hey are scarcely the subjects most attractive to youth. How
came that to pass?"

"By an accident, sir, that made me acquainted with the son of one who,
if not a great financier, was at least the most notorious one the world
has ever seen,--Robert Law, of Lauriston." And at a sign from him to
continue, I related the whole incident I referred to. He listened to me
throughout with deep attention.

"These papers that you speak of," said he, interrupting, "would
certainly be curious, if not actually valuable. They are still at the
Rue Quincampoix?"

"I believe so, sir."

"Well, the day may come when they may be obtainable. Meanwhile, of this
Count, this Monsieur de Gabriac,--for I want to hear more of him,--when
did he arrive in England?"

"I did not know that he was here, sir."

He looked at me calmly, but with great intentness, as I said this; and
then, as if satisfied with his scrutiny, drew a small case from his
pocket, and, opening it, held it before me.

"Is this a portrait of the Count de Gabriac?"

"Yes, and a striking likeness," replied I, promptly.

"And you know his business in England, young man?" said the lady,
turning suddenly from the window to address me.

"I do not, madam."

"Then I will tell you," said she.

"No, no, Hester," said the minister; "this is not necessary. You say
that this is like him,--like enough to lead to his recognition; that is
quite sufficient. Now, for yourself, Mr. Carew, for it is time I should
speak of you. You have rendered a very considerable service to this
Government, and I am ready to requite it. What are your own wishes in
this respect?"

I bethought me for a moment what reply to make; but the more
I considered, the more difficult became the reply. I might, by
possibility, look too highly; or, by an equally probable error, I might
place myself on too humble a level. He waited with courteous patience
while this struggle lasted; and then, as if seeing all the force of my
embarrassment, he hastened to relieve it.

"My question was perhaps ill-judged," said he, kindly. "I should
have remembered that your knowledge of this country and its habits is
necessarily limited; and, consequently, that to choose a career in it
must be difficult. If you will permit me, I will myself make the choice
for you; meanwhile, and until the opportunity offer, I will employ you.
You speak foreign languages--at least, French and German--fluently.
Well, these are exactly the qualificati