pass, not without some hurry, into the adjoining room. It was

similar in every respect to the one from which it was entered, but

somewhat differently furnished. The centre was occupied by a long

green table, at which the President sat shuffling a pack of cards

with great particularity. Even with the stick and the Colonel's

arm, Mr. Malthus walked with so much difficulty that every one was

seated before this pair and the Prince, who had waited for them,

entered the apartment; and, in consequence, the three took seats

close together at the lower end of the board.

"It is a pack of fifty-two," whispered Mr. Malthus. "Watch for the

ace of spades, which is the sign of death, and the ace of clubs,

which designates the official of the night. Happy, happy young

men!" he added. "You have good eyes, and can follow the game.

Alas! I cannot tell an ace from a deuce across the table."

And he proceeded to equip himself with a second pair of spectacles.

"I must at least watch the faces," he explained.

The Colonel rapidly informed his friend of all that he had learned

from the honorary member, and of the horrible alternative that lay

before them. The Prince was conscious of a deadly chill and a

contraction about his heart; he swallowed with difficulty, and

looked from side to side like a man in a maze.

"One bold stroke," whispered the Colonel, "and we may still

escape."

But the suggestion recalled the Prince's spirits.

"Silence!" said be. "Let me see that you can play like a gentleman

for any stake, however serious."

And he looked about him, once more to all appearance at his ease,

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