ys
becomes liberal, in the political sense, when it is impossible to be so
in any other!"

The chatting now turned on the events that were then impending, a great
diversity of opinion existing as to whether the King would insist upon
carrying the "ordinances," and a still wider divergence as to what
result would follow. During this discussion, Frobisher's impatience went
beyond all control, and at last he rose, declaring that he would remain
no longer.

"You forget that the doors are locked for twenty-four hours, sir," said
another, "and neither can any one leave or enter the room before that
time."

"We are more sacred than a privy council or a chapter of the knights of
St. Louis," said Rozlan.

"Now then to see who is the next Duc de Marlier!" whispered Linton in
Rica's ear. "Let us begin."

"One word with you, Linton," whispered Rica; "don't bet high, it
distracts my attention,--make a mere game of amusement, for this will be
a hard struggle, and it must be the last."

"So I perceive," rejoined Linton; "events are coming fast; we must be
off ere the tide overtake us."

"The game, the game!" cried Frobisher, striking the table with his rake.

"And Maritana?" whispered Linton, holding Rica by the arm.

The other grew lividly pale, and his lip quivered as he said, "Is this
the time, Linton--"

"It is the very time," rejoined the other, determinedly, "and I will
have my answer now. You cannot equivocate with me."

"I do not seek to do so. I have told you always what I tell you still--I
cannot coerce her."

"There will be no need; this dukedom will do the business. I know her
well--better than you do. See, they are watching us yonder. Say the word
at once--it is agreed."

"Hear me, Linton--"

"I 'll hear nothing; save the one word 'agreed.'"

"Let me but explain--"

"There is nothing to explain. The betrothal you allude to is, as none
knows better than yourself, an idle ceremony; and if she loves the
fellow, so much the more urgent are the reasons for my request. Be
quick, I say."

"If she consent--"

"She shall. My Lord Duke, a thousand pardons, I beg, for this delay; but
Rica has been tormenting me these ten minutes by the refusal of a petty
favor. He is become reasonable at last; and now for the combat!"

The party seated themselves like men about to witness an exciting event;
and although each had his venture on the game, the Duke was the great
object of interest, and speculation was high as