The remainder of the two corporations
are not initiated in the secret of the enterprise. I am not able
at present to give you the names of the eight conspirators, the
person from whom I derive my information not having as yet
confided them even to myself, but I trust ere long to obtain such
a mark of confidence."
The female ceased speaking, and I remained in a state of doubt,
fear, and alarm, impossible to describe. Still one thing appeared
clear to me, that information so mysteriously conveyed was not
deserving of belief, unless supported by more corroborating
testimony. My unknown friend evidently divined all that was
passing in my mind, for she observed,
"I perceive that my recital appears to you improbable; one
particular which I will state may perhaps overcome your
incredulity. Are you not in the habit, madam, of taking every
evening
mixed with a large proportion of orange-
flower water?"
"I am," replied I.
"This day," continued my informant, "you will receive four bottles
of orange-flower water contained in a box bearing the usual
appearances of having come from the perfumers', but it is sent
by other hands, and the liquor contained in the flasks is mingled
with a deadly poison."
These last words made me tremble. "You must complete your kind
offices," cried I to my visitor, "by bringing me acquainted with
the person from whom you have derived your intelligence: that
individual must be acquainted with the whole of the plot; and,
believe me, I will not be unmindful of either of you.
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