we choose of our own free will the older line and King Charles'?"

I said foolishly that I thought monarchy had had its day, and
that 'twas idle to revive it.

"That is a sentiment well enough under a monarchical government;
but we, with a clean page to write upon, do not share it. You
know your ancient historians. Has not the repository of the
chief power always been the rock on which republicanism has
shipwrecked? If that power is given to the chief citizen, the
way is prepared for the tyrant. If it abides peacefully in a
royal house, it abides with cyphers who dignify, without
obstructing, a popular constitution. Do not mistake me, Mr.
Townshend. This is no whim of a sentimental girl, but the
reasoned conclusion of the men who achieved our liberty. There
is every reason to believe that General Washington shares our
views, and Mr. Hamilton, whose name you may know, is the inspirer
of our mission."

"But the Count is an old man," I urged; for I knew not where to
begin in my exposition of the hopelessness of their errand.

"By so much the better. We do not wish a young king who may be
fractious. An old man tempered by misfortune is what our purpose
demands."

"He has also his failings. A man cannot lead his life for forty
years and retain all the virtues."

At that one of the Sylvesters spoke sharply. "I have heard such