for the tyrant. If it
abides peacefully in a royal house, it abides with cyphers who dignify,
without obstructing, a popular constitution. Do not mistake me, Mr.
Townshend. This is no whim of a sentimental girl, but the reasoned
conclusion of the men who achieved our liberty. There is every reason
to believe that General Washington shares our views, and Mr. Hamilton,
whose name you may know, is the inspirer of our mission."

"But the Count is an old man," I urged; for I knew not where to begin
in my exposition of the hopelessness of their errand.

"By so much the better. We do not wish a young king who may be
fractious. An old man tempered by misfortune is what our purpose
demands."

"He has also his failings. A man cannot lead his life for forty years
and retain all the virtues."

At that one of the Sylvesters spoke sharply. "I have heard such
gossip, but I do not credit it. I have not forgotten Preston and
Derby."

I made my last objection. "He has no posterity--legitimate
posterity--to carry on his line."

The four gentlemen smiled. "That happens to be his chiefest
recommendation," said Mr. Galloway. "It enables us to take the House
of Stuart on trial. We need a breathing-space and leisure to look
around; but unless we establish the principle of monarchy at once the
republicans will forestall us. Let us get our king at all costs, and
during the remaining years of his life we shall have time to settle the
succession problem.

"We have no wish to saddle ourselves for good with a race who might
prove burdensome. If King Charles fails he has no son, and we can look
elsewhere for a better monarch. You perceive the reason of my view?"

I did, and I also perceived the colossal absurdity of the whole
business. But I could not convince them of it, for they met my
objections with excellent arguments. Nothing save a sight of the Count
would, I feared, disillusion them.

"You wish me to make this proposal on your behalf?" I asked.

"We shall make the proposal ourselves, but we desire you to prepare the
way for us. He is an elderly man, and should first be informed of our
purpose."

"There is one person whom I beg leave to consult--the Duchess, his
daughter. It may be that the present is an ill moment for approaching
the Count, and the affair requires her sanction."

They agreed, and with a very perplexed mind I went forth to seek the
lady. The irony of the thing was too cruel, and my heart a