ther is a renowned virtuoso."

"A virtuoso?" repeated the hostess; "I do not understand the word. Pray,
what is a virtuoso?"

"A virtuoso, madame, is a musician who makes such music as no other
man can make. He gives concerts, and sells the tickets for an enormous
price, and the world rushes to hear his music. I assure you, madame,
my brother can play so enchantingly that those who hear his flute are
forced to dance in spite of themselves. He receives large sums of gold,
and if he gives a concert here you will see that all your distinguished
people will flock to hear him. You can set your pasty before him without
fear--he is able to pay richly for it."

Madame Blaken rose without a word and advanced toward the door. "Come,
sir, come. I am going to your brother." Without waiting for an answer,
she stepped through the corridor and tapped lightly at the stranger's
door. She was on the point of opening it, but Balby caught her hand
hastily.

"Madame," said he, "allow me to enter and inquire if you can be
received." He wished to draw her back from the door, but the hostess of
the Black Raven was not the woman to be withdrawn.

"You wish to ask if I can enter?" repeated she. "I may well claim that
privilege in my own house."

With a determined hand she knocked once more upon the door, opened it
immediately and entered, followed by Balby, who by signs endeavored to
explain and beg pardon for the intrusion.

Frederick did not regard him, his blue eyes were fixed upon the woman
who, with laughing good-humor, stepped up to him and held out both of
her large, course hands in greeting.

"Sir, I come to convince myself if what your brother said was true."

"Well, madame, what has my brother said?"

"He declares that you can whistle splendidly, and all the world is
forced to dance after your music."

"I said play the flute, madame! I said play the flute!" cried Balby,
horrified. "Well, flute or whistle," said Madame Blaken, proudly, "it's
the same thing. Be so good, sir, as to whistle me something; I will then
decide as to the pasty." The king looked at Balby curiously. "Will you
have the goodness, brother, to explain madame's meaning, and what she
requires of me?"

"Allow me to explain myself," said the hostess. "This gentleman came
and ordered a rich pie for you; this pasty has given celebrity to my
house. It is true I have one prepared, but I would not send it to you.
Would you know why? This is an enormously expens