"Oh, that,-'tis the amount of my loss to your Highness last week at hazard. I had nearly forgotten it; but before my departure, I must clear my debts. I have indorsed it on the back." With these words the Marshal disappeared.
V.
Philip opened the paper, and read in it an order for five thousand dollars. He put it in his pocket, and thought: "Well, it's a pity that I'm not a prince." Some one whispered in his ear:
"Your Royal Highness, we are both discovered; I shall blow my brains out."
Philip turned round in amazement, and saw a negro at his side.
"What do you want, mask?" he asked, in an unconcerned tone.
"I am Colonel Kalt," whispered the negro. "The Marshal's wife has been chattering to Duke Herman, and he has been breathing fire and fury against us both."
"He is quite welcome," answered Philip.
"But the King will hear it all," sighed the negro. "This very night I may be arrested and carried to a dungeon; I'll sooner hang myself."
"No need of that," said Philip.