‘A recent purchase, and a great bargain. He is good-looking, has the advantage of being deaf and dumb, and is harmless in every respect.’

‘‘Tis a pity,’ replied the lady; ‘it seems that all good-looking people are born to be useless. I, for instance.’

‘Yet rumour whispers the reverse,’ remarked the physician.

‘How so?’ inquired the lady.

‘The young King of Karasmé.’

‘Poh! I have made up my mind to detest him. A barbarian!’

‘A hero!’

‘Have you ever seen him?’

‘I have.’

‘Handsome?’