CHAPTER XV

The reading of _Henri III._ at M. Villenave's and M. Roqueplan's--Another reading at Firmin's--Béranger is present--A few words about his influence and popularity--Effect produced by my drama--Reception by the Comédie-Française--Struggle for the distribution of parts--M. de Broval's ultimatum--Convicted of the crime of poetry I appeal to the Duc d'Orléans--His Royal Highness withholds my salary--M. Laffitte lends me three thousand francs--Condemnation of Béranger.