gn remedy for every
ill--but de Sigognac rejected it, and signed that he wanted water
instead.

"A great mistake," said the pedant, shaking his head disapprovingly,
"a sad mistake--water is only fit for frogs, and fish, and such-like
cold-blooded creatures--it does not do for human beings at all. Every
water-bottle should be labelled,'For external use only.' Why, I should
die instantly if so much as a drop of the vile stuff found its way down
my throat. Take my advice, Captain Fracasse, and let it alone. Here,
have some of this good strong wine; it will set you right in a jiffy."

But de Sigognac would not be persuaded, and persisted in motioning for
water. When it was brought, cool and fresh, he eagerly swallowed a large
draught of the despised liquid, and found himself almost immediately
revived by it--his face resuming a more natural hue, and the light
returning to his eyes. When he was able to sit up and look about him
again, Herode approached, in his turn, and said, "You played admirably
this evening, and with wonderful spirit, Captain Fracasse, but it
does not do to take too much out of yourself in this way--such violent
exertions would quickly do for you. The comedian's art consists in
sparing himself as much as possible, whilst producing striking effects;
he should be calm amidst all his simulated fury, and cool in his
apparently most burning rage. Never did actor play this part as superbly
as you have done to-night--THAT I am bound to acknowledge--but this is
too dear a price to pay for it."

"Yes, wasn't I absurd in it?" answered the baron bitterly. "I felt
myself supremely ridiculous throughout--but especially when my head went
through the guitar with which Leander was belabouring me."

"You certainly did put on the most comically furious airs imaginable,"
the tyrant replied, "and the whole audience was convulsed with laughter.
Even Mlle. Yolande de Foix, that very great, and proud, and noble lady,
condescended to smile. I saw her myself."

"It was a great honour for me assuredly," cried de Sigognac, with
flaming cheeks, "to have been able to divert so great a lady."

"Pardon me, my lord," said the tyrant, who perceived the painful flush
that covered the baron's face, "I should have remembered that the
success which is so prized by us poor comedians, actors by profession,
cannot but be a matter of indifference to one of your lordship's rank."

"You have not offended me, my good Herode," de Sigognac has