Françoise d’Aubigné, Madame de Maintenon, was the impoverished, pious widow of the crippled poet Scarron when she was employed by Madame de Montespan to care for her and the king’s brood of illegitimate children.

Maintenon became a close friend and confident of the king’s. He ended up spending much of his time in her company. Louis trusted her judgment. She resisted the temptation of becoming his mistress.

Louis married Maintenon in a secret ceremony. She considered marriage to be her duty in order to provide Louis with divine salvation.

When Maintenon married Louis she was probably a virgin. She often complained about having to have sex so frequently. But Louis’ soul’s salvation was her duty.

Note: Madame de Maintenon was known for wearing only black or dark colors. However the fabrics were sumptuous. Her undergarments were luxurious. She was proud not to wear any jewelry but the cross that hung around her neck was studded with huge pearls and diamonds from the King’s collection.