THE ADVENTURES OF PRINCE HEMPSEED. 23

The governess now remained silent, because the Princess
Orfano-Orfana put to her no more ques--
tions.

“In my turn I will ask you,” said the:
prince to the tutor, “if my noble son,
Leopold-Leopoldini, will be fit, on-reach-.
ing the proper age, and'by means of your
instruction, to enter the corps of royal
pages in the service of his majesty the-
King of Sardinia?”

“ Doubtless, my lord.”

f ‘Will he wear his sword' with the grace
of an elegant gallant?”
“ Doubtlessy my lord.”
“Will he have learnt how to smile in a
proper manner at the slightest words
which his sovereign may deign to:address
to him?”
‘ Doubtless, my lord.”

“Will he know how to pick up a
princess’s glove gracefully, to: pay a com-
pliment whenever there is an opportunity,
and play at fives?”

“Doubtless, my lord.”

** Will he have learnt——”’

This new question on the part of Prince
Orfano-Orfana was cut short by a loud cry uttered by
Prince Hempseed, who also exclaimed, “Oh! the wretch—
the monster—the cruel man !”’

Every one looked in astonishment: at the pale and sor-
rowful countenance of little Prince Hempseed, and tried to
find out the cause of that anger which did’ not appear to
cease; for he continued to exclaim, as he raised’ his eyes to.
heaven, “ Will not Providence take our part? Oh! they
are lost!—they are lost!”

“What is the matter with you, my dear son?” demanded