"I say that the prize is worth the stake, and that if you can prove to me that you can keep your promise, I am your man."
"This proof," replied the mask, "must be given you by another, and if you wish to have it you must follow me."
"Oh!" said D'Harmental, "am I deceived, and are you but a genius of the second order—a subaltern spirit, an intermediate power? Diable! this would take away a little of my consideration for you."
"What does it matter if I am subject to some great enchantress, and she has sent me to you?"
"I warn you that I do not treat with ambassadors."
"My mission is to conduct you to her."
"Then I shall see her?"
"Face to face."——"Let us go, then."
"Chevalier, you go quickly to the work; you forget that before all initiations there are certain indispensable ceremonies to secure the discretion of the initiated."
"What must I do?"