Moliere's path was by no means an easy one to tread; the following anecdote may serve as another illustration of the fact. The king's body guards, and other household troops, had formerly been allowed to see the play for nothing, and Moliere, who was doubtless more troubled by the abuse of paper than are the managers of to-day, was urged by his company to Obtain the removal of this privilege from the king. His request was granted; but the change gave great umbrage to the soldiers. They came down to the house in a body, killed the door-keeper, and uttered loud threats against the actors. On the next day the king had them drawn up on parade, and sent for Moliere to harangue them. This he did with so much tact and good humor, and he gave them such excellent reasons why they should pay for their seats like gentlemen, and leave the free admissions for such as could not afford a trifle, that they made no further difficulty in the matter.