Prince and Page

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1884 Excerpt: ...see Count L himself. To him this packet is addressed; give it into his own hands, and obtain from him a receipt." "I hear, your Highness." "Go then, and make all speed home again." Collia, thus instructed, hid the packet in an inner pocket of his vest, and set forth. It was a glorious winter night, the moon clear and golden, the cold, bright stars studding the deep, dark heavens with glory. Collia had about thirty-five minutes' walk before him, and he started at a quick, steady pace, thoroughly enjoying the keen, frosty air and healthful exercise, after being shut up in the house all day. It was already twelve o'clock, and as he left the more frequented streets behind him he heard the clock in a public building at no great distance strike the hour in deep muffled tones, that seemed to thrill all the surrounding space and die away slowly and solemnly in the calm, cold atmosphere. In these quiet streets the side-walks were nearly empty, and along the snowy road only an occasional sledge slipped by in a silent, ghostly manner, carrying passenger and isvostchik, both half asleep. Collia had traversed about half the distance, when he suddenly felt as though he were being followed. Of late the boy's wits had been considerably sharpened by sundry hints given him by his master, to say nothing of experiences of his own; and now he always kept eyes and ears open. Looking round, he saw two men following him closely. Their faces were closely muffled in fur, and even when they came under the gas lamps it was impossible to distinguish their features. Collia, however, kept along steadily at a good round pace, and had almost reached the house to which he had been sent, when the strangers overtook him, and came up, one on each side. "Nicolai Fe...