reasons this residence was especially dear to the heart of Prince

Florizel; he never drew near to it without enjoying that sentiment

of home-coming so rare in the lives of the great; and on the

present evening he beheld its tall roof and mildly illuminated

windows with unfeigned relief and satisfaction.

As he was approaching the postern door by which he always entered

when alone, a man stepped forth from the shadow and presented

himself with an obeisance in the Prince's path.

"I have the honour of addressing Prince Florizel of Bohemia?" said

he.

"Such is my title," replied the Prince. "What do you want with

me?"

"I am," said the man, "a detective, and I have to present your

Highness with this billet from the Prefect of Police."

The Prince took the letter and glanced it through by the light of

the street lamp. It was highly apologetic, but requested him to

follow the bearer to the Prefecture without delay.

"In short," said Florizel, "I am arrested."

"Your Highness," replied the officer, "nothing, I am certain, could

be further from the intention of the Prefect. You will observe

that he has not granted a warrant. It is mere formality, or call

it, if you prefer, an obligation that your Highness lays on the

authorities."

"At the same time," asked the Prince, "if I were to refuse to

follow you?"

"I will not conceal from your Highness that a considerable

discretion has been granted me," replied the detective with a bow.

"Upon my word," cried Florizel, "your effrontery astounds me!

Yourself, as an agent, I must pardon; but your superiors shall

<<BackPagesTo menuNext>>