Dangeau’s Diary, January 1691

No date — The King and Queen of England arrived here about six o’clock. Upon their arrival, they entered the drawing room. The Queen played at portico, and then at lansquenet. They then went to supper. There were five tables, each having sixteen covers, at the centre one was the King, with the King and Queen of England. The four other tables were occupied by Monseigneur, Monsieur, Madame and Mademoiselle. The Duc de Chartres was at Monseigneur’s table. There were six English ladies and the rest of the company consisted of French men, who were placed indiscriminately at the five tables, without regard to rank. In the two galleries, were the King’s bands, with organs, trumpets and cymbals. Vive le Roi was chaunted. The King presided at his table; Madame la Princess de Conti at Monseigneur’s; Madame de Dangeau at Madame’s; and Madame la Duchess de Noailles at that of Mademoiselle. Besides these five tables, there was a very long one in the billiardroom , for the French lords. After supper, the King and Queen of England got into their carriage and returned to Saint-Germain. The King went to conduct them; passed through the Grand Apartment with them and only quitted them at the entrance of his bedroom. The King then returned to the company and saw Monseigneur play at lansquenet, and retired at midnight. Monseigneur sat playing till a late hour. Several Colonels who have remained here since the campaign, have begged his Majesty to allow them to remain still longer, but the King has refused them all, wishing that they who have come here should relieve those who have been kept within garrison.

24th —Monsieur de Frontenac, governor of Canada, has informed his Majesty that the English have made a descent upon that country and have summoned Quebec, in the name of King William and Queen Mary. He had returned for answer to this summons, that he knew neither King William nor Queen Mary, and that he had a good garrison, determined to defend themselves bravely if they should be attacked. The English did not dare to pass a river which separated them and on seeing our troops preparing to cross it, retreated in much haste, abandoning a part of their artillery, which Monsieur de Frontenac brought into the place.