Note 31 — LETTER VI.
Reading edition
It is very problematical which is the worst in the eyes of the pious,—to have no religion at all, or one different from their own. Louis XIV., who was unquestionably a champion of religion, decided for the latter opinion. The Duke of Orleans proposed to him an ambassador to Spain, whom he accepted, but the next day recalled, because he had heard he was a Jansenist. “By no means, Your Majesty,” said the Duke; “for, as far as I know, he does not even believe in a God.” “May I depend upon that?” asked the king gravely. “Certainly,” replied the Duke, smiling. “Well, then, let him take the post, in God’s name.”