mily. The arms of Bohemia are deeply graved
over the door and upon the tall chimneys; passengers have a look into a
green court set with the most costly flowers; and a stork, the only one
in Paris, perches on the gable all day long and keeps a crowd before the
house. Grave servants are seen passing to and fro within; and from time
to time the great gate is thrown open and a carriage rolls below the
arch. For many reasons this residence was especially dear to the heart
of Prince Florizel; he never drew near to it without enjoying that
sentiment of home-coming so rare in the lives of the great; and on the
present evening he beheld its tall roof and mildly illuminated windows
with unfeigned relief and satisfaction.

As he was approaching the postern door by which he always entered when
alone, a man stepped forth from the shadow and presented himself with an
obeisance in the Prince's path.

"I have the honour of addressing Prince Florizel of Bohemia?" said he.

"Such is my title," replied the Prince. "What do you want with me?"

"I am," said the man, "a detective, and I have to present your Highness
with this billet from the Prefect of Police."

The Prince took the letter and glanced it through by the light of the
street lamp. It was highly apologetic, but requested him to follow the
bearer to the Prefecture without delay.

"In short," said Florizel, "I am arrested."

"Your Highness," replied the officer, "nothing, I am certain, could be
further from the intention of the Prefect. You will observe that he has
not granted a warrant. It is mere formality, or call it, if you prefer,
an obligation that your Highness lays on the authorities."

"At the same time," asked the Prince, "if I were to refuse to follow
you?"

"I will not conceal from your Highness that a considerable discretion
has been granted me," replied the detective, with a bow.

"Upon my word," cried Florizel, "your effrontery astounds me! Yourself,
as an agent, I must pardon; but your superiors shall dearly smart for
their misconduct. What, have you any idea, is the cause of this
impolitic and unconstitutional act? You will observe that I have as yet
neither refused nor consented, and much may depend on your prompt and
ingenuous answer. Let me remind you, officer, that this is an affair of
some gravity."

"Your Highness," said the detective humbly, "General Vandeleur and his
brother have had the incredible presumption to accuse you of theft. The
famou