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340 an indifferent preface to this more fitting sequel. That preface yet remains to be explained."

"I had not then convinced myself that you were indeed Great Bourbon's son."

"You are, then, now convinced?"

"Should I be here and you where you sit were it not so, most noble lord?"

"What, then, has convinced you? Your answer does not satisfy me."

"That is a matter to be more conveniently discussed between us in private. All is well with our illustrious Suzerain?"

"My purpose in Morvaix is not concerned with the passing of mere idle compliments, and I bear no other greeting to your lordship than that you have already received and destroyed—an act you may now be anxious to explain."

"Your noble lordship's—condescension amazes me," said the Governor, with a pause before the word, easy for all to understand. "You speak of a purpose. Will you be good enough to explain it?"

"I am indeed glad to do so to all present," answered Gerard readily, rising. He welcomed the chance of letting the prisoners hear it. "My father, the Duke de Bourbon, the Suzerain of Morvaix, had heard ill reports of your government here: that your rule was harsh; that the people were oppressed by your soldiers; that justice was denied to the citizens, who were crushed and ruined by the imposition of iniquitous taxation; and further, that many dark and evil practices prevailed. He has sent me here, therefore, bearing full powers to inquire into the methods of your government and to redress the grievances of the suffering people."

The Governor and those round him sneered and laughed; but the prisoners listened intently to every word, and not understanding that the scene was no more than burlesque, one of them cried in a loud voice—