most
cordial of friends. When the period of the visit drew to its conclusion,
they were walking one morning in the grounds together, engaged in a
conversation of the most amicable candour, each vying with the other by
the frankness and unreserve of his communications.

"Come now, Prince," said Lord T------, "we are, I rejoice to find, on
terms which will permit any freedom. Tell me frankly, how do you stand
with Prussia? Are there any understandings between you to which we must
not be parties?"

"None whatever."

"You say this freely and without reserve?"

"Without the slightest reserve or qualification."

Lord T------ seemed overjoyed, and the discussion concluded. They dined
that day together, and in the evening a large company was assembled to
meet the Prince before his departure for London. As usual at T------
House, the party contained a great show of distinguished persons,
political and literary. Among the subjects of conversation started was
the question of how it happened that men of great literary distinction
so rarely could shine as statesmen; and that even such as by their
writings evinced a deep insight into political science, were scarcely
ever found to combine practical habits of business with this great
theoretical talent.

The discussion was amusing, because it was carried on by men who
themselves occupied the highest walks in their respective careers.

To arrest a somewhat warm turn of the controversy, Lord T------, turning
to the Prince, said, "I suppose, Monsieur le Prince, you have seldom
been able to indulge in imaginative composition?"

"Pardon me, my Lord, I have from time to time dissipated a little in
that respect; and, if I must confess it, with a very considerable degree
of amusement."

The announcement, made with a most perfect air of candour, interested at
once the whole company, who could not subdue their murmured expressions
of surprise as to the theme selected by the great Diplomatist.

"I believe," said he, smiling, "I am in a position to gratify the
present company; for, if I mistake not, I have actually with me at this
moment a brief manuscript of my latest attempt in fiction. As I am a
mere amateur, without the slightest pretension to skill or ability,
I feel no reluctance at exposing my efforts to the kind criticism of
friends. I only make one stipulation."

"Oh, pray, what is it? any thing, of course, you desire!" was heard on
every side.

"It is this. I read very b