In his hand he held a curious club , with a long , slim handle , and a head made heavy with lead , and defended with horn . With this he was aiming at a little white ball ; and suddenly he swung up the club and sent the ball out of sight in the air , over several trees . Prince Ricardo stepped up to this boy , took off his cap , and said : `` I think I have the honour of addressing the Prince of Wales ? '' Prince Charles started at the sight of a gentleman in long riding-boots , girt with a broadsword , which was not then generally worn , and carrying a Persian rug under his arm . `` That is what I am called , sir , '' he said , `` by those who give me the title which is mine by right . May I inquire the reason which offers me the pleasure of this unexpected interview ? '' `` Oh , I 'm Ricardo of Pantouflia ! '' says Dick . `` I had a letter from you this morning , and I believe you wanted to see me . '' `` From Pantouflia , sir , '' said Prince Charles ; `` why , that is hundreds of leagues away ! '' `` It is a good distance , '' said Dick ; `` but a mere step when you wear Seven - league Boots like mine . '' `` My dear prince , '' said Charles , throwing himself into his arms with rapture , and kissing him in the Italian fashion , which Dick did not half like , `` you are , indeed , worthy of your reputation ; and these are the celebrated Seven-league Boots ? Harry , '' he cried to his brother , `` come here at once and let me present you to his Royal Highness , our illustrious ally , Prince Ricardo of Pantouflia . The Duke of York -- Prince Ricardo of Pantouflia . Gentlemen , know each other ! '' The prince bowed in the most stately manner . `` I say , '' said Dick , who was seldom at all up to the standard of royal conversation , `` what 's that game you were playing ? It 's new to me . You sent the ball a tremendous long shot . '' `` The game is called golf , and is the favourite pastime of my loyal Scottish subjects , '' said Prince Charles .
`` For that reason , that I may be able to share the amusements XXXXX my people , whom I soon hope to lead to a glorious victory , followed by a peaceful and prosperous reign , I am acquiring a difficult art .
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