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 at the end of this affair we'll balance accounts; I'm thinking that 'tis me own turn now to demand satisfaction, and I'll claim it when the time comes."

"Monsieur will find me ready," interjected Chambret, with composure.

"Very good; but—let it pass, as I've said. At present we two have a mutual object in view, a common quarrel. Let us combine forces. Let us play partners against the pack of 'em. Show me your cards, and I'll show ye mine."

Chambret's answer was instantaneous: a hand proffered O'Rourke.

"The proposition," he said warmly, "would have come from me had it not come from you, monsieur. It was decided upon between madame and myself en voyage."

"What!" O'Rourke colored. "Madame—?"

Chambret laughed lightly. "One moment, monsieur—I begin at the beginning of my account. In the first place, Madame la Princesse has full confidence in you, monsieur, as, you will permit me to add, have I. Nevertheless, it has seemed advisable to us both that you should have reinforcements—backing, I think you term it."

"'Tis that I need," assented O'Rourke.

"For this consideration I went to madame's brother, Leopold, feigned interest in his plans, and offered myself as his first colonist. He was overjoyed—received me with open arms. At the same time, madame decided to accompany Monsieur le Prince, her husband, upon his journey—and insisted, despite his pronounced opposition. This morning, the Eirene, bearing us all, made this port. The situation, monsieur, is this: Prince Felix conspires for the death—I speak bluntly—of his brother-in-law. The reason is simple: madame is her brother's heir; Felix already has run