CHAPTER XVI.

Beaumarchais’ reprehensible behaviour—D’Eon challenges Morande—Miss Wilkes’ curiosity—Feeling against D’Eon—Fresh difficulties with Beaumarchais—Speculators on D’Eon’s sex seized with panic—Lord Mansfield’s decision on the policies effected—D’Eon appears in public as a female—Leaves for France, wearing military uniform—The King’s second order to resume female attire—Marie Antoinette furnishes _Mademoiselle D’Eon’s_ trousseau—Visits her native town—Rejoicings at her appearance—Presented at Court as a lady—The Queen’s household—Deportment in society—Another trial before Lord Mansfield 277