countess, and father of five children, within such a short period. Tell
me this, for it is the only gratification I shall accept."

"And let me tell you, dear friend, it is the highest I could give," was
his reply. "In fact, you have presented me such a draft that, in spite
of all my wealth, I am unable to pay it at sight. I have to ask my
wife's permission first. The story you want me to tell is but one half
my own, the other half belongs to my wife, and you must allow me to ask
her leave;" and, bowing to me, he left the room.

I was alone. No, not alone. From behind the bed-curtains issued a heavy
groaning, as if the little sleeper were troubled with bad dreams. I went
to him and lifted the hangings. The glare of the light awakened him, and
he cried out, "Apa!" ("Papa!")

"Papa will come presently, my little one," I said in Hungarian, and he
smiled happily.

"Oh, the Hungarian uncle!" he said, "that's nice;" and, taking hold of
my hand, he caressingly laid his little, soft cheek on it.

"Have you been troubled in your sleep?" I asked.

"Yes," he said; "I was dumb again, although I wanted to speak and tried
very hard. A snake was coiled around my neck, and choked me. There is no
snake in this room? Or is there?"

"No. Don't be afraid of anything. Try to sleep again."

"You will stay with me?"