ourself."

"Since Monsieur limits himself to so little," said the Swiss, sturdily,
"I shall not want more. This little pin will serve me, and I shall wear
it long in memory of your many kindnesses."

Law rose to his feet and caught the good fellow by the hand.

"By heaven, I find you of good blood!" said he. "My friend, I thank you.
And now put up the box. I shall not counsel you to take more than this.
We shall leave the rest for those who will presently come to claim it."

For some time silence reigned in the great room, as Law, deeply engaged
in the affairs before him, buried himself in the mass of scattered books
and papers. Hour after hour wore on, and at last he turned from his
employment. His face showed calm, pale, and furrowed with a sadness
which till now had been foreign to it. He arose at last, and with a
sweep of his arm pushed back the papers which lay before him.

"There," said he. "This should conclude it all. It should all be plain
enough now to those who follow."

"Monsieur is weary," mentioned the faithful attendant. "He would have
some refreshment."

"Presently, but I think not here, Henri. My household is not all so
faithful as yourself, and I question if we could find cook or servants
for the table below. No, we are to leave Paris to-night, Henri, and it
is well the journey should begin. Get you down to the stables, and, if
you can, have my best coach brought to the front door."

"It may not be quite safe, if Monsieur will permit me to suggest."

"Perhaps not. These fools are so deep in their folly that they do not
know their friends. But safe or not, that is the way I shall go. We
might slip out through the back door, but 'tis not thus John Law will go
from Paris."

The servant departed, and Law, left alone, sat silent and motionless,
buried in thought. Now and again his head sank forward, like that of one
who has received a deep hurt. But again he drew himself up sternly, and
so remained, not leaving his seat nor turning toward the window, beyond
which could now be heard the sound of shouting, and cries whose confused
and threatening tones might have given ground for the gravest
apprehension. At length the Swiss again reported, much agitated and
shaken from his ordinary self-control.

"Monsieur," said he, "come. I have at last the coach at the door.
Hasten, Monsieur; a crowd is gathering. Indeed, we may meet violence."

Law seemed not to hear him, but sat for a time, his head still b