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LABOULAYE*S (FATRY; BOOK the hand and gazed at them with an air which made all the other masks ready to burst with envy, then made a sign to the orchestra; the dance recommenced, and the prince disappeared. He hastened again to the elm-walk in search of the traitress who had insulted him, doubtless led by vengeance. His blood boiled in his veins; he wandered at random, suddenly stopping short, looking, listening, and spying im all directions. At the faintest gleam of light through the foliage he sprang forward like a madman, laughing and weeping at the same time as though distracted. At the turn of an alley he met Rachimburg advancing toward him trembling, with an air of terror. "Sire," murmured he, in a mysterious voice, “has Your Majesty seen it?” ““What?’’ asked the king. “The specter; it passed close by me. I am a lost man; > I shall die to-morrow.” ‘What specter?” said Charming. ‘What fool’s tale are you telling me?" "A specter—a domino with flashing eyes, that threw me on my knees and boxed my ears twice. “Tt is she!” cried the king; “it is she! Why did you let her go?" “Your Majesty, I had not my pike; but if ever I see her again I will knock her down." 172
