ith the enemy. Ay, Gervois, we may
be inclined to accept a compromise of our claim. These things are done
every day. The men who seem to sit in all the security of undisturbed
possession are buying off demands here, paying hush-money to this man,
and bribery to that."

"But if the real claimant should appear on the stage--"

"I have reason to believe he is dead these many years," said he,
interrupting; "but were it otherwise, these friends of his are of such
a scrupulous temperament, they would not adventure on the suit without
such a mass of proof as no concurrence of accidents could possibly
accumulate. They have not the nerve to accomplish an undertaking of this
kind, where much must be hazarded, and many things done at risk."

"Which means, in plain words, done fraudulently," said I, solemnly.

"Let us not fall out about words," said he, smiling. "When a state
issues a paper currency, it waits for the day of prosperity to recall
the issue and redeem the debt; and if we live and do well, what shall
prevent us making an equally good use of our fortune? But you may leave
all this to me; I will undertake every document, from the certificate
of your father's marriage to your own baptism; I will legalize you and
legitimatize you; you have only to be passive."

"I half suspect, Count," said I, laughing, "that if my claim to
this estate were a real one, I should not be so sure of your aid and
assistance."

"And you are right there, Gervois. It is in the very daring and danger
of this pursuit I feel the pleasure. The game on which I risk nothing
has no excitement for me; but here the stake is a heavy one."

"And how would you proceed?" asked I, not heeding this remark.

"By opening a correspondence with Bickering and Ragge, the lawyers. They
have long been in search of the heir, and would be delighted to hear
there were any tidings of his existence. My name is already known to
them, and I could address them with confidence. They would, of course,
require to see you, and either come over here or send for you. In either
case you would be preceded by your story; the family parts should be
supplied by me; the other details you should fill in at will. All
this, however, should be concerted together. The first point is your
consent,--your hearty consent; and even that I would not accept, unless
ratified by a solemn oath, to persist to the last, and never falter nor
give in to the end, whatever it be!"

I at first hesitat