"At the same time," asked the Prince, "if I were to refuse to

"I will not conceal from your Highness that a considerable

discretion has been granted me," replied the detective with a bow.

"Upon my word," cried Florizel, "your effrontery astounds me!

Yourself, as an agent, I must pardon; but your superiors shall

dearly smart for their misconduct. What, have you any idea, is the

cause of this impolitic and unconstitutional act? You will observe

that I have as yet neither refused nor consented, and much may