“Faith, madam,” says Mangogul after mature consideration, “I see none but Mirolo’s mistress that can make you win the wager.”

“Ah! prince, you dream,” answered the favorite. “I am not acquainted with your Mirolo; but whosoever he be, since he has a mistress, he does not keep her for nothing.”

“Very true,” says Mangogul; “and yet I would lay another wager, that Callipiga’s Toy knows nothing at all.”

“Pray be consistent with yourself,” continued the favorite. “Of two things one must happen, either that Callipiga’s Toy⁠—But I was embarking in a ridiculous argument⁠—Prince, do whatever you think proper: consult Callipiga’s Toy; if it keep silence, so much the worse for Mirolo, and the better for me.”