And as the fatal wine was poured into his glass, he repeated, fixing his eyes on the Prince, "I pledge you even in this wine!" He lifted the glass to his lips.

The Prince seemed ghastly pale, while the gaze of the Corsican bent upon him with an intent and stern brightness that the conscience-stricken host cowered and quailed beneath.

Not till he had drained the draught and replaced the glass upon the board did Zicci turn his eyes from the Prince; and he then said, "Your wine has been kept too long,--it has lost its virtues.

It might disagree with many; but do not fear, it will not harm me, Prince.

Signor Mascari, you are a judge of the grape, will you favor us with your opinion ?" "Nay," answered Mascari, with well-affected composure, "I like not the wines of Cyprus, they are heating.