The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
How the King, Louis XIV, Played His Little Part explained
Fouquet arrives at the castle of Nantes and receives a warning note from Gourville that a plot is being contrived against him.
What happens
Fouquet arrives at the castle of Nantes and receives a warning note from Gourville that a plot is being contrived against him. He is admitted to the king's cabinet, where Louis XIV feigns concern for his health and avoids direct confrontation. Fouquet, sensing danger, cleverly deflects the king's intentions by proposing a visit to Belle-Isle and requesting rest. The king, unsettled by Fouquet's composure, orders d'Artagnan to arrest him after he leaves, but Fouquet manages to escape the immediate trap.
Themes in this chapter
Court Intrigue and Deception
The king feigns concern for Fouquet's health while secretly plotting his arrest; Fouquet reads the king's intentions and uses deception to escape.
Power and Ambition
Louis XIV asserts his authority by planning to eliminate Fouquet, while Fouquet's ambition is evident in his attempt to retain control and escape the trap.
Friendship and Betrayal
Gourville's warning note shows loyalty to Fouquet, while the king's betrayal of his minister highlights the treacherous nature of court relationships.
Characters to notice
- Nicolas Fouquet
Receives a warning note from Gourville, confronts the king with suspicion, and cleverly avoids arrest by feigning illness and proposing a visit to Belle-Isle.
- Louis XIV
Plays a deceptive role, feigning concern for Fouquet's health while secretly planning his arrest; orders d'Artagnan to follow and arrest Fouquet.
- D'Artagnan
Escorts Fouquet to the king, reports the execution of orders, and is later ordered to arrest Fouquet at a distance.
- Gourville
Sends a warning note to Fouquet, advising him not to enter his house and informing him of a white horse waiting for escape.
- De Guiche
Mentioned as one of the courtiers in the corridor, though not directly involved in the action.
- Brienne
Present in the corridor working, but notably less obsequious toward Fouquet.
Key passages
“Something is being contrived against you. Perhaps they will not dare to carry it out at the castle; it will be on your return home. The house is already surrounded by musketeers. Do not enter. A white horse is in waiting for you behind the esplanade!”
A plot is underway against you. They may not act at the castle, but your home is surrounded by musketeers. Do not go inside; a white horse awaits you behind the esplanade.
Gourville's warning note to Fouquet, advising him of the trap and the escape plan.
“I am saved! ... Oh! yes, disloyal king, you shall see Belle-Isle, but it shall be when I am no longer there.”
I have escaped! You will see Belle-Isle, treacherous king, but only after I am gone.
Fouquet's exclamation upon leaving the castle, realizing he has avoided immediate arrest.