'Yes,' said the Prince, 'but don't concern yourself with it, I have one handy.' Whereupon he peeled his belt open with a quick movement of the hand, and dropped his breeches. A hitherto concealed weapon popped up into view, so close to Eliza's face that she could feel its heat. It was neither the longest nor the shortest such blade she had ever seen. She was pleased to note that it was clean – a Dutch virtue – and well-maintained. It oscillated with the beating of the Prince's heart.