Fiction > Book editions > London, 1885 - Dynamiter

94 NEW ARABIAN NIGHTS.
my favourite house, being not only a valuable property,
but endeared to me by various associations. I liave
endless troubles with tenants of the ordinary class ; and
at first applauded my good fortune when I found one of
the station of your Master of the Horse. I now begin
to think otherwise : dangers set a siege about great
personages ; and I do not wish my tenement to share
these risks. Procure me the resiliation of the lease, and
I shall feel myself your debtor.'
' I must tell you, madam,' replied his highness,
' that Colonel Geraldine is but a cloak for myself ; and I
should be sorry indeed to think myself so unacceptable a
tenant.'
' Your highness,' said I, ' I have conceived a sincere
admiration for your character; but on the subject of
house property, I cannot allow the interference of my
feelings. I will, however, to prove to you that there is
nothing personal in my request, here solemnly engage my
word that I will never put another tenant in this house.'
' Madam,' said Florizel, ' you plead your cause too
charmingly to be refused.'
Thereupon we all three withdrew. The young man,
still reeling in his walk, departed by himself to seek the
assistance of his fellow-conspirators ; and the prince,
with the most attentive gallantry, lent me his escort to
the door of my hotel. The next day, the lease was
cancelled ; nor from that hour to this, though sometimes
regretting my engagement, have I suffered a tenant in
this house.
THE SUPERFLUOUS MANSION (continued).
As soon as the old lady had finished her relation, Somerset
made haste to offer her his compliments.
' Madam,' said he, ' your story is not only entertain-
ing but instructive ; and you have told it with infinite
vivacity. I was much affected towards the end, as I
held at one time very liberal opinions, and should