But she tried again: "And then, my Lady, the Intendant is so
powerful at Court. He was a particular friend of Madame d'Etioles
before she was known at Court, and they say he managed her
introduction to the King at the famous masked ball at the Hotel de
Ville, when His Majesty threw his handkerchief at her, and she
became first dame du palais and the Marquise de Pompadour. She has
ever remained his firm friend, and in spite of all his enemies could
do to prevent it His Majesty made him Intendant of New France."
"In spite of all the King's friends could do, you mean," replied the
Lady de Tilly, in a tone the sound of which caught the ear of
Amelie, and she knew her aunt was losing patience with her visitors.
Lady de Tilly heard the name of the royal mistress with intense
disgust, but her innate loyalty prevented her speaking disparagingly
of the King. "We will not discuss the Court," said she, "nor the
friendships of this Intendant. I can only pray his future may make
amends for his past. I trust New France may not have as much
reason as poor lost Acadia to lament the day of his coming to the
Colonies.
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