For such as I, and for all who
desire to be out of the coil without posthumous scandal, the
Suicide Club has been inaugurated. How this has been managed, what
is its history, or what may be its ramifications in other lands, I
am myself uninformed; and what I know of its constitution, I am not
at liberty to communicate to you. To this extent, however, I am at
your service. If you are truly tired of life, I will introduce you
to-night to a meeting; and if not to-night, at least some time
within the week, you will be easily relieved of your existences.
It is now (consulting his watch) eleven; by half-past, at latest,
we must leave this place; so that you have half-an-hour before you
to consider my proposal. It is more serious than a cream tart," he
added, with a smile; "and I suspect more palatable."
"More serious, certainly," returned Colonel Geraldine; "and as it
is so much more so, will you allow me five minutes' speech in
private with my friend, Mr. Godall?"
"It is only fair," answered the young man. "If you will permit, I
will retire."
"You will be very obliging," said the Colonel.
As soon as the two were alone - "What," said Prince Florizel, "is
the use of this confabulation, Geraldine? I see you are flurried,
whereas my mind is very tranquilly made up. I will see the end of
this."
"Your Highness," said the Colonel, turning pale; "let me ask you to
consider the importance of your life, not only to your friends, but
to the public interest.
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