Chapters 43-52 Summary

In Chapter 43, Guenaud is called to attend to the ailing Mazarin. Mazarin is sure that he suffers from gout and nothing more. Guenaud informs Mazarin that there have been complications; that the Cardinal is in fact very ill. Mazarin argues with Guenaud about his age. Mazarin is convinced that he is 52 years old. It is true that Richelieu died seventeen months earlier than that age but he had contracted a mortal disease. Guenaud recounts events that prove Mazarin to be 72 years old, not 52 years old.

Guenaud tells Mazarin that he has consulted every royal physician about Mazarin's mortal disease and nothing seems to be helping the cardinal's ailments. Guenaud declares that Mazarin has only 2 weeks to live. Mazarin immediately sends for Colbert, the clerk.

In Chapter 44, Colbert is nearby. Dumas gives details of Colbert's entrance into the court. Although Colbert was...