; "the President must fall in duel. It
only remains to choose his adversary."

"Your Highness has permitted me to name my own recompense," said the
Colonel. "Will he permit me to ask the appointment of my brother? It is
an honourable post, but I dare assure your Highness that the lad will
acquit himself with credit."

"You ask me an ungracious favour," said the Prince, "but I must refuse
you nothing."

The Colonel kissed his hand with the greatest affection; and at that
moment the carriage rolled under the archway of the Prince's splendid
residence.

An hour after, Florizel in his official robes, and covered with all the
orders of Bohemia, received the members of the Suicide Club.

"Foolish and wicked men," said he, "as many of you as have been driven
into this strait by the lack of fortune shall receive employment and
remuneration from my officers. Those who suffer under a sense of guilt
must have recourse to a higher and more generous Potentate than I. I
feel pity for all of you, deeper than you can imagine; to-morrow you
shall tell me your stories; and as you answer more frankly, I shall be
the more able to remedy your misfortunes. As for you," he added, turning
to the President, "I should only offend a person of your parts by any
offer of assistance; but I have instead a piece of diversion to propose
to you. Here," laying his hand on the shoulder of Colonel Geraldine's
young brother, "is an officer of mine who desires to make a little tour
upon the Continent; and I ask you, as a favour, to accompany him on
this excursion. Do you," he went on, changing his tone, "do you shoot
well with the pistol? Because you may have need of that accomplishment.
When two men go travelling together, it is best to be prepared for all.
Let me add that, if by any chance you should lose young Mr. Geraldine
upon the way, I shall always have another member of my household to
place at your disposal; and I am known, Mr. President, to have long
eyesight, and as long an arm."

With these words, said with much sternness, the Prince concluded his
address. Next morning the members of the club were suitably provided for
by his munificence, and the President set forth upon his travels, under
the supervision of Mr. Geraldine, and a pair of faithful and adroit
lackeys, well trained in the Prince's household. Not content with this,
discreet agents were put in possession of the house in Box Court, and
all letters or visitors for the Suicide Club