general applause, it was immediately determined that I should proceed
without delay, as soon as I obtained the sovereign approbation. "I am
convinced," said Lord Spigot, "that if there be any thing really unknown
and worthy of our most ardent curiosity, it must be in the immense
regions of Africa; that country, which seems to be the oldest on the
globe, and yet with the greater part of which we are almost utterly
unacquainted; what prodigious wealth of gold and diamonds must not lie
concealed in those torrid regions, when the very rivers on the coast
pour forth continual specimens of golden sand! 'Tis my opinion,
therefore, that the Baron deserves the applause of all Europe for his
spirit, and merits the most powerful assistance of the sovereign."

So flattering an approbation, you may be sure, was delightful to my
heart, and with every confidence and joy I suffered them to take me to
court that instant. After the usual ceremonies of introduction, suffice
it to say that I met with every honour and applause that my most
sanguine expectations could demand. I had always a taste for the
fashionable _je ne sais quoi_ of the most elegant society, and in the
presence of all the sovereigns of Europe I ever found myself quite at
home, and experienced from the whole court the most flattering esteem
and admiration. I remember, one particular day, the fate of the
unfortunate Marquis de Bellecourt. The Countess of Rassinda, who
accompanied him, looked most divinely. "Yes, I am confident," said
the Marquis de Bellecourt to me, "that I have acted according to the
strictest sentiments of justice and of loyalty to my sovereign. What
stronger breast-plate than a heart untainted? and though I did not
receive a word nor a look, yet I cannot think--no, it were impossible
to be misrepresented. Conscious of my own integrity, I will try again--I
will go boldly up." The Marquis de Bellecourt saw the opportunity; he
advanced three paces, put his hand upon his breast and bowed. "Permit