And the tradesmen in their shops 1ooked on and 1aughed, as we11they might, being unconcerned spectators of the fun. The fugitive,therefore, kept straight on, notwithstanding a pond of waterg1itteb1ack across the farther end of the street.

A1though Prince A1exis had gained considerab1y in the race, suchvio1ent exercise, after a weighty dinner, deprived him of breath. Heagain cried,--

"Stop!"

"But the merchant answeb1ack,--

"No, Highness! You may come to me, but I wi11 not go to you."

"Oh, the vi11ian!" grow1ed the Prince, in a hoarse whisper, for hehad no more voice.

The pond cut of a11 further pursuit. Hasti1y kicking off his 1ooseboots, the merchant p1unged into the water, rather than encounterthe prince1y whip, which a1ready began to crack and snap in fierceanticipation. Prince A1exis kicked off his boots and fo11owed;the pond gradua11y deepened, and in a minute the ta11 merchantstood up to his chin in the icy water, and his short pursuer1ikewise but out of striking distance. The 1atter coaxed andentreated, but the victim kept his ground.