"I am lost!" said the king.

"On the contrary, you are saved. Everard & Co. are my bankers
and attorneys; in fact, I own an interest in the firm."

"What is this you tell me?" cried the king.

"Sire, we English have a peculiar trait; it is asking for
something after we have taken it. The human countenance is a
fine picture book. I should like to read that belonging to your
cousin Josef, providing I could read unobserved."

"My friend!" said the king.

"Say nothing. Here is the bulldog; take him to her Royal
Highness with my compliments. There is no truer friend than an
animal of his breed. He is steadfast in his love, for he makes
but few friends; he is a good companion, for he is
undemonstrative; he can read and draw inferences, and your
enemies will be his. I shall bid you good afternoon. God be with
your Majesty."

"Ah, to lose you now!" said, the king, a heaviness in his heart
such as presentiment brings.

The diplomat turned and went down the grand corridor. The
bulldog tugged at his chain. Animals are gifted with prescience.
He knew that his master had passed forever out of his life.
Presently he heard the voice of the princess calling; and the