But as she went on in her story a light seemed to break in on her, and she exclaimed:  “And, after all, I do not believe it was Prince Julian in your coat!”

Philip was certain it was, and cried:  “The rascal!  He stole my kisses—­now I understand!  That’s the reason why he wanted to take my place and gave me his mask!” And now the stories he had heard at the masquerade came into Philip’s head.  He asked if anybody had called at her mother’s to offer her money; if any gentleman was much about Milk Street; if she saw any one watching her at church; but to all his questions her answers were so satisfactory, that it was impossible to doubt her total ignorance of all the machinations of the rascally courtiers.  He warned her against all the advances of philanthropical and compassionate princes—­and Rose warned him against the dangers of a masked ball and adventures with ladies of rank, by which many young men have been made unhappy—­and as everything was now forgiven, in consideration of the kiss not been wilfully bestowed, he was on the point of claiming for himself the one of which be had been cheated, when his designs were interrupted by an unexpected incident.  A man out of breath with his rapid flight rushed against them.  By the great-coat, staff, and horn, Philip recognized his deputy.  He, on the other hand, snatched at the silk cloak and hat.  “Ah! sir,” said Philip, “here are your things.  I would not change places with you again in this world!  I should be no gainer by the operation.”

“Quick! quick!” cried the Prince, and threw the watchman’s apparel on the snow and fastened on his mask, hat, and cloak.  Philip returned to his old beaver and coat, and took up the lantern and staff.  Rose had shrunk back into the door.

“I promised thee a dole, comrade—­but it’s a positive fact—­I have not got my purse.”

“I’ve got it here,” said Philip, and held it out to him.  “You gave it to my intended there; but, please your Highness, I must forbid all presents in that quarter.”

“Comrade, keep what you’ve got, and be off as quick as you can.  You are not safe here.”

The Prince was flying off as he spoke, but Philip held him by the mantle.

“One thing, my Lord, we have to settle—­”

“Run! watchman!  I tell you.  They’re in search of you.”

“I have nothing to run for.  But your purse, here—­”

“Keep it, I tell you.  Fly! if you can run.”

“And a billet of Marshal Blankenswerd’s for five thousand dollars—­”

“Ha! what the plague do you know about Marshal Blankenswerd?”

“He said it was a gambling debt he owed you.  He and his lady start to-night for their estates in Poland.”

“Are you mad? how do you know that?  Who gave you the message for me?”

“And, your Highness, the Minister of Finance will pay all your debts to Abraham Levi and others if you will use your influence with the King to keep him in office.”