"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

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