The masks spoke of the millennium it was to bring on earth, not as philosophers rejoicing in the advent of light, but as ruffians exulting in the annihilation of law.

I know not why it was, but their licentious language infected myself; and, always desirous to be foremost in every circle, I soon exceeded even these rioters in declamations on the nature of the liberty which was about to embrace all the families of the globe,--a liberty that should pervade not only public legislation, but domestic life; an emancipation from every fetter that men had forged for themselves.

In the midst of this tirade one of the masks whispered me,-- "'Take care.

One listens to you who seems to be a spy!' "My eyes followed those of the mask, and I observed a man who took no part in the conversation, but whose gaze was bent upon me.

He was disguised like the rest, yet I found by a general whisper that none had observed him enter.