he type you desire is a young scion of French and English aristocracy
whom we have here, on the Ile Nou. He is now known as Number 1280; but a
few years ago he figured brilliantly in the great world as Maxime
Dalahaide. You may have heard of him, mademoiselle."

The words rang strangely in the girl's ears. She "might have heard of
him"! But her presence of mind had not left her, as a few moments ago she
had feared it might, when it should be needed most.

She was simply carrying out her part of the programme, and she knew that
Roger and George were watching her from behind half-closed lids. If they
could help her they would; but the time had not come for their help yet.

"I left America only a year ago," she answered, "and one forgets things
of this sort when they happen very far away."

"Naturally. But it was an uncommon case. Maxime Dalahaide was condemned
to death for murdering a beautiful young actress, with whom he was in
love--jealousy alleged as the cause. However, powerful influence saved
him from death and sent him to us. I do not know that he was properly
thankful."

Virginia showed a little decorous interest, such as a stranger might
legitimately take in the hero of such a tale. "This story ought to make a
splendid anecdote for our book," she exclaimed. "Is the man handsome?"

"You might not think so if you saw him now. The costume of the _forcat_
is not becoming. But he is still quite young, between twenty-eight and
nine. You can see his portrait if you like, mademoiselle, at the Bureau
of Anthropometry, where each convict's photograph is taken, with every
possible view of his face, when he first becomes an inmate of the
prison."

"I would rather see the man himself," answered Virginia. "If you would
_only_ let my brother and me have an interview with him; think how it
would help our book! Ah, monsieur, that _would_ be kind. I should never
forget your goodness in giving me such a chance."

The gallant Commandant hesitated. But--the permit in the possession of
these three favoured visitors was very explicit. They were to have
privileges scarcely ever granted before, and he had therefore the best of
excuses for obliging the beautiful American girl.

"Do say yes!" persuasively added Virginia.

"I really think I may conscientiously do so," replied the old Frenchman,
delighted to please the most radiant being he had seen for many a long
year. "Number 1280 has acted for some time as secretary in one of t