id not first offer you this, it was
because it was probable that the other would suit you, and the latter is
so hazardous that I would not expose you to it without giving you the
choice. There is still time, and, if this proposition for Algiers does
not suit you, tell me so frankly, and we will look out for something
else; if not, to-morrow everything shall be signed, and you will start
for Algiers with a person commissioned by the former proprietor of the
farm to put you in full possession. Two years' rent will be due, and
paid to you on your arrival. The land yields three thousand francs a
year: work, improve it, be active, vigilant, and you will soon increase
your comfort and the security of the colonists, whom you will aid and
assist I am sure, for you will always be charitable and generous; and
remember, too, to be rich implies that we should give much away.
Although separated from you, I shall not lose sight of you, and never
forget that I and my best friend owe our lives to you. The only proof of
attachment and gratitude I ask, is to learn to write and read as quickly
as you can, that you may inform me regularly, once a week, what you do,
and to address yourself to me direct if you need any advice or
assistance."

It is useless to describe the extreme delight of the Chourineur. His
disposition, his instincts, are already sufficiently known to the
reader, so that he may understand that no proposal could have been made
more acceptable to him.

Next day all was arranged, and the Chourineur set out for Algiers.

CHAPTER XXI.

RESEARCHES.

The house which Rodolph had in the Allee des Veuves was not his usual
place of residence; he lived in one of the largest mansions in the
Faubourg St. Germain, situated at the end of the Rue Plumet and the
Boulevard des Invalides.

To avoid the honours due to his sovereign rank, the prince had preserved
his incognito since his arrival in Paris, his _charge d'affaires_ at the
court of France having announced that his master would pay his official
and indispensable visits under the name and title of the Count de Duren.
Thanks to this usage (a very common one in the Northern courts), a
prince may travel with as much liberty as pleasure, and escape all the
bore of ceremonious introductions. In spite of his slight incognito,
Rodolph kept up in his mansion full state and etiquette. We will
introduce the reader into the hotel of the Rue Plumet, the day after the
Chourineur h