o number among its followers the high-born and the noble,--to assert
the supremacy of rank and worth above the claim of the base and low."

"I cannot; I must not."

"At least, you will wait on the Comte d'Artois. You must see his royal
highness, and thank him for his gracious intentions."

"I know what that means, De Beauvais; I have heard that few can resist
the graceful fascinations of the prince's manner. I shall certainly not
fear to encounter them, however dangerous to my principles."

"But not to refuse his royal highness?" said he, quickly. "I trust you
will not do that."

"You would not have me yield to the flattery of a prince's notice what I
refuse to the solicitations of a friend, would you?"

"And such is your intention,--your fixed intention?"

"Undoubtedly it is."

De Beauvais turned away impatiently, and leaned on the window for some
minutes. Then, after a pause, and in a slow and measured voice, added,--

"You are known to the Court, Burke, by other channels than those I have
mentioned. Your prospects of advancement would be most brilliant, if you
accept this offer: I scarcely know to what they may not aspire. Reflect
for a moment or two. There is no desertion,--no falling off here.
Remember that the Empire was a vision, and like a dream it has passed
away. Where there is no cause, there can be no fealty."

"It is but a sorry memory, De Beauvais, that only retains while there
are benefits to receive; mine is a more tenacious one."

"Then my mission is ended," cried he, taking up his hat. "I may mention
to his royal highness that you intend returning to England; that you
are indisposed to service at present. It is unnecessary to state more
accurately the views you entertain?"

"I leave the matter completely to your discretion."

"Adieu, then. Our roads lie widely apart, Burke; and I for one regret
it deeply. It only remains that I should give you this note; which I
promised to deliver into your hands in the event of your declining to
accept the prince's offer."

He blushed deeply, as he placed a small sealed note in my fingers; and
as if anxious to get away, pressed my hand hurriedly, and left the room.

My curiosity to learn the contents of the billet made me tear it open at
once; but it was not before I had perused it several times that I could
credit the lines before me. They were but few, and ran thus:--

Dear Sir,--May I request the honor of a visit from you this
evening