conjure you, if ever you are asked any questions
concerning the frequent visits I have made
you, to say I was sent by Edella, and that I was
no more than her emissary in the assistance you
received from me:--add also, that you have
reason to believe her charity was excited by
her liking one of your company:--mention
who you think fit; but I believe Horatio, as
the youngest and most handsome, will be the
most likely to gain credit to what you say.--
Depend upon it, that if you execute this commission
artfully, I will recompence it by procuring
your liberty:--nor need you have any
scruples concerning it, for no person will be
prejudiced by it, and the reputation preserved
of

_Yours,_

MATTAKESA."


I suppose, said the prince, as soon as he had done reading, turning to
Horatio, you are the person mentioned in the letter? Tho' I neither
desire nor deserve the epithets given me there my lord, replied he, yet
I will not deny but I am called Horatio.

Well, resumed the prince with a half smile, I am so well pleased with
the conviction this letter has given me, that I shall retain no
resentment against the malicious author of it.