Mascari opened his small eyes to their widest extent; the Prince, no less surprised, but far too well world-read even to show what he felt, laughed aloud.
"And were you, then, the cavalier who spoiled my night's chase, and robbed me of my white doe? By Bacchus, it was prettily done."
"You must forgive me, my Prince; I knew not who it was, or my respect would have silenced my gallantry."
"All stratagems fair in love, as in war. Of course you profited by my defeat, and did not content yourself with leaving the little actress at her threshold?"
"She is Diana for me," answered Zicci lightly; "whoever wins the wreath will not find a flower faded."
"And now you would cast for her—well: but they tell me you are ever a sure player."
"Let Signor Mascari cast for us."
"Be it so. Mascari, the dice."
Surprised and perplexed, the parasite took up the three dice, deposited them gravely in the box, and rattled them noisily, while Zicci threw himself back carelessly in his chair, and said, "I give the first chance to your Excellency."
Mascari interchanged a glance with his patron, and threw; the numbers were sixteen.
"It is a high throw," said Zicci, calmly; "nevertheless, Signor Mascari, I do not despond."
Mascari gathered up the dice, shook the box, and rolled the contents once more upon the table; the number was the highest that can be thrown—eighteen.
The Prince darted a glance of fire at his minion, who stood with gaping mouth, staring at the dice, and shaking his head in puzzled wonder.
"I have won, you see," said Zicci; "may we be friends still?"
"Signor," said the Prince, obviously struggling with anger and confusion, "the victory is already yours. But, pardon me, you have spoken lightly of this young girl—will anything tempt you to yield your claim?"
"Ah, do not think so ill of my gallantry."
"Enough," said the Prince, forcing a smile; " I yield. Let me prove that I do not yield ungraciously ; will you honour me with your presence at a little feast I propose to give on the Royal birthday?"
"It is indeed a happiness to hear one command of yours which I can obey."
