at dexterity on the part of the actors to make the
metamorphoses frequently needed with sufficient promptness and rapidity.
Charmed with the result of his efforts he led de Sigognac up to one
of the large mirrors, wherein, upon raising his eyes, he saw a figure
which, at the first glance, he thought must be that of some person who
had entered the room without his knowledge, and turned to ask who the
intruder was--but there was no stranger there, and he discovered that it
was his own reflection--so changed that he was mute with astonishment.
A young, handsome, richly-dressed de Sigognae stood before him, and a
radiant smile parted his lips and lighted up his face as he gazed at
his own image, which perfected the really marvellous transformation.
Blazius, standing near, contemplated his work with undisguised pride and
satisfaction, changing his position several times so as to get different
views, as a sculptor might who had just put the finishing touches to his
statue altogether to his liking.

"When you have made your way at court, my lord, and regained the
position held by your ancestors, as I hope and expect that you will do,
I shall pray you to give me a refuge for my old age in your household,
and make me intendant of your lordship's wardrobe," said he, with a
profound bow to the baron.

"I will not forget your request, my good Blazius, even though I fear
that I shall never be able to comply with it," de Sigognae answered with
a melancholy smile. "You, my kind friend, are the first human being that
has ever asked a favour of me."

"After our dinner, which we are to have very shortly, we are to consult
with his lordship, the marquis, as to what play shall be given this
evening, and learn from him where we are to rig our theatre. You will
pass for the poet of the troupe; it is by no means an unheard-of thing
for men of learning and position to join a band of players thus--either
for the fun of the thing, and in hope of adventures, or for the love
of a young and beautiful actress. I could tell you of several notable
instances; and it is thought to be rather to a man's credit than
otherwise in fashionable circles. Isabelle is a very good pretext for
you; she is young, beautiful, clever, modest, and virtuous. In fact many
an actress who takes like her the role of the ingenuous young girl is
in reality all that she personates, though a frivolous and frequently
licentious public will not credit it for a moment."

Herewi