"
"Prince," the Duke said quietly, "I have sent for you as your
host. I speak to you now unofficially, as an Englishman to his
guest. I have been besieged through the night, and even this
morning, with incomprehensible messages which come to me from
those who administer the law in this country. Prince, I want you
to remember that however effete you may find us as a nation from
your somewhat romantic point of view, we have at least realized
the highest ideals any nation has ever conceived in the
administration of the law. Nobleman and pauper here are judged
alike. If their crime is the same, their punishment is the same.
There is no man in this country who is strong enough to arrest
the hand of justice."
The Prince bowed.
"My dear Duke," he said, "it has given me very much pleasure, in
the course of my investigations, to realize the truth of what you
have just said. I agree with you entirely. You could teach us in
Japan a great lesson on the fearless administration of the law.
Now in some other countries--"
"Never mind those other countries," the Duke interrupted gravely.
"I did not send for you to enter into an academic discussion. I
want you clearly to understand how I am placed, supposing a
distinguished member of my household--supposing even you, Prince
Maiyo--were to come within the arm of the law. Even the great
claims of hospitality would leave me powerless."
"This," the Prince admitted, "I fully apprehend. It is surely
reasonable that the stranger in your country should be subject to
your laws.
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