carce article these days."

"Not a bit of it--why there is lots of exiled Princes all over this
country. They are modest men, you know, like me; and having got it into
their heads that we don't like royal blood, rather keep the fact of
their birth to themselves. As for Grouski! why his history is as
familiar to every American who takes any interest in these things, as is
the history of poor Kossuth. I only say this, Madame Flamingo, to prove
to you that Grouski is none of your mock articles. And what is more, I
have several times heard him speak most enthusiastically of you."

"Of me!" interrupts the old hostess, blushing. "I respect Grouski, and
the more so for his being a poor prince in exile." Madame orders her
servants, who are screwed into bright liveries, to bring on some
sparkling Moselle. This done, and the glasses filled with the sparkling
beverage, Mr. Soloman rises to propose a toast; although, as he says, it
is somewhat out of place, two rounds having only succeeded the soup: "I
propose the health of our generous host, to whom we owe so much for the
superb manner in which she has catered for our amusement. Here's that we
may speedily have the pleasure of paying our respects to her as the
Princess Grouski." Madame Flamingo bows, the toast is drunk with cheers,
and she begins to think there is something in it after all.

"Make as light of it as you please, ladies and gentlemen--many stranger
things have come to pass. As for the exile, Grouski, I always esteemed
him a very excellent gentleman."

"Exactly!" interposes the Judge, tipping his glass, and preparing his
appetite for the course of game--broiled partridges, rice-birds, and
grouse--which is being served by the waiters. "No one more worthy," he
pursues, wiping his sleepy face with his napkin, "of being a princess.
Education, wealth, and taste, you have; and with Grouski, there is
nothing to prevent the happy consummation--nothing! I beg to assure
you," Madame Flamingo makes a most courteous bow, and with an air of
great dignity condescends to say she hopes gentlemen of the highest
standing in Charleston have for ten years or more had the strongest
proofs of her ability to administer the offices of a lady of station.
"But you know," she pursues, hoping ladies and gentlemen will be kind
enough to keep their glasses full, "people are become so pious
now-a-days that they are foolish enough to attach a stigma to our
business."

"Pooh, pooh!" interrupts t