inexhaustible. You have all had proof that I am neither poor nor
parsimonious; but neither am I extravagant. I have all that I want--a
cottage at Newport, a neat house in the Rue de la Paix, stocks, and real
estate. The opal-mine started me; I have kept myself going very well
ever since.

'Gentlemen, my tale is ended. I am sorry it has proved so long, and am
grateful to you all for the attentive hearing you have given me. I have
been constantly looking round expecting to detect some one of you
falling into a gentle slumber; I therefore feel really flattered at
finding you all still awake.'

'But what became of the child that Percival was seeking?' shouted one.

'Did you ever find out any thing about Adéle's previous history?' asked
another.

'And look here, Rideau, what did you--?'

'Gentlemen, take pity on me; while I have been spinning this long yarn,
you have been smoking and imbibing; I am very willing to join you in
both; but to-night I am tired out. The next time we meet, I shall be
delighted to tell you what particulars I learned on my return to New
Orleans, relative to Adéle and her poor orphan child; but no more
to-night.'




_THE RED, WHITE, AND BLUE._