain?
Dubois ordered Saint-Simon to take precedence over everyone during the signing of the King's marriage contract and at the two marriage ceremonies of the Prince of the Asturias, allowing no one before him. Saint-Simon objected that the papal nuncio and even the Emperor's ambassadors normally preceded French ambassadors, but Dubois raged and insisted, also demanding precedence over the majordomo-major and claiming no cardinals would be present.
Chapter 107
What did Amelot advise Saint-Simon about the first visits in Spain?
Amelot told Saint-Simon that he should pay the first visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, as prior ambassadors had done, and to three named officers, warning that refusing would offend them and leave him isolated, cold-shouldered by the whole Court. He said the Councillors of State existed only in name, the office having fallen into desuetude. Saint-Simon saw this as evidence Dubois meant him to fail.
Chapter 107
How did Saint-Simon respond to Dubois's demand that he urge Torcy to resign?
Dubois sent Le Blanc and Belleisle to demand Saint-Simon write to Torcy at Sable urging him to resign the foreign affairs post, hinting his embassy depended on compliance. Saint-Simon refused to lend himself to violence against a friend who had served the state well; he would only ask Torcy whether he wished to resign and on what conditions. Torcy resigned anyway, gaining money and a 60,000 livres life pension.
Chapter 107
What suspicions did Saint-Simon have about the missing letter from the King to the Infanta?
Among the papers delivered the day before departure, there was no letter from the King to the Infanta. Saint-Simon was told it was not yet written and would arrive that day; it did not come by midnight, nor before Bayonne, nor before Madrid. He could not doubt some design lay in the delay, suspecting the intention was to send it later and make him pass for a heedless fellow who had lost the first.
Chapter 107
CHAPTER CVIII4 cards
How did Saint-Simon avoid producing a letter for the Infanta that he did not have?
Saint-Simon confessed the missing letter to Grimaldo, who laughed and arranged that when Saint-Simon came for his first audience with the Infanta, the governess would enter the antechamber and say the Infanta was asleep. Saint-Simon would then refuse to have her awakened, take his leave, and wait until the King's letter arrived before visiting her again. Everything happened as planned, quietly overcoming the obstacle Dubois had set.
Chapter 108
How did Saint-Simon handle Dubois's order to precede the nuncio and majordomo-major?
Rather than fully displacing either, Saint-Simon placed himself at the top of the right arm of the King's chair, slightly sideways, appearing simple and eager while actually edging both out. He feigned absorption in conversation with the King and ignored their appeals. Afterwards he yielded place to them to disguise his design. He says this defeated the craft and malice of Dubois.
Chapter 108
What did the people cry from below the balcony during the Place Mayor illumination, and how did Saint-Simon respond?
When Saint-Simon appeared on the balcony, the crowd gathered and cried 'Senor! tauro! tauro!'—asking him to obtain a bull-fight, which they liked best in the world and which the King had not permitted for several years on conscientious grounds. Saint-Simon merely told the King of the cries the next day without asking questions, while expressing astonishment at the illumination.
Chapter 108
How did Saint-Simon describe the Place Mayor illumination?
He calls the Place superficially vaster than any he had seen in Paris or elsewhere, longer than broad, with five uniform stories of houses, equal windows and balconies with iron balustrades. On each balcony two white wax torches leaned slightly outward, attached to nothing. The light was incredible, splendid and majestic; the smallest type could be read in the middle of the Place, though the ground floor was not illuminated.
Chapter 108
CHAPTER CIX4 cards
Why did Maulevrier and Saint-Simon go to the palace so early on November 27th?
They had just received despatches from Cardinal Dubois announcing that the Regent's daughter, Mademoiselle de Montpensier, had departed for Spain on November 18th. Knowing the King and Queen were waiting impatiently for this news, they hurried to the palace at once, without losing a minute, even though it was against all rule and usage to be received while their Majesties were still in bed.
Chapter 109
What did the monk claim about Don Carlos's death and Philip II's authority?
When Saint-Simon remarked that Don Carlos's cause of death was well known, the monk insisted he died a natural death and denounced the stories spread about him. When Saint-Simon mentioned the head found between the legs, the monk cried that Don Carlos must have deserved it, since Philip II had permission from the Pope to do so, then praised Philip's piety and the Pope's boundless power.
Chapter 109
Why did the monks refuse to let Saint-Simon enter Philip II's apartment?
Despite the orders of the King and the nuncio authorizing him to see everything, the monks refused. They said the apartment had been closed since Philip II's death and nobody had entered it. They admitted Philip V had seen it, but only by entering by force as a master and threatening to break down the doors; he was the only king to enter since Philip II, and they would not open it for anybody.
Chapter 109
What happened to Saint-Simon's health on the way to join the Court at Lerma?
He set out from Madrid on December 2nd and arrived on the 9th at Villahalmanzo, where he found comfortable quarters and his convalescent eldest son. That night fever seized him, worsened the next day, and became violent the following night, so he could not go on the 11th to meet the King and Queen at Lerma. The small-pox appeared, and the King sent his chief doctor, who did not quit him.
Chapter 109
CHAPTER CX1 cards
How did Philip V's character and habits appear to Saint-Simon?
Saint-Simon describes Philip V as cold, silent, sad, sober, fond only of the chase, fearing society and himself, rarely touched by others, yet of good sense and upright, obstinate when he liked but often easy to govern. His piety was custom, scruples, and fears rather than knowledge of religion; he was extremely vain, feared for his health, and believed himself an usurper, which fed his desire to return to France.
Chapter 110
CHAPTER CXI.4 cards
How did Saint-Simon describe the Spanish royal hunt he witnessed?
Saint-Simon describes it as a battue rather than true hunting: peasants beat the countryside and drove animals toward two enclosed arbours where the King, Queen, and guests waited with loaded guns. He calls it a "species of butchery," lasting over half an hour, in which stags, boars, hares, wolves, foxes, and polecats were killed or lamed. He notes the party waited in silence an hour and a half beforehand.
Chapter 111
What was Saint-Simon's purpose in seeking the Madrid embassy?
He wanted the 'grandesse' for his second son, to "branch" his house, and the Toison d'Or for his eldest son as a decoration suited to his age. He had liberty from Paris to employ every aid, and a promise from M. le Duc d'Orleans to ask the King of Spain, backed by letters from Cardinal Dubois to Grimaldo and Father Aubenton.
Chapter 111
Why did Grimaldo decide to suppress the promised letters?
Grimaldo judged the letters from Dubois and the Regent so weak and full of reservations that they would harm rather than help. He resolved to suppress them, never mention them to the King, and instead let the King believe that granting the favours would please M. le Duc d'Orleans all the more because of the reserve shown by both sides. Sartine relayed this to Saint-Simon, who abandoned himself to Grimaldo's guidance.
Chapter 111
How does Saint-Simon characterize the letters when they finally arrived?
They arrived only at the end of his forty-day smallpox quarantine and were just as he expected. Dubois's letter to Grimaldo was full of circumlocution, eagerness undone by discretion, a "written stammering" that overrated the little it said. The Regent's letter to the King of Spain was even weaker, like a pencil design nearly effaced by rain, touching nothing directly.
Chapter 111
CHAPTER CXII4 cards
How did Cardinal Borgia behave while preparing to officiate the Spanish marriage?
The chapter describes Cardinal Borgia, pontifically clad, struggling to read his part aloud between two chaplains who held a book before him. He read inaccurately, grew angry when corrected, scolded and even shook the chaplains by their surplices, and when told the King had arrived, snapped 'Let them wait' because he was not ready. The author presents this as an amusing scene that diverted the whole court.
Chapter 112
What honors did the King of Spain grant Saint-Simon after the marriage ceremony?
The King told Saint-Simon he was so pleased with his embassy that he made him Grandee of Spain of the first class, and allowed him to choose one son for the same distinction. Saint-Simon chose his younger son, who was made grandee, while his eldest son was made chevalier of the Toison d'Or. Saint-Simon thanked the King and Queen and presented both sons to them.
Chapter 112
How was the eldest son's Toison d'Or ceremony structured before the King?
The Duc de Liria acted as godfather, going back and forth to the King to report the Vidame's presence, ask his consent, and bring him in. The son knelt before the King, repeated the oath in French from loose paper while the King held the book, kissed the King's hand, then knelt at a table with a crucifix, missal, and Gospel to swear further promises. The sword of Don Gonzalvo de Cordova was then brought in.
Chapter 112
What difficulty occurred with the Duc de Liria's carriage on the way to the ceremony?
The Duc de Liria's carriage was drawn by four beautiful Neapolitan horses that refused to move, rearing and nearly upsetting the carriage. Saint-Simon urged him to switch to his own carriage so they would not keep the King waiting, but Liria refused, insisting it would not affect his role as godfather. The horses delayed them about half an hour, and a message came that the King was waiting.
Chapter 112
CHAPTER CXIII4 cards
What position did Cardinal Dubois want publicly declared, and who was the main obstacle?
Dubois, already firmly in the favour of M. le Duc d'Orleans, wanted to be declared prime minister, a post he effectively held but was not officially recognised in. The Marechal de Villeroy was a great obstacle: Dubois was on very bad terms with him and feared making him an open enemy because of the Marechal's influence over others.
Chapter 113
Why did Dubois ask Cardinal Bissy to act as mediator with Villeroy?
Dubois resolved to make a last effort at reconciliation with the Marechal de Villeroy, but mistrusted his own powers to manage it, so he decided to ask Cardinal Bissy to be the mediator. Bissy undertook the peaceful commission willingly, spoke to Villeroy, who appeared ready to make friends with Dubois and even agreed to go and see him.
Chapter 113
How did the reconciliation meeting between Dubois and Villeroy end?
After polite compliments, Villeroy began speaking plain truths that grew into naked insults and bitter reproaches. Bissy tried in vain to silence him, and Villeroy barred the door and challenged Dubois to arrest him. Finally Bissy seized the Marechal by the arm and shoulder, opened the door, pushed him out, and followed at his heels.
Chapter 113
What advice did Saint-Simon give the Regent about dismissing Villeroy?
Saint-Simon said he had always regarded dismissing Villeroy as dangerous, but the frightful scene convinced him it was more dangerous to leave him near the King. He argued a pretext was needed that would convince the impartial, and warned against making the disgrace look like punishment for insulting Dubois. He proposed trapping Villeroy over the Regent's right to speak to the King in private.
Chapter 113
CHAPTER CXIV4 cards
Why did Cardinal Dubois summon Saint-Simon urgently to Versailles?
Dubois sent a courier bidding Saint-Simon come at once with a trusty servant ready to post to La Trappe. The King's instructor, M. le Frejus, had disappeared from Versailles without sleeping there, and the King was in violent despair, weeping and inconsolable after also losing Villeroy. Dubois suspected Frejus might have gone to La Trappe and wanted Saint-Simon to write there to find him.
Chapter 114
How was Frejus's disappearance actually resolved?
Before Saint-Simon's letter to La Trappe was needed, Peze reported that Frejus was found. One of the Regent's people had asked Courson, who knew Frejus was a friend of the Lamoignons, and Courson said Frejus had gone the previous night to sleep at Basville, where President Lamoignon was. Courson was brought to the Regent to confirm this, and calm returned.
Chapter 114
What agreement did Villeroy claim he and Frejus had made?
Villeroy said that at the start of the regency he and Frejus agreed to act in union: if unforeseen troubles or events caused one of them to be dismissed, the other, though untouched, should at once withdraw and not return to his post until the first was reinstated. Villeroy accused Frejus of perfidy for slipping off to Basville so as to be quickly sought and brought back, thus evading the engagement.
Chapter 114
How did the Regent's circle plan to handle Frejus's return and Charost's appointment?
They arranged that Frejus should return the next morning and be received well, as if nothing had happened. He was to be told the arrest secret had been kept from him only to avoid embarrassing him, then asked to explain to the King the necessity of Villeroy's dismissal. Frejus would be told of the Duc de Charost's selection as governor, asked to counsel and guide him, and the appointment presented to the King amid the joy of Frejus's return.
Chapter 114
CHAPTER CXV4 cards
When and how did Dubois become prime minister, and who opposed it?
On 23 August 1722, Dubois was declared prime minister by the Regent, M. le Duc d'Orleans, who then conducted him to the King as such. Saint-Simon says he had opposed it as stoutly as he could, but his words were lost on the Regent. Villeroy's banishment had removed the last obstacle in Dubois' path.
Chapter 115
What happened to Dubois' health after the Meudon review, and when did he die?
Dubois attended a review of the King's household at Meudon on horseback to enjoy his triumph, suffered cruelly, and became violently ill. An abscess had burst, gangrene began, and an urgent operation was required. He resisted, then consented after the Regent begged him. The operation was performed about five o'clock; he died twenty-four hours later, on 10 August 1723, at five in the morning.
Chapter 115
What did Saint-Simon discover about Dubois' secret marriage after his death?
It was found some time after his death that the Cardinal had long been married, but very obscurely. He paid his wife to keep silent when he received his benefices, but became embarrassed by her as he rose. The marriage had been made in Limousin and celebrated in a village church. When named Archbishop of Cambrai, he employed Breteuil, Intendant of Limoges, to destroy the proofs quietly.
Chapter 115
How did Dubois' brother and nephew handle his immense inheritance?
His brother, described as more modest and an honest man, kept the office of secretary of the cabinet that the Cardinal had given him and found an immense heritage. The brother's only son, a canon of Saint-Honore who had never sought places or livings, would touch scarcely anything of the rich succession. He used part of it to build a modest mausoleum for his uncle and distributed the rest to the poor, fearing the money would bring a curse.
Chapter 115
CHAPTER CXVI4 cards
How did Louvois learn of the King's secret plan to make Puyguilhem grand master of the artillery?
Puyguilhem, confident the appointment was settled, told Nyert, chief valet de chambre, while waiting for the council to end. Nyert excused himself on a pretext, climbed to Louvois's bureau, and reported that the King would declare Puyguilhem grand master of the artillery after the council, naming where he had left him. Louvois then entered the council and warned the King of incompatibility between himself and Puyguilhem.
Chapter 116
How did Puyguilhem discover that Louvois had ruined his appointment?
Through a chambermaid of Madame de Montespan with whom he was intimate, Puyguilhem was secretly let into the room where the King visited her and hid under the bed. He overheard the whole conversation, learning that Louvois had ousted him, that the King was angry the secret had leaked, and that Madame de Montespan was secretly working against him. He was not discovered.
Chapter 116
What did Puyguilhem do when the King refused to keep his promise of the artillery post?
Puyguilhem retreated, turned his back on the King, drew his sword, broke the blade with his foot, and cried out in fury that he would never serve a prince who had so shamefully broken his word. The King, in anger, performed what Saint-Simon calls the finest action of his life: he opened the window, threw his cane outside, said he would be sorry to strike a man of quality, and left.
Chapter 116
According to Saint-Simon, why did Lauzun's marriage to Mademoiselle fail to take place?
Lauzun delayed the marriage, to which the King had consented, in order to have fine liveries and to have it celebrated at the King's mass. The delay gave Monsieur, incited by M. le Prince, time to make representations to the King, who retracted his consent and broke off the marriage. Saint-Simon calls this delay an extreme folly, though he says Lauzun bore the sacrifice with good grace.
Chapter 116
CHAPTER CXVII4 cards
Why did Louvois and Madame de Montespan conspire against Lauzun in 1671?
The author recounts that Lauzun's brilliance and his appointment as army-general on the Flanders journey alarmed Louvois, whom Lauzun had never spared. Louvois joined with Madame de Montespan, who had not pardoned Lauzun's discovery or his insults toward her. Together they revived in the King's mind the broken sword, the refused post in the Bastille, and suspicions that Lauzun had suborned Mademoiselle and was courting the troops' devotion.
Chapter 117
How was Lauzun arrested and imprisoned in November 1671?
Having been sent to Paris by Madame de Montespan for precious stones, Lauzun was arrested on his return as he was about to enter his chamber, by the Marechal de Rochefort, captain of the guards. He was refused any word with the King or Madame de Montespan, even a letter. He was taken to the Bastille and soon after to Pignerol, shut in a low-roofed dungeon; his captaincy of the bodyguard went to M. de Luxembourg.
Chapter 117
How did Fouquet react to Lauzun's account of his rise and fall?
Fouquet, imprisoned since December 1664, was reached by Lauzun through a hole the prisoners dug between their dungeons. Hearing Lauzun describe being general of dragoons, captain of the guards, army-general, the missed artillery, and the broken marriage to Mademoiselle, Fouquet believed his brain turned and took the stories for fairy tales. Only when his wife and officers confirmed the news did he slowly accept them.
Chapter 117
What price did the King set for Lauzun's release, and what did Mademoiselle finally keep?
The author states the King resolved to profit the Duc du Maine, demanding Mademoiselle assure him the countdom of Eu, the Duchy of Aumale, and the principality of Domfes. She had already given Eu and Aumale to Lauzun, so he had to renounce them. After two journeys to Bourbon and pressure from Borin, Lauzun consented in autumn 1680; Mademoiselle kept only Saint-Forgeon and Thiers for him.
Chapter 117
CHAPTER CXVIII4 cards
Why did Lauzun marry Saint-Simon's sister-in-law, and did it succeed?
The author says Lauzun married her hoping to re-establish serious intercourse with the King through the army commanded by M. le Maréchal de Lorge in Germany. The project failed, as did his later schemes: promoting the Duc de Lorge's marriage to Chamillart's daughter to gain the ministry, and his journey to Aix-la-Chapelle to obtain information for private interviews with the King about the peace.
Chapter 118
How did Lauzun behave after the review plan was announced, and how did he explain it?
He flew into a fury, broke off the engagement, and insulted his wife in the harshest terms while she wept and Madame de Poitiers sobbed. Next morning he told Saint-Simon he was a madman over eighty, without children, unable to serve as captain of the guards, and that hearing of a body-guards review had turned his head; he begged Saint-Simon to reconcile him with his wife.
Chapter 118
What did Lauzun do when the Regent forgot the Bishop of Marseilles?
Lauzun pretended not to know of the omission and asked the Regent whether he had remembered the bishop. When the Regent was embarrassed, Lauzun said gently and respectfully, 'Monsieur, he will do better another time,' leaving the Regent speechless. The story spread, and the Regent repaired the forgetfulness with the bishopric of Laon, and after the bishop refused to change, a fat abbey.
Chapter 118
What did Lauzun say to Torcy about Saint-Simon, and how did Saint-Simon respond?
Lauzun said he had tried to dine with Saint-Simon, found him at table with company, and would not sit down lest he be 'the zeste of the cabal,' so he came to Torcy to find one. The remark ran over Versailles and reached Madame de Maintenon and M. du Maine. Saint-Simon treated it as the scratch of an ill-natured cat and let Lauzun see he knew nothing of it.
Chapter 118
CHAPTER CXIX4 cards
What does the introduction say about Saint-Simon's method of gathering material for his Memoirs?
The introduction says Saint-Simon secretly recorded his personal observations day by day, supplemented by gossip brought to him by unsuspecting friends. Neither courtier, statesman, minister, nor friend ever saw the notes, which the King would have stopped had he discovered them. Saint-Simon thus acted as judge, spy, critic, portraitist, and historian rolled into one.
Chapter 119
How did the Memoirs survive and reach publication after Saint-Simon's death in 1755?
The Duc de Choiseul confiscated the manuscripts and placed them in state archives, where they stayed locked for sixty years, seen by only a few, including Voltaire. A garbled version of extracts appeared in 1789. In 1819 a descendant obtained Louis XVIII's permission to release them, and in 1829 an authoritative edition arranged by chapters appeared, creating a great stir.
Chapter 119
What does the introduction report about Saint-Simon's own claim of impartiality?
Saint-Simon confesses that he does not pride himself on freedom from prejudice, saying impartiality would be useless to attempt. He adds, however, that he tried at all times to tell the truth. The introduction presents this as the author's own statement about his work rather than as an established fact.
Chapter 119
How do the critics quoted in the introduction characterize Saint-Simon's literary standing and style?
Sainte-Beuve calls the Memoirs the most precious body of memoirs then existing, surpassing even De Retz. Villemain calls Saint-Simon the most original of geniuses and foremost of prose satirists. Vallee says he treated language like an abject slave, forcing new terms when it failed to express his ideas, and ranks him among the foremost French writers.
Chapter 119
CHAPTER CXIX4 cards
What warning did Chirac repeatedly give the Regent about his suppers?
Chirac continually told the Regent that the habitual continuance of his suppers would lead to apoplexy or dropsy on the chest, because his respiration was interrupted at times. The Regent cried out against the latter malady as a slow, suffocating preparation for death, saying he preferred apoplexy, which killed at once without time to think.
Chapter 120
How did the Regent's apoplexy unfold, and who found him?
He fell against Madame Falari, one of his mistresses, while they sat in armchairs awaiting his hour to work with the King. She cried for help but found no one, since it was the hour people were sure no one would come. About half an hour passed before a doctor or surgeon appeared; he never regained consciousness, and all was over in under two hours.
Chapter 120
How did M. le Duc become prime minister after the Regent's stroke?
La Vrilliere learned of the attack, told the King and Bishop of Frejus, then drew up at all hazards the patent appointing M. le Duc prime minister. Frejus proposed M. le Duc to the King, who consented with a nod; La Vrilliere, who had the oath form in his pocket, had it administered immediately. The author notes Frejus likely made arrangements in advance.
Chapter 120
How did the Duc de Chartres react to news of his father's death?
At Paris with an opera dancer, he got the apoplexy news, then the death news on the road. At Versailles he found only the Duc de Noailles and De Guiche offering services, which he took as bamboozlement and dismissed. The author calls this evidence of intelligence and policy, and describes his later conduct as stupefied and dumbfounded.
Chapter 120
M.2 cards
Why did Madame de Navailles lose her place as lady of honour?
She discovered the King had secretly built a door into the young ladies' chamber, reached by a staircase he climbed at night. After consulting her husband, she had the door walled up in a few hours. The King, enraged at finding no door, stripped them of almost all their offices and exiled them from Court; the exile ended when the dying Queen-mother asked him to receive them back.
Chapter 121
How did Madame de Maintenon help Madame la Duchesse with her gambling debts?
Madame la Duchesse had hidden her heavy gambling debts, fearing M. le Prince or M. le Duc would learn of them. She confided her finances to Madame de Maintenon, who arranged that the King would pay the debts, refrain from scolding her, and keep her secret. Within weeks she was free of debt without anyone she feared knowing the debts had existed.
Chapter 121
M.3 cards
What choice did Madame face as a widow under her marriage contract?
Saint-Simon states that by her marriage contract Madame had to choose, on becoming a widow, between a convent and the chateau of Montargis. She liked neither option but feared the convent more, and on hearing of Monsieur's death she cried out that no one should speak of a convent, perhaps thinking it easier to escape Montargis.
Chapter 122
How did Louis XIV react to Monsieur's death that day?
The King wept a good deal, refused to dine with Madame de Maintenon, and dined as usual with the ladies, tears often running down his cheek during the short meal. He then shut himself in Madame de Maintenon's rooms until seven, walked in his garden, worked with Chamillart and Pontchartrain, arranged all of Monsieur's funeral ceremonies, supped an hour early, and went to bed soon after.
Chapter 122
What did the Duchesse de la Ferme say while gazing on the dying Monsieur?
Saint-Simon recounts that the Duchesse de la Ferme, who had basely married her daughter to one of Monsieur's minions named La Carte, came into the cabinet and, gazing on the Prince who still palpitated there, exclaimed, giving vent to her profound reflections, 'Pardi! Here is a daughter well married!' Chatillon rebuked her, asking if this was a moment to consider whether her daughter was well married.
Chapter 122
Source and licence
Text used: Project Gutenberg eBook #3875 (Public domain in the United States). Generated from the full text; cards paraphrase the source.
Version: Public domain edition. Retrieved 2026-10-27. Cards reviewed 2026-10-27.
These cards paraphrase the text for study. They are not a substitute for reading the book, and they do not reproduce long passages.
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