away his future and that of
a brave and loyal country. "God," he cried, "God forgive me!" And with
that the confusion of his senses passed away, and he regained his
self-possession in a moment.

To his surprise, Geraldine had disappeared. There was no one in the
card-room but his destined butcher consulting with the President, and
the young man of the cream tarts, who slipped up to the Prince and
whispered in his ear--

"I would give a million, if I had it, for your luck."

His Highness could not help reflecting, as the young man departed, that
he would have sold his opportunity for a much more moderate sum.

The whispered conference now came to an end. The holder of the ace of
clubs left the room with a look of intelligence, and the President,
approaching the unfortunate Prince, proffered him his hand.

"I am pleased to have met you, sir," said he, "and pleased to have been
in a position to do you this trifling service. At least, you cannot
complain of delay. On the second evening--what a stroke of luck!"

The Prince endeavoured in vain to articulate something in response, but
his mouth was dry and his tongue seemed paralysed.

"You feel a little sickish?" asked the President, with some show of
solicitude. "Most gentlemen do. Will you take a little brandy?"

The Prince signified in the affirmative, and the other immediately
filled some of the spirit into a tumbler.

"Poor old Malthy!" ejaculated the President, as the Prince drained the
glass. "He drank near upon a pint, and little enough good it seemed to
do him!"

"I am more amenable to treatment," said the Prince, a good deal revived.
"I am my own man again at once, as you perceive. And so, let me ask you,
what are my directions?"

"You will proceed along the Strand in the direction of the City, and on
the left-hand pavement, until you meet the gentleman who has just left
the room. He will continue your instructions, and him you will have the
kindness to obey; the authority of the club is vested in his person for
the night. And now," added the President, "I wish you a pleasant walk."

Florizel acknowledged the salutation rather awkwardly, and took his
leave. He passed through the smoking-room, where the bulk of the players
were still consuming champagne, some of which he had himself ordered and
paid for; and he was surprised to find himself cursing them in his
heart. He put on his hat and greatcoat in the cabinet, and selected his
umbrella from a corner