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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:17:11 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:17:11 -0700 |
| commit | 58b647848def2f545efd7417e1fdef3af9d77b95 (patch) | |
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diff --git a/1447-h/1447-h.htm b/1447-h/1447-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..76bcef7 --- /dev/null +++ b/1447-h/1447-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,13213 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Illustrious Prince, by E. Phillips Oppenheim + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1447 ***</div> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By E. Phillips Oppenheim + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> MR. HAMILTON + FYNES, URGENT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> THE + END OF THE JOURNEY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> AN + INCIDENT AND AN ACCIDENT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. + </a> MISS PENELOPE MORSE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> + CHAPTER V. </a> AN AFFAIR OF STATE <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> MR. COULSON + INTERVIEWED <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> A + FATAL DESPATCH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> AN + INTERRUPTED THEATRE PARTY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER + IX. </a> INSPECTOR JACKS SCORES <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> MR. COULSON OUTMATCHED + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> A + COMMISSION <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> PENELOPE + INTERVENES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> EAST + AND WEST <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> AN + ENGAGEMENT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> PENELOPE + EXPLAINS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> CONCERNING + PRINCE MAIYO <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> A + GAY NIGHT IN PARIS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. + </a> MR. COULSON IS INDISCREET <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> A MOMENTOUS QUESTION + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> THE + ANSWER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> A + CLUE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> A + BREATH FROM THE EAST <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. + </a> ON THE TRAIL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER + XXIV. </a> PRINCE MAIYO BIDS HIGH <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. </a> HOBSON’S CHOICE <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. </a> SOME FAREWELLS + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. </a> A + PRISONER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. </a> PATRIOTISM + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. </a> A RACE + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. </a> INSPECTOR + JACKS IMPORTUNATE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. </a> GOODBYE! + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. </a> PRINCE + MAIYO SPEAKS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. </a> UNAFRAID + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. </a> BANZAI! + <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. MR. HAMILTON FYNES, URGENT + </h2> + <p> + There was a little murmur of regret amongst the five hundred and + eighty-seven saloon passengers on board the steamship Lusitania, mingled, + perhaps, with a few expressions of a more violent character. After several + hours of doubt, the final verdict had at last been pronounced. They had + missed the tide, and no attempt was to be made to land passengers that + night. Already the engines had ceased to throb, the period of unnatural + quietness had commenced. Slowly, and without noticeable motion, the great + liner swung round a little in the river. + </p> + <p> + A small tug, which had been hovering about for some time, came screaming + alongside. There was a hiss from its wave-splashed deck, and a rocket with + a blue light flashed up into the sky. A man who had formed one of the long + line of passengers, leaning over the rail, watching the tug since it had + come into sight, now turned away and walked briskly to the steps leading + to the bridge. As it happened, the captain himself was in the act of + descending. The passenger accosted him, and held out what seemed to be a + letter. + </p> + <p> + “Captain Goodfellow,” he said, “I should be glad if you would glance at + the contents of that note.” + </p> + <p> + The captain, who had just finished a long discussion with the pilot and + was not in the best of humor, looked a little surprised. + </p> + <p> + “What, now?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “If you please,” was the quiet answer. “The matter is urgent.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are you?” the captain asked. + </p> + <p> + “My name is Hamilton Fynes,” the other answered. “I am a saloon passenger + on board your ship, although my name does not appear in the list. That + note has been in my pocket since we left New York, to deliver to you in + the event of a certain contingency happening.” + </p> + <p> + “The contingency being?” the captain asked, tearing open the envelope and + moving a little nearer the electric light which shone out from the smoking + room. + </p> + <p> + “That the Lusitania did not land her passengers this evening.” + </p> + <p> + The captain read the note, examined the signature carefully, and whistled + softly to himself. + </p> + <p> + “You know what is inside this?” he asked, looking into his companion’s + face with some curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” was the brief reply. + </p> + <p> + “Your name is Mr. Hamilton Fynes, the Mr. Hamilton Fynes mentioned in this + letter?” + </p> + <p> + “That is so,” the passenger admitted. + </p> + <p> + The captain nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “you had better get down on the lower deck, port side. By + the bye, have you any friends with you?” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite alone,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “So much the better,” the captain declared. “Don’t tell any one that you + are going ashore if you can help it.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly will not, sir,” the other answered. “Thank you very much.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, you know that you can’t take your luggage with you?” the + captain remarked. + </p> + <p> + “That is of no consequence at all, sir,” Mr. Hamilton Fynes answered. “I + will leave instructions for my trunk to be sent on after me. I have all + that I require, for the moment, in this suitcase.” + </p> + <p> + The captain blew his whistle. Mr. Hamilton Fynes made his way quietly to + the lower deck, which was almost deserted. In a very few minutes he was + joined by half a dozen sailors, dragging a rope ladder. The little tug + came screaming around, and before any of the passengers on the deck above + had any idea of what was happening, Mr. Hamilton Fynes was on board the + Anna Maria, and on his way down the river, seated in a small, + uncomfortable cabin, lit by a single oil lamp. + </p> + <p> + No one spoke more than a casual word to him from the moment he stepped to + the deck until the short journey was at an end. He was shown at once into + the cabin, the door of which he closed without a moment’s delay. A very + brief examination of the interior convinced him that he was indeed alone. + Thereupon he seated himself with his back to the wall and his face to the + door, and finding an English newspaper on the table, read it until they + reached the docks. Arrived there, he exchanged a civil good-night with the + captain, and handed a sovereign to the seaman who held his bag while he + disembarked. + </p> + <p> + For several minutes after he had stepped on to the wooden platform, Mr. + Hamilton Fynes showed no particular impatience to continue his journey. He + stood in the shadow of one of the sheds, looking about him with quick + furtive glances, as though anxious to assure himself that there was no one + around who was taking a noticeable interest in his movements. Having + satisfied himself at length upon this point, he made his way to the London + and North Western Railway Station, and knocked at the door of the + station-master’s office. The station-master was busy, and although Mr. + Hamilton Fynes had the appearance of a perfectly respectable transatlantic + man of business, there was nothing about his personality remarkably + striking,—nothing, at any rate, to inspire an unusual amount of + respect. + </p> + <p> + “You wished to see me, sir?” the official asked, merely glancing up from + the desk at which he was sitting with a pile of papers before him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hamilton Fynes leaned over the wooden counter which separated him from + the interior of the office. Before he spoke, he glanced around as though + to make sure that he had not forgotten to close the door. + </p> + <p> + “I require a special train to London as quickly as possible,” he + announced. “I should be glad if you could let me have one within half an + hour, at any rate.” + </p> + <p> + The station-master rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “Quite impossible, sir,” he declared a little brusquely. “Absolutely out + of the question!” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask why it is out of the question?” Mr. Hamilton Fynes inquired. + </p> + <p> + “In the first place,” the station-master answered, “a special train to + London would cost you a hundred and eighty pounds, and in the second + place, even if you were willing to pay that sum, it would be at least two + hours before I could start you off. We could not possibly disorganize the + whole of our fast traffic. The ordinary mail train leaves here at midnight + with sleeping-cars.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hamilton Fynes held out a letter which he had produced from his breast + pocket, and which was, in appearance, very similar to the one which he had + presented, a short time ago, to the captain of the Lusitania. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you will kindly read this,” he said. “I am perfectly willing to + pay the hundred and eighty pounds.” + </p> + <p> + The station-master tore open the envelope and read the few lines contained + therein. His manner underwent at once a complete change, very much as the + manner of the captain of the Lusitania had done. He took the letter over + to his green-shaded writing lamp, and examined the signature carefully. + When he returned, he looked at Mr. Hamilton Fynes curiously. There was, + however, something more than curiosity in his glance. There was also + respect. + </p> + <p> + “I will give this matter my personal attention at once, Mr. Fynes,” he + said, lifting the flap of the counter and coming out. “Do you care to come + inside and wait in my private office?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” Mr. Hamilton Fynes answered; “I will walk up and down the + platform.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a refreshment room just on the left,” the station-master + remarked, ringing violently at a telephone. “I dare say we shall get you + off in less than half an hour. We will do our best, at any rate. It’s an + awkward time just now to command an absolutely clear line, but if we can + once get you past Crewe you’ll be all right. Shall we fetch you from the + refreshment room when we are ready?” + </p> + <p> + “If you please,” the intending passenger answered. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hamilton Fynes discovered that place of entertainment without + difficulty, ordered for himself a cup of coffee and a sandwich, and drew a + chair close up to the small open fire, taking care, however, to sit almost + facing the only entrance to the room. He laid his hat upon the counter, + close to which he had taken up his position, and smoothed back with his + left hand his somewhat thick black hair. He was a man, apparently of + middle age, of middle height, clean-shaven, with good but undistinguished + features, dark eyes, very clear and very bright, which showed, indeed, but + little need of the pince-nez which hung by a thin black cord from his + neck. His hat, low in the crown and of soft gray felt, would alone have + betrayed his nationality. His clothes, however, were also American in cut. + His boots were narrow and of unmistakable shape. He ate his sandwich with + suspicion, and after his first sip of coffee ordered a whiskey and soda. + Afterwards he sat leaning back in his chair, glancing every now and then + at the clock, but otherwise manifesting no signs of impatience. In less + than half an hour an inspector, cap in hand, entered the room and + announced that everything was ready. Mr. Hamilton Fynes put on his hat, + picked up his suitcase, and followed him on to the platform. A long saloon + carriage, with a guard’s brake behind and an engine in front, was waiting + there. + </p> + <p> + “We’ve done our best, sir,” the station-master remarked with a note of + self-congratulation in his tone. “It’s exactly twenty-two minutes since + you came into the office, and there she is. Finest engine we’ve got on the + line, and the best driver. You’ve a clear road ahead too. Wish you a + pleasant journey, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very good, sir,” Mr. Hamilton Fynes declared. “I am sure that my + friends on the other side will appreciate your attention. By what time do + you suppose that we shall reach London?” + </p> + <p> + The station-master glanced at the clock. + </p> + <p> + “It is now eight o’clock, sir,” he announced. “If my orders down the line + are properly attended to, you should be there by twenty minutes to + twelve.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hamilton Fynes nodded gravely and took his seat in the car. He had + previously walked its entire length and back again. + </p> + <p> + “The train consists only of this carriage?” he asked. “There is no other + passenger, for instance, travelling in the guard’s brake?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not, sir,” the station-master declared. “Such a thing would be + entirely against the regulations. There are five of you, all told, on + board,—driver, stoker, guard, saloon attendant, and yourself.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hamilton Fynes nodded, and appeared satisfied. + </p> + <p> + “No more luggage, sir?” the guard asked. + </p> + <p> + “I was obliged to leave what I had, excepting this suitcase, upon the + steamer,” Mr. Hamilton Fynes explained. “I could not very well expect them + to get my trunk up from the hold. It will follow me to the hotel + tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “You will find that the attendant has light refreshments on board, sir, if + you should be wanting anything,” the station-master announced. “We’ll + start you off now, then. Good-night, sir!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fynes nodded genially. + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, Station-master!” he said. “Many thanks to you.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. THE END OF THE JOURNEY + </h2> + <p> + Southward, with low funnel belching forth fire and smoke into the + blackness of the night, the huge engine, with its solitary saloon carriage + and guard’s brake, thundered its way through the night towards the great + metropolis. Across the desolate plain, stripped bare of all vegetation, + and made hideous forever by the growth of a mighty industry, where the + furnace fires reddened the sky, and only the unbroken line of ceaseless + lights showed where town dwindled into village and suburbs led back again + into town. An ugly, thickly populated neighborhood, whose area of + twinkling lights seemed to reach almost to the murky skies; hideous, + indeed by day, not altogether devoid now of a certain weird attractiveness + by reason of low-hung stars. On, through many tunnels into the black + country itself, where the furnace fires burned oftener, but the signs of + habitation were fewer. Down the great iron way the huge locomotive rushed + onward, leaping and bounding across the maze of metals, tearing past the + dazzling signal lights, through crowded stations where its passing was + like the roar of some earth-shaking monster. The station-master at Crewe + unhooked his telephone receiver and rang up Liverpool. + </p> + <p> + “What about this special?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “Passenger brought off from the Lusitania in a private tug. Orders are to + let her through all the way to London.” + </p> + <p> + “I know all about that,” the station-master grumbled. “I have three locals + on my hands already,—been held up for half an hour. Old Glynn, the + director’s, in one of them too. Might be General Manager to hear him + swear.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she signalled yet?” Liverpool asked. + </p> + <p> + “Just gone through at sixty miles an hour,” was the reply. “She made our + old wooden sheds shake, I can tell you. Who’s driving her?” + </p> + <p> + “Jim Poynton,” Liverpool answered. “The guvnor took him off the mail + specially.” + </p> + <p> + “What’s the fellow’s name on board, anyhow?” Crewe asked. “Is it a + millionaire from the other side, trying to make records, or a member of + our bloated aristocracy?” + </p> + <p> + “The name’s Fynes, or something like it,” was the reply. “He didn’t look + much like a millionaire. Came into the office carrying a small handbag and + asked for a special to London. Guvnor told him it would take two hours and + cost a hundred and eighty pounds. Told him he’d better wait for the mail. + He produced a note from some one or other, and you should have seen the + old man bustle round. We started him off in twenty minutes.” + </p> + <p> + The station-master at Crewe was interested. He knew very well that it is + not the easiest thing in the world to bring influence to bear upon a great + railway company. + </p> + <p> + “Seems as though he was some one out of the common, anyway,” he remarked. + “The guvnor didn’t let on who the note was from, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Not he,” Liverpool answered. “The first thing he did when he came back + into the office was to tear it into small pieces and throw them on the + fire. Young Jenkins did ask him a question, and he shut him up pretty + quick.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I suppose we shall read all about it in the papers tomorrow,” Crewe + remarked. “There isn’t much that these reporters don’t get hold of. He + must be some one out of the common—some one with a pull, I mean,—or + the captain of the Lusitania would never have let him off before the other + passengers. When are the rest of them coming through?” + </p> + <p> + “Three specials leave here at nine o’clock tomorrow morning,” was the + reply. “Good night.” + </p> + <p> + The station-master at Crewe hung up his receiver and went about his + duties. Twenty miles southward by now, the special was still tearing its + way into the darkness. Its solitary passenger had suddenly developed a fit + of restlessness. He left his seat and walked once or twice up and down the + saloon. Then he opened the rear door, crossed the little open space + between, and looked into the guard’s brake. The guard was sitting upon a + stool, reading a newspaper. He was quite alone, and so absorbed that he + did not notice the intruder. Mr. Hamilton Fynes quietly retreated, closing + the door behind him. He made his way once more through the saloon, passed + the attendant, who was fast asleep in his pantry, and was met by a locked + door. He let down the window and looked out. He was within a few feet of + the engine, which was obviously attached direct to the saloon. Mr. + Hamilton Fynes resumed his seat, having disturbed nobody. He produced some + papers from his breast pocket, and spread them out on the table before + him. One, a sealed envelope, he immediately returned, slipping it down + into a carefully prepared place between the lining and the material of his + coat. Of the others he commenced to make a close and minute investigation. + It was a curious fact, however, that notwithstanding his recent searching + examination, he looked once more nervously around the saloon before he + settled down to his task. For some reason or other, there was not the + slightest doubt that for the present, at any rate, Mr. Hamilton Fynes was + exceedingly anxious to keep his own company. As he drew nearer to his + journey’s end, indeed, his manner seemed to lose something of that + composure of which, during the earlier part of the evening, he had + certainly been possessed. Scarcely a minute passed that he did not lean + sideways from his seat and look up and down the saloon. He sat like a man + who is perpetually on the qui vive. A furtive light shone in his eyes, he + was manifestly uncomfortable. Yet how could a man be safer from espionage + than he! + </p> + <p> + Rugby telephoned to Liverpool, and received very much the same answer as + Crewe. Euston followed suit. + </p> + <p> + “Who’s this you’re sending up tonight?” the station-master asked. + “Special’s at Willington now, come through without a stop. Is some one + trying to make a record round the world?” + </p> + <p> + Liverpool was a little tired of answering questions, and more than a + little tired of this mysterious client. The station-master at Euston, + however, was a person to be treated with respect. + </p> + <p> + “His name is Mr. Hamilton Fynes, sir,” was the reply. “That is all we know + about him. They have been ringing us up all down the line, ever since the + special left.” + </p> + <p> + “Hamilton Fynes,” Euston repeated. “Don’t know the name. Where did he come + from?” + </p> + <p> + “Off the Lusitania, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “But we had a message three hours ago that the Lusitania was not landing + her passengers until tomorrow morning,” Euston protested. + </p> + <p> + “They let our man off in a tug, sir,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “It went down the river to fetch him. The guvnor didn’t want to give him a + special at this time of night, but he just handed him a note, and we made + things hum up here. He was on his way in half an hour. We have had to + upset the whole of the night traffic to let him through without a stop.” + </p> + <p> + Such a client was, at any rate, worth meeting. The station-master brushed + his coat, put on his silk hat, and stepped out on to the platform. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. AN INCIDENT AND AN ACCIDENT + </h2> + <p> + Smoothly the huge engine came gliding into the station—a dumb, + silent creature now, drawing slowly to a standstill as though exhausted + after its great effort. Through the windows of the saloon the + station-master could see the train attendant bending over this mysterious + passenger, who did not seem, as yet, to have made any preparations for + leaving his place. Mr. Hamilton Fynes was seated at a table covered with + papers, but he was leaning back as though he had been or was still asleep. + The station-master stepped forward, and as he did so the attendant came + hurrying out to the platform, and, pushing back the porters, called to him + by name. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Rice,” he said, “If you please, sir, will you come this way?” + </p> + <p> + The station-master acceded at once to the man’s request and entered the + saloon. The attendant clutched at his arm nervously. He was a pale, + anaemic-looking little person at any time, but his face just now was + positively ghastly. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth is the matter with you?” the station-master asked + brusquely. + </p> + <p> + “There’s something wrong with my passenger, sir,” the man declared in a + shaking voice. “I can’t make him answer me. He won’t look up, and I don’t—I + don’t think he’s asleep. An hour ago I took him some whiskey. He told me + not to disturb him again—he had some papers to go through.” + </p> + <p> + The station-master leaned over the table. The eyes of the man who sat + there were perfectly wide-open, but there was something unnatural in their + fixed stare,—something unnatural, too, in the drawn grayness of his + face. + </p> + <p> + “This is Euston, sir,” the station-master began,—“the terminus—” + </p> + <p> + Then he broke off in the middle of his sentence. A cold shiver was + creeping through his veins. He, too, began to stare; he felt the color + leaving his own cheeks. With an effort he turned to the attendant. + </p> + <p> + “Pull down the blinds,” he ordered, in a voice which he should never have + recognized as his own. “Quick! Now turn out those porters, and tell the + inspector to stop anyone from coming into the car.” + </p> + <p> + The attendant, who was shaking like a leaf, obeyed. The station-master + turned away and drew a long breath. He himself was conscious of a sense of + nausea, a giddiness which was almost overmastering. This was a terrible + thing to face without a second’s warning. He had not the slightest doubt + but that the man who was seated at the table was dead! + </p> + <p> + At such an hour there were only a few people upon the platform, and two + stalwart station policemen easily kept back the loiterers whose curiosity + had been excited by the arrival of the special. A third took up his + position with his back to the entrance of the saloon, and allowed no one + to enter it till the return of the station-master, who had gone for a + doctor. The little crowd was completely mystified. No one had the + slightest idea of what had happened. The attendant was besieged by + questions, but he was sitting on the step of the car, in the shadow of a + policeman, with his head buried in his hands, and he did not once look up. + Some of the more adventurous tried to peer through the windows at the + lower end of the saloon. Others rushed off to interview the guard. In a + very few minutes, however, the station-master reappeared upon the scene, + accompanied by the doctor. The little crowd stood on one side and the two + men stepped into the car. + </p> + <p> + The doctor proceeded at once with his examination. Mr. Hamilton Fynes, + this mysterious person who had succeeded, indeed, in making a record + journey, was leaning back in the corner of his seat, his arms folded, his + head drooping a little, but his eyes still fixed in that unseeing stare. + His body yielded itself unnaturally to the touch. For the main truth the + doctor needed scarcely a glance at him. + </p> + <p> + “Is he dead?” the station-master asked. + </p> + <p> + “Stone-dead!” was the brief answer. + </p> + <p> + “Good God!” the station-master muttered. “Good God!” + </p> + <p> + The doctor had thrown his handkerchief over the dead man’s face. He was + standing now looking at him thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Did he die in his sleep, I wonder?” the station-master asked. “It must + have been horribly sudden! Was it heart disease?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor did not reply for a moment. He seemed to be thinking out some + problem. + </p> + <p> + “The body had better be removed to the station mortuary,” he said at last. + “Then, if I were you, I should have the saloon shunted on to a siding and + left absolutely untouched. You had better place two of your station police + in charge while you telephone to Scotland Yard.” + </p> + <p> + “To Scotland Yard?” the station-master exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + The doctor nodded. He looked around as though to be sure that none of that + anxious crowd outside could overhear. + </p> + <p> + “There’s no question of heart disease here,” he explained. “The man has + been murdered!” + </p> + <p> + The station-master was horrified,—horrified and blankly incredulous. + </p> + <p> + “Murdered!” he repeated. “Why, it’s impossible! There was no one else on + the train except the attendant—not a single other person. All my + advices said one passenger only.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor touched the man’s coat with his finger, and the station-master + saw what he had not seen before,—saw what made him turn away, a + little sick. He was a strong man, but he was not used to this sort of + thing, and he had barely recovered yet from the first shock of finding + himself face to face with a dead man. Outside, the crowd upon the platform + was growing larger. White faces were being pressed against the windows at + the lower end of the saloon. + </p> + <p> + “There is no question about the man having been murdered,” the doctor + said, and even his voice shook a little. “His own hand could never have + driven that knife home. I can tell you, even, how it was done. The man who + stabbed him was in the compartment behind there, leaned over, and drove + this thing down, just missing the shoulder. There was no struggle or fight + of any sort. It was a diabolical deed!” + </p> + <p> + “Diabolical indeed!” the station-master echoed hoarsely. + </p> + <p> + “You had better give orders for us to be shunted down on to a siding just + as we are,” the doctor continued, “and send one of your men to telephone + to Scotland Yard. Perhaps it would be as well, too, not to touch those + papers until some one comes. See that the attendant does not go home, or + the guard. They will probably be wanted to answer questions.” + </p> + <p> + The station-master stepped out to the platform, summoned an inspector, and + gave a few brief orders. Slowly the saloon was backed out of the station + again on to a neglected siding, a sort of backwater for spare carriages + and empty trucks,—an ignominious resting place, indeed, after its + splendid journey through the night. The doors at both ends were closed and + two policemen placed on duty to guard them. The doctor and the + station-master seated themselves out of sight of their gruesome companion, + and the station-master told all that he knew about the despatch of the + special and the man who had ordered it. The attendant, who still moved + about like a man in a dream, brought them some brandy and soda and served + them with shaking hand. They all three talked together in whispers, the + attendant telling them the few incidents of the journey down, which, + except for the dead man’s nervous desire for solitude, seemed to possess + very little significance. Then at last there was a sharp tap at the + window. A tall, quietly dressed man, with reddish skin and clear gray + eyes, was helped up into the car. He saluted the doctor mechanically. His + eyes were already travelling around the saloon. + </p> + <p> + “Inspector Jacks from Scotland Yard, sir,” he announced. “I have another + man outside. If you don’t mind, we’ll have him in.” + </p> + <p> + “By all means,” the station-master answered. “I am afraid that you will + find this rather a serious affair. We have left everything untouched so + far as we could.” + </p> + <p> + The second detective was assisted to clamber up into the car. It seemed, + however, as though the whole force of Scotland Yard could scarcely do much + towards elucidating an affair which, with every question which was asked + and answered, grew more mysterious. The papers upon the table before the + dead man were simply circulars and prospectuses of no possible importance. + His suitcase contained merely a few toilet necessaries and some clean + linen. There was not a scrap of paper or even an envelope of any sort in + his pockets. In a small leather case they found a thousand dollars in + American notes, five ten-pound Bank of England notes, and a single + visiting card on which was engraved the name of Mr. Hamilton Fynes. In his + trousers pocket was a handful of gold. He had no other personal belongings + of any sort. The space between the lining of his coat and the material + itself was duly noticed, but it was empty. His watch was a cheap one, his + linen unmarked, and his clothes bore only the name of a great New York + retail establishment. He had certainly entered the train alone, and both + the guard and attendant were ready to declare positively that no person + could have been concealed in it. The engine-driver, on his part, was + equally ready to swear that not once from the moment when they had steamed + out of Liverpool Station until they had arrived within twenty miles of + London, had they travelled at less than forty miles an hour. At Willington + he had found a signal against him which had brought him nearly to a + standstill, and under the regulations he had passed through the station at + ten miles an hour. These were the only occasions, however, on which he had + slackened speed at all. The train attendant, who was a nervous man, began + to shiver again and imagine unmentionable things. The guard, who had never + left his own brake, went home and dreamed that his effigy had been added + to the collection of Madame Tussaud. The reporters were the only people + who were really happy, with the exception, perhaps of Inspector Jacks, who + had a weakness for a difficult case. + </p> + <p> + Fifteen miles north of London, a man lay by the roadside in the shadow of + a plantation of pine trees, through which he had staggered only a few + minutes ago. His clothes were covered with dust, he had lost his cap, and + his trousers were cut about the knee as though from a fall. He was of + somewhat less than medium height, dark, slender, with delicate features, + and hair almost coal black. His face, as he moved slowly from side to side + upon the grass, was livid with pain. Every now and then he raised himself + and listened. The long belt of main road, which passed within a few feet + of him, seemed almost deserted. Once a cart came lumbering by, and the man + who lay there, watching, drew closely back into the shadows. A youth on a + bicycle passed, singing to himself. A boy and girl strolled by, arm in + arm, happy, apparently, in their profound silence. Only a couple of fields + away shone the red and green lights of the railway track. Every few + minutes the goods-trains went rumbling over the metals. The man on the + ground heard them with a shiver. Resolutely he kept his face turned in the + opposite direction. The night mail went thundering northward, and he + clutched even at the nettles which grew amongst the grass where he was + crouching, as though filled with a sudden terror. Then there was silence + once more—silence which became deeper as the hour approached + midnight. Passers-by were fewer; the birds and animals came out from their + hiding places. A rabbit scurried across the road; a rat darted down the + tiny stream. Now and then birds moved in the undergrowth, and the man, who + was struggling all the time with a deadly faintness, felt the silence grow + more and more oppressive. He began even to wonder where he was. He closed + his eyes. Was that really the tinkling of a guitar, the perfume of almond + and cherry blossom, floating to him down the warm wind? He began to lose + himself in dreams until he realized that actual unconsciousness was close + upon him. Then he set his teeth tight and clenched his hands. Away in the + distance a faint, long-expected sound came travelling to his ears. At + last, then, his long wait was over. Two fiery eyes were stealing along the + lonely road. The throb of an engine was plainly audible. He staggered up, + swaying a little on his feet, and holding out his hands. The motor car + came to a standstill before him, and the man who was driving it sprang to + the ground. Words passed between them rapidly,—questions and + answers,—the questions of an affectionate servant, and the answers + of a man fighting a grim battle for consciousness. But these two spoke in + a language of their own, a language which no one who passed along that + road was likely to understand. + </p> + <p> + With a groan of relief the man who had been picked up sank back amongst + the cushioned seats, carefully almost tenderly, aided by the chauffeur. + Eagerly he thrust his hand into one of the leather pockets and drew out a + flask of brandy. The rush of cold air, as the car swung round and started + off, was like new life to him. He closed his eyes. When he opened them + again, they had come to a standstill underneath a red lamp. + </p> + <p> + “The doctor’s!” he muttered to himself, and, staggering out, rang the + bell. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Spencer Whiles had had a somewhat dreary day, and was thoroughly + enjoying a late rubber of bridge with three of his most agreeable + neighbors. A summons into the consulting room, however, was so unexpected + a thing that he did not hesitate for a moment to obey it, without even + waiting to complete a deal. When he entered the apartment, he saw a slim + but determined-looking young man, whose clothes were covered with dust, + and who, although he sat with folded arms and grim face, was very nearly + in a state of collapse. + </p> + <p> + “You seem to have met with an accident,” the doctor remarked. “How did it + happen?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been run over by a motor car,” his patient said, speaking slowly + and with something singularly agreeable in his voice notwithstanding its + slight accent of pain. “Can you patch me up till I get to London?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor looked him over. + </p> + <p> + “What were you doing in the road?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I was riding a bicycle,” the other answered. “I dare say it was my own + fault; I was certainly on the wrong side of the road. You can see what has + happened to me. I am bruised and cut; my side is painful, and also my + knee. A car is waiting outside now to take me to my home, but I thought + that I had better stop and see you.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor was a humane man, with a miserable practice, and he forgot all + about his bridge party. For half an hour he worked over his patient. At + the end of that time he gave him a brandy and soda and placed a box of + cigarettes before him. + </p> + <p> + “You’ll do all right now,” he said. “That’s a nasty cut on your leg, but + you’ve no broken bones.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel absolutely well again, thank you very much,” the young man said. + “I will smoke a cigarette, if I may. The brandy, I thank you, no!” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you like,” the doctor answered. “I won’t say that you are not + better without it. Help yourself to the cigarettes. Are you going back to + London in the motor car, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” the patient answered. “It is waiting outside for me now, and I must + not keep the man any longer. Will you let me know, if you please, how much + I owe you?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor hesitated. Fees were a rare thing with him, and the evidences + of his patient’s means were somewhat doubtful. The young man put his hand + into his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” he said, “that I am not a very presentable-looking object, + but I am glad to assure you that I am not a poor man. I am able to pay + your charges and to still feel that the obligation is very much on my + side.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor summoned up his courage. + </p> + <p> + “We will say a guinea, then,” he remarked with studied indifference. + </p> + <p> + “You must allow me to make it a little more than that,” the patient + answered. “Your treatment was worth it. I feel perfectly recovered + already. Good night, sir!” + </p> + <p> + The doctor’s eyes sparkled as he glanced at the gold which his visitor had + laid upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “You are very good, I’m sure,” he murmured. “I hope you will have a + comfortable journey. With a nerve like yours, you’ll be all right in a day + or so.” + </p> + <p> + He let his patient out and watched him depart with some curiosity, watched + until the great motor-car had swung round the corner of the street and + started on its journey to London. + </p> + <p> + “No bicycle there,” he remarked to himself, as he closed the door. “I + wonder what they did with it.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. MISS PENELOPE MORSE + </h2> + <p> + It was already a little past the customary luncheon hour at the Carlton, + and the restaurant was well filled. The orchestra had played their first + selection, and the stream of incoming guests had begun to slacken. A young + lady who had been sitting in the palm court for at least half an hour rose + to her feet, and, glancing casually at her watch, made her way into the + hotel. She entered the office and addressed the chief reception clerk. + </p> + <p> + “Can you tell me,” she asked, “if Mr. Hamilton Fynes is staying here? He + should have arrived by the Lusitania last night or early this morning.” + </p> + <p> + It is not the business of a hotel reception clerk to appear surprised at + anything. Nevertheless the man looked at her, for a moment, with a curious + expression in his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hamilton Fynes!” he repeated. “Did you say that you were expecting + him by the Lusitania, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” the young lady answered. “He asked me to lunch with him here today. + Can you tell me whether he has arrived yet? If he is in his room, I should + be glad if you would send up to him.” + </p> + <p> + There were several people in the office who were in a position to overhear + their conversation. With a word of apology, the man came round from his + place behind the mahogany counter. He stood by the side of the young lady, + and he seemed to be suffering from some embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + “Will you pardon my asking, madam, if you have seen the newspapers this + morning?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + Without a doubt, her first thought was that the question savored of + impertinence. She looked at him with slightly upraised eyebrows. She was + slim, of medium complexion, with dark brown hair parted in the middle and + waving a little about her temples. She was irreproachably dressed, from + the tips of her patent shoes to the black feathers in her Paris hat. + </p> + <p> + “The newspapers!” she repeated. “Why, no, I don’t think that I have seen + them this morning. What have they to do with Mr. Hamilton Fynes?” + </p> + <p> + The clerk pointed to the open door of a small private office. + </p> + <p> + “If you will step this way for one moment, madam,” he begged. + </p> + <p> + She tapped the floor with her foot and looked at him curiously. Certainly + the people around seemed to be taking some interest in their conversation. + </p> + <p> + “Why should I?” she asked. “Cannot you answer my question here?” + </p> + <p> + “If madam will be so good,” he persisted. + </p> + <p> + She shrugged her shoulders and followed him. Something in the man’s + earnest tone and almost pleading look convinced her, at least, of his good + intentions. Besides, the interest which her question had undoubtedly + aroused amongst the bystanders was, to say the least of it, embarrassing. + He pulled the door to after them. + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” he said, “there was a Mr. Hamilton Fynes who came over by the + Lusitania, and who had certainly engaged rooms in this hotel, but he + unfortunately, it seems, met with an accident on his way from Liverpool.” + </p> + <p> + Her manner changed at once. She began to understand what it all meant. Her + lips parted, her eyes were wide open. + </p> + <p> + “An accident?” she faltered. + </p> + <p> + He gently rolled a chair up to her. She sank obediently into it. + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” he said, “it was a very bad accident indeed. I trust that Mr. + Hamilton Fynes was not a very intimate friend or a relative of yours. It + would perhaps be better for you to read the account for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + He placed a newspaper in her hands. She read the first few lines and + suddenly turned upon him. She was white to the lips now, and there was + real terror in her tone. Yet if he had been in a position to have analyzed + the emotion she displayed, he might have remarked that there was none of + the surprise, the blank, unbelieving amazement which might have been + expected from one hearing for the first time of such a calamity. + </p> + <p> + “Murdered!” she exclaimed. “Is this true?” + </p> + <p> + “It appears to be perfectly true, madam, I regret to say,” the clerk + answered. “Even the earlier editions were able to supply the man’s name, + and I am afraid that there is no doubt about his identity. The captain of + the Lusitania confirmed it, and many of the passengers who saw him leave + the ship last night have been interviewed.” + </p> + <p> + “Murdered!” she repeated to herself with trembling lips. “It seems such a + horrible death! Have they any idea who did it?” she asked. “Has any one + been arrested?” + </p> + <p> + “At present, no, madam,” the clerk answered. “The affair, as you will see + if you read further, is an exceedingly mysterious one.” + </p> + <p> + She rocked a little in her chair, but she showed no signs of fainting. She + picked up the paper and found the place once more. There were two columns + filled with particulars of the tragedy. + </p> + <p> + “Where can I be alone and read this?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Here, if you please, madam,” the clerk answered. “I must go back to my + desk. There are many arrivals just now. Will you allow me to send you + something—a little brandy, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, thank you,” she answered. “I wish only to be alone while I read + this.” + </p> + <p> + He left her with a little sympathetic murmur, and closed the door behind + him. The girl raised her veil now and spread the newspaper out on the + table before her. There was an account of the tragedy; there were + interviews with some of the passengers, a message from the captain. In + all, it seemed that wonderfully little was known of Mr. Hamilton Fynes. He + had spoken to scarcely a soul on board, and had remained for the greater + part of the time in his stateroom. The captain had not even been aware of + his existence till the moment when Mr. Hamilton Fynes had sought him out + and handed him an order, signed by the head of his company, instructing + him to obey in any respect the wishes of this hitherto unknown passenger. + The tug which had been hired to meet him had gone down the river, so it + was not possible, for the moment, to say by whom it had been chartered. + The station-master at Liverpool knew nothing except that the letter + presented to him by the dead man was a personal one from a great railway + magnate, whose wishes it was impossible to disregard. There had not been a + soul, apparently, upon the steamer who had known anything worth mentioning + of Mr. Hamilton Fynes or his business. No one in London had made inquiries + for him or claimed his few effects. Half a dozen cables to America + remained unanswered. + </p> + <p> + That papers had been stolen from him—papers or money—was + evident from the place of concealment in his coat, where the lining had + been torn away, but there was not the slightest evidence as to the nature + of these documents or the history of the murdered man. All that could be + done was to await the news from the other side, which was momentarily + expected. + </p> + <p> + The girl went through it all, line by line, almost word by word. Whatever + there might have been of relationship or friendship between her and the + dead man, the news of his terrible end left her shaken, indeed, but + dry-eyed. She was apparently more terrified than grieved, and now that the + first shock had passed away, her mind seemed occupied with thoughts which + may indeed have had some connection with this tragedy, but were scarcely + wholly concerned with it. She sat for a long while with her hands still + resting upon the table but her eyes fixed out of the window. Then at last + she rose and made her way outside. Her friend the reception clerk was + engaged in conversation with one or two men, a conversation of which she + was obviously the subject. As she opened the door, one of them broke off + in the midst of what he was saying and would have accosted her. The clerk, + however, interposed, and drew her a step or two back into the room. + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” he said, “one of these gentlemen is from Scotland Yard, and the + others are reporters. They are all eager to know anything about Mr. + Hamilton Fynes. I expect they will want to ask you some questions.” + </p> + <p> + The girl opened her lips and closed them again. + </p> + <p> + “I regret to say that I have nothing whatever to tell them,” she declared. + “Will you kindly let them know that?” + </p> + <p> + The clerk shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid you will find them quite persistent, madam,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot tell them things which I do not know myself,” she answered, + frowning. + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” the clerk admitted; “yet these gentlemen from Scotland Yard + have special privileges, of course, and there remains the fact that you + were engaged to lunch with Mr. Fynes here.” + </p> + <p> + “If it will help me to get rid of them,” she said, “I will speak to the + representative of Scotland Yard. I will have nothing whatever to say to + the reporters.” + </p> + <p> + The clerk turned round and beckoned to the foremost figure in the little + group. Inspector Jacks, tall, lantern-jawed, dressed with the quiet + precision of a well-to-do-man of affairs, and with no possible suggestion + of his calling in his manner or attire, was by her side almost at once. + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” he said, “I understand that Mr. Hamilton Fynes was a friend of + yours?” + </p> + <p> + “An acquaintance,” she corrected him. + </p> + <p> + “And your name?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am Miss Morse,” she replied,—“Miss Penelope Morse.” + </p> + <p> + “You were to have lunched here with Mr. Hamilton Fynes,” the detective + continued. “When, may I ask, did the invitation reach you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yesterday,” she told him, “by marconigram from Queenstown.” + </p> + <p> + “You can tell us a few things about the deceased, without doubt,” Mr. + Jacks said,—“his profession, for instance, or his social standing? + Perhaps you know the reason for his coming to Europe?” + </p> + <p> + The girl shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Fynes and I were not intimately acquainted,” she answered. “We met in + Paris some years ago, and when he was last in London, during the autumn, I + lunched with him twice.” + </p> + <p> + “You had no letter from him, then, previous to the marconigram?” the + inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + “I have scarcely ever received a letter from him in my life,” she + answered. “He was as bad a correspondent as I am myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You know nothing, then, of the object of his present visit to England?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing whatever,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “When he was over here before,” the inspector asked, “do you know what his + business was then?” + </p> + <p> + “Not in the least,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “You can tell us his address in the States?” Inspector Jacks suggested. + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot,” she answered. “As I told you just now, I have never had a + letter from him in my life. We exchanged a few notes, perhaps, when we + were in Paris, about trivial matters, but nothing more than that.” + </p> + <p> + “He must at some time, in Paris, for instance, or when you lunched with + him last year, have said something about his profession, or how he spent + his time?” + </p> + <p> + “He never alluded to it in any way,” the girl answered. “I have not the + slightest idea how he passed his time.” + </p> + <p> + The inspector was a little nonplussed. He did not for a moment believe + that the girl was telling the truth. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” he said tentatively, “you do not care to have your name come + before the public in connection with a case so notorious as this?” + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” the girl answered. “That, however, would not prevent my + telling you anything that I knew. You seem to find it hard to believe, but + I can assure you that I know nothing. Mr. Fynes was almost a stranger to + me.” + </p> + <p> + The detective was thoughtful. + </p> + <p> + “So you really cannot help us at all, madam?” he said at length. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid not,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” he suggested, “after you have thought the matter over, + something may occur to you. Can I trouble you for your address?” + </p> + <p> + “I am staying at Devenham House for the moment,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + He wrote it down in his notebook. + </p> + <p> + “I shall perhaps do myself the honor of waiting upon you a little later + on,” he said. “You may be able, after reflection, to recall some small + details, at any rate, which will be interesting to us. At present we are + absurdly ignorant as to the man’s affairs.” + </p> + <p> + She turned away from him to the clerk, and pointed to another door. + </p> + <p> + “Can I go out without seeing those others?” she asked. “I really have + nothing to say to them, and this has been quite a shock to me.” + </p> + <p> + “By all means, madam,” the clerk answered. “If you will allow me, I will + escort you to the entrance.” + </p> + <p> + Two of the more enterprising of the journalists caught them up upon the + pavement. Miss Penelope Morse, however, had little to say to them. + </p> + <p> + “You must not ask me any more questions about Mr. Hamilton Fynes,” she + declared. “My acquaintance with him was of the slightest. It is true that + I came here to lunch today without knowing what had happened. It has been + a shock to me, and I do not wish to talk about it, and I will not talk + about it, for the present.” + </p> + <p> + She was deaf to their further questions. The hotel clerk handed her into a + taximeter cab, and gave the address to the driver. Then he went back to + his office, where Inspector Jacks was still sitting. + </p> + <p> + “This Mr. Hamilton Fynes,” he remarked, “seems to have been what you might + call a secretive sort of person. Nobody appears to know anything about + him. I remember when he was staying here before that he had no callers, + and seemed to spend most of his time sitting in the palm court.” + </p> + <p> + The inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “He was certainly a man who knew how to keep his own counsel,” he + admitted. “Most Americans are ready enough to talk about themselves and + their affairs, even to comparative strangers.” + </p> + <p> + The hotel clerk nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Makes it difficult for you,” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “It makes the case very interesting,” the inspector declared, “especially + when we find him engaged to lunch with a young lady of such remarkable + discretion as Miss Penelope Morse.” + </p> + <p> + “You know her?” the clerk asked a little eagerly. + </p> + <p> + The inspector was engaged, apparently, in studying the pattern of the + carpet. + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly,” he answered. “No, I have no absolute knowledge of Miss + Penelope Morse. By the bye, that was rather an interesting address that + she gave.” + </p> + <p> + “Devenham House,” the hotel clerk remarked. “Do you know who lives there?” + </p> + <p> + The inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “The Duke of Devenham,” he answered. “A very interesting young lady, I + should think, that. I wonder what she and Mr. Hamilton Fynes would have + talked about if they had lunched here today.” + </p> + <p> + The hotel clerk looked dubious. He did not grasp the significance of the + question. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. AN AFFAIR OF STATE + </h2> + <p> + Miss Penelope Morse was perfectly well aware that the taxicab in which she + left the Carlton Hotel was closely followed by two others. Through the + tube which she found by her side, she altered her first instructions to + the driver, and told him to proceed as fast as possible to Harrod’s + Stores. Then, raising the flap at the rear of the cab, she watched the + progress of the chase. Along Pall Mall the taxi in which she was seated + gained considerably, but in the Park and along the Bird Cage Walk both the + other taxies, risking the police regulations, drew almost alongside. Once + past Hyde Park Corner, however, her cab again drew ahead, and when she was + deposited in front of Harrod’s Stores, her pursuers were out of sight. She + paid the driver quickly, a little over double his fare. + </p> + <p> + “If any one asks you questions,” she said, “say that you had instructions + to wait here for me. Go on to the rank for a quarter of an hour. Then you + can drive away.” + </p> + <p> + “You won’t be coming back, then, miss?” the man asked. + </p> + <p> + “I shall not,” she answered, “but I want those men who are following me to + think that I am. They may as well lose a little time for their rudeness.” + </p> + <p> + The chauffeur touched his hat and obeyed his instructions. Miss Penelope + Morse plunged into the mazes of the Stores with the air of one to whom the + place is familiar. She did not pause, however, at any of the counters. In + something less than two minutes she had left it again by a back entrance, + stepped into another taxicab which was just setting down a passenger, and + was well on her way back towards Pall Mall. Her ruse appeared to have been + perfectly successful. At any rate, she saw nothing more of the occupants + of the two taxicabs. + </p> + <p> + She stopped in front of one of the big clubs and, scribbling a line on her + card, gave it to the door keeper. + </p> + <p> + “Will you find out if this gentleman is in?” she said. “If he is, will you + kindly ask him to step out and speak to me?” + </p> + <p> + She returned to the cab and waited. In less than five minutes a tall, + broad-shouldered young man, clean-shaven, and moving like an athlete, came + briskly down the steps. He carried a soft hat in his hand, and directly he + spoke his transatlantic origin was apparent. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope!” he exclaimed. “Why, what on earth—” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Dicky,” she interrupted, laughing at his expression, “you need + not look so displeased with me. Of course, I know that I ought not to have + come and sent a message into your club. I will admit at once that it was + very forward of me. Perhaps when I have told you why I did so, you won’t + look so shocked.” + </p> + <p> + “I’m glad to see you, anyway,” he declared. “There’s no bad news, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing that concerns us particularly,” she answered. “I simply want to + have a little talk with you. Come in here with me, please, at once. We can + ride for a short distance anywhere.” + </p> + <p> + “But I am just in the middle of a rubber of bridge,” he objected. + </p> + <p> + “It can’t be helped,” she declared. “To tell you the truth, the matter I + want to talk to you about is of more importance than any game of cards. + Don’t be foolish, Dicky. You have your hat in your hand. Step in here by + my side at once.” + </p> + <p> + He looked a little bewildered, but he obeyed her, as most people did when + she was in earnest. She gave the driver an address somewhere in the city. + As soon as they were off, she turned towards him. + </p> + <p> + “Dicky,” she said, “do you read the newspapers?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I can’t say that I do regularly,” he answered. “I read the New York + Herald, but these London journals are a bit difficult, aren’t they? One + has to dig the news out,—sort of treasure-hunt all the time.” + </p> + <p> + “You have read this murder case, at any rate,” she asked, “about the man + who was killed in a special train between Liverpool and London?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” he answered, with a sudden awakening of interest. “What about + it?” + </p> + <p> + “A good deal,” she answered slowly. “In the first place, the man who was + murdered—Mr. Hamilton Fynes—comes from the village where I was + brought up in Massachusetts, and I know more about him, I dare say, than + any one else in this country. What I know isn’t very much, perhaps, but + it’s interesting. I was to have lunched with him at the Carlton today; in + fact, I went there expecting to do so, for I am like you—I scarcely + ever look inside these English newspapers. Well, I went to the Carlton and + waited and he did not come. At last I went into the office and asked + whether he had arrived. Directly I mentioned his name, it was as though I + had thrown a bomb shell into the place. The clerk called me on one side, + took me into a private office, and showed me a newspaper. As soon as I had + read the account, I was interviewed by an inspector from Scotland Yard. + Ever since then I have been followed about by reporters.” + </p> + <p> + The young man whistled softly. + </p> + <p> + “Say, Penelope!” he exclaimed. “Who was this fellow, anyhow, and what were + you doing lunching with him?” + </p> + <p> + “That doesn’t matter,” she answered. “You don’t tell me all your secrets, + Mr. Dicky Vanderpole, and it isn’t necessary for me to tell you all mine, + even if we are both foreigners in a strange country. The poor fellow isn’t + going to lunch with any one else in this world. I suppose you are thinking + what an indiscreet person I am, as usual?” + </p> + <p> + The young man considered the matter for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said; “I didn’t understand that he was the sort of person you + would have been likely to have taken lunch with. But that isn’t my affair. + Have you seen the second edition?” + </p> + <p> + The girl shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Haven’t I told you that I never read the papers? I only saw what they + showed me in at the Carlton.” + </p> + <p> + “The Press Association have cabled to America, but no one seems to be able + to make out exactly who the fellow is. His letter to the captain of the + steamer was from the chairman of the company, and his introduction to the + manager of the London and North Western Railway Company was from the + greatest railway man in the world. Mr. Hamilton Fynes must have been a + person who had a pretty considerable pull over there. Curiously enough, + though, only the name of the man was mentioned in them; nothing about his + business, or what he was doing over on this side. He was simply alluded to + as ‘Mr. Hamilton Fynes—the gentleman bearing this communication.’ I + expect, after all, that you know more about him than any one.” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “What I know,” she said, “or at least most of it, I am going to tell you. + A few years ago he was a clerk in a Government office in Washington. He + was steady in those days, and was supposed to have a head. He used to + write me occasionally. One day he turned up in London quite unexpectedly. + He said that he had come on business, and whatever his business was, it + took him to St. Petersburg and Berlin, and then back to Berlin again. I + saw quite a good deal of him that trip.” + </p> + <p> + “The dickens you did!” he muttered. + </p> + <p> + Miss Penelope Morse laughed softly. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Dicky,” she said, “don’t pretend to be jealous. You’re an + outrageous flirt, I know, but you and I are never likely to get + sentimental about one another.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” he grumbled. “We’ve always been pretty good pals, haven’t we?” + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” she answered, “or I shouldn’t be here. Do you want to hear + anything more about Mr. Hamilton Fynes?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I do,” he declared. + </p> + <p> + “Well, be quiet, then, and don’t interrupt,” she said. “I knew London well + and he didn’t. That is why, as I told you before, we saw quite a great + deal of one another. He was always very reticent about his affairs, and + especially about the business which had taken him on the Continent. Just + before he left, however, he gave me—well, a hint.” + </p> + <p> + “What was it?” the young man asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + She hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “He didn’t put it into so many words,” she said, “and I am not sure, even + now, that I ought to tell you, Dicky. Still, you are a fellow countryman + and a budding diplomatist. I suppose if I can give you a lift I ought to.” + </p> + <p> + The taxi was on the Embankment now, and they sped along for some time in + silence. Mr. Richard Vanderpole was more than a little puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, Penelope,” he said, “I don’t expect you to tell me anything + which you feel that you oughtn’t to. There is one thing, however, which I + must ask you.” + </p> + <p> + She nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know what the mischief my being in the diplomatic + service has to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “If I explained that,” she answered, “I should be telling you everything I + haven’t quite made up my mind to do that yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me this?” he asked. “Would that hint which he dropped when he was + here last help you to solve the mystery of his murder?” + </p> + <p> + “It might,” she admitted. + </p> + <p> + “Then I think,” he said, “apart from any other reason, you ought to tell + somebody. The police at present don’t seem to have the ghost of a clue.” + </p> + <p> + “They are not likely to find one,” she answered, “unless I help them.” + </p> + <p> + “Say, Penelope,” he exclaimed, “you are not in earnest?” + </p> + <p> + “I am,” she assured him. “It is exactly as I say. I believe I am one of + the few people who could put the police upon the right track.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there any reason why you shouldn’t?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “That’s just what I can’t make up my mind about,” she told him. “However, + I have brought you out with me expecting to hear something, and I am going + to tell you this. That last time he came to England—the time he went + to St. Petersburg and twice to Berlin—he came on government + business.” + </p> + <p> + The young man looked, for a moment, incredulous. + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure of that, Pen?” he asked. “It doesn’t sound like our people, + you know, does it?” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite sure,” she declared confidently. “You are a very youthful + diplomat, Dicky, but even you have probably heard of governments who + employ private messengers to carry despatches which for various reasons + they don’t care to put through their embassies.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that’s so, of course, over on this side,” he agreed. “These European + nations are up to all manner of tricks. But I tell you frankly, Pen, I + never heard of anything of the sort being done from Washington.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not,” she answered composedly. “You see, things have developed + with us during the last twenty-five years. The old America had only one + foreign policy, and that was to hold inviolate the Monroe doctrine. + European or Asiatic complications scarcely even interested her. Those + times have passed, Dicky. Cuba and the Philippines were the start of other + things. We are being drawn into the maelstrom. In another ten years we + shall be there, whether we want to be or not.” + </p> + <p> + The young man was deeply interested. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he admitted, “there’s a good deal in what you say, Penelope. You + talk about it all as though you were a diplomat yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I am,” she answered calmly. “A stray young woman like myself must + have something to occupy her thoughts, you know.” + </p> + <p> + He laughed. + </p> + <p> + “That’s not bad,” he asserted, “for a girl whom the New York Herald + declared, a few weeks ago, to be one of the most brilliant young women in + English society.” + </p> + <p> + She shrugged her shoulders scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “That’s just the sort of thing the New York Herald would say,” she + remarked. “You see, I have to get a reputation for being smart and saying + bright things, or nobody would ask me anywhere. Penniless American young + women are not too popular over here.” + </p> + <p> + “Marry me, then,” he suggested amiably. “I shall have plenty of money some + day.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll see about it when you’re grown up,” she answered. “Just at present, + I think we’d better return to the subject of Hamilton Fynes.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Richard Vanderpole sighed, but seemed not disinclined to follow her + suggestion. + </p> + <p> + “Harvey is a silent man, as you know,” he said thoughtfully, “and he keeps + everything of importance to himself. At the same time these little matters + get about in the shop, of course, and I have never heard of any despatches + being brought across from Washington except in the usual way. Presuming + that you are right,” he added after a moment’s pause, “and that this + fellow Hamilton Fynes really had something for us, that would account for + his being able to get off the boat and securing his special train so + easily. No one can imagine where he got the pull.” + </p> + <p> + “It accounts, also,” Penelope remarked, “for his murder!” + </p> + <p> + Her companion started. + </p> + <p> + “You haven’t any idea—” he began. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing so definite as an idea,” she interrupted. “I am not going so far + as to say that. I simply know that when a man is practically the secret + agent of his government, and is probably carrying despatches of an + important nature, that an accident such as he has met with, in a country + which is greatly interested in the contents of those despatches, is a + somewhat serious thing.” + </p> + <p> + The young man nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Say,” he admitted “you’re dead right. The Pacific cruise, and our + relations with Japan, seem to have rubbed our friends over here altogether + the wrong way. We have irritations enough already to smooth over, without + anything of this sort on the carpet.” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to tell you now,” she continued, leaning a little towards him, + “the real reason why I fetched you out of the club this afternoon and have + brought you for this little expedition. The last time I lunched with Mr. + Hamilton Fynes was just after his return from Berlin. He intrusted me then + with a very important mission. He gave me a letter to deliver to Mr. + Blaine Harvey.” + </p> + <p> + “But I don’t understand!” he protested. “Why should he give you the letter + when he was in London himself?” + </p> + <p> + “I asked him that question myself, naturally,” she answered. “He told me + that it was an understood thing that when he was over here on business he + was not even to cross the threshold of the Embassy, or hold any direct + communication with any person connected with it. Everything had to be done + through a third party, and generally in duplicate. There was another man, + for instance, who had a copy of the same letter, but I never came across + him or even knew his name.” + </p> + <p> + “Gee whiz!” the young man exclaimed. “You’re telling me things, and no + mistake! Why this fellow Fynes made a secret service messenger of you!” + </p> + <p> + Penelope nodded. + </p> + <p> + “It was all very simple,” she said. “The first Mrs. Harvey, who was alive + then, was my greatest friend, and I was in and out of the place all the + time. Now, perhaps, you can understand the significance of that + marconigram from Hamilton Fynes asking me to lunch with him at the Carlton + today.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Richard Vanderpole was sitting bolt upright, gazing steadily ahead. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” he said slowly, “what has become of the letter which he was + going to give you!” + </p> + <p> + “One thing is certain,” she declared. “It is in the hands of those whose + interests would have been affected by its delivery.” + </p> + <p> + “How much of this am I to tell the chief?” the young man asked. + </p> + <p> + “Every word,” Penelope answered. “You see, I am trying to give you a start + in your career. What bothers me is an entirely different question.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + She laid her hand upon his arm. + </p> + <p> + “How much of it I shall tell to a certain gentleman who calls himself + Inspector Jacks!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. MR. COULSON INTERVIEWED + </h2> + <p> + The Lusitania boat specials ran into Euston Station soon after three + o’clock in the afternoon. A small company of reporters, and several other + men whose profession was not disclosed from their appearance, were on the + spot to interview certain of the passengers. A young fellow from the + office of the Evening Comet was, perhaps, the most successful, as, from + the lengthy description which had been telegraphed to him from Liverpool, + he was fortunate enough to accost the only person who had been seen + speaking to the murdered man upon the voyage. + </p> + <p> + “This is Mr. Coulson, I believe?” the young man said with conviction, + addressing a somewhat stout, gray-headed American, with white moustache, a + Homburg hat, and clothes of distinctly transatlantic cut. + </p> + <p> + That gentlemen regarded his interlocutor with some surprise but without + unfriendliness. + </p> + <p> + “That happens to be my name, sir,” he replied. “You have the advantage of + me, though. You are not from my old friends Spencer & Miles, are you?” + </p> + <p> + “Spencer & Miles,” the young man repeated thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Woollen firm in London Wall,” Mr. Coulson added. “I know they wanted to + see me directly I arrived, and they did say something about sending to the + station.” + </p> + <p> + The young man shook his head, and assumed at the same time his most + engaging manner. + </p> + <p> + “Why, no, sir!” he admitted. “I have no connection with that firm at all. + The fact is I am on the staff of an evening paper. A friend of mine in + Liverpool—a mutual friend, I believe I may say,” he explained—“wired + me your description. I understand that you were acquainted with Mr. + Hamilton Fynes?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson set down his suitcase for a moment, to light a cigar. + </p> + <p> + “Well, if I did know the poor fellow just to nod to,” he said, “I don’t + see that’s any reason why I should talk about him to you newspaper + fellows. You’d better get hold of his relations, if you can find them.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my dear Mr. Coulson,” the young man said, “we haven’t any idea where + they are to be found, and in the meantime you can’t imagine what reports + are in circulation.” + </p> + <p> + “Guess I can figure them out pretty well,” Mr. Coulson remarked with a + smile. “We’ve got an evening press of our own in New York.” + </p> + <p> + The reporter nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “They’d be able to stretch themselves out a bit on a case + like this. You see,” he continued confidentially, “we are up against + something almost unique. Here is an astounding and absolutely inexplicable + murder, committed in a most dastardly fashion by a person who appears to + have vanished from the face of the earth. Not a single thing is known + about the victim except his name. We do not know whether he came to + England on business or pleasure. He may, in short, have been any one from + a millionaire to a newspaper man. Judging from his special train,” the + reporter concluded with a smile, “and the money which was found upon him, + I imagine that he was certainly not the latter.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson went on his way toward the exit from the station, puffing + contentedly at his big cigar. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said to his companion, who showed not the slightest disposition + to leave his side, “it don’t seem to me that there’s much worth repeating + about poor Fynes,—much that I knew, at any rate. Still, if you like + to get in a cab with me and ride as far as the Savoy, I’ll tell you what I + can.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a brick, sir,” the young man declared. “Haven’t you any luggage, + though?” + </p> + <p> + “I checked what I had through from Liverpool to the hotel,” Mr. Coulson + answered. “I can’t stand being fussed around by all these porters, and + having to go and take pot luck amongst a pile of other people’s baggage. + We’ll just take one of these two-wheeled sardine tins that you people call + hansoms, and get round to the hotel as quick as we can. There are a few + pals of mine generally lunch in the cafe there, and they mayn’t all have + cleared out if we look alive.” + </p> + <p> + They started a moment or two later. Mr. Coulson leaned forward and, + folding his arms upon the apron of the cab, looked about him with + interest. + </p> + <p> + “Say,” he remarked, removing his cigar to the corner of his mouth in order + to facilitate conversation, “this old city of yours don’t change any.” + </p> + <p> + “Not up in this part, perhaps,” the reporter agreed. “We’ve some fine new + buildings down toward the Strand.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “I guess you don’t want to be making conversation. You + want to know about Hamilton Fynes. I was just acquainted with him, and + that’s a fact, but I reckon you’ll have to find some one who knows a good + deal more than I do before you’ll get the stuff you want for your paper.” + </p> + <p> + “The slightest particulars are of interest to us just now,” the reporter + reminded him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Hamilton Fynes,” he said, “so far as I knew him, was a quiet, inoffensive + sort of creature, who has been drawing a regular salary from the State for + the last fifteen years and saving half of it. He has been coming over to + Europe now and then, and though he was a good, steady chap enough, he + liked his fling when he was over here, and between you and me, he was the + greatest crank I ever struck. I met him in London a matter of three years + ago, and he wanted to go to Paris. There were two cars running at the + regular time, meeting the boat at Dover. Do you think he would have + anything to do with them? Not he! He hired a special train and went down + like a prince.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he do that for?” the reporter asked. + </p> + <p> + “Why, because he was a crank, sir,” Mr. Coulson answered confidentially. + “There was no other reason at all. Take this last voyage on the Lusitania, + now. He spoke to me the first day out because he couldn’t help it, but for + pretty well the rest of the journey he either kept down in his stateroom + or, when he came up on deck, he avoided me and everybody else. When he did + talk, his talk was foolish. He was a good chap at his work, I believe, but + he was a crank. Seemed to me sometimes as though that humdrum life of his + had about turned his brain. The last day out he was fidgeting all the + time; kept looking at his watch, studying the chart, and asking the + sailors questions. Said he wanted to get up in time to take a girl to + lunch on Thursday. It was just for that reason that he scuttled off the + boat without a word to any of us, and rushed up to London.” + </p> + <p> + “But he had letters, Mr. Coulson,” the reporter reminded him, “from some + one in Washington, to the captain of the steamer and to the station-master + of the London and North Western Railway. It seems rather odd that he + should have provided himself with these, doesn’t it?” + </p> + <p> + “They were easy enough to get,” Mr. Coulson answered. “He wasn’t a + worrying sort of chap, Fynes wasn’t. He did his work, year in and year + out, and asked no favors. The consequence was that when he asked a queer + one he got it all right. It’s easier to get a pull over there than it is + here, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “This is all very interesting,” the reporter said, “and I am sure I’m very + much obliged to you, Mr. Coulson. Now can you tell me of anything in the + man’s life or way of living likely to provoke enmity on the part of any + one? This murder was such a cold-blooded affair.” + </p> + <p> + “There I’m stuck,” Mr. Coulson admitted. “There’s only one thing I can + tell you, and that is that I believe he had a lot more money on him than + the amount mentioned in your newspapers this morning. My own opinion is + that he was murdered for what he’d got. A smart thief would say that a + fellow who takes a special tug off the steamer and a special train to town + was a man worth robbing. How the thing was done I don’t know—that’s + for your police to find out—but I reckon that whoever killed him did + it for his cash.” + </p> + <p> + The reporter sighed. He was, after all, a little disappointed. Mr. Coulson + was obviously a man of common sense. His words were clearly pronounced, + and his reasoning sound. They had reached the courtyard of the hotel now, + and the reporter began to express his gratitude. + </p> + <p> + “My first drink on English soil,” Mr. Coulson said, as he handed his + suitcase to the hall-porter, “is always—” + </p> + <p> + “It’s on me,” the young man declared quickly. “I owe you a good deal more + than drinks, Mr. Coulson.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, come along, anyway,” the latter remarked. “I guess my room is all + right, porter?”—turning to the man who stood by his side, bag in + hand. “I am Mr. James B. Coulson of New York, and I wrote on ahead. I’ll + come round to the office and register presently.” + </p> + <p> + They made their way to the American bar. The newspaper man and his new + friend drank together and, skillfully prompted by the former, the + conversation drifted back to the subject of Hamilton Fynes. There was + nothing else to be learned, however, in the way of facts. Mr. Coulson + admitted that he had been a little nettled by his friend’s odd manner + during the voyage, and the strange way he had of keeping to himself. + </p> + <p> + “But, after all,” he wound up, “Fynes was a crank, when all’s said and + done. We are all cranks, more or less,—all got our weak spot, I + mean. It was secretiveness with our unfortunate friend. He liked to play + at being a big personage in a mysterious sort of way, and the poor chap’s + paid for it,” he added with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + The reporter left his new-made friend a short time afterwards, and took a + hansom to his office. His newspaper at once issued a special edition, + giving an interview between their representative and Mr. James B. Coulson, + a personal friend of the murdered man. It was, after all, something of a + scoop, for not one of the other passengers had been found who was in a + position to say anything at all about him. The immediate effect of the + interview, however, was to procure for Mr. Coulson a somewhat bewildering + succession of callers. The first to arrive was a gentleman who introduced + himself as Mr. Jacks, and whose card, sent back at first, was retendered + in a sealed envelope with Scotland Yard scrawled across the back of it. + Mr. Coulson, who was in the act of changing his clothes, interviewed Mr. + Jacks in his chamber. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” the Inspector said, “I am visiting you on behalf of + Scotland Yard. We understand that you had some acquaintance with Mr. + Hamilton Fynes, and we hope that you will answer a few questions for us.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson sat down upon a trunk with his hairbrushes in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he declared, “you detectives do get to know things, don’t you?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing so remarkable in that, Mr. Coulson,” Inspector Jacks remarked + pleasantly. “A newspaper man had been before me, I see.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson nodded. + </p> + <p> + “That’s so,” he admitted. “Seems to me I may have been a bit indiscreet in + talking so much to that young reporter. I have just read his account of my + interview, and he’s got it pat, word by word. Now, Mr. Jacks, if you’ll + just invest a halfpenny in that newspaper, you don’t need to ask me any + questions. That young man had a kind of pleasant way with him, and I told + him all I knew.” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, Mr. Coulson,” the Inspector answered. “At the same time nothing + that you told him throws any light at all upon the circumstances which led + to the poor fellow’s death.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” Mr. Coulson declared, “is not my fault. What I don’t know I can’t + tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “You were acquainted with Mr. Fynes some years ago?” the Inspector asked. + “Can you tell me what business he was in then?” + </p> + <p> + “Same as now, for anything I know,” Mr. Coulson answered. “He was a clerk + in one of the Government offices at Washington.” + </p> + <p> + “Government offices,” Inspector Jacks repeated. “Have you any idea what + department?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson was not sure. + </p> + <p> + “It may have been the Excise Office,” he remarked thoughtfully. “I did + hear, but I never took any particular notice.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you ever form any idea as to the nature of his work?” Inspector Jacks + asked. + </p> + <p> + “Bless you, no!” Mr. Coulson replied, brushing his hair vigorously. “It + never entered into my head to ask him, and I never heard him mention it. I + only know that he was a quiet-living, decent sort of a chap, but, as I put + it to our young friend the newspaper man, he was a crank.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector was disappointed. He began to feel that he was wasting his + time. + </p> + <p> + “Did you know anything of the object of his journey to Europe?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Nary a thing,” Mr. Coulson declared. “He only came on deck once or twice, + and he had scarcely a civil word even for me. Why, I tell you, sir,” Mr. + Coulson continued, “if he saw me coming along on the promenade, he’d turn + round and go the other way, for fear I’d ask him to come and have a drink. + A c-r-a-n-k, sir! You write it down at that, and you won’t be far out.” + </p> + <p> + “He certainly seems to have been a queer lot,” the Inspector declared. “By + the bye,” he continued, “you said something, I believe, about his having + had more money with him than was found upon his person.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s so,” Mr. Coulson admitted. “I know he deposited a pocketbook with + the purser, and I happened to be standing by when he received it back. I + noticed that he had three or four thousand-dollar bills, and there didn’t + seem to be anything of the sort upon him when he was found.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector made a note of this. + </p> + <p> + “You believe yourself, then, Mr. Coulson,” he said, closing his + pocketbook, “that the murder was committed for the purpose of robbery?” + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me it’s common sense,” Mr. Coulson replied. “A man who goes and + takes a special train to London from the docks of a city like Liverpool—a + city filled with the scum of the world, mind you—kind of gives + himself away as a man worth robbing, doesn’t he?” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “That’s sensible talk, Mr. Coulson,” he acknowledged. “You never heard, I + suppose, of his having had a quarrel with any one?” + </p> + <p> + “Never in my life,” Mr. Coulson declared. “He wasn’t the sort to make + enemies, any more than he was the sort to make friends.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector took up his hat. His manner now was no longer inquisitorial. + With the closing of his notebook a new geniality had taken the place of + his official stiffness. + </p> + <p> + “You are making a long stay here, Mr. Coulson?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “A week or so, maybe,” that gentleman answered. “I am in the machinery + patent line—machinery for the manufacture of woollen goods mostly—and + I have a few appointments in London. Afterwards I am going on to Paris. + You can hear of me at any time either here or at the Grand Hotel, Paris, + but there’s nothing further to be got out of me as regards Mr. Hamilton + Fynes.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector was of the same opinion and took his departure. Mr. Coulson + waited for some little time, still sitting on his trunk and clasping his + hairbrushes. Then he moved over to the table on which stood the telephone + instrument and asked for a number. The reply came in a minute or two in + the form of a question. + </p> + <p> + “It’s Mr. James B. Coulson from New York, landed this afternoon from the + Lusitania,” Mr. Coulson said. “I am at the Savoy Hotel, speaking from my + room—number 443.” + </p> + <p> + There was a brief silence—then a reply. + </p> + <p> + “You had better be in the bar smoking-room at seven o’clock. If nothing + happens, don’t leave the hotel this evening.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson replaced the receiver and rang off. A page-boy knocked at the + door. + </p> + <p> + “Young lady downstairs wishes to see you, sir,” he announced. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson took up the card from the tray. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope Morse,” he said softly to himself. “Seems to me I’m rather + popular this evening. Say I’ll be down right away, my boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, sir,” the page answered. “There’s a gentleman with her, sir. + His card’s underneath the lady’s.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson examined the tray once more. A gentleman’s visiting card + informed him that his other caller was Sir Charles Somerfield, Bart. + </p> + <p> + “Bart,” Mr. Coulson remarked thoughtfully. “I’m not quite catching on to + that, but I suppose he goes in with the young lady.” + </p> + <p> + “They’re both together, sir,” the boy announced. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson completed his toilet and hurried downstairs + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. A FATAL DESPATCH + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Coulson found his two visitors in the lounge of the hotel. He had + removed all traces of his journey, and was attired in a Tuxedo dinner + coat, a soft-fronted shirt, and a neatly arranged black tie. He wore + broad-toed patent boots and double lines of braid down the outsides of his + trousers. The page boy, who was on the lookout for him, conducted him to + the corner where Miss Penelope Morse and her companion were sitting + talking together. The latter rose at his approach, and Mr. Coulson summed + him up quickly,—a well-bred, pleasant-mannered, exceedingly athletic + young Englishman, who was probably not such a fool as he looked,—that + is, from Mr. Coulson’s standpoint, who was not used to the single eyeglass + and somewhat drawling enunciation. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson, isn’t it?” the young man asked, accepting the other’s + outstretched hand. “We are awfully sorry to disturb you, so soon after + your arrival, too, but the fact is that this young lady, Miss Penelope + Morse,”—Mr. Coulson bowed,—“was exceedingly anxious to make + your acquaintance. You Americans are such birds of passage that she was + afraid you might have moved on if she didn’t look you up at once.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope herself intervened. + </p> + <p> + “I’m afraid you’re going to think me a terrible nuisance, Mr. Coulson!” + she exclaimed. Mr. Coulson, although he did not call himself a lady’s man, + was nevertheless human enough to appreciate the fact that the young lady’s + face was piquant and her smile delightful. She was dressed with quiet but + elegant simplicity. The perfume of the violets at her waistband seemed to + remind him of his return to civilization. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I’ll take my risks of that, Miss Morse,” he declared. “If you’ll + only let me know what I can do for you—” + </p> + <p> + “It’s about poor Mr. Hamilton Fynes,” she explained. “I took up the + evening paper only half an hour ago, and read your interview with the + reporter. I simply couldn’t help stopping to ask whether you could give me + any further particulars about that horrible affair. I didn’t dare to come + here all alone, so I asked Sir Charles to come along with me.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson, being invited to do so, seated himself on the lounge by the + young lady’s side. He leaned a little forward with a hand on either knee. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t exactly know what I can tell you,” he remarked. “I take it, then, + that you were well acquainted with Mr. Fynes?” + </p> + <p> + “I used to know him quite well,” Penelope answered, “and naturally I am + very much upset. When I read in the paper an account of your interview + with the reporter, I could see at once that you were not telling him + everything. Why should you, indeed? A man does not want every detail of + his life set out in the newspapers just because he has become connected + with a terrible tragedy.” + </p> + <p> + “You’re a very sensible young lady, Miss Morse, if you will allow me to + say so,” Mr. Coulson declared. “You were expecting to see something of Mr. + Fynes over here, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I had an appointment to lunch with him today,” she answered. “He sent me + a marconigram before he arrived at Queenstown.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that so?” Mr. Coulson exclaimed. “Well, well!” + </p> + <p> + “I actually went to the restaurant,” Penelope continued, “without knowing + anything of this. I can’t understand it at all, even now. Mr. Fynes always + seemed to me such a harmless sort of person, so unlikely to have enemies, + or anything of that sort. Don’t you think so, Mr. Coulson?” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” that gentleman answered, “to tell you the honest truth, Miss + Morse, I’m afraid I am going to disappoint you a little. I wasn’t over + well acquainted with Mr. Fynes, although a good many people seemed to + fancy that we were kind of bosom friends. That newspaper man, for + instance, met me at the station and stuck to me like a leech; drove down + here with me, and was willing to stand all the liquor I could drink. Then + there was a gentleman from Scotland Yard, who was in such a hurry that he + came to see me in my bedroom. <i>He</i> had a sort of an idea that I had + been brought up from infancy with Hamilton Fynes and could answer a sheaf + of questions a yard long. As soon as I got rid of him, up comes that page + boy and brings your card.” + </p> + <p> + “It does seem too bad, Mr. Coulson,” Penelope declared, raising her + wonderful eyes to his and smiling sympathetically. “You have really + brought it upon yourself, though, to some extent, haven’t you, by + answering so many questions for this Comet man?” + </p> + <p> + “Those newspaper fellows,” Mr. Coulson remarked, “are wonders. Before that + youngster had finished with me, I began to feel that poor old Fynes and I + had been like brothers all our lives. As a matter of fact, Miss Morse, I + expect you knew him at least as well as I did.” + </p> + <p> + She nodded her head thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Hamilton Fynes came from the village in Massachusetts where I was brought + up. I’ve known him all my life.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson seemed a little startled. + </p> + <p> + “I didn’t understand,” he said thoughtfully, “that Fynes had any very + intimate friends over this side.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t mean to imply that we have been intimate lately,” she said. “I + came to Europe nine years ago, and since then, of course, I have not seen + him often. Perhaps it was the fact that he should have thought of me, and + that I was actually expecting to have lunch with him today, which made me + feel this thing so acutely.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that’s quite natural,” Mr. Coulson declared, leaning back a little + and crossing his legs. “Somehow we seem to read about these things in the + papers and they don’t amount to such a lot, but when you know the man and + were expecting to see him, as you were, why, then it comes right home to + you. There’s something about a murder,” Mr. Coulson concluded, “which kind + of takes hold of you if you’ve ever even shaken hands with either of the + parties concerned in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you see much of the poor fellow during the voyage?” Sir Charles + asked. + </p> + <p> + “No, nor any one else,” Mr. Coulson replied. “I don’t think he was + seasick, but he was miserably unsociable, and he seldom left his cabin. I + doubt whether there were half a dozen people on board who would have + recognized him afterwards as a fellow-passenger.” + </p> + <p> + “He seems to have been a secretive sort of person,” Sir Charles remarked. + </p> + <p> + “He was that,” Mr. Coulson admitted. “Never seemed to care to talk about + himself or his own business. Not that he had much to talk about,” he added + reflectively. “Dull sort of life, his. So many hours of work, so many + hours of play; so many dollars a month, and after it’s all over, so many + dollars pension. Wouldn’t suit all of us, Sir Charles, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “I fancy not,” Somerfield admitted. “Perhaps he kicked over the traces a + bit when he was over this side. You Americans generally seem to find your + way about—in Paris, especially.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson shook his head doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + “There wasn’t much kicking over the traces with poor old Fynes,” he said. + “He hadn’t got it in him.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield scratched his chin thoughtfully and looked at Penelope. + </p> + <p> + “Scarcely seems possible, does it,” he remarked, “that a man leading such + a quiet sort of life should make enemies.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t believe he had any,” Mr. Coulson asserted. + </p> + <p> + “He didn’t seem nervous on the way over, did he?” Penelope asked,—“as + though he were afraid of something happening?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “No more than usual,” he answered. “I guess your police over here aren’t + quite so smart as ours, or they’d have been on the track of this thing + before now. But you can take it from me that when the truth comes out + you’ll find that our poor friend has paid the penalty of going about the + world like a crank.” + </p> + <p> + “A what?” Somerfield asked doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + “A crank,” Mr. Coulson repeated vigorously. “It wasn’t much I knew of + Hamilton Fynes, but I knew that much. He was one of those nervous, + stand-off sort of persons who hated to have people talk to him and yet was + always doing things to make them talk about him. I was over in Europe with + him not so long ago, and he went on in the same way. Took a special train + to Dover when there wasn’t any earthly reason for it; travelled with a + valet and a courier, when he had no clothes for the valet to look after, + and spoke every European language better than his courier. This time the + poor fellow’s paid for his bit of vanity. Naturally, any one would think + he was a millionaire, travelling like that. I guess they boarded the train + somehow, or lay hidden in it when it started, and relieved him of a good + bit of his savings.” + </p> + <p> + “But his money was found upon him,” Somerfield objected. + </p> + <p> + “Some of it,” Mr. Coulson answered,—“some of it. That’s just about + the only thing that I do know of my own. I happened to see him take his + pocketbook back from the purser, and I guess he’d got a sight more money + there than was found upon him. I told the smooth-spoken gentleman from + Scotland Yard so—Mr. Inspector Jacks he called himself—when he + came to see me an hour or so ago.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope sighed gently. She found it hard to make up her mind concerning + this quondam acquaintance of her deceased friend. + </p> + <p> + “Did you see much of Mr. Fynes on the other side, Mr. Coulson?” she asked + him. + </p> + <p> + “Not I,” Mr. Coulson answered. “He wasn’t particularly anxious to make + acquaintances over here, but he was even worse at home. The way he went + on, you’d think he’d never had any friends and never wanted any. I met him + once in the streets of Washington last year, and had a cocktail with him + at the Atlantic House. I had to almost drag him in there. I was pretty + well a stranger in Washington, but he didn’t do a thing for me. Never + asked me to look him up, or introduced me to his club. He just drank his + cocktail, mumbled something about being in a hurry, and made off. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you, sir,” Mr. Coulson continued, turning to Somerfield, “that man + hadn’t a thing to say for himself. I guess his work had something to do + with it. You must get kind of out of touch with things, shut up in an + office from nine o’clock in the morning till five in the afternoon. Just + saving up, he was, for his trip to Europe. Then we happened on the same + steamer, but, bless you, he scarcely even shook hands when he saw me. He + wouldn’t play bridge, didn’t care about chess, hadn’t even a chair on the + deck, and never came in to meals.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope nodded her head thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “You are destroying all my illusions, Mr. Coulson,” she said. “Do you know + that I was building up quite a romance about poor Mr. Fynes’ life? It + seemed to me that he must have enemies; that there must have been + something in his life, or his manner of living, which accounted for such a + terrible crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sure not!” Mr. Coulson declared heartily. “It was a cleverly worked + job, but there was no mystery about it. Some chap went for him because he + got riding about like a millionaire. A more unromantic figure than + Hamilton Fynes never breathed. Call him a crank and you’ve finished with + him.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope sighed once more and looked at the tips of her patent shoes. + </p> + <p> + “It has been so kind of you,” she murmured, “to talk to us. And yet, do + you know, I am a little disappointed. I was hoping that you might have + been able to tell us something more about the poor fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “He was no talker,” Mr. Coulson declared. “It was little enough he had to + say to me, and less to any one else.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems strange,” she remarked innocently, “that he should have been so + shy. He didn’t strike me that way when I knew him at home in + Massachusetts, you know. He travelled about so much in later years, too, + didn’t he?” + </p> + <p> + Penelope’s eyes were suddenly upraised. For the first time Mr. Coulson’s + ready answers failed him. Not a muscle of his face moved under the girl’s + scrutiny, but he hesitated for a short time before he answered her. + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know of,” he said at length. “No, I shouldn’t have called him + much of a traveller.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope rose to her feet and held out her hand. + </p> + <p> + “It has been very nice indeed of you to see us, Mr. Coulson,” she said, + “especially after all these other people have been bothering you. Of + course, I am sorry that you haven’t anything more to tell us than we knew + already. Still, I felt that I couldn’t rest until we had been.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a sad affair, anyhow,” Mr. Coulson declared, walking with them to + the door. “Don’t you get worrying your head, young lady, though, with any + notion of his having had enemies, or anything of that sort. The poor + fellow was no hero of romance. I don’t fancy even your halfpenny papers + could drag any out of his life. It was just a commonplace robbery, with a + bad ending for poor Fynes. Good evening, miss! Good night, sir! Glad to + have met you, Sir Charles.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson’s two visitors left and got into a small electric brougham + which was waiting for them. Mr. Coulson himself watched them drive off and + glanced at the clock. It was already a quarter past six. He went into the + cafe and ordered a light dinner, which he consumed with much obvious + enjoyment. Then he lit a cigar and went into the smoking room. Selecting a + pile of newspapers, he drew up an easy chair to the fire and made himself + comfortable. + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me I may have a longish wait,” he said to himself. + </p> + <p> + As a matter of fact, he was disappointed. At precisely seven o’clock, Mr. + Richard Vanderpole strolled into the room and, after a casual glance + around, approached his chair and touched him on the shoulder. In his + evening clothes the newcomer was no longer obtrusively American. He was + dressed in severely English fashion, from the cut of his white waistcoat + to the admirable poise of his white tie. He smiled as he patted Coulson + upon the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “This is Mr. Coulson, I’m sure,” he declared,—“Mr. James B. Coulson + from New York?” + </p> + <p> + “You’re dead right,” Mr. Coulson admitted, laying down his newspaper and + favoring his visitor with a quick upward glance. + </p> + <p> + “This is great!” the young man continued. “Just off the boat, eh? Well, I + am glad to see you,—very glad indeed to make your acquaintance, I + should say.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson replied in similar terms. A waiter who was passing through the + room hesitated, for it was a greeting which generally ended in a summons + for him. + </p> + <p> + “What shall it be?” the newcomer asked. + </p> + <p> + “I’ve just taken dinner,” Mr. Coulson said. “Coffee and cognac’ll do me + all right.” + </p> + <p> + “And a Martini cocktail for me,” the young man ordered. “I am dining down + in the restaurant with some friends later on. Come over to this corner, + Mr. Coulson. Why, you’re looking first-rate. Great boat, the Lusitania, + isn’t she? What sort of a trip did you have?” + </p> + <p> + So they talked till the drinks had been brought and paid for, till another + little party had quitted the room and they sat in their lonely corner, + secure from observation or from any possibility of eavesdropping. Then Mr. + Richard Vanderpole leaned forward in his chair and dropped his voice. + </p> + <p> + “Coulson,” he said, “the chief is anxious. We don’t understand this + affair. Do you know anything?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a d——d thing!” Coulson answered. + </p> + <p> + “Were you shadowed on the boat?” the young man asked. + </p> + <p> + “Not to my knowledge,” Coulson answered. “Fynes was in his stateroom six + hours before we started. I can’t make head nor tail of it.” + </p> + <p> + “He had the papers, of course?” + </p> + <p> + “Sewn in the lining of his coat,” Coulson muttered. “You read about that + in tonight’s papers. The lining was torn and the space empty. He had them + all right when he left the steamer.” + </p> + <p> + The young man looked around; the room was still empty. + </p> + <p> + “I’m fresh in this,” he said. “I got some information this afternoon, and + the chief sent me over to see you on account of it. We had better not + discuss possibilities, I suppose? The thing’s too big. The chief’s almost + off his head. Is there any chance, do you think, Coulson, that this was an + ordinary robbery? I am not sure that the special train wasn’t a mistake.” + </p> + <p> + “None whatever,” Coulson declared. + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” his companion asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I’ve lied to those reporters and chaps,” Coulson admitted,—“lied + with a purpose, of course, as you people can understand. The money found + upon Fynes was every penny he had when he left Liverpool.” + </p> + <p> + The young man set his teeth. + </p> + <p> + “It’s something to know this, at any rate,” he declared. “You did right, + Coulson, to put up that bluff. Now about the duplicates?” + </p> + <p> + “They are in my suitcase,” Coulson answered, “and according to the way + things are going, I shan’t be over sorry to get rid of them. Will you take + them with you?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sure!” Vanderpole answered. “That’s what I’m here for.” + </p> + <p> + “You had better wait right here, then,” Coulson said, “I’ll fetch them.” + </p> + <p> + He made his way up to his room, undid his dressing bag, which was fastened + only with an ordinary lock, and from between two shirts drew out a small + folded packet, no bigger than an ordinary letter. It was a curious + circumstance that he used only one hand for the search and with the other + gripped the butt of a small revolver. There was no one around, however, + nor was he disturbed in any way. In a few minutes he returned to the bar + smoking room, where the young man was still waiting, and handed him the + letter. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me,” the latter asked, “have you been shadowed at all?” + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know of,” Coulson answered. + </p> + <p> + “Men with quick instincts,” Vanderpole continued, “can always tell when + they are being watched. Have you felt anything of the sort?” + </p> + <p> + Coulson hesitated for one moment. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said. “I had a caller whose manner I did not quite understand. + She seemed to have something at the back of her head about me.” + </p> + <p> + “She! Was it a woman?” the young man asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + Coulson nodded. + </p> + <p> + “A young lady,” he said,—“Miss Penelope Morse, she called herself.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Richard Vanderpole stood quite still for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” he said softly. “She might have been interested.” + </p> + <p> + “Does the chief want me at all?” Coulson asked. + </p> + <p> + “No!” Vanderpole answered. “Go about your business as usual. Leave here + for Paris, say, in ten days. There will probably be a letter for you at + the Grand Hotel by that time.” + </p> + <p> + They walked together toward the main exit. The young man’s face had lost + some of its grimness. Once more his features wore that look of pleasant + and genial good-fellowship which seems characteristic of his race after + business hours. + </p> + <p> + “Say, Mr. Coulson,” he declared, as they passed across the hall, “you and + I must have a night together. This isn’t New York, by any manner of means, + or Paris, but there’s some fun to be had here, in a quiet way. I’ll phone + you tomorrow or the day after.” + </p> + <p> + “Sure!” Mr. Coulson declared. “I’d like it above all things.” + </p> + <p> + “I must find a taxicab,” the young man remarked. “I’ve a busy hour before + me. I’ve got to go down and see the chief, who is dining somewhere in + Kensington, and get back again to dine here at half past seven in the + restaurant.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess you’ll have to look sharp, then.” Mr. Coulson remarked. “Do you + see the time?” + </p> + <p> + Vanderpole glanced at the clock and whistled softly to himself. + </p> + <p> + “Tell you what!” he exclaimed, “I’ll write a note to one of the friends + I’ve got to meet, and leave it here. Boy,” he added, turning to a page + boy, “get me a taxi as quick as you can.” + </p> + <p> + The boy ran out into the Strand, and Vanderpole, sitting down at the + table, wrote a few lines, which he sealed and addressed and handed to one + of the reception clerks. Then he shook hands with Coulson and threw + himself into a corner of the cab which was waiting. + </p> + <p> + “Drive down the Brompton Road,” he said to the man. “I’ll direct you + later.” + </p> + <p> + It was a quarter past seven when he left the hotel. At half past a + policeman held up his hand and stopped the taxi, to the driver’s great + astonishment, as he was driving slowly across Melbourne Square, + Kensington. + </p> + <p> + “What’s the matter?” the man asked. “You can’t say I was exceeding my + speed limit.” + </p> + <p> + The policeman scarcely noticed him. His head was already through the cab + window. + </p> + <p> + “Where did you take your fare up?” he asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + “Savoy Hotel,” the man answered. “What’s wrong with him?” + </p> + <p> + The policeman opened the door of the cab and stepped in. + </p> + <p> + “Never you mind about that,” he said. “Drive to the South Kensington + police station as quick as you can.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. AN INTERRUPTED THEATRE PARTY + </h2> + <p> + Seated upon a roomy lounge in the foyer of the Savoy were three women who + attracted more than an average amount of attention from the passers-by. In + the middle was the Duchess of Devenham, erect, stately, and with a figure + which was still irreproachable notwithstanding her white hair. On one side + sat her daughter, Lady Grace Redford, tall, fair, and comely; on the + other, Miss Penelope Morse. The two girls were amusing themselves, + watching the people; their chaperon had her eye upon the clock. + </p> + <p> + “To dine at half-past seven,” the Duchess remarked, as she looked around + the <i>entresol</i> of the great restaurant through her lorgnettes, “is + certainly a little trying for one’s temper and for one’s digestion, but so + long as those men accepted, I certainly think they ought to have been + here. They know that the play begins at a quarter to nine.” + </p> + <p> + “It isn’t like Dicky Vanderpole in the least,” Penelope said. “Since he + began to tread the devious paths of diplomacy, he has brought exactness in + the small things of life down to a fine art.” + </p> + <p> + “He isn’t half so much fun as he used to be,” Lady Grace declared. + </p> + <p> + “Fun!” Penelope exclaimed. “Sometimes I think that I never knew a more + trying person.” + </p> + <p> + “I have never known the Prince unpunctual,” the Duchess murmured. “I + consider him absolutely the best-mannered young man I know.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace smiled, and glanced at Penelope. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t think you’ll get Penelope to agree with you, mother,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Why not, my dear?” the Duchess asked. “I heard that you were quite rude + to him the other evening. We others all find him so charming.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope’s lip curled slightly. + </p> + <p> + “He has so many admirers,” she remarked, “that I dare say he will not + notice my absence from the ranks. Perhaps I am a little prejudiced. At + home, you know, we have rather strong opinions about this fusion of + races.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess raised her eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “But a Prince of Japan, my dear Penelope!” she said. “A cousin of the + Emperor, and a member of an aristocracy which was old before we were + thought of! Surely you cannot class Prince Maiyo amongst those to whom any + of your country people could take exception.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope shrugged her shoulders slightly. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” she said, “my feeling is the result of hearing you all praise + him so much and so often. Besides, apart from that, you must remember that + I am a patriotic daughter of the Stars and Stripes, and there isn’t much + friendship lost between Washington and Tokio just now.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess turned away to greet a man who had paused before their couch + on his way into the restaurant. + </p> + <p> + “My dear General,” she said, “it seems to me that one meets every one + here! Why was not restaurant dining the vogue when I was a girl!” + </p> + <p> + General Sherrif smiled. He was tall and thin, with grizzled hair and worn + features. Notwithstanding his civilian’s clothes, there was no possibility + of mistaking him anywhere, or under any circumstances, for anything but a + soldier. + </p> + <p> + “It is a delightful custom,” he admitted. “It keeps one always on the <i>qui + vive</i>; one never knows whom one may see. Incidentally, I find it + interferes very much with my digestion.” + </p> + <p> + “Digestion!” the Duchess murmured. “But then, you soldiers lead such + irregular lives.” + </p> + <p> + “Not always from choice,” the General reminded her. “The Russo-Japanese + war finished me off. They kept us far enough away from the fighting, when + they could, but, by Jove, they did make us move!” + </p> + <p> + “We are waiting now for Prince Maiyo,” the Duchess remarked. “You know + him?” + </p> + <p> + “Know him!” the General answered. “Duchess, if ever I have to write my + memoirs, and particularly my reminiscences of this war, I fancy you would + find the name of your friend appear there pretty frequently. There wasn’t + a more brilliant feat of arms in the whole campaign than his flanking + movement at Mukden. I met most of the Japanese leaders, and I have always + said that I consider him the most wonderful of them all.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess turned to Penelope. + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear that?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + Penelope smiled. + </p> + <p> + “The Fates are against me,” she declared. “If I may not like, I shall at + least be driven to admire.” + </p> + <p> + “To talk of bravery when one speaks of that war,” the General remarked, + “seems invidious, for it is my belief that throughout the whole of the + Japanese army such a thing as fear did not exist. They simply did not know + what the word meant. But I shall never forget that the only piece of + hand-to-hand fighting I saw during the whole time was a cavalry charge led + by Prince Maiyo against an immensely superior force of Russians. Duchess,” + the General declared, “those Japanese on their queer little horses went + through the enemy like wind through a cornfield. That young man must have + borne a charmed life. I saw him riding and cheering his men on when he + must have had at least half a dozen wounds in his body. You will pardon + me, Duchess? I see that my party are waiting.” + </p> + <p> + The General hurried away. The Duchess shut up her lorgnettes with a snap, + and held out her hand to a newcomer who had come from behind the palms. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Prince,” she exclaimed, “this is charming of you! Some one told + me that you were not well,—our wretched climate, of course—and + I was so afraid, every moment, that we should receive your excuses.” + </p> + <p> + The newcomer, who was bowing over her hand, was of medium height or a + trifle less, dark, and dressed with the quiet exactness of an English + gentleman. Only a slight narrowness of the eyes and a greater alertness of + movement seemed to distinguish him in any way, as regards nationality, + from the men by whom he was surrounded. His voice, when he spoke, + contained no trace of accent. It was soft and singularly pleasant. It had, + too, one somewhat rare quality—a delightful ring of truth. Perhaps + that was one of the reasons why Prince Maiyo was just then, amongst + certain circles, one of the most popular persons in Society. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Duchess,” he said, “my indisposition was nothing. And as for your + climate, I am beginning to delight in it,—one never knows what to + expect, or when one may catch a glimpse of the sun. It is only the + grayness which is always the same.” + </p> + <p> + “And even that,” the Duchess remarked, smiling, “has been yellow for the + last few days. Prince, you know my daughter Grace, and I am sure that you + have met Miss Penelope Morse? We are waiting for two other men, Sir + Charles Somerfield and Mr. Vanderpole.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince bowed, and began to talk to his hostess’ daughter,—a + tall, fair girl, as yet only in her second season. + </p> + <p> + “Here comes Sir Charles, at any rate!” the Duchess exclaimed. “Really, I + think we shall have to go in. We can leave a message for Dicky; they all + know him at this place. I am afraid he is one of those shocking young men + who entertain the theatrical profession here to supper.” + </p> + <p> + A footman at that moment brought a note to the Duchess, which she tore + open. + </p> + <p> + “This is from Dicky!” she exclaimed, glancing it through quickly,—“Savoy + notepaper, too, so I suppose he has been here. He says that he may be a + few minutes late and that we are not to wait. He will pick us up either + here or at the theatre. Prince, shall we let these young people follow us? + I haven’t heard your excuses yet. Do you know that you were a quarter of + an hour late?” + </p> + <p> + He bent towards her with troubled face. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Duchess,” he said, “believe me, I am conscious of my fault. An + unexpected matter, which required my personal attention, presented itself + at the last moment. I think I can assure you that nothing of its sort was + ever accomplished so quickly. It would only weary you if I tried to + explain.” + </p> + <p> + “Please don’t,” the Duchess begged, “so long as you are here at last. And + after all, you see, you are not the worst sinner. Mr. Vanderpole has not + yet arrived.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince walked on, for a few steps, in silence. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Vanderpole is a great friend of yours, Duchess?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The Duchess shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “I do not know him very well,” she said. “I asked him for Penelope.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince looked puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “But I thought,” he said, “that Miss Morse and Sir Charles—” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess interrupted him with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Charles is very much in earnest,” she whispered, “but very very slow. + Dicky is just the sort of man to spur him on. He admires Penelope, and + does not mind showing it. She is such a dear girl that I should love to + have her comfortably settled over here.” + </p> + <p> + “She is very intelligent,” the Prince said. “She is a young lady, indeed, + for whom I have a great admiration. I am only sorry,” he concluded, “that + I do not seem able to interest her.” + </p> + <p> + “You must not believe that,” the Duchess said. “Penelope is a little + brusque sometimes, but it is only her manner.” + </p> + <p> + They made their way through the foyer to the round table which had been + reserved for them in the centre of the restaurant. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I ought to apologize for giving you dinner at such an hour,” + the Duchess remarked, “but it is our theatrical managers who are to blame. + Why they cannot understand that the best play in the world is not worth + more than two hours of our undivided attention, and begin everything at + nine or a quarter-past, I cannot imagine.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Duchess,” he said, “I think that you are a nation of sybarites. + Everything in the world must run for you so smoothly or you are not + content. For my part, I like to dine at this hour.” + </p> + <p> + “But then, you take no luncheon, Prince,” Lady Grace reminded him. + </p> + <p> + “I never lunch out,” the Prince answered, “but I have always what is + sufficient for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me,” the Duchess asked, “is it true that you are thinking of + settling down amongst us? Your picture is in the new illustrated paper + this week, you know, with a little sketch of your career. We are given to + understand that you may possibly make your home in this country.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled, and in his smile there seemed to be a certain + mysticism. One could not tell, indeed, whether it came from some pleasant + thought flitting through his brain, or whether it was that the idea itself + was so strange to him. + </p> + <p> + “I have no plans, Duchess,” he said. “Your country is very delightful, and + the hospitality of the friends I have made over here is too wonderful a + thing to be described; but one never knows.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace bent towards Sir Charles, who was sitting by her side. + </p> + <p> + “I can never understand the Prince,” she murmured. “Always he seems as + though he took life so earnestly. He has a look upon his face which I + never see in the faces of any of you other young men.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a bit on the serious side,” Sir Charles admitted. + </p> + <p> + “It isn’t only that,” she continued. “He reminds me of that man whom we + all used to go and hear preach at the Oratory. He was the same in the + pulpit and when one saw him in the street. His eyes seemed to see through + one; he seemed to be living in a world of his own.” + </p> + <p> + “He was a religious Johnny, of course,” Sir Charles remarked. “They do + walk about with their heads in the air.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps it is religion with the Prince,” she said,—“religion of a + sort.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you what I do think,” Sir Charles murmured. “I think his pretence + at having a good time over here is all a bluff. He doesn’t really cotton + to us, you know. Don’t see how he could. He’s never touched a polo stick + in his life, knows nothing about cricket, is indifferent to games, and + doesn’t even understand the meaning of the word ‘Sportsman.’ There’s no + place in this country for a man like that.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace nodded. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” she said, “that his visit to Europe and his stay amongst us is, + after all, in the nature of a pilgrimage. I suppose he wants to carry back + some of our civilization to his own people.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope, who overheard, laughed softly and leaned across the table. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy,” she murmured, “that the person you are speaking of would not + look at it in quite the same light.” + </p> + <p> + “Has any one seen the evening paper?” the Duchess asked. “It is there any + more news about that extraordinary murder?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing fresh in the early editions,” Sir Charles answered. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” the Duchess declared, “that it is perfectly scandalous. Our + police system must be in a disgraceful state. Tell me, Prince,—could + anything like that happen in your country?” + </p> + <p> + “Without doubt,” the Prince answered, “life moves very much in the East as + with you here. Only with us,” he added a little thoughtfully, “there is a + difference, a difference of which one is reminded at a time like this, + when one reads your newspapers and hears the conversation of one’s + friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell us what you mean?” Penelope asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + He looked at her as one might have looked at a child,—kindly, even + tolerantly. He was scarcely so tall as she was, and Penelope’s attitude + towards him was marked all the time with a certain frigidity. Yet he spoke + to her with the quiet, courteous confidence of the philosopher who unbends + to talk to a child. + </p> + <p> + “In this country,” he said, “you place so high a value upon the gift of + life. Nothing moves you so greatly as the killing of one man by another, + or the death of a person whom you know.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no tragedy in the world so great!” Penelope declared. + </p> + <p> + The Prince shrugged his shoulders very slightly. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Miss Morse,” he said, “it is so that you think about life and + death here. Yet you call yourselves a Christian country—you have a + very beautiful faith. With us, perhaps, there is a little more philosophy + and something a little less definite in the trend of our religion. Yet we + do not dress Death in black clothes or fly from his outstretched hand. We + fear him no more that we do the night. It is a thing that comes—a + thing that must be.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke so softly, and yet with so much conviction, that it seemed hard + to answer him. Penelope, however, was conscious of an almost feverish + desire either to contradict him or to prolong the conversation by some + means or other. + </p> + <p> + “Your point of view,” she said, “is well enough, Prince, for those who + fall in battle, fighting for their country or for a great cause. Don’t you + think, though, that the horror of death is a more real thing in a case + like this, where a man is killed in cold blood for the sake of robbery, or + perhaps revenge?” + </p> + <p> + “One cannot tell,” the Prince answered thoughtfully. “The battlefields of + life are there for every one to cross. This mysterious gentleman who seems + to have met with his death so unexpectedly—he, too, may have been + the victim of a cause, knowing his dangers, facing them as a man should + face them.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess sighed. + </p> + <p> + “I am quite sure, Prince,” she said, “that you are a romanticist. But, + apart from the sentimental side of it, do things like this happen in your + country?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” the Prince answered. “It is as I have been saying: for a worthy + cause, or a cause which he believed to be worthy, there is no man of my + country worthy of the name who would not accept death with the same + resignation that he lays his head upon the pillow and waits for sleep.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Charles raised his glass and bowed across the table. + </p> + <p> + “To our great allies!” he said, smiling. + </p> + <p> + The Prince drank his glass of water thoughtfully. He drank wine only on + very rare occasions, and then under compulsion. He turned to the Duchess. + </p> + <p> + “A few days ago,” he said, “I heard myself described as being much too + serious a person. Tonight I am afraid that I am living up to my + reputation. Our conversation seems to have drifted into somewhat gloomy + channels. We must ask Miss Morse, I think, to help us to forget. They + say,” he continued, “that it is the young ladies of your country who hold + open the gates of Paradise for their menkind.” + </p> + <p> + He was looking into her eyes. His tone was half bantering, half serious. + From across the table Penelope knew that Somerfield was watching her + closely. Somehow or other, she was irritated and nervous, and she answered + vaguely. Sir Charles intervened with a story about some of their + acquaintances, and the conversation drifted into more ordinary channels. + </p> + <p> + “Some day, I suppose,” the Duchess remarked, as the service of dinner drew + toward a close, “you will have restaurants like this in Tokio?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince assented. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he said without enthusiasm, “they will come. Our heritage from the + West is a sure thing. Not in my days, perhaps, or in the days of those + that follow me, but they will come.” + </p> + <p> + “I think that it is absolutely wicked of Dicky,” the Duchess declared, as + they rose from the table. “I shall never rely upon him again.” + </p> + <p> + “After all, perhaps, it isn’t his fault,” Penelope said, breathing a + little sigh of relief as she rose to her feet. “Mr. Harvey is not always + considerate, and I know that several of the staff are away on leave.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s right, my dear,” the Duchess said, smiling, “stick up for your + countrymen. I suppose he’ll find us sometime during the evening. We can + all go to the theatre together; the omnibus is outside.” + </p> + <p> + The little party passed through the foyer and into the hall of the hotel, + where they waited while the Duchess’ carriage was called. Mr. Coulson was + there in an easy chair, smoking a cigar, and watching the people coming + and going. He studied the passers-by with ah air of impersonal but pleased + interest. Penelope and Lady Grace were certainly admirable foils. The + latter was fair, with beautiful complexion—a trifle sunburnt, blue + eyes, good-humored mouth, and features excellent in their way, but a + little lacking in expression. Her figure was good; her movements slow but + not ungraceful; her dress of white ivory satin a little extravagant for + the occasion. She looked exactly what she was,—a well-bred, + well-disposed, healthy young Englishwoman, of aristocratic parentage. + Penelope, on the other hand, more simply dressed, save for the string of + pearls which hung from her neck, had the look of a creature from another + world. She had plenty of animation; a certain nervous energy seemed to + keep her all the time restless. She talked ceaselessly, sometimes to the + Prince, more often to Sir Charles. Her gray-green eyes were bright, her + cheeks delicately flushed. She spoke and looked and moved as one on fire + with the joy of life. The Prince, noticing that Lady Grace had been left + to herself for the last few moments, moved a little towards her and + commenced a courteous conversation. Sir Charles took the opportunity to + bend over his companion. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” he said, “you are queer tonight. Tell me what it is? You don’t + really dislike the Prince, do you?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, of course not,” she answered, looking back into the restaurant and + listening, as though interested in the music. “He is odd, though, isn’t + he? He is so serious and, in a way, so convincing. He is like a being + transplanted into an absolutely alien soil. One would like to laugh at + him, and one can’t.” + </p> + <p> + “He is rather an anomaly,” Sir Charles said, humming lightly to himself. + “I suppose, compared with us matter-of-fact people, he must seem to your + sex quite a romantic figure.” + </p> + <p> + “He makes no particular appeal to me at all,” Penelope declared. + </p> + <p> + Somerfield was suddenly thoughtful. + </p> + <p> + “Sometimes, Penelope,” he said, “I don’t quite understand you, especially + when we speak about the Prince. I have come to the conclusion that you + either like him very much, or you dislike him very much, or you have some + thoughts about him which you tell to no one.” + </p> + <p> + She lifted her skirts. The carriage had been called. + </p> + <p> + “I like your last suggestion,” she declared. “You may believe that that is + true.” + </p> + <p> + On their way out, the Prince was accosted by some friends and remained + talking for several moments. When he entered the omnibus, there seemed to + Penelope, who found herself constantly watching him closely, a certain + added gravity in his demeanor. The drive to the theatre was a short one, + and conversation consisted only of a few disjointed remarks. In the lobby + the Prince laid his hand upon Somerfield’s arm. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Charles,” he said, “if I were you, I would keep that evening paper in + your pocket. Don’t let the ladies see it.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield looked at him in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “To me personally it is of no consequence,” the Prince answered, “but your + womenfolk feel these things so keenly, and Mr. Vanderpole is of the same + nationality, is he not, as Miss Morse? If you take my advice, you will be + sure that they do not see the paper until after they get home this + evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Has anything happened to Dicky?” Somerfield asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + The Prince’s face was impassive; he seemed not to have heard. Penelope had + turned to wait for them. + </p> + <p> + “The Duchess thinks that we had better all go into the box,” she said. “We + have two stalls as well, but as Dicky is not here there is really room for + five. Will you get some programmes, Sir Charles?” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield stopped for a minute, under pretence of seeking some change, + and tore open his paper. The Prince led Penelope down the carpeted way. + </p> + <p> + “I heard what you and Sir Charles were saying,” she declared quietly. + “Please tell me what it is that has happened to Dicky?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince’s face was grave. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” he replied. “I did not know that our voices would travel so + far.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not yours,” she said. “It was Sir Charles’. Tell me quickly what + it is that has happened?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Vanderpole,” the Prince answered, “has met with an accident,—a + somewhat serious one, I fear. Perhaps,” he added, “it would be as well, + after all, to break this to the Duchess. I was forgetting the prejudices + of your country. She will doubtless wish that our party should be broken + up.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope was suddenly very white. He whispered in her ear. + </p> + <p> + “Be brave,” he said. “It is your part.” + </p> + <p> + She stood still for a moment, and then moved on. His words had had a + curious effect upon her. The buzzing in her ears had ceased; there was + something to be done—she must do it! She passed into the box, the + door of which the attendant was holding open. + </p> + <p> + “Duchess,” she said, “I am so sorry, but I am afraid that something has + happened to Dicky. If you do not mind, I am going to ask Sir Charles to + take me home.” + </p> + <p> + “But my dear child!” the Duchess exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Morse is quite right,” the Prince said quietly. “I think it would be + better for her to leave at once. If you will allow me, I will explain to + you later.” + </p> + <p> + She left the box without another word, and took Somerfield’s arm. + </p> + <p> + “We two are to go,” she murmured. “The Prince will explain to the + Duchess.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince closed the box door behind them. He placed a chair for the + Duchess so that she was not in view of the house. + </p> + <p> + “A very sad thing has happened,” he said quietly. “Mr. Vanderpole met with + an accident in a taxicab this evening. From the latest reports, it seems + that he is dead!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. INSPECTOR JACKS SCORES + </h2> + <p> + There followed a few days of pleasurable interest to all Englishmen who + travelled in the tube and read their halfpenny papers. A great and + enlightened Press had already solved the problem of creating the + sensational without the aid of facts. This sudden deluge, therefore, of + undoubtedly tragical happenings became almost an embarrassment to them. + Black headlines, notes of exclamation, the use of superlative adjectives, + scarcely met the case. The murder of Mr. Hamilton Fynes was strange + enough. Here was an unknown man, holding a small position in his own + country,—a man apparently without friends or social position. He + travelled over from America, merely a unit amongst the host of other + passengers; yet his first action, on arriving at Liverpool, was to make + use of privileges which belonged to an altogether different class of + person, and culminated in his arrival at Euston in a special train with a + dagger driven through his heart! Here was material enough for a least a + fortnight of sensations and countersensations, of rumored arrests and + strange theories. Yet within the space of twenty-four hours the affair of + Mr. Hamilton Fynes had become a small thing, had shrunk almost into + insignificance by the side of the other still more dramatic, still more + wonderful happening. Somewhere between the Savoy Hotel and Melbourne + Square, Kensington, a young American gentleman of great strength, of + undoubted position, the nephew of a Minister, and himself secretary to the + Ambassador of his country in London, had met with his death in a still + more mysterious, still more amazing fashion. He had left the hotel in an + ordinary taxicab, which had stopped on the way to pick up no other + passenger. He had left the Savoy alone, and he was discovered in Melbourne + Square alone. Yet, somewhere between these two points, notwithstanding the + fact that the aggressor must have entered the cab either with or without + his consent, Mr. Richard Vanderpole, without a struggle, without any cry + sufficiently loud to reach the driver or attract the attention of any + passer-by, had been strangled to death by a person who had disappeared as + though from the face of the earth. The facts seemed almost unbelievable, + and yet they were facts. The driver of the taxi knew only that three times + during the course of his drive he had been caught in a block and had had + to wait for a few seconds—once at the entrance to Trafalgar Square, + again at the junction of Haymarket and Pall Mall, and, for a third time, + opposite the Hyde Park Hotel. At neither of these halting places had he + heard any one enter or leave the taxi. He had heard no summons from his + fare, even though a tube, which was in perfect working order, was fixed + close to the back of his head. He had known nothing, in fact, until a + policeman had stopped him, having caught a glimpse of the ghastly face + inside. There was no evidence which served to throw a single gleam of + light upon the affair. Mr. Vanderpole had called at the Savoy Hotel upon a + travelling American, who had written to the Embassy asking for some advice + as to introducing American patents into Great Britain and France. He left + there to meet his chief, who was dining down in Kensington, with the + intention of returning at once to join the Duchess of Devenham’s theatre + party. He was in no manner of trouble. It was not suggested that any one + had any cause for enmity against him. Yet this attack upon him must have + been carefully planned and carried out by a person of great strength and + wonderful nerve. The newspaper-reading public in London love their + thrills, and they had one here which needed no artificial embellishments + from the pens of those trained in an atmosphere of imagination. The simple + truth was, in itself, horrifying. There was scarcely a man or woman who + drove in a taxicab about the west end of London during the next few days + without a little thrill of emotion. + </p> + <p> + The murder of Mr. Richard Vanderpole took place on a Thursday night. On + Monday morning a gentleman of middle age, fashionably but quietly dressed, + wearing a flower in his buttonhole, patent boots, and a silk hat which he + had carefully deposited upon the floor, was sitting closeted with Miss + Penelope Morse. It was obvious that that young lady did not altogether + appreciate the honor done to her by a visit from so distinguished a person + as Inspector Jacks! + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” he said, “that you should find my visit in the least + offensive, Miss Morse. I have approached you, so far as possible, as an + ordinary visitor, and no one connected with your household can have any + idea as to my identity or the nature of my business. I have done this out + of consideration to your feelings. At the same time I have my duty to + perform and it must be done.” + </p> + <p> + “What I cannot understand,” Penelope said coldly, “is why you should + bother me about your duty. When I saw you at the Carlton Hotel, I told you + exactly how much I knew of Mr. Hamilton Fynes.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear young lady,” Inspector Jacks said, “I will not ask for your + sympathy, for I am afraid I should ask in vain; but we are just now, we + people at Scotland Yard, up against one of the most extraordinary problems + which have ever been put before us. We have had two murders occurring in + two days, which have this much, at least, in common—that they have + been the work of so accomplished a criminal that at the present moment, + although I should not like to tell every one as much, we have not in + either case the ghost of a clue.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds very stupid of you,” Penelope remarked, “but I still ask—” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t ask for a minute or two,” the Inspector interrupted. “I think I + remarked just now that these two crimes had one thing in common, and that + was the fact that they had both been perpetrated by a criminal of unusual + accomplishments. They also have one other point of similitude.” + </p> + <p> + “What is that?” Penelope asked. + </p> + <p> + “The victim in both cases was an American,” the Inspector said. + </p> + <p> + Penelope sat very still. She felt the steely eyes of the man who had + chosen his seat so carefully, fixed upon her face. + </p> + <p> + “You do not connect the two affairs in any way?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “That is what we are asking ourselves,” Mr. Jacks continued. “In the + absence of any definite clue, coincidences such as this are always + interesting. In this case, as it happens, we can take them even a little + further. We find that you, for instance, Miss Penelope Morse, a young + American lady, celebrated for her wit and accomplishments, and well known + in London society, were to have lunched with Mr. Hamilton Fynes on the day + when he made his tragical arrival in London; we find too, curiously + enough, that you were one of the party with whom Mr. Richard Vanderpole + was to have dined and gone to the theatre on the night of his decease.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope shivered, and half closed her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you think,” she said, “that the shock of this coincidence, as you + call it, has been quite sufficient, without having you come here to remind + me of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” Mr. Jacks said, “I have not come here to gratify any personal + curiosity. I have come here in the cause of justice. You should find me a + welcome visitor, for both these men who have lost their lives were friends + of yours.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be very sorry indeed,” Penelope answered, “to stand in the way + of justice. No one can hope more fervently than I do that the perpetrator + of these deeds will be found and punished. But what I cannot understand is + your coming here and reopening the subject with me. I tell you again that + I have no possible information for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not,” the Inspector declared, “but, on the other hand, there are + certain questions which you can answer me,—answer them, I mean, not + grudgingly and as though in duty bound,—answer them intelligently, + and with some apprehension of the things which lie behind.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is the thing that lies behind them?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “A theory, madam,” the Inspector answered,—“no more. But in this + case, unfortunately, we have not passed the stage of theories. My theory, + at the present moment, is that the murderer of these two men was the same + person.” + </p> + <p> + “You have evidence to that effect,” she said, suddenly surprised to find + that her voice had sunk to a whisper. + </p> + <p> + “Very little,” Mr. Jacks admitted; “but, you see, in the case of theories + one must build them brick by brick. Then if, after all, as we reach the + end, the foundation was false, well, we must watch them collapse and start + again.” + </p> + <p> + “Supposing we leave these generalities,” Penelope remarked, “and get on + with those questions which you wish to ask me. My aunt, as you may have + heard, is an invalid, and although she seldom leaves her room, this is one + of the afternoons when she sometimes sits here for a short time. I should + not care to have her find you.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector leaned back in his chair. It was a very pleasant drawing + room, looking out upon the Park. A little French clock, a masterpiece of + workmanship, was ticking gayly upon the mantelpiece. Two toy Pomeranians + were half hidden in the great rug. The walls were of light blue, soft, yet + full of color, and the carpet, of some plain material, was of the same + shade. The perfume of flowers—the faint sweetness of mimosa and the + sicklier fragrance of hyacinths—seemed almost overwhelming, for the + fire was warm and the windows closed. By the side of Penelope’s chair were + a new novel and a couple of illustrated papers, and Mr. Jacks noticed that + although a paper cutter was lying by their side the leaves of all were + uncut. + </p> + <p> + “These questions,” he said, “may seem to you irrelevant, yet please answer + them if you can. Mr. Hamilton Fynes, for instance,—was he, to your + knowledge, acquainted with Mr. Richard Vanderpole?” + </p> + <p> + “I have never heard them speak of one another,” Penelope answered. “I + should think it very unlikely.” + </p> + <p> + “You have no knowledge of any common pursuit or interest in life which the + two men may have shared?” the Inspector asked. “A hobby, for instance,—a + collection of postage stamps, china, any common aim of any sort?” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “I knew little of Mr. Fynes’ tastes. Dicky—I mean Mr. Vanderpole—had + none at all except an enthusiasm for his profession and a love of polo.” + </p> + <p> + “His profession,” the Inspector repeated. “Mr. Vanderpole was attached to + the American Embassy, was he not?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe so,” Penelope answered. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hamilton Fynes,” the Inspector continued, “might almost have been + said to have followed the same occupation.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely not!” Penelope objected. “I always understood that Mr. Fynes was + employed in a Government office at Washington,—something to do with + the Customs, I thought, or forest duties.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jacks nodded thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “I am not aware, as yet,” he said, “of the precise nature of Mr. Fynes’ + occupation. I only knew that it was, in some shape or form, Government + work.” + </p> + <p> + “You know as much about it,” she answered, “as I do.” + </p> + <p> + “We have sent,” the Inspector continued smoothly, “a special man out to + Washington to make all inquiries that are possible on the spot, and + incidentally, to go through the effects of the deceased, with a view to + tracing any complications in which he may have been involved in this + country.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope opened her lips, but closed them again. + </p> + <p> + “I am not, however,” the Inspector continued, “very sanguine of success. + In the case of Mr. Vanderpole, for instance, there could have been nothing + of the sort. He was too young, altogether too much of a boy, to have had + enemies so bitterly disposed towards him. There is another explanation + somewhere, I feel convinced, at the root of the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not believe, then,” asked Penelope, “that robbery was really the + motive?” + </p> + <p> + “Not ordinary robbery,” Mr. Jacks answered. “A man who was capable of + these two crimes is capable of easier and greater things. I mean,” he + explained, “that he could have attempted enterprises of a far more + remunerative character, with a prospect of complete success.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you forgive me,” she said, “if I ask you to go on with your + questions, providing you have any more to ask me? Notwithstanding the + excellence of your disguise,” she remarked with a faint curl of the lips, + “I might find it somewhat difficult to explain your presence if my aunt or + any visitors should come in.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, Miss Morse,” the Inspector said quietly, “to find you so + unsympathetic. Had I found you differently disposed, I was going to ask + you to put yourself in my place. I was going to ask you to look at these + two tragedies from my point of view and from your own at the same time, + and I was going to ask you whether any possible motive suggested itself to + you, any possible person or cause, which might be benefited by the removal + of these two men.” + </p> + <p> + “If you think, Mr. Jacks,” Penelope said, “that I am keeping anything from + you, you are very much mistaken. Such sympathy as I have would certainly + be with those who are attempting to bring to justice the perpetrator of + such unmentionable crimes. What I object to is the unpleasantness of being + associated with your inquiries when I am absolutely unable to give you the + least help, or to supply you with any information which is not equally + attainable to you.” + </p> + <p> + “As, for instance?” the Inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + “You are a detective,” Penelope said coldly. “You do not need me to point + out certain things to you. Mr. Hamilton Fynes was robbed and murdered—an + American citizen on his way to London. Mr. Richard Vanderpole is also + murdered, after a call upon Mr. James B. Coulson, the only acquaintance + whom Mr. Fynes is known to have possessed in this country. Did Mr. Fynes + share secrets with Mr. Coulson? If so, did Mr. Coulson pass them on to Mr. + Vanderpole, and for that reason did Mr. Vanderpole meet with the same + death, at the same hands, as had befallen Mr. Fynes?” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks moved his head thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “It is admirably put,” he assented, “and to continue?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not my place to make suggestions to you,” Penelope said. “If you + are able to connect Mr. Fynes with the American Government, you arrive at + the possibility of these murders having been committed for some political + end. I presume you read your newspapers?” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks smiled, picked up his hat and bowed, while Penelope, with + a sigh of relief, moved over to the bell. + </p> + <p> + “My dear young lady,” he said, “you do not understand how important even + the point of view of another person is to a man who is struggling to build + up a theory. Whether you have helped me as much as you could,” he added, + looking her in the face, “you only can tell, but you have certainly helped + me a little.” + </p> + <p> + The footman had entered. The Inspector turned to follow him. Penelope + remained as she had been standing, the hand which had touched the bell + fallen to her side, her eyes fixed upon him with a new light stirring + their quiet depths. + </p> + <p> + “One moment, Morton,” she said. “Wait outside. Mr. Jacks,” she added, as + the door closed, “what do you mean? What can I have told you? How can I + have helped you?” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector stood very still for a brief space of time, very still and + very silent. His face, too, was quite expressionless. Yet his tone, when + he spoke, seemed to have taken to itself a note of sternness. + </p> + <p> + “If you had chosen,” he said slowly, “to have become my ally in this + matter, to have ranged yourself altogether on the side of the law, my + answer would have been ready enough. What you have told me, however, you + have told me against your will and not in actual words. You have told me + in such a way, too,” he added, “that it is impossible for me to doubt your + intention to mislead me. I am forced to conclude that we stand on opposite + sides of the way. I shall not trouble you any more, Miss Morse.” + </p> + <p> + He turned to the door. Penelope remained motionless for several moments, + listening to his retreating footsteps. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. MR. COULSON OUTMATCHED + </h2> + <p> + Mr. James B. Coulson settled down to live what was, to all appearance, a + very inoffensive and ordinary life. He rose a little earlier than was + customary for an Englishman of business of his own standing, but he made + up for this by a somewhat prolonged visit to the barber, a breakfast which + bespoke an unimpaired digestion, and a cigar of more than ordinary length + over his newspaper. At about eleven o’clock he went down to the city, and + returned sometimes to luncheon, sometimes at varying hours, never later, + however, than four or five o’clock. From that time until seven, he was + generally to be found in the American bar, meeting old friends or making + new ones. + </p> + <p> + On the sixth day of his stay at the Savoy Hotel the waiter who looked + after the bar smoking room accosted him as he entered at his usual time, a + little after half past four. + </p> + <p> + “There’s a gentleman here, Mr. Coulson, been asking after you,” he + announced. “I told him that you generally came in about this time. You’ll + find him sitting over there.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson glanced in the direction indicated. It was Mr. Jacks who + awaited him in the cushioned easy chair. For a single moment, perhaps, his + lips tightened and the light of battle flashed in his face. Then he + crossed the room apparently himself again,—an undistinguished, + perfectly natural figure. + </p> + <p> + “It’s Mr. Jacks, isn’t it?” he asked, holding out his hand. “I thought I + recognized you.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to trouble you again, Mr. Coulson,” he said, “but if you could + spare me just a minute or two, I should be very much obliged.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson laughed pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + “You can have all you want of me from now till midnight,” he declared. “My + business doesn’t take very long, and I can only see the people I want to + see in the middle of the day. After that, I don’t mind telling you that I + find time hangs a bit on my hands. Try one of these,” he added, producing + a cigar case. + </p> + <p> + The Inspector thanked him and helped himself. Mr. Coulson summoned the + waiter. + </p> + <p> + “Highball for me,” he directed. “What’s yours, Mr. Jacks?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you very much,” the Inspector said. “I will take a little Scotch + whiskey and soda.” + </p> + <p> + The two men sat down. The corner was a retired one, and there was no one + within earshot. + </p> + <p> + “Say, are you still on this Hamilton Fynes business?” Mr. Coulson asked. + </p> + <p> + “Partly,” the Inspector replied. + </p> + <p> + “You know, I’m not making reflections,” Mr. Coulson said, sticking his + cigar in a corner of his mouth and leaning back in a comfortable attitude, + “but it does seem to me that you are none too rapid on this side in + clearing up these matters. Why, a little affair of that sort wouldn’t take + the police twenty minutes in New York. We have a big city, full of alien + quarters, full of hiding places, and chock full of criminals, but our + police catch em, all the same. There’s no one going to commit murder in + the streets of New York without finding himself in the Tombs before he’s a + week older. No offence, Mr. Jacks.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not taking any, Mr. Coulson,” the Inspector answered. “I must admit + that there’s a great deal of truth in what you say. It is rather a + reflection upon us that we have not as yet even made an arrest, but I + think you will also admit that the circumstances of those murders were + exceedingly curious.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson knocked the ash from his cigar. + </p> + <p> + “Well, as to that,” he said, “and if we are to judge only by what we read + in the papers, they are curious, without a doubt. But I am not supposing + for one moment that you fellows at Scotland Yard don’t know more than + you’ve let on to the newspapers. You keep your discoveries out of the + Press over here, and a good job, too, but you wouldn’t persuade me that + you haven’t some very distinct theory as to how that crime was worked, and + the sort of person who did it. Eh, Mr. Jacks?” + </p> + <p> + “We are perhaps not quite so ignorant as we seem,” the Inspector answered, + “and of course you are right when you say that we have a few more facts to + go by than have appeared in the newspapers. Still, the affair is an + extremely puzzling one,—as puzzling, in its way,” Mr. Jacks + continued, “as the murder on the very next evening of this young American + gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson nodded sympathetically. The drinks were brought, and he raised + his glass to his guest. + </p> + <p> + “Here’s luck!” he said—“luck to you with your game of human chess, + and luck to me with my woollen machinery patents! You were speaking of + that second murder,” he remarked, setting down his glass. “I haven’t + noticed the papers much this morning. Has any arrest been made yet?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” the Inspector admitted. “To tell you the truth, we find it + almost as puzzling an affair as the one in which Mr. Hamilton Fynes was + concerned.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson nodded. He seemed content, at this stage in their + conversation, to assume the role of listener. + </p> + <p> + “You read the particulars of the murder of Mr. Vanderpole, I suppose?” the + Inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + “Every word,” Mr. Coulson answered. “Most interesting thing I’ve seen in + an English newspaper since I landed. Didn’t sound like London somehow. + Gray old law-abiding place, my partner always calls it.” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to be quite frank with you, Mr. Coulson,” the Inspector + continued. “I am going to tell you exactly why I have come to see you + again tonight.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that’s good,” Mr. Coulson declared. “I like to know everything a + man’s got in his mind.” + </p> + <p> + “I have come to you,” the Inspector said, “because, by a somewhat curious + coincidence, I find that, besides your slight acquaintance with and + knowledge of Mr. Hamilton Fynes, you were also acquainted with this Mr. + Richard Vanderpole,—that you were,” he continued, knocking the ash + off his cigar and speaking a little more slowly, “the last person, except + the driver of the taxicab, to have seen him alive.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson turned slowly around and faced his companion. + </p> + <p> + “Now, how the devil do you know that?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The Inspector smiled tolerantly. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “that is very simple. The taxicab started from here. Mr. + Vanderpole had been visiting some one in the hotel. There was not the + slightest difficulty in ascertaining that the person for whom he asked, + and with whom he spent some twenty minutes in this very room, was Mr. + James B. Coulson of New York.” + </p> + <p> + “Seated on this very couch, sir!” Mr. Coulson declared, striking the arm + of it with the flat of his hand,—“seated within a few feet of where + you yourself are at this present moment.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” he continued, “when I became aware of so singular an + occurrence, I felt that I must lose no time in coming and having a few + more words with you.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson became meditative. + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word, when you come to think of it,” he said, “it is a + coincidence, sure! Two men murdered within twenty-four hours, and I seem + to have been the last person who knew them, to speak to either. Tell you + what, Mr. Jacks, if this goes on I shall get a bit scared. I think I shall + let the London business alone and go on over to Paris.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy your nerves,” he remarked, “are quite strong enough to bear the + strain. However, I am sure you will not mind telling me exactly why Mr. + Richard Vanderpole, Secretary to the American Embassy here, should have + come to see you on Thursday night.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that’s easy,” Mr. Coulson replied. “You may have heard of my firm, + The Coulson & Bruce Company of Jersey City. I’m at the head of a + syndicate that’s controlling some very valuable patents which we want to + exploit on this side and in Paris. Now my people don’t exactly know how we + stand under this new patent bill of Mr. Lloyd George’s. Accordingly they + wrote across to Mr. Blaine-Harvey, putting the matter to him, and asking + him to give me his opinion the moment I arrived on this side. You see, it + was no use our entering into contracts if we had to build the plant and + make the stuff over here. We didn’t stand any earthly show of making it + pay that way. Well, Mr. Harvey cabled out that I was just to let him know + the moment I landed, and before I opened up any business. Sure enough, I + called him up on the telephone, an hour or so after I got here, and this + young man came round. I can tell you he was all right, too,—a fine, + upstanding young fellow, and as bright as they make em. He brought a + written opinion with him as to how the law would affect our proceedings. + I’ve got it in my room if you’d care to see it?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jacks listened to his companion’s words with unchanged face. + </p> + <p> + “If it isn’t troubling you,” he said, “it would be of some interest to + me.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “You sit right here,” he declared. “I’ll be back in less than five + minutes.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson was as good as his word. In less than the time mentioned he + was seated again by his companion’s side with a square sheet of foolscap + spread out upon the round table. The Inspector ran it through hurriedly. + The paper was stamped American Embassy,’ and it was the digest of several + opinions as to the effect of the new patent law upon the import of + articles manufactured under processes controlled by the Coulson & + Bruce syndicate. At the end there were a few lines in the Ambassador’s own + handwriting, summing up the situation. Mr. Coulson produced another packet + of letters and documents. + </p> + <p> + “If you’ve an hour or so to spare, Mr. Jacks,” he said, “I’d like to go + right into this with you, if it would interest you any. It’s my business + over here, so naturally I am glad enough of an opportunity to talk it + over.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jacks passed back the paper promptly. + </p> + <p> + “I am extremely obliged to you,” he said. “I am sure I should find it most + interesting. Another time I should be very glad indeed to look through + those specifications, but just now I have this affair of my own rather on + my mind. About this Mr. Richard Vanderpole, Mr. Coulson, then,” he added. + “Do I understand that this young man came to you as a complete stranger?” + </p> + <p> + “Absolutely,” Mr. Coulson answered. “I never saw him before in my life. As + decent a young chap as ever I met with, all the same,” he went on, “and + comes of a good American stock, too. They tell me there’s going to be an + inquest and that I shall be summoned, but I know nothing more than what + I’ve told you. If I did, you’d be welcome to it.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jacks leaned back in his chair. Certainly the situation increased in + perplexity! The man by his side was talking now of the adaptation of one + of his patents to some existing machinery, and Jacks watched him covertly. + He considered himself, to some extent, a physiognomist. He told himself it + was not possible that this man was playing a part. Mr. James B. Coulson + sat there, the absolute incarnation of the genial man of affairs, + interested in his business, interested in the great subject of + dollar-getting, content with himself and his position,—a person + apparently of little imagination, for the shock of this matter concerning + which they had been talking had already passed away. He was doing his best + to explain with a pencil on the back of an illustrated paper some new + system of wool-bleaching. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” the Inspector said suddenly, “do you know a young lady + named Miss Penelope Morse?” + </p> + <p> + It was here, perhaps, that Mr. Coulson sank a little from the heights of + complete success. He repeated the name, and obviously took time to think + before he answered. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope Morse,” the Inspector continued. “She is a young American + lady, who lives with an invalid aunt in Park Lane, and who is taken + everywhere by the Duchess of Devenham, another aunt, I believe.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I may say that I am acquainted with her,” Mr. Coulson admitted. + “She came here the other evening with a young man—Sir Charles + Somerfield.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” the Inspector murmured. + </p> + <p> + “She’d read that interview of mine with the Comet man,” Mr. Coulson said, + “and she fancied that perhaps I could tell her something about Hamilton + Fynes.” + </p> + <p> + “First time you’d met her, I suppose?” the Inspector remarked. + </p> + <p> + “Sure!” Mr. Coulson answered. “As a matter of fact, I know very few of my + compatriots over here. I am an American citizen myself, and I haven’t too + much sympathy with any one, man or woman, who doesn’t find America good + enough for them to live in.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Quite so,” he agreed. “So you hadn’t anything to tell this young lady?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a thing that she hadn’t read in the Comet,” Mr. Coulson replied. + “What brought her into your mind, anyway?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing particular,” the Inspector answered carelessly. “Well, Mr. + Coulson, I won’t take up any more of your time. I am convinced that you + have told me all that you know, and I am afraid that I shall have to look + elsewhere to find the loose end of this little tangle.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay and have another drink,” Mr. Coulson begged. “I’ve nothing to do. + There are one or two boys coming in later who’ll like to meet you.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I must be off,” he said. “I want to get into my office before six + o’clock. I dare say I shall be running across you again before you go + back.” + </p> + <p> + He shook hands and turned away. Then Mr. Coulson made what was, perhaps, + his second slight mistake. + </p> + <p> + “Say, Mr. Jacks,” he exclaimed, “what made you mention that young lady’s + name, anyway? I’m curious to know.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector looked thoughtfully at the end of the fresh cigar which he + had just lit. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “I don’t know that there was anything definite in my + mind, only it seems a little strange that you and Miss Penelope Morse + should both have been acquainted with the murdered man and that you should + have come across one another.” + </p> + <p> + “Sort of bond between us, eh?” Mr. Coulson replied. “She seemed a very + charming young lady. Cut above Fynes, I should think.” + </p> + <p> + The detective smiled. + </p> + <p> + “All your American young ladies who come over here are charming,” he said. + “Goodbye, Mr. Coulson, and many thanks!” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector passed out, and the man whom he had come to visit, after a + moment’s hesitation, resumed his seat. + </p> + <p> + “These aren’t American methods,” he muttered to himself. “I don’t + understand them. That man Jacks is either a simpleton or he is too cunning + for me.” + </p> + <p> + He crossed to a writing table and scribbled an unnecessary note, + addressing it to a firm in the city. Then he rang for a messenger boy and + handed it to him for delivery. A few minutes afterwards he strolled out + into the hall. The boy was in the act of handing the note to one of the + head porters, who carefully copied the address. Mr. Coulson returned to + the smoking room, whistling softly to himself. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. A COMMISSION + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Robert Blaine-Harvey, American Ambassador and Plenipotentiary + Extraordinary to England, was a man of great culture, surprising personal + gifts, and with a diplomatic instinct which amounted almost to genius. And + yet there were times when he was puzzled. For at least half an hour he had + been sitting in his great library, looking across the Park, and trying to + make up his mind on a very important matter. It seemed to him that he was + face to face with what amounted almost to a crisis in his career. His two + years at the Court of St. James had been pleasant and uneventful enough. + The small questions which had presented themselves for adjustment between + the two countries were, after all, of no particular importance and were + easily arranged. The days seemed to have gone by for that over-strained + sensitiveness which was continually giving rise to senseless bickerings, + when every trilling breeze seemed to fan the smouldering fires of + jealousy. The two great English-speaking nations appeared finally to have + realized the absolute folly of continual disputes between countries whose + destiny and ideals were so completely in accord and whose interests were, + in the main, identical. A period of absolute friendliness had ensued. And + now there had come this little cloud. It was small enough at present, but + Mr. Harvey was not the one to overlook its sinister possibilities. Two + citizens of his country had been barbarously murdered within the space of + a few hours, one in the heart of the most thickly populated capital in the + world, and there was a certain significance attached to this fact which + the Ambassador himself and those others at Washington perfectly well + realized. He glanced once more at the most recent letter on the top of + this pile of correspondence and away again out into the Park. It was a + difficult matter, this. His friends at Washington did not cultivate the + art of obscurity in the words which they used, and it had been suggested + to him in black and white that the murder of these two men, under the + particular circumstances existing, was a matter concerning which he should + speak very plainly indeed to certain August personages. Mr. Harvey, who + was a born diplomatist, understood the difficulties of such a proceeding a + good deal more than those who had propounded it. + </p> + <p> + There was a knock at the door, and a footman entered, ushering in a + visitor. + </p> + <p> + “The young lady whom you were expecting, sir,” he announced discreetly. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey rose at once to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Penelope,” he said, shaking hands with her, “this is charming of + you.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope smiled. + </p> + <p> + “It seems quite like old times to feel myself at home here once more,” she + declared. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey did not pursue the subject. He was perfectly well aware that + Penelope, who had been his first wife’s greatest friend, had never + altogether forgiven him for his somewhat brief period of mourning. He drew + an easy chair up to the side of his desk and placed a footstool for her. + </p> + <p> + “I should not have sent for you,” he said, “but I am really and honestly + in a dilemma. Do you know that, apart from endless cables, Washington has + favored me with one hundred and forty pages of foolscap all about the + events of the week before last?” + </p> + <p> + Penelope shivered a little. + </p> + <p> + “Poor Dicky!” she murmured, looking away into the fire. “And to think that + it was I who sent him to his death!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said, “I do not think that you need reproach yourself with that. + As a matter of fact, I think that I should have sent Dicky in any case. He + is not so well known as the others, or rather he wasn’t associated so + closely with the Embassy, and he was constantly at the Savoy on his own + account. If I had believed that there was any danger in the enterprise,” + he continued, “I should still have sent him. He was as strong as a young + Hercules. The hand which twisted that noose around his neck must have been + the hand of a magician with fingers of steel.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope shivered again. Her face showed signs of distress. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think,” she said, “that I am a nervous person, but I cannot bear + to think of it even now.” + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” Mr. Harvey answered. “We were all fond of Dicky, and such a + thing has never happened, so far as I am aware, in any European country. + My own private secretary murdered in broad daylight and with apparent + impunity!” + </p> + <p> + “Murdered—and robbed!” she whispered, looking up at him with a white + face. + </p> + <p> + The frown on the Ambassador’s forehead darkened. + </p> + <p> + “Not only that,” he declared, “but the secrets of which he was robbed have + gone to the one country interested in the knowledge of them.” + </p> + <p> + “You are sure of that?” she asked hoarsely. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of it,” Mr. Harvey answered. + </p> + <p> + Penelope drew a little breath between her teeth. Her thoughts flashed back + to a recent dinner party. The Prince was once more at her side. Almost she + could hear his voice—low, clear, and yet with that note of + inexpressible, convincing finality. She heard him speak of his country + reverently, almost prayerfully; of the sacrifices which true patriotism + must always demand. What had been in his mind, she wondered, at the back + of his inscrutable eyes, gazing, even at that moment, past the banks of + flowers, across the crowded room with all its splendor of light and color, + through the walls,—whither! She brushed the thought away. It was + absurd, incredible! She was allowing herself to be led away by her old + distrust of this man. + </p> + <p> + “I remarked just now,” Mr. Harvey continued, “that such a thing had never + happened, so far as I was aware, in any European country. My own words + seem to suggest something to me. These methods are not European. They + savor more of the East.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you had better go on,” she said quietly. “There is something in + your mind. I can see that. You have told me so much that you had better + tell me the rest.” + </p> + <p> + “The contents of those despatches,” Mr. Harvey continued, “intrusted in + duplicate, as you have doubtless surmised, to Fynes and to Coulson, + contained an assurance that the sending of our fleet to the Pacific was in + fact, as well as in appearance, an errand of peace. It was a + demonstration, pure and simple. Behind it there may have lain, indeed, a + masterful purpose, the determination of a great country to affirm her + strenuous existence in a manner most likely to impress the nations unused + to seeing her in such a role. It became necessary, in view of certain + suspicions, for me to be able to prove to the Government here the + absolutely pacific nature of our great enterprise. Those despatches + contained such proof. And now listen, Penelope. Before the murder of poor + Dicky Vanderpole, we know for a fact that a great nation who chooses to + consider herself our enemy in Eastern waters was straining every nerve to + prepare for war. Today those preparations have slackened. A great loan has + been withdrawn in Paris, an invitation cabled to our fleet to visit + Yokohama. These things have a plain reading.” + </p> + <p> + “Plain, indeed,” Penelope assented, and she spoke in a low tone because + there was fear in her heart. “Why have you told me about them? They throw + a new light upon everything,—an awful light!” + </p> + <p> + “I have known you,” the Ambassador said quietly, “since you were a baby. + Every member of your family has been a friend of mine. You come of a + silent race. I know very well that you are a person of discretion. There + are certain small ways in which a government can occasionally be served by + the help of some one outside its diplomatic service altogether, some one + who could not possibly be connected with it. You know this very well, + Penelope, because you have already been of service to us on more than one + occasion.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a long time ago,” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “Not so very long,” he reminded her. “But for the first of these + tragedies, Fynes’ despatches would have reached me through you. I am going + to ask your help even once more.” + </p> + <p> + In the somewhat cold spring sunlight which came streaming through the + large window, Penelope seemed a little pallid, as though, indeed, the + fatigue of the season, even in this its earlier stages, were leaving its + mark upon her. There were violet rims under her eyes. A certain alertness + seemed to have deserted her usually piquant face. She sat listening with + the air of one half afraid, who has no hope of hearing pleasant things. + </p> + <p> + “It has been remarked,” Mr. Harvey continued, “or rather I may say that I + myself have noticed, that you are on exceedingly friendly terms with a + very distinguished nobleman who is at present visiting this country—I + mean, of course, Prince Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + Her eyebrows were slowly elevated. Was that really the impression people + had! Her lips just moved. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I have met Prince Maiyo myself,” Mr. Harvey continued, “and I have found + him a charming representative of his race. I am not going to say a word + against him. If he were an American, we should be proud of him. If he + belonged to any other country, we should accept him at once for what he + appears to be. Unfortunately, however, he belongs to a country which we + have some reason to mistrust. He belongs to a country in whose national + character we have not absolute confidence. For that reason, my dear + Penelope, we mistrust Prince Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know him so well as you seem to imagine,” Penelope said slowly. + “We are not even friends, in the ordinary acceptation of the word. I am, + to some extent, prejudiced against him. Yet I do not believe that he is + capable of a dishonorable action.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor do I,” the Ambassador declared smoothly. “Yet in every country, + almost in every man, the exact standard of dishonor varies. A man will lie + for a woman’s sake, and even in the law courts, certainly at his clubs and + amongst his friends, it will be accounted to his righteousness. A patriot + will lie and intrigue for his country’s sake. Now I believe that to Prince + Maiyo Japan stands far above the whole world of womankind. I believe that + for her sake he would go to very great lengths indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, please,” Penelope murmured. + </p> + <p> + “The Prince is over here on some sort of an errand which it isn’t our + business to understand,” Mr. Harvey said. “I have heard it rumored that it + is a special mission entirely concerned with the renewal of the treaty + between England and Japan. However that may be, I have sat here, and I + have thought, and I have come to this conclusion, ridiculous though it may + seem to you at first. I believe that somewhere behind the hand which + killed and robbed Hamilton Fynes and poor Dicky stood the benevolent + shadow of our friend Prince Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + “You have no proof?” she asked breathlessly. + </p> + <p> + “No proof at all,” the Ambassador admitted. “I am scarcely in a position + to search for any. The conclusion I have come to has been simply arrived + at through putting a few facts together and considering them in the light + of certain events. In the first place, we cannot doubt that the secret of + those despatches reached at once the very people whom we should have + preferred to remain in ignorance of them. Haven’t I told you of the sudden + cessation of the war alarm in Japan, when once she was assured, by means + which she could not mistrust, that it was not the intention of the + American nation to make war upon her? The subtlety of those murders, and + the knowledge by which they were inspired, must have come from some one in + an altogether unique position. You may be sure that no one connected with + the Japanese Embassy here would be permitted for one single second to take + part in any such illegal act. They know better than that, these wily + Orientals. They will play the game from Grosvenor Place right enough. But + Prince Maiyo is here, and stands apart from any accredited institution, + although he has the confidence of his Ambassador and can command the + entire devotion of his own secret service. I have not come to this + conclusion hastily. I have thought it out, step by step, and in my own + mind I am now absolutely convinced that both these murders were inspired + by Prince Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + “Even if this were so,” Penelope said, “what can I do? Why have you sent + for me? The Prince and I are not on especially friendly terms. It is only + just lately that we have been decently civil to one another.” + </p> + <p> + The Ambassador looked at her with some surprise. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Penelope,” he said, “I have seen you together the last three or + four evenings. The Prince looks at no one else while you are there. He + talks to you, I know, more freely than to any other woman.” + </p> + <p> + “It is by chance,” Penelope protested. “I have tried to avoid him.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I cannot congratulate you upon your success,” Mr. Harvey said + grimly. + </p> + <p> + “Things have changed a little between us, perhaps,” Penelope said. “What + is it that you really want?” + </p> + <p> + “I want to know this,” the Ambassador said slowly. “I want to know how + Japan became assured that America had no intention of going to war with + her. In other words, I want to know whether those papers which were stolen + from Fynes and poor Dicky found their way to the Japanese Embassy or into + the hands of Prince Maiyo himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything else?” she asked with a faint note of sarcasm in her tone. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” Mr. Harvey replied, “there is something else. I should like to know + what attitude Prince Maiyo takes towards the proposed renewal of the + treaty between his country and Great Britain.” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Even if we were friends,” she said, “the very closest of friends, he + would never tell me. He is far too clever.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not be too sure,” Mr. Harvey said. “Sometimes a man, especially an + Oriental, who does not understand the significance of your sex in these + matters, can be drawn on to speak more freely to a woman than he would + ever dream of doing to his best friend. He would not tell you in as many + words, of course. On the other hand, he might show you what was in his + mind.” + </p> + <p> + “He is going back very shortly,” Penelope remarked. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey nodded. + </p> + <p> + “That is why I sent for you to come immediately. You will see him tonight + at Devenham House.” + </p> + <p> + “With all the rest of the world,” she answered, “but a man is not likely + to talk confidentially under such conditions.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “It is only a chance, of course,” he admitted, “but remember that you know + more than any other person in this country except myself. It would be + impossible for the Prince to give you credit for such knowledge. A casual + remark, a word, perhaps, may be sufficient.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope held out her hand. The servant for whom the Ambassador had rung + was already in the room. + </p> + <p> + “I will try,” she promised. “Ask Mrs. Harvey to excuse my going up to see + her this afternoon. I have another call to make, and I want to rest before + the function tonight.” + </p> + <p> + The Ambassador bowed, and escorted her to the door. + </p> + <p> + “I have confidence in you, Penelope,” he said. “You will try your best?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes!” she answered with a queer little laugh, “I shall do that. But I + don’t think that even you quite understand Prince Maiyo!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. PENELOPE INTERVENES + </h2> + <p> + The perfume of countless roses, the music of the finest band in Europe, + floated through the famous white ballroom of Devenham House. Electric + lights sparkled from the ceiling, through the pillared way the ceaseless + splashing of water from the fountains in the winter garden seemed like a + soft undernote to the murmur of voices, the musical peals of laughter, the + swirl of skirts, and the rhythm of flying feet. + </p> + <p> + Penelope stood upon the edge of the ballroom, her hand resting still upon + her partner’s arm. She wore a dress of dull rose-color, a soft, clinging + silk, which floated about her as she danced, a creation of Paquin’s, + daring but delightful. Her eyes were very full and soft. She was looking + her best, and knew it. Nevertheless, she was just at the moment, a little + <i>distrait</i>. She was watching the brilliant scene with a certain air + of abstraction, as though her interest in it was, after all, an impersonal + thing. + </p> + <p> + “Jolly well every one looks tonight,” her partner, who was Sir Charles, + remarked. “All the women seem to be wearing smart frocks, and some of + those foreign uniforms are gorgeous.” + </p> + <p> + “Even the Prince,” Penelope said thoughtfully, “must find some reflection + of the philosophy of his own country in such a scene as this. For the last + fortnight we have been surfeited with horrors. We have had to go through + all sorts of nameless things,” she added, shivering slightly, “and tonight + we dance at Devenham House. We dance, and drink champagne, and marvel at + the flowers, as though we had not a care in the world, as though life + moved always to music.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Charles frowned a little. + </p> + <p> + “The Prince again!” he said, half protesting. “He seems to be a great deal + in your thoughts lately, Penelope.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” she answered. “It is something to meet a person whom one is + able to dislike. Nowadays the whole world is so amiable.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder how much you really do dislike him,” he said. + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with a mysterious smile. + </p> + <p> + “Sometimes,” she murmured softly, “I wonder that myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Leaving the Prince out of the question,” he continued, “what you say is + true enough. Only a few days ago, you had to attend that awful inquest, + and the last time I saw dear old Dicky Vanderpole, he was looking forward + to this very dance.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems callous of us to have come,” Penelope declared. “And yet, if we + hadn’t, what difference would it have made? Every one else would have been + here. Our absence would never have been noticed, and we should have sat at + home and had the blues. But all the same, life is cruel.” + </p> + <p> + “Can’t say I find much to grumble at myself,” Sir Charles said cheerfully. + “I’m frightfully sorry about poor old Dicky, of course, and every other + decent fellow who doesn’t get his show. But, after all, it’s no good being + morbid. Sackcloth and ashes benefit no one. Shall we have another turn?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” Penelope replied. “Wait till the crowd thins a little. Tell me + what you have been doing today?” + </p> + <p> + “Pretty strenuous time,” Sir Charles remarked. “Up at nine, played golf at + Ranelagh all morning, lunched down there, back to my rooms and changed, + called on my tailor, went round to the club, had one game of billiards and + four rubbers of bridge.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that all?” Penelope asked. + </p> + <p> + The faint sarcasm which lurked beneath her question passed unnoticed. Sir + Charles smiled good-humoredly. + </p> + <p> + “Not quite,” he answered. “I dined at the Carlton with Bellairs and some + men from Woolwich and we had a box at the Empire to see the new ballet. + Jolly good it was, too. Will you come one night, if I get up a party?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, perhaps!” she answered. “Come and dance.” + </p> + <p> + They passed into the great ballroom, the finest in London, brilliant with + its magnificent decorations of real flowers, its crowd of uniformed men + and beautiful women, its soft yet ever-present throbbing of wonderful + music. At the further end of the room, on a slightly raised dais, still + receiving her guests, stood the Duchess of Devenham. Penelope gave a + little start as they saw who was bowing over her hand. + </p> + <p> + “The Prince!” she exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + Sir Charles whispered something a little under his breath. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” she remarked with apparent irrelevance, “whether he dances.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I go and find out for you?” Sir Charles asked. + </p> + <p> + She had suddenly grown absent. She had the air of scarcely hearing what he + said. + </p> + <p> + “Let us stop,” she said. “I am out of breath.” + </p> + <p> + He led her toward the winter garden. They sat by a fountain, listening to + the cool play of the water. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” Somerfield said a little awkwardly, “I don’t want to presume, + you know, nor to have you think that I am foolishly jealous, but you have + changed towards me the last few weeks, haven’t you?” + </p> + <p> + “The last few weeks,” she answered, “have been enough to change me toward + any one. All the same, I wasn’t conscious of anything particular so far as + you are concerned.” + </p> + <p> + “I always thought,” he continued after a moment’s hesitation, “that there + was so much prejudice in your country against—against all Asiatic + races.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him steadfastly for a minute. + </p> + <p> + “So there is,” she answered. “What of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, except that it is a prejudice which you do not seem to share,” + he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “In a way I do share it,” she declared, “but there are exceptions, + sometimes very wonderful exceptions.” + </p> + <p> + “Prince Maiyo, for instance,” he said bitterly. “Yet a fortnight ago I + could have sworn that you hated him.” + </p> + <p> + “I think that I do hate him,” Penelope affirmed. “I try to. I want to. I + honestly believe that he deserves my hatred. I have more reason for + feeling this way than you know of, Sir Charles.” + </p> + <p> + “If he has dared—” Somerfield began. + </p> + <p> + “He has dared nothing that he ought not to,” Penelope interrupted. “His + manners are altogether too perfect. It is the chill faultlessness of the + man which is so depressing. Can’t you understand,” she added, speaking in + a tone of greater intensity, “that that is why I hate him? Hush!” + </p> + <p> + She gripped his sleeve warningly. There was suddenly the murmur of voices + and the trailing of skirts. A little party seemed to have invaded the + winter garden—a little party of the principal guests. The Duchess + herself came first, and her fingers were resting upon the arm of Prince + Maiyo. She stopped to speak to Penelope, and turned afterwards to + Somerfield. Prince Maiyo held out his hand for Penelope’s programme. + </p> + <p> + “You will spare me some dances?” he pleaded. “I come late, but it is not + my fault.” + </p> + <p> + She yielded the programme to him without a word. + </p> + <p> + “Those with an X,’” she said, “are free. One has to protect oneself.” + </p> + <p> + He smiled as he wrote his own name, unrebuked, in four places. + </p> + <p> + “Our first dance, then, is number 10,” he said. “It is the next but one. I + shall find you here, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “Here or amongst the chaperons,” she answered, as they passed on. + </p> + <p> + “You admire Miss Morse?” the Duchess asked him. + </p> + <p> + “Greatly,” the Prince answered. “She is natural, she has grace, and she + has what I do not find so much in this country—would you say charm?” + </p> + <p> + “It is an excellent word,” the Duchess answered. “I am inclined to agree + with you. Her aunt, with whom she lives, is a confirmed invalid, so she is + a good deal with me. Her mother was my half-sister.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince bowed. + </p> + <p> + “She will marry, I suppose?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” the Duchess answered. “Sir Charles, poor fellow, is a + hopeless victim. I should not be surprised if she married him, some day or + other.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince looked behind for a moment; then he stopped to admire a + magnificent orchid. + </p> + <p> + “It will be great good fortune for Sir Charles Somerfield,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Somerfield scarcely waited until the little party were out of sight. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” he exclaimed, “you’ve given that man four dances!” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” she answered, “that I should have given him eight if he had + asked for them.” + </p> + <p> + He rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “Will you allow me to take you back to your aunt?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “No!” she answered. “My aunt is quite happy without me, and I should + prefer to remain here.” + </p> + <p> + He sat down, fuming. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope, what do you mean by it?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “And what do you mean by asking me what I mean by it?” she replied. “You + haven’t any especial right that I know of.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish to Heaven I had!” he answered with a noticeable break in his + voice. + </p> + <p> + There was a short silence. She turned away; she felt that she was suddenly + surrounded by a cloud of passion. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” he pleaded,— + </p> + <p> + She stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “You must not say another word,” she declared. “I mean it,—you must + not.” + </p> + <p> + “I have waited for some time,” he reminded her. + </p> + <p> + “All the more reason why you should wait until the right time,” she + insisted. “Be patient for a little longer, do. Just now I feel that I need + a friend more than I have ever needed one before. Don’t let me lose the + one I value most. In a few weeks’ time you shall say whatever you like, + and, at any rate, I will listen to you. Will you be content with that?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” he answered. + </p> + <p> + She laid her fingers upon his arm. + </p> + <p> + “I am dancing this with Captain Wilmot,” she said. “Will you come and + bring me back here afterwards, unless you are engaged?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince found her alone in the winter garden, for Somerfield, when he + had seen him coming, had stolen away. He came towards her quickly, with + the smooth yet impetuous step which singled him out at once as un-English. + He had the whole room to cross to come to her, and she watched him all the + way. The corners of his lips were already curved in a slight smile. His + eyes were bright, as one who looks upon something which he greatly + desires. Slender though his figure was, his frame was splendidly knit, and + he carried himself as one of the aristocrats of the world. As he + approached, she scanned his face curiously. She became critical, anxiously + but ineffectively. There was not a feature in his face with which a + physiognomist could have found fault. + </p> + <p> + “Dear young lady,” he said, bowing low, “I come to you very humbly, for I + am afraid that I am a deceiver. I shall rob you of your pleasure, I fear. + I have put my name down for four dances, and, alas! I do not dance.” + </p> + <p> + She made room for him by her side. + </p> + <p> + “And I,” she said, “am weary of dancing. One does nothing else, night + after night. We will talk.” + </p> + <p> + “Talk or be silent,” he answered softly. “Myself I believe that you are in + need of silence. To be silent together is a proof of great friendship, is + it not?” + </p> + <p> + She nodded. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me that I have been through so much the last fortnight.” she + said. + </p> + <p> + “You have suffered where you should not have suffered,” he assented + gravely. “I do not like your laws at all. At what they called the inquest + your presence was surely not necessary! You were a woman and had no place + there. You had,” he added calmly, “so little to tell.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “Life to me just now,” he continued, “is so much a matter of comparison. + It is for that, indeed, that I am here. You see, I have lived nearly all + my life in my own country and only a very short time in Europe. Then my + mother was an English lady, and my father a Japanese nobleman. Always I + seem to be pulled two different ways, to be struggling to see things from + two different points of view. But there is one subject in which I think I + am wholly with my own country.” + </p> + <p> + “And that?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think,” he said, “that the rougher and more strenuous paths of + life were meant to be trodden by your sex. Please do not misunderstand + me,” he went on earnestly. “I am not thinking of the paths of literature + and of art, for there the perceptions of your sex are so marvellously + acute that you indeed may often lead where we must follow. I am speaking + of the more material things of life.” + </p> + <p> + She was suddenly conscious of a shiver which seemed to spread from her + heart throughout her limbs. She sat quite still, gripping her little lace + handkerchief in her fingers. + </p> + <p> + “I mean,” he continued, “the paths which a man must tread who seeks to + serve his country or his household,—the every-day life in which + sometimes intrigue or force is necessary. Do you agree with me, Miss + Morse?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose so,” she faltered. + </p> + <p> + “That is why,” he added, “it was painful to me to see you stand there + before those men, answering their questions,—men whose walk in life + was different, of an order removed from yours, who should not even have + been permitted to approach you upon bended knees. Do not think that I am + suggesting any fault to you—do not think that I am forcing your + confidence in any way. But these are the thoughts which came to me only a + little time ago.” + </p> + <p> + She was silent. They listened together to the splashing of the water. What + was the special gift, she wondered, which gave this man such insight? She + felt her heart beating; she was conscious that he was looking at her. He + knew already that it was through her medium that those despatches which + never reached London were to have been handed on to their destination! He + must know that she was to some extent in the confidence of her country’s + Ambassador! Perhaps he knew, too, those other thoughts which were in her + mind,—knew that it had been her deliberate intent to deceive him, to + pluck those secrets which he carried with him, even from his heart! What a + fool she had been to dream, for a moment, of measuring her wits against + his! + </p> + <p> + He began to speak again, and his voice seemed pitched in lighter key. + </p> + <p> + “After all,” he said, “you must think it strange of me to be so + egotistical—to speak all the time so much of my likes and dislikes. + To you I have been a little more outspoken than to others.” + </p> + <p> + “You have found me an interesting subject for investigation perhaps?” she + asked, looking up suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “You possess gifts,” he admitted calmly, “which one does not find amongst + the womenfolk of my country, nor can I say that I have found them to any + extent amongst the ladies of the English Court.” + </p> + <p> + “Gifts of which you do not approve when possessed by my sex,” she + suggested. + </p> + <p> + “You are a law to yourself, Miss Morse,” he said. “What one would not + admire in others seems natural enough in you. You have brains and you have + insight. For that reason I have been with you a little outspoken,—for + that reason and another which I think you know of. You see, my time over + here grows nearer to an end with every day. Soon I must carry away with + me, over the seas, all the delightful memories, the friendships, the + affections, which have made this country such a pleasant place for me.” + </p> + <p> + “You are going soon?” she asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + “Very soon,” he answered. “My work is nearly finished, if indeed I may + dignify it by the name of work. Then I must go back.” + </p> + <p> + She shrank a little away from him, as though the word were distasteful to + her. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean that you will go back for always?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “There are many chances in life,” he answered. “I am the servant of the + Emperor and my country.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no hope, then,” she continued, “of your settling down here + altogether?” + </p> + <p> + For once the marble immobility of his features seemed disturbed. He looked + at her in honest amazement. + </p> + <p> + “Here!” he exclaimed. “But I am a son of Japan!” + </p> + <p> + “There are many of your race who do live here,” she reminded him. + </p> + <p> + He smiled with the air of one who is forced to humor a person of limited + vision. + </p> + <p> + “With them it is, alas! a matter of necessity,” he said. “It is very hard + indeed to make you understand over here how we feel about such things,—there + seems to be a different spirit amongst you Western races, a different + spirit or a lack of spirit—I do not know which I should say. But in + Japan the love of our country is a passion which seems to throb with every + beat of our hearts. If we leave her, it is for her good. When we go back, + it is our reward.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are here now for her good?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me in what way?” she begged. “You have been studying English + customs, their methods of education, their political life, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + He turned his head slowly and looked into her eyes. She bore the ordeal + well, but she never forgot it. It seemed to her afterwards that he must + have read every thought which had flashed through her brain. She felt like + a little child in the presence of some mysterious being, thoughts of whom + had haunted her dreams, now visible in bodily shape for the first time. + </p> + <p> + “My dear young lady,” he said, “please do not ask me too much, for I love + to speak the truth, and there are many things which I may not tell. Only + you must understand that the country I love—my own country—must + enter soon upon a new phase of her history. We who look into the future + can see the great clouds gathering. Some of us must needs be pioneers, + must go forward a little to learn our safest, and best course. May I tell + you that much?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” she answered softly. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” he added, leaving his seat as though with reluctance, “the + Duchess reminded me, above all things, that directly I found you I was to + take you to supper. One of your royal princes has been good enough to + signify his desire that we should sit at the same table.” + </p> + <p> + She rose at once. + </p> + <p> + “Does the Duchess know that you are taking me?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I arranged it with her,” he answered. “My time draws soon to an end and I + am to be spoilt a little.” + </p> + <p> + They crossed the ballroom together and mounted the great stairs. Something—she + never knew quite what it was—prompted her to detain him as they + paused on the threshold of the supper room. + </p> + <p> + “You do not often read the papers, Prince,” she said. “Perhaps you have + not seen that, after all, the police have discovered a clue to the + Hamilton Fynes murder.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince looked down upon her for a moment without reply. + </p> + <p> + “Yes?” he murmured softly. + </p> + <p> + She understood that she was to go on—that he was anxious for her to + go on. + </p> + <p> + “Some little doctor in a village near Willington, where the line passes, + has come forward with a story about attending to a wounded man on the + night of the murder,” she said. + </p> + <p> + He was very silent. It seemed to her that there was something strange + about the immovability of his features. She looked at him wonderingly. + Then it suddenly flashed upon her that this was his way of showing + emotion. Her lips parted. The color seemed drawn from her cheeks. The + majordomo of the Duchess stood before them with a bow. + </p> + <p> + “Her Grace desires me to show your Highness to your seats,” he announced. + </p> + <p> + Prince Maiyo turned to his companion. + </p> + <p> + “Will you allow me to precede you through the crush?” he said. “We are to + go this way.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. EAST AND WEST + </h2> + <p> + After the supper there were obligations which the Prince, whose sense of + etiquette was always strong, could not avoid. He took Penelope back to her + aunt, reminding her that the next dance but one belonged to him. Miss + Morse, who was an invalid and was making one of her very rare appearances + in Society, watched him curiously as he disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what they’d think of your new admirer in New York, Penelope,” + she remarked. + </p> + <p> + “I imagine,” Penelope answered, “that they would envy me very much.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Morse, who was a New Englander of the old-fashioned type, opened her + lips, but something in her niece’s face restrained her. + </p> + <p> + “Well, at any rate,” she said, “I hope we don’t go to war with them. The + Admiral wrote me, a few weeks ago, that he saw no hope for anything else.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be a terrible complication,” the Duchess sighed, “especially + considering our own alliance with Japan. I don’t think we need consider it + seriously, however. Over in America you people have too much common + sense.” + </p> + <p> + “The Government have, very likely,” Miss Morse admitted, “but it isn’t + always the Government who decide things or who even rule the country. We + have an omnipotent Press, you know. All that’s wanted is a weak President, + and Heaven knows where we should be!” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” the Duchess remarked, “Prince Maiyo is half an Englishman. + His mother was a Stretton-Wynne. One of the first intermarriages, I should + think. Lord Stretton-Wynne was Ambassador to Japan.” + </p> + <p> + “I think,” said Penelope, “that if you could look into Prince Maiyo’s + heart you would not find him half an Englishman. I think that he is more + than seven-eighths a Japanese.” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard it whispered,” the Duchess remarked, leaning forward, “that + he is over here on an exceedingly serious mission. One thing is quite + certain. No one from his country, or from any other country, for that + matter, has ever been so entirely popular amongst us. He has the most + delightful manners of any man I ever knew of any race.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Charles came up, with gloomy face, to claim a dance. After it was + over, he led Penelope back to her aunt almost in silence. + </p> + <p> + “You are dancing again with the Prince?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” she answered. “Here he comes.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled pleasantly at the young man, who towered like a giant + above him, and noticed at once his lack of cordiality. + </p> + <p> + “I am selfish!” he exclaimed, pausing with Penelope’s hand upon his coat + sleeve. “I am taking you too much away from your friends, and spoiling + your pleasure, perhaps, because I do not dance. Is it not so? It is your + kindness to a stranger, and they do not all appreciate it.” + </p> + <p> + “We will go into the winter garden and talk it over,” she answered, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + They found their old seats unoccupied. Once more they sat and listened to + the fall of the water. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” said Penelope, “there is one thing I have learned about you this + evening, and that is that you do not love questions. And yet there is one + other which I should like to ask you.” + </p> + <p> + “If you please,” the Prince murmured. + </p> + <p> + “You spoke, a little time ago,” she continued, “of some great crisis with + which your country might soon come face to face. Might I ask you this: + were you thinking of war with the United States?” + </p> + <p> + He looked at her in silence for several moments. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Miss Penelope,” he said,—“may I call you that? Forgive me if I + am too forward, but I hear so many of our friends—” + </p> + <p> + “You may call me that,” she interrupted softly. + </p> + <p> + “Let me remind you, then, of what we were saying a little time ago,” he + went on. “You will not take offence? You will understand, I am sure. Those + things that lie nearest to my heart concerning my country are the things + of which I cannot speak.” + </p> + <p> + “Not even to me?” she pleaded. “I am so insignificant. Surely I do not + count?” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope,” he said, “you yourself are a daughter of that country of + which we have been speaking.” + </p> + <p> + She was silent. + </p> + <p> + “You think, then,” she asked, “that I put my country before everything + else in the world?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” he answered, “that you would. Your country is too young to be + wholly degenerate. It is true that you are a nation of fused races—a + strange medley of people, but still you are a nation. I believe that in + time of stress you would place your country before everything else.” + </p> + <p> + “And therefore?” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “And therefore,” he continued with a delightful smile, “I shall not + discuss my hopes or fears with you. Or if we do discuss them,” he went on, + “let us weave them into a fairy tale. Let us say that you are indeed the + Daughter of All America and that I am the Son of All Japan. You know what + happens in fairyland when two great nations rise up to fight?” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me,” she begged. + </p> + <p> + “Why, the Daughter of All America and the Son of All Japan stand hand in + hand before their people, and as they plight their troth, all bitter + feelings pass away, the shouts of anger cease, and there is no more talk + of war.” + </p> + <p> + She sighed, and leaned a little towards him. Her eyes were soft and dusky, + her red lips a little parted. + </p> + <p> + “But I,” she whispered, “am not the Daughter of All America.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor am I,” he answered with a sigh, “the Son of all Japan.” + </p> + <p> + There was a breathless silence. The water splashed into the basin, the + music came throbbing in through the flower-hung doorways. It seemed to + Penelope that she could almost hear her heart beat. The blood in her veins + was dancing to the one perfect waltz. The moments passed. She drew a + little breath and ventured to look at him. His face was still and white, + as though, indeed, it had been carved out of marble, but the fire in his + eyes was a living thing. + </p> + <p> + “We have actually been talking nonsense,” she said, “and I thought that + you, Prince, were far too serious.” + </p> + <p> + “We were talking fairy tales,” he answered, “and they are not nonsense. Do + not you ever read the history of your country as it was many hundreds of + years ago, before this ugly thing they call civilization weakened the + sinews of our race and besmirched the very face of duty? Do you not like + to read of the times when life was simpler and more natural, and there was + space for every man to live and grow and stretch out his hands to the + skies,—every man and every woman? They call them, in your + literature, the days of romance. They existed, too, in my country. It is + not nonsense to imagine for a little time that the ages between have + rolled away and that those days are with us?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” she answered, “it is not nonsense. But if they were?” + </p> + <p> + He raised her fingers to his lips and kissed them. The touch of his hand, + the absolute delicacy of the salute itself, made it unlike any other + caress she had ever known or imagined. + </p> + <p> + “The world might have been happier for both of us,” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + Somerfield, sullen and discontented, came and looked at them, moved away, + and then hesitatingly returned. + </p> + <p> + “Willmott is waiting for you,” he said. “The last was my dance, and this + is his.” + </p> + <p> + She rose at once and turned to the Prince. + </p> + <p> + “I think that we should go back,” she said. “Will you take me to my aunt?” + </p> + <p> + “If it must be so,” he answered. “Tell me, Miss Penelope,” he added, “may + I ask your aunt or the Duchess to bring you one day to my house to see my + treasures? I cannot say how long I shall remain in this country. I would + like you so much to come before I break up my little home.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course we will,” she answered. “My aunt goes nowhere, but the Duchess + will bring me, I am sure. Ask her when I am there, and we can agree about + the day.” + </p> + <p> + He leaned a little towards her. + </p> + <p> + “Tomorrow?” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + She nodded. There were three engagements for the next day of which she + took no heed. + </p> + <p> + “Tomorrow,” she said. “Come and let us arrange it with the Duchess.” + </p> + <p> + Prince Maiyo left Devenham House to find the stars paling in the sky, and + the light of an April dawn breaking through the black clouds eastwards. He + dismissed his electric brougham with a little wave of the hand, and turned + to walk to his house in St. James’s Square. As he walked, he bared his + head. After the long hours of artificially heated rooms, there was + something particularly soothing about the fresh sweetness of the early + spring morning. There was something, it seemed to him, which reminded him, + however faintly, of the mornings in his own land,—the perfume of the + flowers from the window-boxes, perhaps, the absence of that hideous roar + of traffic, or the faint aromatic scent from the lime trees in the Park, + heavy from recent rain. It was the quietest hour of the twenty-four,—the + hour almost of dawn. The night wayfarers had passed away, the great army + of toilers as yet slumbered. One sad-eyed woman stumbled against him as he + walked slowly up Piccadilly. He lifted his hat with an involuntary + gesture, and her laugh changed into a sob. He turned round, and emptied + his pockets of silver into her hand, hurrying away quickly that his eyes + might not dwell upon her face. + </p> + <p> + “A coward always,” he murmured to himself, a little wearily, for he knew + where his weakness lay,—an invincible repugnance to the ugly things + of life. As he passed on, however, his spirits rose again. He caught a + breath of lilac scent from a closed florist’s shop. He looked up to the + skies, over the housetops, faintly blue, growing clearer every moment. + Almost he fancied that he looked again into the eyes of this strange girl, + recalled her unexpected yet delightful frankness, which to him, with his + love of abstract truth, was, after all, so fascinating. Oh, there was much + to be said for this Western world!—much to be said for those whose + part it was to live in it! Yet, never so much as during that brief night + walk through the silent streets, did he realize how absolutely unfitted he + was to be even a temporary sojourner in this vast city. What would they + say of him if they knew,—of him, a breaker of their laws, a guest, + and yet a sinner against all their conventions; a guest, and yet one whose + hand it was which would strike them, some day or other, the great blow! + What would she think of him? He wondered whether she would realize the + truth, whether she would understand. Almost as he asked himself the + question, he smiled. To him it seemed a strange proof of the danger in + which a weaker man would stand of passing under the yoke of this hateful + Western civilization. To dream of her—yes! To see her face shining + upon him from every beautiful place, to feel the delight of her presence + with every delicious sensation,—the warmth of the sunlight, the + perfume of the blossoms he loved! There was joy in this, the joy of the + artist and the lover. But to find her in his life, a real person, a + daughter of this new world, whose every instinct would be at war with his—that + way lay slavery! He brushed the very thought from him. + </p> + <p> + As he reached the door of his house in St. James’ Square, it opened slowly + before him. He had brought his own servants from his own country, and in + their master’s absence sleep was not for them. His butler spoke to him in + his own language. The Prince nodded and passed on. On his study table—a + curious note of modernism where everything seemed to belong to a bygone + world—was a cablegram. He tore it open. It consisted of one word + only. He let the thin paper fall fluttering from his fingers. So the time + was fixed! + </p> + <p> + Then Soto came gliding noiselessly into the room, fully dressed, with + tireless eyes but wan face,—Soto, the prototype of his master, the + most perfect secretary and servant evolved through all the years. + </p> + <p> + “Master,” he said, “there has been trouble here. An Englishman came with + this card.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince took it, and read the name of Inspector Jacks. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he murmured. + </p> + <p> + “The man asked questions,” Soto continued. “We spoke English so badly that + he was puzzled. He went away, but he will come again.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled, and laid his hand almost caressingly upon the other’s + shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “It is of no consequence, Soto,” he said,—“no consequence whatever.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. AN ENGAGEMENT + </h2> + <p> + “Your rooms, Prince, are wonderful,” Penelope said to him. “I knew that + you were a man of taste, but I did not know that you were also a + millionaire.” + </p> + <p> + He laughed softly. + </p> + <p> + “In my country,” he answered, “there are no millionaires. The money which + we have, however, we spend, perhaps a little differently. But, indeed, + none of my treasures here have cost me anything. They have come to me + through more generations than I should care to reckon up. The bronze idol, + for instance, upon my writing case is four hundred years old, to my + certain knowledge, and my tapestries were woven when in this country your + walls went bare.” + </p> + <p> + “What I admire more than anything,” the Duchess declared, “is your + beautiful violet tone.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad,” he answered, “that you like my coloring. Some people have + thought it sombre. To me dark colors indoors are restful.” + </p> + <p> + “Everything about the whole place is restful,” Penelope said,—“your + servants with their quaint dresses and slippered feet, your thick carpets, + the smell of those strange burning leaves, and, forgive me if I say so, + your closed windows. I suppose in time I should have a headache. For a + little while it is delicious.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince sighed. + </p> + <p> + “Fresh air is good,” he said, “but the air that comes from your streets + does not seem to me to be fresh, nor do I like the roar of your great city + always in my ears. Here I cut myself off, and I feel that I can think. + Duchess, you must try those preserved fruits. They come to me from my own + land. I think that the secret of preserving them is not known here. You + see, they are packed with rose leaves and lemon plant. There is a golden + fig, Miss Penelope,—the fruit of great knowledge, the magical fruit, + too, they say. Eat that and close your eyes and you can look back and tell + us all the wonders of the past. That is to say,” he added with a faint + smile, “if the magic works.” + </p> + <p> + “But the magic never does work,” she protested with a little sigh, “and I + am not in the least interested in the past. Tell me something about the + future?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely that is easier,” he answered. “Over the past we have lost our + control,—what has been must remain to the end of time. The future is + ours to do what we will with.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds so reasonable,” the Duchess declared, “and it is so + absolutely false. No one can do what they will with the future. It is the + future which does what it will with us.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled tolerantly. + </p> + <p> + “It depends a good deal, does it not,” he said, “upon ourselves? Miss + Penelope is the daughter of a country which is still young, which has all + its future before it, and which, has proclaimed to the world its fixed + intention of controlling its own destinies. She, at any rate, should have + imbibed the national spirit. You are looking at my curtains,” he added, + turning to Penelope. “Let me show you the figures upon them, and I will + tell you the allegory.” + </p> + <p> + He led her to the window, and explained to her for some moments the story + of the faded images which represented one chapter out of the mythology of + his country. And then she stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “Always,” she said, “you and I seem to be talking of things that are dead + and past, or of a future which is out of our reach. Isn’t it possible to + speak now and then of the present?” + </p> + <p> + “Of the actual present?” he asked softly. “Of this very moment?” + </p> + <p> + “Of this very moment, if you will,” she answered. “Your fairy tale the + other night was wonderful, but it was a long way off.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince was summoned away somewhat abruptly to bid farewell to a little + stream of departing guests. Today, more than ever, he seemed to belong, + indeed to the world of real and actual things, for a cousin of his + mother’s, a Lady Stretton-Wynne, was helping him receive his guests—his + own aunt, as Penelope told herself more than once, struggling all the time + with a vague incredulity. When he was able to rejoin her, she was + examining a curious little coffer which stood upon an ivory table. + </p> + <p> + “Show me the mystery of this lock,” she begged. “I have been trying to + open it ever since you went away. One could imagine that the secrets of a + nation might be hidden here.” + </p> + <p> + He smiled, and taking the box from her hands, touched a little spring. + Almost at once the lid flew open. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” he said, “that it is empty.” + </p> + <p> + She peered in. + </p> + <p> + “No,” she exclaimed, “there is something there! See!” She thrust in her + hand and drew out a small, curiously shaped dagger of fine blue steel and + a roll of silken cord. She held them up to him. + </p> + <p> + “What are these?” she asked. “Are they symbols—the cord and the + knife of destiny?” + </p> + <p> + He took them gently from her hand and replaced them in the box. She heard + the lock go with a little click, and looked into his face, surprised at + his silence. + </p> + <p> + “Is there anything the matter?” she asked. “Ought I not to have taken them + up?” + </p> + <p> + Almost as the words left her lips, she understood. His face was + inscrutable, but his very silence was ominous. She remembered a drawing in + one of the halfpenny papers, the drawing of a dagger found in a horrible + place. She remembered the description of that thin silken cord, and she + began to tremble. + </p> + <p> + “I did not know that anything was in the box,” he said calmly. “I am sorry + if its contents have alarmed you.” + </p> + <p> + She scarcely heard his words. The room seemed wheeling round with her, the + floor unsteady beneath her feet. The atmosphere of the place had suddenly + become horrible,—the faint odor of burning leaves, the pictures, + almost like caricatures, which mocked her from the walls, the grinning + idols, the strangely shaped weapons in their cases of black oak. She + faltered as she crossed the room, but recovered herself. + </p> + <p> + “Aunt,” she said, “if you are ready, I think that we ought to go.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess was more than ready. She rose promptly. The Prince walked with + them to the door and handed them over to his majordomo. + </p> + <p> + “It has been so nice of you,” he said to the Duchess, “to honor my + bachelor abode. I shall often think of your visit.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Prince,” the Duchess declared, “it has been most interesting. + Really, I found it hard to believe, in that charming room of yours, that + we had not actually been transported to your wonderful country.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very gracious,” the Prince answered, bowing low. + </p> + <p> + Penelope’s hands were within her muff. She was talking some nonsense—she + scarcely knew what, but her eyes rested everywhere save on the face of her + host. Somehow or other she reached the door, ran down the steps and threw + herself into a corner of the brougham. Then, for the first time, she + allowed herself to look behind. The door was already closed, but between + the curtains which his hands had drawn apart, Prince Maiyo was standing in + the room which they had just quitted, and there was something in the calm + impassivity of his white, stern face which seemed to madden her. She + clenched her hands and looked away. + </p> + <p> + “Really, I was not so much bored as I had feared,” the Duchess remarked + composedly. “That Stretton-Wynne woman generally gets on my nerves, but + her nephew seemed to have a restraining effect upon her. She didn’t tell + me more than once about her husband’s bad luck in not getting Canada, and + she never even mentioned her girls. But I do think, Penelope,” she + continued, “that I shall have to talk to you a little seriously. There’s + the best-looking and richest young bachelor in London dying to marry you, + and you won’t have a word to say to him. On the other hand, after starting + by disliking him heartily, you are making yourself almost conspicuous with + this fascinating young Oriental. I admit that he is delightful, my dear + Penelope, but I think you should ask yourself whether it is quite worth + while. Prince Maiyo may take home with him many Western treasures, but I + do not think that he will take home a wife.” + </p> + <p> + “If you say another word to me, aunt,” Penelope exclaimed, “I shall + shriek!” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess, being a woman of tact, laughed the subject away and pretended + not to notice Penelope’s real distress. But when they had reached Devenham + House, she went to the telephone and called up Somerfield. + </p> + <p> + “Charlie,” she said,— + </p> + <p> + “Right o’!” he interrupted. “Who is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Be careful what you are saying,” she continued, “because it isn’t any one + who wants you to take them out to supper.” + </p> + <p> + “I only wish you did,” he answered. “It’s the Duchess, isn’t it?” + </p> + <p> + “The worst of having a distinctive voice,” she sighed. “Listen. I want to + speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am listening hard,” Somerfield answered. “Hold the instrument a little + further away from you,—that’s better.” + </p> + <p> + “We have been to the Prince’s for tea this afternoon—Penelope and + I,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “I know,” he assented. “I was asked, but I didn’t see the fun of it. It + puts my back up to see Penelope monopolized by that fellow,” he added + gloomily. + </p> + <p> + “Well, listen to what I have to say,” the Duchess went on. “Something + happened there—I don’t know what—to upset Penelope very much. + She never spoke a word coming home, and she has gone straight up to her + room and locked herself in. Somehow or other the Prince managed to offend + her. I am sure of that, Charlie!” + </p> + <p> + “I’m beastly sorry,” Somerfield answered. “I meant to say that I was jolly + glad to hear it.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess coughed. + </p> + <p> + “I didn’t quite hear what you said before,” she said severely. “Perhaps it + is just as well. I rang up to say that you had better come round and dine + with us tonight. You will probably find Penelope in a more reasonable + frame of mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Awfully good of you,” Somerfield declared heartily. “I’ll come with + pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + Dinner at Devenham House that evening was certainly a domestic meal. Even + the Duke was away, attending a political gathering. Penelope was pale, but + otherwise entirely her accustomed self. She talked even more than usual, + and though she spoke of a headache, she declined all remedies. To + Somerfield’s surprise, she made not the slightest objection when he + followed her into the library after dinner. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” he said, “something has gone wrong. Won’t you tell me what it + is? You look worried.” + </p> + <p> + She returned his anxious gaze, dry-eyed but speechless. + </p> + <p> + “Has that fellow, Prince Maiyo, done or said anything—” + </p> + <p> + She interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “No!” she cried. “No! don’t mention his name, please! I don’t want to hear + his name again just now.” + </p> + <p> + “For my part,” Somerfield said bitterly, “I never want to hear it again as + long as I live!” + </p> + <p> + There was a short silence. Suddenly she turned towards him. + </p> + <p> + “Charlie,” she said, “you have asked me to marry you six times.” + </p> + <p> + “Seven,” he corrected. “I ask you again now—that makes eight.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” she answered, “I accept—on one condition.” + </p> + <p> + “On any,” he exclaimed, his voice trembling with joy. “Penelope, it sounds + too good to be true. You can’t be in earnest.” + </p> + <p> + “I am,” she declared. “I will marry you if you will see that our + engagement is announced everywhere tomorrow, and that you do not ask me + for anything at all, mind, not even—not anything—for three + months’ time, at least. Promise that until then you will not let me hear + the sound of the word marriage?” + </p> + <p> + “I promise,” he said firmly. “Penelope, you mean it? You mean this + seriously?” + </p> + <p> + She gave him her hands and a very sad little smile. + </p> + <p> + “I mean it, Charlie,” she answered. “I will keep my word.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. PENELOPE EXPLAINS + </h2> + <p> + Once more Penelope found herself in the library of the great house in Park + Lane, where Mr. Blaine-Harvey presided over the interests of his country. + This time she came as an uninvited, even an unexpected guest. The + Ambassador, indeed, had been fetched away by her urgent message from the + reception rooms, where his wife was entertaining a stream of callers. + Penelope refused to sit down. + </p> + <p> + “I have not much to say to you, Mr. Harvey,” she said. “There is just + something which I have discovered and which you ought to know. I want to + tell it you as quickly as possible and get away.” + </p> + <p> + “A propos of our last conversation?” he asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + She bowed her head. + </p> + <p> + “It concerns Prince Maiyo,” she admitted. + </p> + <p> + “You are sure that you will not sit down?” he persisted. “You know how + interesting this is to me.” + </p> + <p> + She smiled faintly. + </p> + <p> + “To me,” she said, “it is terrible. My only desire is to tell you and have + finished with it. You remember, when I was here last, you told me that it + was your firm belief that somewhere behind the hand which murdered + Hamilton Fynes and poor Dicky stood the shadow of Prince Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember it perfectly,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “You were right,” Penelope said. + </p> + <p> + The Ambassador drew a little breath. It was staggering, this, even if + expected. + </p> + <p> + “I have talked with the Prince several times since our conversation,” + Penelope continued. “So far as any information which he gave me or seemed + likely to give me, I might as well have talked in a foreign language. But + in his house, the day before yesterday, in his own library, hidden in a + casket which opened only with a secret lock, I found two things.” + </p> + <p> + “What were they?” the Ambassador asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + “A roll of silken cord,” Penelope said, “such as was used to strangle poor + Dicky, and a strangely shaped dagger exactly like the picture of the one + with which Hamilton Fynes was stabbed.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he know that you found them?” Mr. Blaine-Harvey asked. + </p> + <p> + “He was with me,” Penelope answered. “He even, at my request, opened the + casket. He must have forgotten that they were there.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” the Ambassador said thoughtfully, “he never knew.” + </p> + <p> + “One cannot tell,” Penelope answered. + </p> + <p> + “Did he say anything when you discovered them?” the Ambassador asked. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” Penelope declared. “It was not necessary. I saw his face. He + knows that I understand. It may have been some one else connected with the + house, of course, but the main fact is beyond all doubt. Those murders + were instigated, if they were not committed, by the Prince.” + </p> + <p> + The Ambassador walked to the window and back again. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” he said, “you have only confirmed what I felt must be so, but + even then the certainty of it is rather a shock.” + </p> + <p> + She gave him her hand. + </p> + <p> + “I have told you the truth,” she said. “Make what use of it you will. + There is one other thing, perhaps, which I ought to tell you. The Prince + is going back to his own country very shortly.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey nodded. + </p> + <p> + “I have just been given to understand as much,” he said. “At present he is + to be met with every day. I believe that he is even now in my drawing + rooms.” + </p> + <p> + “Where I ought to be,” Penelope said, turning toward the door, “only I + felt that I must see you first.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not come with you,” Mr. Harvey said. “There is no need for our + little conference to become the subject of comment. By the bye,” he added, + “let me take this opportunity of wishing you every happiness. I haven’t + seen Somerfield yet, but he is a lucky fellow. As an American, however, I + cannot help grudging another of our most popular daughters to even the + best of Englishmen.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope’s smile was a little forced. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you very much,” she said. “It is all rather in the air, at present, + you know. We are not going to be married for some time.” + </p> + <p> + “When it comes off,” the Ambassador said, “I am going to talk to the + Duchess and Miss Morse. I think that I ought to give you away.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope made her way into Mrs. Blaine-Harvey’s reception rooms, crowded + with a stream of guests, who were sitting about, drinking tea and + listening to the music, passing in and out all the time. Curiously enough, + almost the first person whom she saw was the Prince. He detached himself + from a little group and came at once towards her. He took her hand in his + and for a moment said nothing. Notwithstanding the hours of strenuous + consideration, the hours which she had devoted to anticipating and + preparing for this meeting, she felt her courage suddenly leaving her, a + sinking at the knees, a wild desire to escape, at any cost. The color + which had been so long denied her streamed into her cheeks. There was + something baffling, yet curiously disturbing, in the manner of his + greeting. + </p> + <p> + “Is it true?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + She did not pretend to misunderstand him. It was amazing that he should + ignore that other tragical incident, that he should think of nothing but + this! Yet, in a way, she accepted it as a natural thing. + </p> + <p> + “It is true that I am engaged to Sir Charles Somerfield,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “I must wish you every happiness,” he said slowly. “Indeed, that wish + comes from my heart, and I think that you know it. As for Sir Charles + Somerfield, I cannot imagine that he has anything left in the world to + wish for.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a born courtier, Prince,” she murmured. “Please remember that in + my democratic country one has never had a chance of getting used to such + speeches.” + </p> + <p> + “Your country,” he remarked, “prides itself upon being the country where + truth prevails. If so, you should have become accustomed by now to hearing + pleasant things about yourself. So you are going to marry Sir Charles + Somerfield!” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you say that over to yourself so doubtfully?” she asked. “You know + who he is, do you not? He is rich, of old family, popular with everybody, + a great sportsman, a mighty hunter. These are the things which go to the + making of a man, are they not?” + </p> + <p> + “Beyond a doubt,” the Prince answered gravely. “They go to the making of a + man. It is as you say.” + </p> + <p> + “You like him personally, don’t you?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Charles Somerfield and I are almost strangers,” the Prince replied. + “I have not seen much of him, and he has so many tastes which I cannot + share that it is hard for us to come very near together. But if you have + chosen him, it is sufficient. I am quite sure that he is all that a man + should be.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me in what respect your tastes are so far apart?” she asked. “You + say that as though there were something in the manner of his life of which + you disapproved.” + </p> + <p> + “We are sons of different countries, Miss Penelope,” the Prince said. “We + look out upon life differently, and the things which seem good to him may + well seem idle to me. Before I go,” he added a little hesitatingly, “we + may speak of this again. But not now.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall remind you of that promise, Prince,” she declared. + </p> + <p> + “I will not fail to keep it,” he replied. “You have, at least,” he added + after a moment’s pause, “one great claim upon happiness. You are the son + and the daughter of kindred races.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him as though not quite understanding. + </p> + <p> + “I was thinking,” he continued simply, “of my own father and mother. My + father was a Japanese nobleman, with the home call of all the centuries + strong in his blood. He was an enlightened man, but he saw nothing in the + manner of living or the ideals of other countries to compare with those of + the country of his own birth. I sometimes think that my mother and father + might have been happier had one of them been a little more disposed to + yield to the other I think, perhaps, that their union would have been a + more successful one. They were married, and they lived together, but they + lived apart.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not well for you, this,” she remarked. + </p> + <p> + He shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Do not mistake me,” he begged. “So far as I am concerned, I am content. I + am Japanese. The English blood that is in my veins is but as a drop of + water compared to the call of my own country. And yet there are some + things which have come to me from my mother—things which come most + to the surface when I am in this, her own country—which make life at + times a little sad. Forgive me if I have been led on to speak too much of + myself. Today one should think of nothing but of you and of your + happiness.” + </p> + <p> + He turned to accept the greeting of an older woman who had lingered for a + moment, in passing, evidently anxious to speak to him. Penelope watched + his kindly air, listened to the courteous words which flowed from his + lips, the interest in his manner, which his whole bearing denoted, + notwithstanding the fact that the woman was elderly and plain, and had + outlived the friends of her day and received but scanty consideration from + the present generation. It was typical of him, too, she realized. It was + never to the great women of the world that he unbent most thoroughly. Gray + hairs seemed to inspire his respect, to command his attentions in a way + that youth and beauty utterly failed to do. These things seemed suddenly + clear to Penelope as she stood there watching him. A hundred little acts + of graceful kindness, which she had noticed and admired, returned to her + memory. It was this man whom she had lifted her hand to betray! It was + this man who was to be accounted guilty, even of crime! There came a + sudden revulsion of feeling. The whole mechanical outlook upon life, as + she had known it, seemed, even in those few seconds, to become a false and + meretricious thing. Whatever he had done or countenanced was right. She + had betrayed his hospitality. She had committed an infamous breach of + trust. An overwhelming desire came over her to tell him everything. She + took a quick step forward and found herself face to face with Somerfield. + The Prince was buttonholed by some friends and led away. The moment had + passed. + </p> + <p> + “Come and talk to the Duchess,” Somerfield said. “She has something + delightful to propose.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. CONCERNING PRINCE MAIYO + </h2> + <p> + The Duchess looked up from her writing table and nodded to her husband, + who had just entered. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, Ambrose!” she said. “Do you want to talk to me?” + </p> + <p> + “If you can spare me five minutes,” the Duke suggested. “I don’t think + that I need keep you longer.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess handed her notebook to her secretary, who hastened from the + room. The Duke seated himself in her vacant chair. + </p> + <p> + “About our little party down in Hampshire next week,” he began. + </p> + <p> + “I am waiting to hear from you before I send out any invitations,” the + Duchess answered. + </p> + <p> + “Quite so,” the Duke assented. “To tell you the truth, I don’t want + anything in the nature of a house party. What I should really like would + be to get Maiyo there almost to ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + His wife looked at him in some surprise. + </p> + <p> + “You seem particularly anxious to make things pleasant for this young + man,” she remarked. “If he were the son of the Emperor himself, no one + could do more for him than you people have been doing these last few + weeks.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Devenham, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, whose wife + entertained for his party, and whose immense income, derived mostly from + her American relations, was always at its disposal, was a person almost as + important in the councils of his country as the Prime Minister himself. It + sometimes occurred to him that the person who most signally failed to + realize this fact was the lady who did him the honor to preside over his + household. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Margaret,” he said, “you can take my word for it that we know + what we are about. It is very important indeed that we should keep on + friendly terms with this young man,—I don’t mean as a personal + matter. It’s a matter of politics—perhaps of something greater, + even, than that.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess liked to understand everything, and her husband’s reticence + annoyed her. + </p> + <p> + “But we have the Japanese Ambassador always with us,” she remarked. “A + most delightful person I call the Baron Hesho, and I am sure he loves us + all.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not exactly the point, my dear,” the Duke explained. “Prince + Maiyo is over here on a special mission. We ourselves have only been able + to surmise its object with the aid of our secret service in Tokio. You can + rest assured of one thing, however. It is of vast importance to the + interests of this country that we secure his goodwill.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess smiled good humoredly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my dear Ambrose,” she said, “I don’t know what more we can do than + feed him properly and give him pleasant people to talk to. He doesn’t go + in for sports, does he? All I can promise is that we will do our best to + be agreeable to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of it, my dear,” the Duke said. “You haven’t committed yourself + to asking any one, by the bye?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a soul,” his wife answered, “except Sir Charles. I had to ask him, of + course, for Penelope.” + </p> + <p> + “Naturally,” the Duke assented. “I am glad Penelope will be there. I only + wish that she were English instead of American, and that Maiyo would take + a serious fancy to her.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” the Duchess said dryly, “you would like him to take a fancy to + Grace?” + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn’t mind in the least,” her husband declared. “I never met a + young man whom I respected and admired more.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor I, for that matter,” the Duchess agreed. “And yet, somehow or other—” + </p> + <p> + “Somehow or other?” the Duke repeated courteously. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I never altogether trust these paragons,” his wife said. “In all + the ordinary affairs of life the Prince seems to reach an almost perfect + standard. I sometimes wonder whether he would be as trustworthy in the big + things. Nothing else you want to talk about, Ambrose?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing at all,” the Duke said, rising to his feet. “I only wanted to + make it plain that we don’t require a house party next week.” + </p> + <p> + “I shan’t ask a soul,” the Duchess answered. “Do you mind ringing the bell + as you pass? I’ll have Miss Smith back again and send these letters off.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” the Duke declared. “I’m going down to the House, but I don’t + suppose there’ll be anything doing. By the bye, we shall have to be a + little feudal next week. Japan is a country of many ceremonies, and, after + all, Maiyo is one of the Royal Family. I have written Perkins, to stir him + up a little.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke drove down to the House, but called first in Downing Street. He + found the Prime Minister anxious to see him. + </p> + <p> + “You’ve arranged about Maiyo coming down to you next week?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “That’s all right,” the Duke answered. “He is coming, for certain. One + good thing about that young man—he never breaks an engagement.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister consulted a calendar which lay open before him. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mind,” he asked, “if I come, too, and Bransome?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, of course not,” the Duke replied. “We shall be delighted. We have + seventy bedrooms, and only half a dozen or so of us. But tell me—is + this young man as important as all that?” + </p> + <p> + “We shall have to have a serious talk,” the Prime Minister said, “in a few + days’ time. I don’t think that even you grasp the exact position of + affairs as they stand today. Just now I am bothered to death about other + things. Heseltine has just been in from the Home Office. He is simply + inundated with correspondence from America about those two murders.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke nodded. + </p> + <p> + “It’s an odd thing,” he remarked, “that they should both have been + Americans.” + </p> + <p> + “Heseltine thinks there’s something behind this correspondence,” the Prime + Minister said slowly. “Washington was very secretive about the man Fynes’ + identity. I found that out from Scotland Yard. Do you know, I’m half + inclined to think, although I can’t get a word out of Harvey, that this + man Fynes—” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” the Duke asked a little impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want to go too far,” his chief said. “I am making some fresh + inquiries, and I am hoping to get at the bottom of the matter very + shortly. One thing is very certain, though, and that is that no two + murders have ever been committed in this city with more cold-blooded + deliberation, and with more of what I should call diabolical cleverness. + Take the affair of poor young Vanderpole, for instance. The person who + entered his taxi and killed him must have done so while the vehicle was + standing in the middle of the road at one of the three blocks. Not only + that, but he must have been a friend, or some one posing as a friend—some + one, at any rate, of his own order. Vanderpole was over six feet high, and + as muscular as a young bull. He could have thrown any one out into the + street who had attempted to assault him openly.” + </p> + <p> + “It is the most remarkable case I ever heard of in my life,” the Duke + admitted, helping himself to a cigarette from a box which he had just + discovered. + </p> + <p> + “There is another point,” the Prime Minister continued. “There are + features in common about both these murders. Not only were they both the + work of a most accomplished criminal, but he must have been possessed of + an iron nerve and amazing strength. The dagger by which Hamilton Fynes was + stabbed was driven through the middle of his heart. The cord with which + Vanderpole was strangled must have been turned by a wrist of steel. No + time for a word afterwards, mind, or before. It was a wonderful feat. I am + not surprised that the Americans can’t understand it.” + </p> + <p> + “They don’t suggest, I suppose,” the Duke asked, “that we are not trying + to clear the matter up?” + </p> + <p> + “They don’t suggest it,” his chief answered, “but I can’t quite make out + what’s at the back of their heads. However, I won’t bother you about that + now. If I were to propound Heseltine’s theory to you, you would think that + he had been reading the works of some of our enterprising young novelists. + Things will have cleared up, I dare say, by next week. I am coming round + to the House for a moment if you’re not in a hurry.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke assented, and waited while the secretary locked up the papers + which the Prime Minister had been examining, and prepared others to be + carried into the House. The two men left the place together, and the Duke + pointed toward his brougham. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mind walking?” the Prime Minister said. “There is another matter + I’d like to talk to you about, and there’s nowhere better than the streets + for a little conversation. Besides, I need the air.” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure,” the Duke answered, who loathed walking. + </p> + <p> + He directed his coachman to precede them, and they started off, arm in + arm. + </p> + <p> + “Devenham,” the Prime Minister said, “we were speaking, a few minutes ago, + of Prince Maiyo. I want you to understand this, that upon that young man + depends entirely the success or failure of my administration.” + </p> + <p> + “You are serious?” the Duke exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Absolutely,” the Prime Minister answered. “I know quite well what he is + here for. He is here to make up his mind whether it will pay Japan to + renew her treaty with us, or whether it would be more to her advantage to + enter into an alliance with any other European power. He has been to most + of the capitals in Europe. He has been here with us. By this time he has + made up his mind. He knows quite well what his report will be. Yet you + can’t get a word out of him. He is a delightful young fellow, I know, but + he is as clever as any trained diplomatist I have ever come across. I’ve + had him to dine with me alone, and I’ve done all that I could to make him + talk. When he went away, I knew just exactly as much as I did before he + came.” + </p> + <p> + “He seems pleased enough with us,” the Duke remarked. + </p> + <p> + “I am not so sure,” the Prime Minister answered. “He has travelled about a + good deal in England. I heard of him in Manchester and Sheffield, + Newcastle and Leicester, absolutely unattended. I wonder what he was doing + there.” + </p> + <p> + “From my experience of him,” the Duke said, “I don’t think we shall know + until he chooses to tell us.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid you are right,” the Prime Minister declared. “At the same + time you might just drop a hint to your wife, and to that remarkably + clever young niece of hers, Miss Penelope Morse. Of course, I don’t expect + that he would unbosom himself to any one, but, to tell you the truth, as + we are situated now, the faintest hint as regards his inclinations, or + lack of inclinations, towards certain things would be of immense service. + If he criticised any of our institutions, for instance, his remarks would + be most interesting. Then he has been spending several months in various + capitals. He would not be likely to tell any one his whole impressions of + those few months, but a phrase, a word, even a gesture, to a clever woman + might mean a great deal. It might also mean a great deal to us.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll mention it,” the Duke promised, “but I am afraid my womenfolk are + scarcely up to this sort of thing. The best plan would be to tackle him + ourselves down at Devenham.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought of that,” the Prime Minister assented. “That is why I am coming + down myself and bringing Bransome. If he will have nothing to say to us + within a week or so of his departure, we shall know what to think. + Remember my words, Devenham,—when our chronicler dips his pen into + the ink and writes of our government, our foreign policy, at least, will + be judged by our position in the far East. Exactly what that will be + depends upon Prince Maiyo. With a renewal of our treaty we could go to the + country tomorrow. Without it, especially if the refusal should come from + them, there will be some very ugly writing across the page.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke threw away his cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “we can only do our best. The young man seems friendly + enough.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister nodded. + </p> + <p> + “It is precisely his friendliness which I fear,” he said. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. A GAY NIGHT IN PARIS + </h2> + <p> + Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, + as he had been at the Savoy in London. His headquarters were at the + American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the + highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and + visited various places of amusement. His business during the daytime he + kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents + and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of + woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most + enthusiastic fashion. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make. + From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band + outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, + he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which + resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention + between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be + indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his + compatriots were usually competing. It was not, so far as one might judge, + a strenuous life which Mr. Coulson was leading. He had been known once or + twice to yawn, and he had somewhat the appearance of a man engaged in an + earnest but at times not altogether successful attempt to kill time. + Perhaps for that reason he made acquaintances with a little more than his + customary freedom. There was a young Englishman, for instance, whose name, + it appeared, was Gaynsforth, with whom, after a drink or two at the bar, + he speedily became on almost intimate terms. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth was a young man, apparently of good breeding and some + means. He was well dressed, of cheerful disposition, knew something about + the woollen trade, and appeared to take a distinct liking to his new + friend. The two men, after having talked business together for some time, + arranged to dine together and have what they called a gay evening. They + retired to their various apartments to change, Mr. Gaynsforth perfectly + well satisfied with his progress, Mr. James B. Coulson with a broad grin + upon his face. + </p> + <p> + After a very excellent dinner, for which Mr. Gaynsforth insisted upon + paying, they went to the Folies Bergeres, where the Englishman developed a + thirst which, considering the coolness of the evening, was nothing short + of amazing. Mr. Coulson, however, kept pace with him steadily, and toward + midnight their acquaintance had steadily progressed until they were + certainly on friendly if not affectionate terms. A round of the supper + places, proposed by the Englishman, was assented to by Mr. Coulson with + enthusiasm. About three o’clock in the morning Mr. Coulson had the + appearance of a man for whom the troubles of this world are over, and who + was realizing the ecstatic bliss of a temporary Nirvana. Mr. Gaynsforth, + on the other hand, although half an hour ago he had been boisterous and + unsteady, seemed suddenly to have become once more the quiet, + discreet-looking young Englishman who had first bowed to Mr. Coulson in + the bar of the Grand Hotel and accepted with some diffidence his offer of + a drink. To prevent his friend being jostled by the somewhat mixed crowd + in which they then were, Mr. Gaynsforth drew nearer and nearer to him. He + even let his hand stray over his person, as though to be sure that he was + not carrying too much in his pockets. + </p> + <p> + “Say, old man,” he whispered in his ear,—they were sitting side by + side now in the Bal Tabarin,—“if you are going on like this, Heaven + knows where you’ll land at the end of it all! I’ll look after you as well + as I can,—where you go, I’ll go—but we can’t be together every + second of the time. Don’t you think you’d be safer if you handed over your + pocketbook to me?” + </p> + <p> + “Right you are!” Mr. Coulson declared, falling a little over on one side. + “Take it out of my pocket. Be careful of it now. There’s five hundred + francs there, and the plans of a loom which I wouldn’t sell for a good + many thousands.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth possessed himself quickly of the pocketbook, and satisfied + himself that his friend’s description of its contents was fairly correct. + </p> + <p> + “You’ve nothing else upon you worth taking care of?” he whispered. “You + can trust me, you know. You haven’t any papers, or anything of that sort?” + </p> + <p> + Then Mr. James B. Coulson, who was getting tired of his part, suddenly sat + up, and a soberer man had never occupied that particular chair in the Bal + Tabarin. + </p> + <p> + “And if I have, my young friend,” he said calmly, “what the devil business + is it of yours?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth was taken aback and showed it. He recovered himself as + quickly as possible, and realized that he had been living in a fool’s + paradise so far as the condition of his companion was concerned. He + realized, also, that the first move in the game between them had been made + and that he had lost. + </p> + <p> + “You are too good an actor for me, Mr. Coulson,” he said. “Suppose we get + to business.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all right,” Mr. Coulson answered. “Let’s go somewhere where we can + get some supper. We’ll go to the Abbaye Theleme, and you shall have the + pleasure of entertaining me.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth handed back the pocketbook and led the way out of the place + without a word. It was only a few steps up the hill, and they found + themselves then in a supper place of a very different class. Here Mr. + Coulson, after a brief visit to the lavatory, during which he obliterated + all traces of his recent condition, seated himself at one of the small + flower-decked tables and offered the menu to his new friend. + </p> + <p> + “It’s up to you to pay,” he said, “so you shall choose the supper. + Personally, I’m for a few oysters, a hot bird, and a cold bottle.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth, who was still somewhat subdued, commanded the best supper + procurable on these lines. Mr. Coulson, having waved his hand to a few + acquaintances and chaffed the Spanish dancing girls in their own language,—not + a little to his companion’s astonishment,—at last turned to + business. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” he said, “you and I ought to understand one another. You are over + here from London either to pump me or to rob me. You are either a + detective or a political spy or a secret service agent of some sort, or + you are on a lay of your own. Now, put it in a business form, what can I + do for you? Make your offer, and let’s see where we are.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth began to recover himself. It did not follow, because he had + made one mistake, that he was to lose the game. + </p> + <p> + “I am neither a detective, Mr. Coulson,” he said, “nor a secret service + agent,—in fact, I am nothing of that sort at all. I have a friend, + however, who for certain reasons does not care to approach you himself, + but who is nevertheless very much interested in a particular event, or + rather incident, in which you are concerned.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” Mr. Coulson declared. “Get right on.” + </p> + <p> + “That friend,” Mr. Gaynsforth continued calmly, “is prepared to pay a + thousand pounds for full information and proof as to the nature of those + papers which were stolen from Mr. Hamilton Fynes on the night of March + 22nd.” + </p> + <p> + “A thousand pounds,” Mr. Coulson repeated. “Gee whiz!” + </p> + <p> + “He is also,” the Englishman continued, “prepared to pay another thousand + for a satisfactory explanation of the murder of Mr. Richard Vanderpole on + the following day.” + </p> + <p> + “Say, your friend’s got the stuff!” Mr. Coulson remarked admiringly. + </p> + <p> + “My friend is not a poor man,” Mr. Gaynsforth admitted. “You see, there’s + a sort of feeling abroad that these two things are connected. I am not + working on behalf of the police. I am not working on behalf of any one who + desires the least publicity. But I am working for some one who wants to + know and is prepared to pay.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a very interesting job you’re on, and no mistake,” Mr. Coulson + declared. “I wonder you waste time coming over here on the spree when + you’ve got a piece of business like that to look after.” + </p> + <p> + “I came over here,” Mr. Gaynsforth replied, “entirely on the matter I have + mentioned to you.” + </p> + <p> + “What, over here to Paris?” Mr. Coulson exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Not only to Paris,” the other replied dryly, “but to discover one Mr. + James B. Coulson, whose health I now have the pleasure of drinking.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson drained the glass which the waiter had just filled. + </p> + <p> + “Well, this licks me!” he exclaimed. “How any one in their senses could + believe that there was any connection between me and Hamilton Fynes or + that other young swell, I can’t imagine.” + </p> + <p> + “You knew Hamilton Fynes,” Mr. Gaynsforth remarked. “That fact came out at + the inquest. You appeared to have known him better than most men. Mr. + Vanderpole had just left you when he was murdered,—that also came + out at the inquest.” + </p> + <p> + “Kind of queer, wasn’t it,” Mr. Coulson remarked meditatively, “how I + seemed to get hung up with both of them? You may also remember that at the + inquest Mr. Vanderpole’s business with me was testified to by the chief of + his department.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” Mr. Gaynsforth answered. “However, that’s neither here nor + there. Everything was properly arranged, so far as you were concerned, of + course. That doesn’t alter my friend’s convictions. This is a business + matter with me, and if the two thousand pounds don’t sound attractive + enough, well, the amount must be revised, that’s all. But I want you to + understand this, Mr. Coulson, I represent a man or a syndicate, or call it + what you will.” + </p> + <p> + “Call it a Government,” Mr. Coulson muttered under his breath. + </p> + <p> + “Call it what you will,” Mr. Gaynsforth continued, with an air of not + having heard the interruption, “we have the money and we want the + information. You can give it to us if you like. We don’t ask for too much. + We don’t even ask for the name of the man who committed these crimes. But + we do want to know the nature of those papers, exactly what position Mr. + Hamilton Fynes occupied in the Stamp and Excise Duty department at + Washington, and, finally, what the mischief you are doing over here in + Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you ordered the supper?” Mr. Coulson inquired anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “I have ordered everything you suggested,” Mr. Gaynsforth answered,—“some + oysters, a chicken en casserole, lettuce salad, some cheese, and a magnum + of Pommery.” + </p> + <p> + “It is understood that you are my host?” Mr. Coulson insisted. + </p> + <p> + “Absolutely,” his companion declared. “I consider it an honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” Mr. Coulson said, pointing out his empty glass to the <i>sommelier</i>, + “we may as well understand one another. To you I am Mr. James B. Coulson, + travelling in patents for woollen machinery. If you put a quarter of a + million of francs upon that table, I am still Mr. James B. Coulson, + travelling in woollen machinery. And if you add a million to that, and + pile up the notes so high that they touch the ceiling, I remain Mr. James + B. Coulson, travelling in patents for woollen machinery. Now, if you’ll + get that firmly into your head and stick to it and believe it, there’s no + reason why you and I shouldn’t have a pleasant evening.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gaynsforth, although he was an Englishman and young, showed himself to + be possessed of a sense of humor. He leaned back in his seat and roared + with laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” he said, “I congratulate you and your employers. To the + lower regions with business! Help yourself to the oysters and pass the + wine.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. MR. COULSON IS INDISCREET + </h2> + <p> + On the following morning Mr. Coulson received what he termed his mail from + America. Locked in his room on the fifth floor of the hotel, he carefully + perused the contents of several letters. A little later he rang and + ordered his bill. At four o’clock he left the Gare du Nord for London. + </p> + <p> + Like many other great men, Mr. Coulson was not without his weakness. He + was brave, shrewd, and far-seeing. He enjoyed excellent health, and he + scarcely knew the meaning of the word nerves. Nevertheless he suffered + from seasickness. The first thing he did, therefore, when aboard the boat + at Boulogne, was to bespeak a private cabin. The steward to whom he made + his application shook his head with regret. The last two had just been + engaged. Mr. Coulson tried a tip, and then a larger tip, with equal lack + of success. He was about to abandon the effort and retire gloomily to the + saloon, when a man who had been standing by, wrapped in a heavy fur + overcoat, intervened. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid, sir,” he said, “that it is I who have just secured the last + cabin. If you care to share it with me, however, I shall be delighted. As + a matter of fact, I use it very little myself. The night has turned out so + fine that I shall probably promenade all the time.” + </p> + <p> + “If you will allow me to divide the expense,” Mr. Coulson replied, “I + shall be exceedingly obliged to you, and will accept your offer. I am, + unfortunately, a bad sailor.” + </p> + <p> + “That is as you will, sir,” the gentleman answered. “The amount is only + trifling.” + </p> + <p> + The night was a bright one, but there was a heavy sea running, and even in + the harbor the boat was rocking. Mr. Coulson groaned as he made his way + across the threshold of the cabin. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to have a horrible time,” he said frankly. “I am afraid you’ll + repent your offer before you’ve done with me.” + </p> + <p> + His new friend smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I have never been seasick in my life,” he said, “and I only engage a + cabin for fear of wet weather. A fine night like this I shall not trouble + you, so pray be as ill as you like.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s nothing to laugh at,” Mr. Coulson remarked gloomily. + </p> + <p> + “Let me give you a little advice,” his friend said, “and I can assure you + that I know something of these matters, for I have been on the sea a great + deal. Let me mix you a stiff brandy and soda. Drink it down and eat only a + dry biscuit. I have some brandy of my own here.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing does me any good,” Mr. Coulson groaned. + </p> + <p> + “This,” the stranger remarked, producing a flask from his case and + dividing the liquor into equal parts, “may send you to sleep. If so, + you’ll be across before you wake up. Here’s luck!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson drained his glass. His companion was in the act of raising his + to his lips when the ship gave a roll, his elbow caught the back of a + chair, and the tumbler slipped from his fingers. + </p> + <p> + “It’s of no consequence,” he declared, ringing for the steward. “I’ll go + into the smoking room and get a drink. I was only going to have some to + keep you company. As a matter of fact, I prefer whiskey.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson sat down upon the berth. He seemed indisposed for speech. + </p> + <p> + “I’ll leave you now, then,” his friend said, buttoning his coat around + him. “You lie flat down on your back, and I think you’ll find yourself all + right.” + </p> + <p> + “That brandy,” Mr. Coulson muttered, “was infernally—- strong.” + </p> + <p> + His companion smiled and went out. In a quarter of an hour he returned and + locked the door. They were out in the Channel now, and the boat was + pitching heavily. Mr. James B. Coulson, however, knew nothing of it. He + was sleeping like one who wakes only for the Judgment Day. Over his coat + and waistcoat the other man’s fingers travelled with curious dexterity. + The oilskin case in which Mr. Coulson was in the habit of keeping his + private correspondence was reached in a very few minutes. The stranger + turned out the letters and read them, one by one, until he came to the one + he sought. He held it for a short time in his hand, looked at the address + with a faint smile, and slipped his fingers lightly along the gummed edge + of the envelope. + </p> + <p> + “No seal,” he said softly to himself. “My friend Mr. Coulson plays the + game of travelling agent to perfection.” + </p> + <p> + He glided out of the cabin with the letter in his hand. In about ten + minutes he returned. Mr. Coulson was still sleeping. He replaced the + letter, pressing down the envelope carefully. + </p> + <p> + “My friend,” he whispered, looking down upon Mr. Coulson’s uneasy figure, + “on the whole, I have been perhaps a little premature. I think you had + better deliver this document to its proper destination. If only there was + to have been a written answer, we might have met again! It would have been + most interesting.” + </p> + <p> + He slipped the oilskin case back into the exact position in which he had + found it, and watched his companion for several minutes in silence. Then + he went to his dressing bag and from a phial mixed a little draught. + Lifting the sleeping man’s head, he forced it down his throat. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he said, “I think, Mr. Coulson, that you had better wake up.” + </p> + <p> + He unlocked the door and resumed his promenade of the deck. In the bows he + stood for some time, leaning with folded arms against a pillar, his eyes + fixed upon the line of lights ahead. The great waves now leaped into the + moonlight, the wind sang in the rigging and came booming across the + waters, the salt spray stung his cheeks. High above his head, the slender + mast, with its Marconi attachment, swang and dived, reached out for the + stars, and fell away with a shudder. The man who watched, stood and + dreamed until the voyage was almost over. Then he turned on his heel and + went back to see how his cabin companion was faring. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson was sitting on the edge of his bunk. He had awakened with a + terrible headache and a sense of some hideous indiscretion. It was not + until he had examined every paper in his pocket and all his money that he + had begun to feel more comfortable. And in the meantime he had forgotten + altogether to be seasick. + </p> + <p> + “Well, how has the remedy worked?” the stranger inquired. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson looked him in the face. Then he drew a short breath of relief. + He had been indiscreet, but he had alarmed himself unnecessarily. There + was nothing about the appearance of the quiet, dark little man, with the + amiable eyes and slightly foreign manner, in the least suspicious. + </p> + <p> + “It’s given me a brute of a headache,” he declared, “but I certainly + haven’t been seasick up till now, and I must say I’ve never crossed before + without being ill.” + </p> + <p> + The stranger laughed soothingly. + </p> + <p> + “That brandy and soda would keep you right.” He said. “When we get to + Folkestone, you’ll be wanting a supper basket. Make yourself at home. I + don’t need the cabin. It’s a glorious night outside. I shouldn’t have come + in at all except to see how you were getting on.” + </p> + <p> + “How long before we are in?” Mr. Coulson asked. + </p> + <p> + “About a quarter of an hour,” was the answer. “I’ll come for you, if you + like. Have a few minute’s nap if you feel sleepy.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson got up. + </p> + <p> + “Not I!” he said. “I am going to douse my head in some cold water. That + must have been the strongest brandy and soda that was ever brewed, to send + me off like that.” + </p> + <p> + His friend laughed as he helped him out on to the deck. + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn’t grumble at it, if I were you,” he said carelessly. “It saved + you from a bad crossing.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson washed his face and hands in the smoking room lavatory, and + was so far recovered, even, as to be able to drink a cup of coffee before + they reached the harbor. At Folkestone he looked everywhere for his + friend, but in vain. At Charing Cross he searched once more. The little + dark gentleman, with the distinguished air and the easy, correct speech, + who had mixed his brandy and soda, had disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “And I owe the little beggar for half that cabin,” Mr. Coulson thought + with a sensation of annoyance. “I wonder where he’s hidden himself!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. A MOMENTOUS QUESTION + </h2> + <p> + The Duke paused, in his way across the crowded reception rooms, to speak + to his host, Sir Edward Bransome, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. + </p> + <p> + “I have just written you a line, Bransome,” he said, as they shook hands. + “The chief tells me that he is going to honor us down at Devenham for a + few days, and that we may expect you also.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very kind, Duke,” Bransome answered. “I suppose Haviland + explained the matter to you.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke nodded. + </p> + <p> + “You are going to help me entertain my other distinguished visitor,” he + remarked. “I fancy we shall be quite an interesting party.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome glanced around. + </p> + <p> + “I hope most earnestly,” he said, “that we shall induce our young friend + to be a little more candid with us than he has been. One can’t get a word + out of Hesho, but I’m bound to say that I don’t altogether like the look + of things. The Press are beginning to smell a rat. Two leading articles + this morning, I see, upon our Eastern relations.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke nodded. + </p> + <p> + “I read them,” he said. “We are informed that the prestige and success of + our ministry will entirely depend upon whether or not we are able to + arrange for the renewal of our treaty with Japan. I remember the same + papers shrieking themselves hoarse with indignation when we first joined + hands with our little friends across the sea!” + </p> + <p> + His secretary approached Bransome and touched him on the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “There is a person in the anteroom, sir,” he said, “whom I think that you + ought to see.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke nodded and passed on. The Secretary drew his chief on one side. + </p> + <p> + “This man has just arrived from Paris, sir,” he continued, “and is the + bearer of a letter which he is instructed to deliver into your hands + only.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Is he known to us at all?” he asked. “From whom does the letter come?” + </p> + <p> + The young man hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “The letter itself, sir, has nothing to do with France, I imagine,” he + said. “The person I refer to is an American, and although I have no + positive information, I believe that he is sometimes intrusted with the + carrying of despatches from Washington to his Embassy. Once or twice + lately I have had it reported to me that communications from the other + side to Mr. Harvey have been sent by hand. It seems as though they had + some objection to committing important documents to the post.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome walked through the crowded rooms by the side of his secretary, + stopping for a moment to exchange greetings here and there with his + friends. His wife was giving her third reception of the session to the + diplomatic world. + </p> + <p> + “Washington has certainly shown signs of mistrust lately,” he remarked, + “but if communications from them are ever tampered with, it is more likely + to be on their side than ours. They have a particularly unscrupulous Press + to deal with, besides political intriguers. If this person you speak of is + really the bearer of a letter from there,” he added, “I think we can both + guess what it is about.” + </p> + <p> + The secretary nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I ring up Mr. Haviland, sir?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” Bransome answered. “It is just possible that this person + requires an immediate reply, in which case it may be convenient for me not + to be able to get at the Prime Minister. Bring him along into my private + room, Sidney.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward Bransome made his way to his study, opened the door with a Yale + key, turned on the electric lights, and crossed slowly to the hearthrug. + He stood there, for several moments, with his elbow upon the mantelpiece, + looking down into the fire. A darker shadow had stolen across his face as + soon as he was alone. In his court dress and brilliant array of orders, he + was certainly a very distinguished-looking figure. Yet the last few years + had branded lines into his face which it was doubtful if he would ever + lose. To be Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the greatest power + which the world had as yet known must certainly seem, on paper, to be as + brilliant a post as a man’s ambition could covet. Many years ago it had + seemed so to Bransome himself. It was a post which he had deliberately + coveted, worked for, and strived for. And now, when in sight of the end, + with two years of office only to run, he was appalled at the ever-growing + responsibilities thrust upon his shoulders. There was never, perhaps, a + time when, on paper, things had seemed smoother, when the distant + mutterings of disaster were less audible. It was only those who were + behind the curtain who realized how deceptive appearances were. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes his secretary reappeared, ushering in Mr. James B. + Coulson. Mr. Coulson was still a little pale from the effects of his + crossing, and he wore a long, thick ulster to conceal the deficiencies of + his attire. Nevertheless his usual breeziness of manner had not altogether + deserted him. Sir Edward looked him up and down, and finding him look + exactly as Mr. James B. Coulson of the Coulson & Bruce Syndicate + should look, was inclined to wonder whether his secretary had made a + mistake. + </p> + <p> + “I was told that you wished to see me,” he said. “I am Sir Edward + Bransome.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. James B. Coulson nodded appreciatively. + </p> + <p> + “Very good of you, Sir Edward,” he said, “to put yourself out at this time + of night to have a word or two with me. I am sorry to have troubled you, + anyway, but the matter was sort of urgent.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward bent his head. + </p> + <p> + “I understand, Mr. Coulson,” he said, “that you come from the United + States.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so, sir,” Mr. Coulson replied. “I am at the head of a syndicate, + the Coulson & Bruce Syndicate, which in course of time hope to + revolutionize the machinery used for spinning wool all over the world. + Likewise we have patents for other machinery connected with the + manufacture of all varieties of woollen goods. I am over here on a + business trip, which I have just concluded.” + </p> + <p> + “Satisfactorily, I trust?” Sir Edward remarked. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I’m not grumbling, sir,” Mr. Coulson assented. “Here and there I + may have missed a thing, and the old fashioned way of doing business on + this side bothers me a bit, but on the whole I’m not grumbling.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome bowed. Perhaps, after all, the man was not a fool! + </p> + <p> + “I have a good many friends round about Washington,” Mr. Coulson + continued, “and sometimes, when they know I am coming across, one or the + other of them finds it convenient to hand me a letter. It isn’t the + postage stamp that worries them,” he added with a little laugh, “but they + sort of feel that anything committed to me is fairly safe to reach its + right destination.” + </p> + <p> + “Without disputing that fact for one moment, Mr. Coulson,” Sir Edward + remarked, “I might also suggest that the ordinary mail service between our + countries has reached a marvellous degree of perfection.” + </p> + <p> + “The Post Office,” Mr. Coulson continued meditatively, “is a great + institution, both on your side and ours, but a letter posted in Washington + has to go through a good many hands before it is delivered in London.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward smiled. + </p> + <p> + “It is a fact, sir,” he said, “which the various Governments of Europe + have realized for many years, in connection with the exchange of + communications one with the other. Your own great country, as it grows and + expands, becomes, of necessity, more in touch with our methods. Did I + understand that you have a letter for me, Mr. Coulson?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson produced it. + </p> + <p> + “Friend of mine you may have heard of,” he said, “asked me to leave this + with you. I am catching the Princess Cecilia from Southampton tomorrow. I + thought, perhaps, if I waited an hour or so, I might take the answer back + with me.” + </p> + <p> + “It is getting late, Mr. Coulson,” Sir Edward reminded him, glancing at + the clock. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I think, Sir Edward,” he said, “that in your line of business time counts + for little.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward motioned his visitor to a chair and touched the bell. + </p> + <p> + “I shall require the A3X cipher, Sidney,” he said to his secretary. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson looked up. + </p> + <p> + “Why,” he said, “I don’t think you’ll need that. The letter you’ve got in + your hand is just a personal one, and what my friend has to say to you is + written out there in black and white.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward withdrew the enclosure from its envelope and raised his + eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “Isn’t this a trifle indiscreet?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I should say not,” Mr. Coulson answered. “My friend—Mr. Jones + we’ll call him—knew me and, I presume, knew what he was about. + Besides, that is a plain letter from the head of a business firm to—shall + we say a client? There’s nothing in it to conceal.” + </p> + <p> + “At the same time,” Sir Edward remarked, “it might have been as well to + have fastened the flap of the envelope.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Let me look,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward gave it into his hands. Mr. Coulson held it under the electric + light. There was no indication in his face of any surprise or disturbance. + </p> + <p> + “Bit short of gum in our stationery office,” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward was looking at him steadily. + </p> + <p> + “My impressions were,” he said, “when I opened this letter, that I was not + the first person who had done so. The envelope flew apart in my fingers.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “The document has never been out of my possession, sir,” he said. “It has + not even left my person. My friend Mr. Jones does not believe in too much + secrecy in matters of this sort. I have had a good deal of experience now + and am inclined to agree with him. A letter in a double-ended envelope, + stuck all over with sealing wax, is pretty certain to be opened in case of + any accident to the bearer. This one, as you may not have noticed, is + written in the same handwriting and addressed in the same manner as the + remainder of my letters of introduction to various London and Paris houses + of business.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward said no more. He read the few lines written on a single sheet + of notepaper, starting a little at the signature. Then he read them again + and placed the document beneath a paper weight in front of him. When he + leaned across the table, his folded arms formed a semicircle around it. + </p> + <p> + “This letter, Mr. Coulson,” he said, “is not an official communication.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not,” Mr. Coulson admitted. “I fancy it occurred to my friend Jones + that anything official would be hardly in place and might be easier to + evade. The matter has already cropped up in negotiations between Mr. + Harvey and your Cabinet, but so far we are without any definite + pronouncement,—at least, that is how my friend Mr. Jones looks at + it.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward smiled. + </p> + <p> + “The only answer your friend asks for is a verbal one,” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “A verbal one,” Mr. Coulson assented, “delivered to me in the presence of + one other person, whose name you will find mentioned in that letter.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward bowed his head. When he spoke again, his manner had somehow + changed. It had become at once more official,—a trifle more stilted. + </p> + <p> + “This is a great subject, Mr. Coulson,” he said. “It is a subject which + has occupied the attention of His Majesty’s Ministers for many months. I + shall take the opinion of the other person whose name is mentioned in this + letter, as to whether we can grant Mr. Jones’ request. If we should do so, + it will not, I am sure, be necessary to say to you that any communication + we may make on the subject tonight will be from men to a man of honor, and + must be accepted as such. It will be our honest and sincere conviction, + but it must also be understood that it does not bind the Government of + this country to any course of action.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson smiled and nodded his head. + </p> + <p> + “That is what I call diplomacy, Sir Edward,” he remarked. “I always tell + our people that they are too bullheaded. They don’t use enough words. What + about that other friend of yours?” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward glanced at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “It is possible,” he said, “that by this time Mr.——- Mr. + Smith, shall we call him, to match your Mr. Jones?—is attending my + wife’s reception, from which your message called me. If he has not yet + arrived, my secretary shall telephone for him.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson indicated his approval. + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me,” he remarked, “that I have struck a fortunate evening for my + visit.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward touched the bell and his secretary appeared. + </p> + <p> + “Sidney,” he said, “I want you to find the gentleman whose name I am + writing upon this piece of paper. If he is not in the reception rooms and + has not arrived, telephone for him. Say that I shall be glad if he would + come this way at once. He will understand that it is a matter of some + importance.” + </p> + <p> + The secretary bowed and withdrew, after a glance at the piece of paper + which he held in his hand. Sir Edward turned toward his visitor. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” he said, “will you allow me the privilege of offering you + some refreshment?” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, sir,” Mr. Coulson answered. “I am in want of nothing but a + smoke.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward turned to the bell, but his visitor promptly stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “If you will allow me, sir,” he said, “I will smoke one of my own. + Home-made article, five dollars a hundred, but I can’t stand these strong + Havanas. Try one.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward waved them away. + </p> + <p> + “If you will excuse me,” he said, “I will smoke a cigarette. Since you are + here, Mr. Coulson, I may say that I am very glad to meet you. I am very + glad, also, of this opportunity for a few minutes’ conversation upon + another matter.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson showed some signs of surprise. + </p> + <p> + “How’s that?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “There is another subject,” Sir Edward said, “which I should like to + discuss with you while we are waiting for Mr. Smith.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. THE ANSWER + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Coulson moved his cigar into a corner of his mouth, as though to + obtain a clear view of his questioner’s face. His expression was one of + bland interest. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I guess you’ve got me puzzled, Sir Edward,” he said. “You aren’t + thinking of doing anything in woollen machinery, are you?” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I think not, Mr. Coulson,” he answered. “At any rate, my question had + nothing to do with your other very interesting avocation. What I wanted to + ask you was whether you could tell me anything about a compatriot of yours—a + Mr. Hamilton Fynes?” + </p> + <p> + “Hamilton Fynes!” Mr. Coulson repeated thoughtfully. “Why, that’s the man + who got murdered on the cars, going from Liverpool to London.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so,” Sir Edward admitted. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I told that reporter fellow all I knew about him,” he said. “He was an + unsociable sort of chap, you know, Sir Edward, and he wasn’t in any line + of business.” + </p> + <p> + “H’m! I thought he might have been,” the Minister answered, glancing + keenly for a moment at his visitor. “To tell you the truth, Mr. Coulson, + we have been a great deal bothered about that unfortunate incident, and by + the subsequent murder of the young man who was attached to your Embassy + here. Scotland Yard has strained every nerve to bring the guilty people to + justice, but so far unsuccessfully. It seems to me that your friends on + the other side scarcely seem to give us credit for our exertions. They do + not help us in the least. They assure us that they had no knowledge of Mr. + Fynes other than has appeared in the papers. They recognize him only as an + American citizen going about his legitimate business. A little more + confidence on their part would, I think, render our task easier.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson scratched his chin for a moment thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “I can understand their feeling a bit sore about it. I’m + not exactly given to brag when I’m away from my own country—one + hears too much of that all the time—but between you and me, I + shouldn’t say that it was possible for two crimes like that to be + committed in New York City and for the murderer to get off scot free in + either case.” + </p> + <p> + “The matter,” Sir Edward declared, “has given us a great deal of anxiety, + and I can assure you that the Home Secretary himself has taken a strong + personal interest in it, but at the same time, as I have just pointed out + to you, our investigations are rendered the more difficult from the fact + that we cannot learn anything definite concerning this Mr. Hamilton Fynes + or his visit to this country. Now, if we knew, for instance,” Sir Edward + continued, “that he was carrying documents, or even a letter, similar to + the one you have just handed to me, we might at once discover a motive to + the crime, and work backwards until we reached the perpetrator.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson knocked the ash from his cigar. + </p> + <p> + “I see what you are driving at,” he said. “I am sorry I can be of no + assistance to you, Sir Edward.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither in the case of Mr. Hamilton Fynes or in the case of Mr. Richard + Vanderpole?” Sir Edward asked. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Quite out of my line,” he declared. + </p> + <p> + “Notwithstanding the fact,” Sir Edward reminded him quietly, “that you + were probably the last person to see Vanderpole alive? He came to the + Savoy to call upon you before he got into the taxicab where he was + murdered. That is so, isn’t it?” + </p> + <p> + “Sure!” Mr. Coulson answered. “A nice young fellow he was, too. Well set + up, and real American manners,—Hail, fellow, well met!’ with you + right away.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose, Mr. Coulson,” the Minister suggested smoothly, “it wouldn’t + answer your purpose to put aside that bluff about patents for the + development of the woollen trade for a few moments, and tell me exactly + what passed between you and Mr. Vanderpole at the Savoy Hotel, and the + object of his calling upon you? Whether, for instance, he took away with + him documents or papers intended for the Embassy and which you yourself + had brought from America?” + </p> + <p> + “You do think of things!” Mr. Coulson remarked admiringly. “You’re on the + wrong track this time, though, sure. Still, supposing I were able to tell + you that Mr. Vanderpole was carrying papers of importance to my country, + and that Mr. Hamilton Fynes was also in possession of the same class of + document, how would it help you? In what fresh direction should you look + then for the murderers of these two men?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” Sir Edward said, “we should consider the nature of those + documents, and we should see to whose advantage it was that they were + suppressed.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson’s face seemed suddenly old and lined. He spoke with a new + vigor, and his eyes were very keen and bright under his bushy eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “And supposing it was your country’s?” he asked. “Supposing they contained + instructions to our Ambassador which you might consider inimical to your + interests? Do you mean that you would look at home for the murderer? You + mean that you have men so devoted to their native land that they were + willing to run the risk of death by the hangman to aid her? You mean that + your Secret Service is perfected to that extent, and that the scales of + justice are held blindfolded? Or do you mean that Scotland Yard would have + its orders, and that these men would go free?” + </p> + <p> + “I was not thinking of my own country,” Sir Edward admitted. “I must + confess that my thoughts had turned elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me tell you this, sir,” Mr. Coulson continued. “I should imagine that + the trouble with Washington, if there is any, is simply that they will not + believe that your police have a free hand. They will not believe that you + are honestly and genuinely anxious for the discovery of the perpetrator of + these crimes. I speak without authority, you understand? I am no more in a + position to discuss this affair than any other tourist from my country who + might happen to come along.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Can you suggest any method,” he asked a little dryly, “by means of which + we might remove this unfortunate impression?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson flicked the ash once more from the end of his cigar and looked + at it thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “This isn’t my show,” he said, “and, you understand, I am giving the views + of Mr. James B. Coulson, and nobody but Mr. James B. Coulson, but if I + were in your position, and knew that a friendly country was feeling a + little bit sore at having two of her citizens disposed of so + unceremoniously, I’d do my best to prove, by the only possible means, that + I was taking the matter seriously.” + </p> + <p> + “The only possible means being?” Sir Edward asked. + </p> + <p> + “I guess I’d offer a reward,” Mr. Coulson admitted. + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward did not hesitate for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “Your idea is an excellent one, Mr. Coulson,” he said. “It has already + been mooted, but we will give it a little emphasis. Tomorrow we will offer + a reward of one thousand pounds for any information leading to the + apprehension of either murderer.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds bully,” Mr. Coulson declared. + </p> + <p> + “You think that it will have a good effect upon your friends in + Washington?” + </p> + <p> + “Me?” Mr. Coulson asked. “I know nothing about it. I’ve given you my + personal opinion only. Seems to me, though, it’s the best way of showing + that you’re in earnest.” + </p> + <p> + “Before we quit this subject finally, Mr. Coulson,” Sir Edward said, “I am + going to ask you a question which you have been asked before.” + </p> + <p> + “Referring to Hamilton Fynes?” Mr. Coulson asked. + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Get your young man to lay his hand on that copy of the Comet,” Mr. + Coulson begged earnestly. “I told that pushing young journalist all I knew + and a bit more. I assure you, my information isn’t worth anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it meant to be worth anything?” Sir Edward asked. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson remained imperturbable. + </p> + <p> + “If you don’t mind, Sir Edward,” he said, “I guess we’ll drop the subject + of Mr. Hamilton Fynes. We can’t get any forwarder. Let it go at that.” + </p> + <p> + There was a knock at the door. Sir Edward’s secretary ushered in a tall, + plainly dressed gentleman, who had the slightly aggrieved air of a man who + has been kept out of his bed beyond the usual time. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Bransome,” he said, shaking hands, “isn’t this a little + unreasonable of you? Business at this hour of the night! I was in the + midst of a most amusing conversation with a delightful acquaintance of + your wife’s, a young lady who turned up her nose at Hegel and had + developed a philosophy of her own. I was just beginning to grasp its first + principles. Nothing else, I am quite sure, would have kept me awake.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward leaned across the table towards Mr. Coulson. Mr. Coulson had + risen to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “This gentleman,” he said, “is Mr. Smith.” + </p> + <p> + The newcomer opened his lips to protest, but Sir Edward held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + “One moment,” he begged. “Our friend here—Mr. J. B. Coulson from New + York—has brought a letter from America. He is sailing tomorrow,—leaving + London somewhere about eight o’clock in the morning, I imagine. He wishes + to take back a verbal reply. The letter, you will understand, comes from a + Mr. Jones, and the reply is delivered in the presence of—Mr. Smith. + Our friend here is not personally concerned in these affairs. As a matter + of fact, I believe he has been on the Continent exploiting some patents of + his own invention.” + </p> + <p> + The newcomer accepted the burden of his altered nomenclature and took up + the letter. He glanced at the signature, and his manner became at once + more interested. He accepted the chair which Sir Edward had placed by his + side, and, drawing the electric light a little nearer, read the document + through, word by word. Then he folded it up, and glanced first at his + colleague and afterwards at Mr. Coulson. + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” he said, “that this is a private inquiry from a private + gentleman, who is entitled, however, to as much courtesy as it is possible + for us to show him.” + </p> + <p> + “That is exactly the position, sir,” Mr. Coulson replied. “Negotiations of + a more formal character are naturally conducted between your Foreign + Office and the Foreign Office of my country. These few lines come from man + to man. I think that it occurred to my friend that it might save a great + deal of trouble, a great deal of specious diplomacy, and a great many + hundred pages of labored despatches, if, at the bottom of it all, he knew + your true feelings concerning this question. It is, after all, a simple + matter,” Mr. Coulson continued, “and yet it is a matter with so many + ramifications that after much discussion it might become a veritable + chaos.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Smith inclined his head gently. + </p> + <p> + “I appreciate the situation,” he said. “My friend here—Sir Edward + Bransome—and I have already discussed the matter at great length. We + have also had the benefit of the advice and help of a greater Foreign + Minister than either of us could ever hope to become. I see no objection + to giving you the verbal reply you ask for. Do you, Bransome?” + </p> + <p> + “None whatever, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I leave it to you to put it in your own words,” Mr. Smith continued. “The + affair is within your province, and the policy of His Majesty’s Ministers + is absolutely fixed.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward turned toward their visitor. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” he said, “we are asked by your friend, in a few plain + words, what the attitude of Great Britain would be in the event of a war + between Japan and America. My answer—our answer—to you is + this,—no war between Japan and America is likely to take place + unless your Cabinet should go to unreasonable and uncalled-for extremes. + We have ascertained, beyond any measure of doubt, the sincere feeling of + our ally in this matter. Japan does not desire war, is not preparing for + it, is unwilling even to entertain the possibility of it. At the same time + she feels that her sons should receive the same consideration from every + nation in the world as the sons of other people. Personally it is our + profound conviction that the good sense, the fairness, and the generous + instincts of your great country will recognize this and act accordingly. + War between your country and Japan is an impossible thing. The thought of + it exists only in the frothy vaporings of cheap newspapers, and the + sensational utterances of the catch politician who must find an audience + and a hearing by any methods. The sober possibility of such a conflict + does not exist.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson listened attentively to every word. When Sir Edward had + finished, he withdrew his cigar from his mouth and knocked the ash on to a + corner of the writing table. + </p> + <p> + “That’s all very interesting indeed, Sir Edward,” he declared. “I am very + pleased to have heard what you have said, and I shall repeat it to my + friend on the other side, who, I am sure, will be exceedingly obliged to + you for such a frank exposition of your views. And now,” he continued, “I + don’t want to keep you gentlemen up too late, so perhaps you will be + coming to the answer of my question.” + </p> + <p> + “The answer!” Sir Edward exclaimed. “Surely I made myself clear?” + </p> + <p> + “All that you have said,” Mr. Coulson admitted, “has been remarkably + clear, but the question I asked you was this,—what is to be the + position of your country in the event of war between Japan and America?” + </p> + <p> + “And I have told you,” Sir Edward declared, “that war between Japan and + America is not a subject within the scope of practical politics.” + </p> + <p> + “We may consider ourselves—my friend Mr. Jones would certainly + consider himself,” Mr. Coulson affirmed,—“as good a judge as you, + Sir Edward, so far as regards that matter. I am not asking you whether it + is probable or improbable. You may know the feelings of your ally. You do + not know ours. We may look into the future, and we may see that, sooner or + later, war between our country and Japan is a necessity. We may decide + that it is better for us to fight now than later. These things are in the + clouds. They only enter into the present discussion to this extent, but it + is not for you to sit here and say whether war between the United States + and Japan is possible or impossible. What Mr. Jones asks you is—what + would be your position if it should take place? The little diatribe with + which you have just favored me is exactly the reply we should have + expected to receive formally from Downing Street. It isn’t that sort of + reply I want to take back to Mr. Jones.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Smith and his colleague exchanged glances, and the latter drew his + chief on one side. + </p> + <p> + “You will excuse me for a moment, I know, Mr. Coulson,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Why, by all means,” Mr. Coulson declared. “My time is my own, and it is + entirely at your service. If you say the word, I’ll go outside and wait.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not necessary,” Sir Edward answered. + </p> + <p> + The room was a large one, and the two men walked slowly up and down, Mr. + Smith leaning all the time upon his colleague’s shoulder. They spoke in an + undertone, and what they said was inaudible to Mr. Coulson. During his + period of waiting he drew another cigar from his pocket, and lit it from + the stump of the old one. Then he made himself a little more comfortable + in his chair, and looked around at the walls of the handsomely furnished + but rather sombre apartment with an air of pleased curiosity. It was + scarcely, perhaps, what he should have expected from a man in a similar + position in his own country, but it was, at any rate, impressive. + Presently they came back to him. This time it was Mr. Smith who spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Coulson,” he said, “we need not beat about the bush. You ask us a + plain question and you want a plain answer. Then I must tell you this. The + matter is not one concerning which I can give you any definite + information. I appreciate the position of your friend Mr. Jones, and I + should like to have met him in the same spirit as he has shown in his + inquiry, but I may tell you that, being utterly convinced that Japan does + not seek war with you, and that therefore no war is likely, my Government + is not prepared to answer a question which they consider based upon an + impossibility. If this war should come, the position of our country would + depend entirely upon the rights of the dispute. As a corollary to that, I + would mention two things. You read your newspapers, Mr. Coulson?” + </p> + <p> + “Sure!” that gentleman answered. + </p> + <p> + “You are aware, then,” Mr. Smith continued, “of the present position of + your fleet. You know how many months must pass before it can reach Eastern + waters. It is not within the traditions of this country to evade + fulfillment of its obligations, however severe and unnatural they may + seem, but in three months’ time, Mr. Coulson, our treaty with Japan will + have expired.” + </p> + <p> + “You are seeking to renew it!” Mr. Coulson declared quickly. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Smith raised his eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “The renewal of that treaty,” he said, “is on the knees of the gods. One + cannot tell. I go so far only as to tell you that in three months the + present treaty will have expired.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coulson rose slowly to his feet and took up his hat. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen both,” he said, “that’s what I call plain speaking. I suppose + it’s up to us to read between the lines. I can assure you that my friend + Mr. Jones will appreciate it. It isn’t my place to say a word outside the + letter which I have handed to you. I am a plain business man, and these + things don’t come in my way. That is why I feel I can criticize,—I + am unprejudiced. You are Britishers, and you’ve got one eternal fault. You + seem to think the whole world must see a matter as you see it. If Japan + has convinced you that she doesn’t seek a war with us, it doesn’t follow + that she’s convinced us. As to the rights of our dispute, don’t rely so + much upon hearing one side only. Don’t be dogmatic about it, and say this + thing is and that thing isn’t. You may bet your last dollar that America + isn’t going to war about trifles. We are the same flesh and blood, you + know. We have the same traditions to uphold. What we do is what we should + expect you to do if you were in our place. That’s all, gentlemen. Now I + wish you both good night! Mr. Smith, I am proud to shake hands with you. + Sir Edward, I say the same to you.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome touched the bell and summoned his secretary. + </p> + <p> + “Sidney, will you see this gentleman out?” he said. “You are quite sure + there is nothing further we can do for you, Mr. Coulson?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing at all, I thank you, sir,” that gentleman answered. “I have only + got to thank you once more for the pleasure of this brief interview. Good + night!” + </p> + <p> + “Good night, and bon voyage!” Sir Edward answered. + </p> + <p> + The door was closed. The two men looked at one another for a moment. Mr. + Smith shrugged his shoulders and helped himself to a cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” he remarked thoughtfully, “how our friends in Japan convinced + themselves so thoroughly that Mr. Jones was only playing ships!” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “It makes one wonder,” he said. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. A CLUE + </h2> + <p> + By midday on the following morning London was placarded with notices, the + heading of which was sensational enough to attract observation from every + passer-by, young or old, rich or poor. One thousand pounds’ reward for the + apprehension of the murderer of either Hamilton Fynes or Richard + Vanderpole! Inspector Jacks, who was amongst the first to hear the news, + after a brief interview with his chief put on his hat and walked round to + the Home Office. He sought out one of the underlings with whom he had some + acquaintance, and whom he found ready enough, even eager, to discuss the + matter. + </p> + <p> + “There wasn’t a word about any reward,” Inspector Jacks was told, “until + this morning. We had a telephone message from the chief’s bedroom and + phoned you up at once. It’s a pretty stiff amount, isn’t it?” + </p> + <p> + “It is,” the Inspector admitted. “Our chief seems to be taking quite a + personal interest in the matter all at once.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll lay two to one that some one was on to him at Sir Edward Bransome’s + reception last night,” the other remarked. “I know very well that there + was no idea of offering a reward yesterday afternoon. We might have come + out with a hundred pounds or so, a little later on, perhaps, but there was + nothing of this sort in the air. I’ve no desire to seem censorious, you + know, Jacks,” the young man went on, leaning back in his chair and + lighting a cigarette, “but it does seem a dashed queer thing that you + can’t put your finger upon either of these fellows.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks nodded gloomily. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt it seems so to you,” he admitted. “You forget that we have to + have a reasonable amount of proof before we can tap a man on the shoulder + and ask him to come with us. It isn’t so abroad or in America. There they + can hand a man up with less than half the evidence we have to be prepared + with, and, of course, they get the reputation of being smarter on the job. + We may learn enough to satisfy ourselves easily, but to get up a case + which we can put before a magistrate and be sure of not losing our man, + takes time.” + </p> + <p> + “So you’ve got your eye on some one?” The young man asked curiously. + </p> + <p> + “I did not say so,” the Inspector answered warily. “By the bye, do you + think there would be any chance of five minutes’ interview with your + chief?” + </p> + <p> + The young man shook his head slowly. + </p> + <p> + “What a cheek you’ve got, Jacks!” he declared. “You’re not serious, are + you?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly,” Inspector Jacks answered. “And to tell you the truth, my + young friend, I am half inclined to think that when he is given to + understand, as he will be by you, if he doesn’t know it already, that I am + in charge of the investigations concerning these two murders, he will see + me.” + </p> + <p> + The young man was disposed to consider the point. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he remarked, “the chief does seem plaguy interested, all of a + sudden. I’ll pass your name in. If you take a seat, it’s just possible + that he may spare you a minute or two in about an hour’s time. He won’t be + able to before then, I’m sure. There’s a deputation almost due, and two + other appointments before luncheon time.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector accepted a newspaper and an easy chair. His young friend + disappeared and returned almost immediately, looking a little surprised. + </p> + <p> + “I’ve managed it for you,” he explained. “The chief is going to spare you + five minutes at once. Come along and I’ll show you in.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks took up his hat and followed his acquaintance to the + private room of the Home Secretary. That personage nodded to him upon his + entrance and continued to dictate a letter. When he had finished, he sent + his clerk out of the room and, motioning Mr. Jacks to take a seat by his + side, leaned back in his own chair with the air of one prepared to relax + for a moment. He was a man of somewhat insignificant presence, but he had + keen gray eyes, half the time concealed under thick eyebrows, and flashing + out upon you now and then at least expected moments. + </p> + <p> + “From Scotland Yard, I understand, Mr. Jacks?” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “At your service, sir,” the Inspector answered. “I am in charge of the + investigations concerning these two recent murders.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so,” the Home Secretary remarked. “I am very glad to meet you, Mr. + Jacks. So far, I suppose, you are willing to admit that you gentlemen down + at Scotland Yard have not exactly distinguished yourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “We are willing to admit that,” Inspector Jacks said. + </p> + <p> + “I do not know whether the reward will help you very much,” the Home + Secretary continued. “So far as you people personally are concerned, I + imagine that it will make no difference. The only point seems to be that + it may bring you outside help which at the present time is being + withheld.” + </p> + <p> + “The offering of the reward, sir,” Inspector Jacks said, “can do no harm, + and it may possibly assist us very materially.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to have your opinion, Mr. Jacks,” the Home Secretary said. + </p> + <p> + There was a moment’s pause. The Minister trifled with some papers lying on + the desk before him. Then he turned to his visitor and continued,— + </p> + <p> + “You will forgive my reminding you, Mr. Jacks, that I am a busy man and + that this is a busy morning. You had some reason, I presume, for wishing + to see me?” + </p> + <p> + “I had, sir,” the Inspector answered. “I took the liberty of waiting upon + you, sir, to ask whether the idea of a reward for so large a sum came + spontaneously from your department?” + </p> + <p> + The Home Secretary raised his eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “Really, Mr. Jacks,” he began,— + </p> + <p> + “I hope, sir,” the Inspector protested, “that you will not think I am + asking this question through any irrelevant curiosity. I am beginning to + form a theory of my own as to these two murders, but it needs building up. + The offering of a reward like this, if it emanates from the source which I + suspect that it does, gives a solid foundation to my theories. I am here, + sir, in the interests of justice only, and I should be exceedingly obliged + to you if you would tell me whether the suggestion of this large reward + did not come from the Foreign Office?” + </p> + <p> + The Minister considered for several moments, and then slowly inclined his + head. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jacks,” he said, “your question appears to me to be a pertinent one. + I see not the slightest reason to conceal from you the fact that your + surmise is perfectly accurate.” + </p> + <p> + A flash of satisfaction illuminated for a moment the detective’s + inexpressive features. He rose and took up his hat. + </p> + <p> + “I am very much obliged to you, sir,” he said. “The information which you + have given me is extremely valuable.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear you say so,” the Home Secretary declared. “You + understand, of course, that it is within the province of my department to + assist at all times and in any possible way the course of justice. Is + there anything more I can do for you?” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “If you would not think it a liberty, sir,” he said, “I should be very + glad indeed if you would give me a note which would insure me an interview + with Sir Edward Bransome.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give it you with pleasure,” the Secretary answered, “although I + imagine that he would be quite willing to see you on your own request.” + </p> + <p> + He wrote a few lines and passed them over. Inspector Jacks saluted, and + turned towards the door. + </p> + <p> + “You’ll let me know if anything turns up?” the Home Secretary said. + </p> + <p> + “You shall be informed at once, sir,” the Inspector assured him, a as he + left the room. + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward Bransome was just leaving his house when Inspector Jacks + entered the gate. The latter, who knew him by sight, saluted and hesitated + for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “Did you wish to speak to me?” Sir Edward asked, drawing back from the + step of his electric brougham. + </p> + <p> + The Inspector held out his letter. Sir Edward tore it open and glanced + through the few lines which it contained. Then he looked keenly for a + moment at the man who stood respectfully by his side. + </p> + <p> + “So you are Inspector Jacks from Scotland Yard,” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “At your service, sir,” the detective answered. + </p> + <p> + “You can get in with me, if you like,” Sir Edward continued, motioning + toward the interior of his brougham. “I am due in Downing Street now, but + I dare say you could say what you wish to on the way there.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, sir,” Inspector Jacks answered. “It will be very good of you + indeed if you can spare me those few minutes.” + </p> + <p> + The brougham glided away. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mr. Jacks,” Sir Edward said, “what can I do for you? If you want to + arrest me, I shall claim privilege.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I am in charge, sir,” he said, “of the investigations concerning the + murder of Mr. Hamilton Fynes and Mr. Richard Vanderpole. The news of the + reward came to us at Scotland Yard this morning. Its unusual amount led me + to make some injuries at the Home Office. I found that what I partly + expected was true. I found, sir, that your department has shown some + interest in the apprehension of these two men.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward inclined his head slowly. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Edward Bransome,” the Inspector continued, “I have a theory of my own + as to these murders, and though it may take me some time to work it out, I + feel myself day by day growing nearer the truth. These were not ordinary + crimes. Any one can see that. They were not even crimes for the purpose of + robbery—not, that is to say, for robbery in the ordinary sense of + the word. That is apparent even to those who write for the Press. It has + been apparent to us from the first. It is beginning to dawn upon me now + what the nature of the motive must be which was responsible for them. I + have in my possession a slight, a very slight clue. The beginning of it is + there, and the end. It is the way between which is tangled.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward lit a cigarette and leaned back amongst the cushions. With a + little gesture he indicated his desire that Inspector Jacks should + proceed. + </p> + <p> + “My object in seeking for a personal interview with you, sir,” Inspector + Jacks continued, “is to ask you a somewhat peculiar question. If I find + that my investigations lead me in the direction which at present seems + probable, it is no ordinary person whom I shall have to arrest when the + time comes. The reward which has been offered is a large one, and it is + not for me to question the bona fide nature of it. I would not presume, + sir, even to ask you whether it was offered by reason of any outside + pressure, but there is one question which I must ask. Do you really wish, + sir, that the murderer or murderers of these two men shall be brought to + justice?” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward looked at his companion in steadfast amazement. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Inspector,” he said, “what is this that you have in your mind? I + hold no brief for any man capable of such crimes as these. Representations + have been made to us by the American Government that the murder of two of + her citizens within the course of twenty-four hours, and the absence of + any arrest, is somewhat of a reflection upon our police service. It is for + your assistance, and in compliment to our friends across the Atlantic, + that the reward was offered.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks seemed a little at a loss. + </p> + <p> + “It is your wish, then, sir,” he said slowly, “that the guilty person or + persons be arrested without warning, whoever they may be?” + </p> + <p> + “By all means,” Sir Edward affirmed. “I cannot conceive, Inspector, what + you have in your mind which could have led you for a moment to suspect the + contrary.” + </p> + <p> + The brougham had come to a standstill in front of a house in Downing + Street. Inspector Jacks descended slowly. It was hard for him to decide on + the spot how far to take into his confidence a person whose attitude was + so unsympathetic. + </p> + <p> + “I am exceedingly obliged to you for your answer to my question, sir,” he + said, saluting. “I hope that in a few days we shall have some news for + you.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Edward watched him disappear as he mounted the steps of the Prime + Minister’s house. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” he said to himself thoughtfully, “what that fellow can have in + his mind!” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks did not at once return to Scotland Yard. On his way there + he turned into St. James’ Square, and stood for several moments looking at + the corner house on the far side. Finally, after a hesitation which seldom + characterized his movements, he crossed the road and rang the bell. The + door was opened almost at once by a Japanese butler. + </p> + <p> + “Is your master at home?” the Inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + “His Highness does not see strangers,” the man replied coldly. + </p> + <p> + “Will you take him my card?” the Inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + The man bowed, and showed him into an apartment on the ground floor. Then + with the card in his hand, he turned reluctantly away. + </p> + <p> + “His Highness shall be informed that you are here,” he said. “I fear, + however, that you waste your time. I go to see.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks subsided into a bamboo chair and looked out of the window + with a frown upon his forehead. It was certain that he was not proceeding + with altogether his usual caution. As a matter of tactics, this visit of + his might very well be fatal! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. A BREATH FROM THE EAST + </h2> + <p> + Inspector Jacks was a man who had succeeded in his profession chiefly on + account of an average amount of natural astuteness, and also because he + was one of those favored persons whose nervous system was a whole and + perfect thing. Yet, curiously enough, as he sat in this large, gloomy + apartment into which he had been shown, a room filled with art treasures + whose appearance and significance were entirely strange to him, he felt a + certain uneasiness which he was absolutely unable to understand. He was + somewhat instinctive in his likes and dislikes, and from the first he most + heartily disliked the room itself,—its vague perfumes, its subdued + violet coloring, the faces of the grinning idols, which seemed to meet his + gaze in every direction, the pictures of those fierce-looking warriors who + brandished two-edged swords at him from the walls. They belonged to the + period when Japanese art was perhaps in its crudest state, and yet in this + uncertain atmosphere they seemed to possess an extraordinary vitality, as + though indeed they were prepared at a moment’s notice to leap from their + frames and annihilate this mysterious product of modern days, who in black + clothes and silk hat, unarmed and without physical strength, yet wielded + the powers of life and death as surely as they in their time had done. + </p> + <p> + The detective rose from his seat and walked around the room. He made a + show of examining the arms against the walls, the brocaded hangings with + their wonderful design of faded gold, the ivory statuettes, the black god + who sat on his haunches and into whose face seemed carved some dumb but + eternal power. Movement was in some respects a solace, but the sound of a + hansom bell tinkling outside was a much greater relief. He crossed to the + windows and looked out over the somewhat silent square. A hurdy-gurdy was + playing in the corner opposite the club, just visible from where he stood. + The members were passing in and out. The commissionaire stood stolidly in + his place, raising every now and then his cab whistle to his lips. A + flickering sunlight fell upon the wind-shaken lilac trees in the square + enclosure. Inspector Jacks found himself wishing that the perfume of those + lilacs might reach even to where he stood, and help him to forget for a + moment that subtler and to him curiously unpleasant odor which all the + time became more and more apparent. So overpowering did he feel it that he + tried even to open the window, but found it an impossible task. The + atmosphere seemed to him to be becoming absolutely stifling. + </p> + <p> + He turned around and walked uneasily toward the door. He decided then that + this was some sort of gruesome nightmare with which he was afflicted. He + was quite certain that in a few minutes he would wake in his little iron + bedstead with the sweat upon his forehead and a reproachful consciousness + of having eaten an indiscreet supper. It could not possibly be a happening + in real life! It could not be true that his knees were sinking beneath the + weight of his body, that the clanging of iron hammers was really smiting + the drums of his ears, that the purple of the room was growing red, and + that his veins were strained to bursting! He threw out his arms in a + momentary instinct of fiercely struggling consciousness. The idols on the + walls jeered at him. Those strangely clad warriors seemed to him now to be + looking down upon his discomfiture with a satanic smile, mocking the pygmy + who had dared to raise his hand against one so jealously guarded. Clang + once more went the blacksmith’s hammers, and then chaos!... + </p> + <p> + The end of the nightmare was not altogether according to Inspector Jacks’ + expectations. He found himself in a small back room, stretched upon a sofa + before the open French-windows, through which came a pleasant vision of + waving green trees and a pleasanter stream of fresh air. His first + instinct was to sniff, and a sense of relief crept through him when he + realized that this room, at any rate, was free from abnormal odors. He sat + up on the couch. A pale-faced Japanese servant stood by his side with a + glass in his hand. A few feet away, the man whom he had come to visit was + looking down upon him with an expression of grave concern in his kindly + face. + </p> + <p> + “You are better, I trust, sir?” Prince Maiyo said. + </p> + <p> + “I am better,” Inspector Jacks muttered. “I don’t know—I can’t + imagine what happened to me.” + </p> + <p> + “You were not feeling quite well, perhaps, this morning,” the Prince said + soothingly. “A little run down, no doubt. Your profession—I gather + from your card that you come from Scotland Yard—is an arduous one. I + came into the room and found you lying upon your back, gasping for + breath.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks was making a swift recovery. He noticed that the glass + which the man-servant was holding was empty. He had a dim recollection of + something having been forced through his lips. Already he was beginning to + feel himself again. + </p> + <p> + “I was absolutely and entirely well,” he declared stoutly, “both when I + left home this morning and when I entered that room to wait for you. I + don’t know what it was that came over me,” he continued doubtfully, “but + the atmosphere seemed suddenly to become unbearable.” + </p> + <p> + Prince Maiyo nodded understandingly. + </p> + <p> + “People often complain,” he admitted. “So many of my hangings in the room + have been wrapped in spices to preserve them, and my people burn dead + blossoms there occasionally. Some of us, too,” he concluded, “are very + susceptible to strange odors. I should imagine, perhaps, that you are one + of them.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I call myself a strong man,” he said, “and I couldn’t have believed that + anything of the sort would have happened to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn’t worry about it,” the Prince said gently. “Go and see your + doctor, if you like, but I have known many people, perfectly healthy, + affected in the same way. I understood that you wished to have a word with + me. Do you feel well enough to enter upon your business now, or would you + prefer to make another appointment?” + </p> + <p> + “I am feeling quite well again, thank you,” the Inspector said slowly. “If + you could spare me a few minutes, I should be glad to explain the matter + which brought me here.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince merely glanced at his servant, who bowed and glided noiselessly + from the room. Then he drew an easy chair to the side of the couch where + Mr. Jacks was still sitting. + </p> + <p> + “I am very much interested to meet you, Mr. Inspector Jacks,” he remarked, + with a glance at the card which he was still holding in his fingers. “I + have studied very many of your English institutions during my stay over + here with much interest, but it has not been my good fortune to have come + into touch at all with your police system. Sir Goreham Briggs—your + chief, I believe—has invited me several times to Scotland Yard, and + I have always meant to avail myself of his kindness. You come to me, + perhaps, from him?” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “My business, Prince,” he said, “is a little more personal.” + </p> + <p> + Prince Maiyo raised his eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed?” he said. “Well, whatever it is, let us hear it. I trust that I + have not unconsciously transgressed against your laws?” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks hesitated. After all, his was not so easy a task. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” he said, “my errand is not in any way a pleasant one, and I + should be very sorry indeed to find myself in the position of bringing any + annoyance upon a stranger and a gentleman who is so highly esteemed. At + the same time there are certain duties in connection with my every-day + life which I cannot ignore. In England, as I dare say you know, sir, the + law is a great leveller. I have heard that it is not quite so in your + country, but over here we all stand equal in its sight.” + </p> + <p> + “That is excellent,” the Prince said. “Please believe, Mr. Inspector + Jacks, that I do not wish to stand for a single moment between you and + your duty, whatever it may be. Let me hear just what you have to say, as + though I were an ordinary dweller here. While I am in England, at any + rate,” he added with a smile, “I am subject to your laws, and I do my best + to obey them.” + </p> + <p> + “It has fallen to my lot,” Inspector Jacks said, “to take charge of the + investigations following upon the murder of a man named Hamilton Fynes, + who was killed on his way from Liverpool to London about a fortnight ago.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince inclined his head. + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” he said amiably, “that I remember hearing the matter spoken + of. It was the foundation of a debate, I recollect, at a recent dinner + party, as to the extraordinarily exaggerated value people in your country + seem to claim for human life, as compared to us Orientals. But pray + proceed, Mr. Inspector Jacks,” the Prince continued courteously. “The + investigation, I am sure, is in most able hands.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very kind, sir,” said the Inspector. “I do my best, but I might + admit to you that I have never found a case so difficult to grasp. Our + methods perhaps are slow, but they are, in a sense, sure. We are building + up our case, and we hope before long to secure the criminal, but it is not + an easy task.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince bowed. This time he made no remark. + </p> + <p> + “The evidence which I have collected from various sources,” Inspector + Jacks continued, “leads me to believe that the person who committed this + murder was a foreigner.” + </p> + <p> + “What you call an alien,” the Prince suggested. “There is much discussion, + I gather, concerning their presence in this country nowadays.” + </p> + <p> + “The evidence which I possess,” the detective proceeded, “points to the + murderer belonging to the same nationality as Your Highness.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince raised his eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “A Japanese?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The Inspector assented. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” the Prince said, with a touch of added gravity in his + manner, “that one of my race should have committed a misdemeanor in this + country, but if that is so, your way, of course, is clear. You must arrest + him and deal with him as an ordinary English criminal. He is here to live + your life, and he must obey your laws.” + </p> + <p> + “In time, sir,” Inspector Jacks said slowly, “we hope to do so, but over + here we may not arrest upon suspicion. We have to collect evidence, and + build and build until we can satisfy any reasonable individual that the + accused person is guilty.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince sighed sympathetically. + </p> + <p> + “It is not for me,” he said, “to criticize your methods.” + </p> + <p> + “I come now,” Inspector Jacks said slowly, “to the object of my call upon + Your Highness. Following upon what I have just told you, certain other + information has come into my possession to this effect—that not only + was this murderer a Japanese, but we have evidence which seems to suggest + that he was attached in some way to your household.” + </p> + <p> + “To my household!” the Prince repeated. + </p> + <p> + “To this household, Your Highness,” the detective repeated. + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head slowly. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jacks,” he said, “you are, I am sure, a very clever man. Let me ask + you one question. Has it ever fallen to your lot to make a mistake?” + </p> + <p> + “Very often indeed,” the Inspector admitted frankly. + </p> + <p> + “Then I am afraid,” the Prince said, “that you are once more in that + position. I have attached to my household fourteen Japanese servants, a + secretary, a majordomo, and a butler. It may interest you, perhaps, to + know that during my residence in this country not one of my retinue, with + the exception of my secretary, who has been in Paris for some weeks, has + left this house.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector stared at the Prince incredulously. + </p> + <p> + “Never left the house?” he repeated. “Do you mean, sir, that they do not + go out for holidays, for exercise, to the theatre?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Such things are not the custom with us,” he said. “They are my servants. + The duty of their life is service. London is a world unknown to them—London + and all these Western cities. They have no desire to be made mock of in + your streets. Their life is given to my interests. They do not need + distractions.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks was dumfounded. Such a state of affairs seemed to him + impossible. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean that they do not take exercise,” he asked, “that they never + breathe the fresh air?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Such fresh air as your city can afford them,” he said, “is to be found in + the garden there, into which I never penetrate and which is for their use. + I see that you look amazed, Mr. Inspector Jacks. This thing which I have + told you seems strange, no doubt, but you must not confuse the servants of + my country with the servants of yours. I make no comment upon the latter. + You know quite well what they are; so do I. With us, service is a + religion,—service to country and service to master. These men who + perform the duties of my household would give their lives for me as + cheerfully as they would for their country, should the occasion arise.” + </p> + <p> + “But their health?” the Inspector protested. “It is not, surely, well for + them to be herded together like this?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I am not what is called a sportsman in this country, Mr. Inspector + Jacks,” he said, “but you shall go to the house of any nobleman you + choose, and if you will bring me an equal number of your valets or footmen + or chefs, who can compete with mine in running or jumping or wrestling, + then I will give you a prize what you will—a hundred pounds, or + more. You see, my servants have learned the secret of diet. They drink + nothing save water. Sickness is unknown to them.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector was silent for some time. Then he rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” he said, “what should you declare, then, if I told you that a + man of obvious Japanese extraction was seen to enter your house on the + morning after the murder, and that he was a person to whom certain + circumstances pointed as being concerned in that deed?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Inspector Jacks,” the Prince said calmly, “I was the only person of + my race who entered my house that morning.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector moved toward the door. + </p> + <p> + “Your Highness,” he said gravely, “I am exceedingly obliged to you for + your courteous attention, and for your kindness after my unfortunate + indisposition.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled graciously. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Inspector Jacks,” he said, “your visit has been of great interest to + me. If I can be of any further assistance, pray do not hesitate to call + upon me.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. ON THE TRAIL + </h2> + <p> + Inspector Jacks studied the brass plate for a moment, and then rang the + patients’ bell. The former, he noticed was very much in want of cleaning, + and for a doctor’s residence there was a certain lack of smartness about + the house and its appointments which betokened a limited practice. The + railing in front was broken, and no pretence had been made at keeping the + garden in order. Inspector Jacks had time to notice these things, for it + was not until after his second summons that the door was opened by Dr. + Whiles himself. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning!” the latter said tentatively. Then, with a slight air of + disappointment, he recognized his visitor. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, doctor!” Inspector Jacks replied. “You haven’t forgotten + me, I hope? I came down to see you a short time ago, respecting the man + who was knocked down by a motor car and treated by you on a certain + evening.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Will you come in?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + He led the way into a somewhat dingy waiting room. A copy of <i>The Field</i>, + a month old, a dog-eared magazine, and a bound volume of <i>Good Words</i> + were spread upon the table. The room itself, except for a few chairs, was + practically bare. + </p> + <p> + “I do not wish to take up too much of your time, Dr. Whiles,” the + Inspector began,— + </p> + <p> + The doctor laughed shortly. + </p> + <p> + “You needn’t bother about that,” he said. “I’m tired of making a bluff. My + time isn’t any too well occupied.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector glanced at his watch,—it was a few minutes past + twelve. + </p> + <p> + “If you are really not busy,” he said, “I was about to suggest to you that + you should come back to town with me and lunch. I do not expect, of + course, to take up your day for nothing,” he continued. “You will + understand, as a professional man, that when your services are required by + the authorities, they expect and are willing to pay for them.” + </p> + <p> + “But what use can I be to you?” the doctor asked. “You know all about the + man whom I fixed up on the night of the murder. There’s nothing more to + tell you about that. I’d as soon go up to town and lunch with you as not, + but if you think that I’ve anything more to tell you, you’ll only be + disappointed.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “I’m quite content to run the risk of that,” he said. “Of course,” he + continued, “it does not follow in the least that this person was in any + way connected with the murder. In fact, so far as I can tell at present, + the chances are very much against it. But at the same time it would + interest my chief if you were able to identify him.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor nodded. + </p> + <p> + “I begin to understand,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “If you will consider a day spent up in town equivalent to the treatment + of twenty-five patients at your ordinary scale,” Inspector Jacks said, “I + shall be glad if you would accompany me there by the next train. We will + lunch together first, and look for our friend later in the afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor did not attempt to conceal the fact that he found this + suggestion entirely satisfactory. In less than half an hour, the two men + were on their way to town. + </p> + <p> + Curiously enough, Penelope and Prince Maiyo met that morning for the first + time in several days. They were both guests of the Duchess of Devenham at + a large luncheon party at the Savoy Restaurant. Penelope felt a little + shiver when she saw him coming down the stairs. Somehow or other, she had + dreaded this meeting, yet when it came, she knew that it was a relief. + There was no change in his manner, no trace of anxiety in his smooth, + unruffled face. He seemed, if possible, to have grown younger, to walk + more buoyantly. His eyes met hers frankly, his smile was wholly + unembarrassed. It was not possible for a man to bear himself thus who + stood beneath the great shadow! + </p> + <p> + So far from avoiding her, he came over to her side directly he had greeted + his hostess. + </p> + <p> + “This morning,” he said, “I heard some good news. You are to be a fellow + guest at Devenham.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” she admitted, “that of my two aunts I impose most + frequently upon the one where my claims are the slightest. The Duchess is + so good-natured.” + </p> + <p> + “She is charming,” the Prince declared. “I am looking forward to my visit + immensely. I think I am a little weary of London. A visit to the country + seems to me most delightful. They tell me, too, that your spring gardens + are wonderful. What London suffers from, I think, at this time of the + year, is a lack of flowers. We want something to remind us that the spring + is coming, besides these occasional gleams of blue sky and very occasional + bursts of sunshine.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a sentimentalist, Prince,” she declared, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “No, I think not,” he answered seriously. “I love all beautiful things. I + think that there are many men as well as women who are like that. Shall I + be very rude and say that in the matter of climate and flowers one grows, + perhaps, to expect a little more in my own country.” + </p> + <p> + An uncontrollable impulse moved her. She leaned a little towards him. + </p> + <p> + “Climate and flowers only?” she murmured. “What about the third + essential?” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope,” he said under his breath, “I have to admit that one must + travel further afield for Heaven’s greatest gift. Even then one can only + worship. The stars are denied to us.” + </p> + <p> + The Duchess came sailing over to them. + </p> + <p> + “Every one is here,” she said. “I hope that you are all hungry. After + lunch, Prince, I want you to speak to General Sherrif. He has been dying + to meet you, to talk over your campaign together in Manchuria. There’s + another man who is anxious to meet you, too,—Professor Spenlove. He + has been to Japan for a month, and thinks about writing a book on your + customs. I believe he looks to you to correct his impressions.” + </p> + <p> + “So long as he does not ask me to correct his proofs!” the Prince + murmured. + </p> + <p> + “That is positively the most unkind thing I have ever heard you say,” the + Duchess declared. “Come along, you good people. Jules has promised me a + new omelet, on condition that we sit down at precisely half-past one. If + we are five minutes late, he declines to send it up.” + </p> + <p> + They took their places at the round table which had been reserved for the + Duchess of Devenham,—not very far, Penelope remembered, from the + table at which they had sat for dinner a little more than a fortnight ago. + The recollection of that evening brought her a sudden realization of the + tragedy which seemed to have taken her life into its grip. Again the + Prince sat by her side. She watched him with eyes in which there was a + gleam sometimes almost of horror. Easy and natural as usual, with his + pleasant smile and simple speech, he was making himself agreeable to one + of the older ladies of the party, to whom, by chance, no one had addressed + more than a word or so. It was always the same—always like this, she + realized, with a sudden keen apprehension of this part of the man’s + nature. If there was a kindness to be done, a thoughtful action, it was + not only he who did it but it was he who first thought of it. The papers + during the last few days had been making public an incident which he had + done his best to keep secret. He had signalized his arrival in London, + some months ago, by going overboard from a police boat into the Thames to + rescue a half-drunken lighterman, and when the Humane Society had voted + him their medal, he had accepted it only on condition that the + presentation was private and kept out of the papers. It was not one but + fifty kindly deeds which stood to his credit. Always with the manners of a + Prince—gracious, courteous, and genial—never a word had passed + his lips of evil towards any human being. The barriers today between the + smoking room and the drawing room are shadowy things, and she knew very + well that he was held in a somewhat curious respect by men, as a person to + whom it was impossible to tell a story in which there was any shadow of + indelicacy. The ways of the so-called man of world seemed in his presence + as though they must be the ways of some creature of a different and a + lower stage of existence. A young man whom he had once corrected had + christened him, half jestingly, Sir Galahad, and certainly his life in + London, a life which had to bear all the while the test of the limelight, + had appeared to merit some such title. These thoughts chased one another + through her mind as she looked at him and marvelled. Surely those other + things must be part of a bad nightmare! It was not possible that such a + man could be associated with wrong-doing—such manner of wrong-doing! + </p> + <p> + Even while these thoughts passed through her brain, he turned to talk to + her, and she felt at once that little glow of pleasure which the sound of + his voice nearly always evoked. + </p> + <p> + “I am looking forward so much,” he said, “to my stay at Devenham. You + know, it will not be very much longer that I shall have the opportunity of + accepting such invitations.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean that the time is really coming when we shall lose you?” she + asked suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “When my work is finished, I return home,” he answered. “I fancy that it + will not be very long now.” + </p> + <p> + “When you do leave England,” she asked after a moment’s pause, “do you go + straight to Japan?” + </p> + <p> + He bowed. + </p> + <p> + “With the Continent I have finished,” he said. “The cruiser which His + Majesty has sent to fetch me waits even now at Southampton.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak of your work,” she remarked, “as though you had been collecting + material for a book.” + </p> + <p> + He smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I have been busy collecting information in many ways,” he said,—“trying + to live your life and feel as you feel, trying to understand those things + in your country, and in other countries too, which seem at first so + strange to us who come from the other side of the East.” + </p> + <p> + “And the end of it all?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + His eyes gleamed for a moment with a light which she did not understand. + His smile was tolerant, even genial, but his face remained like the face + of a sphinx. + </p> + <p> + “It is for the good of Japan I came,” he said, “for her good that I have + stayed here so long. At the same time it has been very pleasant. I have + met with great kindness.” + </p> + <p> + She leaned a little forward so as to look into his face. The impassivity + of his features was like a wall before her. + </p> + <p> + “After all,” she said, “I suppose it is a period of probation. You are + like a schoolboy already who is looking forward to his holidays. You will + be very happy when you return.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be very happy indeed,” he admitted simply. “Why not? I am a true + son of Japan, and, for every true son of his country, absence from her is + as hard a thing to be borne as absence from one’s own family.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield, who was sitting on her other side, insisted at last upon + diverting her attention. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope,” he declared, lowering his voice a little, “it isn’t fair. You + never have a word to say to me when the Prince is here.” + </p> + <p> + She smiled. + </p> + <p> + “You must remember that he is going away very soon, Charlie,” she reminded + him. + </p> + <p> + “Good job, too!” Somerfield muttered, sotto voce. + </p> + <p> + “And then,” Penelope continued, with the air of not having heard her + companion’s last remark, “he possesses also a very great attraction. He is + absolutely unlike any other human being I ever met or heard of.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield glanced across at his rival with lowering brows. + </p> + <p> + “I’ve nothing to say against the fellow,” he remarked, “except that it + seems queer nowadays to run up against a man of his birth who is not a + sportsman,—in the sense of being fond of sport, I mean,” he + corrected himself quickly. + </p> + <p> + “Sometimes I wonder,” Penelope said thoughtfully, “whether such speeches + as the one which you have just made do not indicate something totally + wrong in our modern life. You, for instance, have no profession, Charlie, + and you devote your life to a systematic course of what is nothing more or + less than pleasure-seeking. You hunt or you shoot, you play polo or golf, + you come to town or you live in the country, entirely according to the + seasons. If any one asked you why you had not chosen a profession, you + would as good as tell them that it was because you were a rich man and had + no need to work for your living. That is practically what it comes to. You + Englishmen work only if you need money. If you do not need money, you + play. The Prince is wealthy, but his profession was ordained for him from + the moment when he left the cradle. The end and aim of his life is to + serve his country, and I believe that he would consider it sacrilege if he + allowed any slighter things to divert at any time his mind from its main + purpose. He would feel like a priest who has broken his ordination vows.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all very well,” Somerfield said coolly, “but there’s nothing in + life nowadays to make us quite so strenuous as that.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn’t there?” Penelope answered. “You are an Englishman, and you should + know. Are you convinced, then, that your country today is at the height of + her prosperity, safe and sound, bound to go on triumphant, prosperous, + without the constant care of her men?” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield looked up at her in growing amazement. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth’s got hold of you, Penelope?” he asked. “Have you been + reading the sensational papers, or stuffing yourself up with jingoism, or + what?” + </p> + <p> + She laughed. + </p> + <p> + “None of those things, I can assure you,” she said. “A man like the Prince + makes one think, because, you see, every standard of life we have is a + standard of comparison. When one sees the sort of man he is, one wonders. + When one sees how far apart he is from you Englishmen in his ideals and + the way he spends his life, one wonders again.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “We do well enough,” he said. “Japan is the youngest of the nations. She + has a long way to go to catch us up.” + </p> + <p> + “We do well enough!” she repeated under her breath. “There was a great + city once which adopted that as her motto,—people dig up mementoes + of her sometimes from under the sands.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield looked at her in an aggrieved fashion. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “I thought that this was to be an amusing luncheon + party.” + </p> + <p> + “You should have talked more to Lady Grace,” she answered. “I am sure that + she is quite ready to believe that you are perfection, and the English + army the one invincible institution in the world. You mustn’t take me too + seriously today, Charlie. I have a headache, and I think that it has made + me dull.”... + </p> + <p> + They trooped out into the foyer in irregular fashion to take their coffee. + The Prince and Penelope were side by side. + </p> + <p> + “What I like about your restaurant life,” the Prince said, “is the strange + mixture of classes which it everywhere reveals.” + </p> + <p> + “Those two, for instance,” Penelope said, and then stopped short. + </p> + <p> + The Prince followed her slight gesture. Inspector Jacks and Dr. Spencer + Whiles were certainly just a little out of accord with their surroundings. + The detective’s clothes were too new and his companion’s too old. The + doctor’s clothes indeed were as shabby as his waiting room, and he sat + where the sunlight was merciless. + </p> + <p> + “How singular,” the Prince remarked with a smile, “that you should have + pointed those two men out! One of them I know, and, if you will excuse me + for a moment, I should like to speak to him.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope was not capable of any immediate answer. The Prince, with a + kindly and yet gracious smile, walked over to Inspector Jacks, who rose at + once to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you have quite recovered, Mr. Inspector,” the Prince said, holding + out his hand in friendly fashion. “I have felt very guilty over your + indisposition. I am sure that I keep my rooms too close for English + people.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Prince,” the Inspector answered, “I am perfectly well again. + In fact, I have not felt anything of my little attack since.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad,” he said. “Next time you are good enough to pay me a visit, I + will see that you do not suffer in the same way.” + </p> + <p> + He nodded kindly and rejoined his friends. The Inspector resumed his seat + and busied himself with relighting his cigar. He purposely did not even + glance at his companion. + </p> + <p> + “Who was that?” the doctor asked curiously. “Did you call him Prince?” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks sighed. This was a disappointment to him! + </p> + <p> + “His name is Prince Maiyo,” he said slowly. “He is a Japanese.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor looked across the restaurant with puzzled face. + </p> + <p> + “It’s queer,” he said, “how all these Japanese seem to one to look so much + alike, and yet—” + </p> + <p> + He broke off in the middle of his sentence. + </p> + <p> + “You are thinking of your friend of the other night?” the Inspector + remarked. + </p> + <p> + “I was,” the doctor admitted. “For a moment it seemed to me like the same + man with a different manner.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks was silent. He puffed steadily at his cigar. + </p> + <p> + “You don’t suppose,” he asked quietly, “that it could have been the same + man?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor was still looking across the room. + </p> + <p> + “I could not tell,” he said. “I should like to see him again. I wasn’t + prepared, and there was something so altered in his tone and the way he + carried himself. And yet—” + </p> + <p> + The pause was expressive. Inspector Jacks’ eyes brightened. He hated to + feel that his day had been altogether wasted. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. PRINCE MAIYO BIDS HIGH + </h2> + <p> + Inspector Jacks was in luck at last. Eleven times he had called at St. + Thomas’s Hospital and received the same reply. Today he was asked to wait. + The patient was better—would be able to see him. Soon a nurse in + neat uniform came quietly down the corridor and took charge of him. + </p> + <p> + “Ten minutes, no more,” she insisted good-humoredly. + </p> + <p> + The Inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “One question, if you please, nurse,” he asked. “Is the man going to + live?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a doubt about it,” she declared. “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “A matter of depositions,” the Inspector exclaimed. “I’d rather let it go, + though, if he’s sure to recover.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a simple case,” she answered, “and his constitution is excellent. + There isn’t the least need for your to think about depositions. Here he + is. Don’t talk too long.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector sat down by the bedside. The patient, a young man, welcomed + him a little shyly. + </p> + <p> + “You have come to ask me about what I saw in Pall Mall and opposite the + Hyde Park Hotel?” he said, speaking slowly and in a voice scarcely raised + above a whisper. “I told them all before the operation, but they couldn’t + send for you then. There wasn’t time.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me your own way,” he said. “Don’t hurry. We can get the particulars + later on. Glad you’re going to be mended.” + </p> + <p> + “It was touch and go,” the young man declared with a note of awe in his + tone. “If the omnibus wheel had turned a foot more, I should have lost + both my legs. It was all through watching that chap hop out of the + taxicab, too.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector inclined his head gravely. + </p> + <p> + “You saw him get in, didn’t you?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “That’s so,” the patient admitted. “I was on my way—Charing Cross to + the Kensington Palace Hotel, on a bicycle. There was a block—corner + of Pall Mall and Haymarket. I caught hold—taxi in front—to + steady me.” + </p> + <p> + The nurse bent over him with a glass in her hand. She raised him a little + with the other arm. + </p> + <p> + “Not too much of this, you know, young man,” she said with a pleasant + smile. “Here’s something to make you strong.” + </p> + <p> + “Right you are!” + </p> + <p> + He drained the contents of the glass and smacked his lips. + </p> + <p> + “Jolly good stuff,” he declared. “Where was I, Mr. Inspector?” + </p> + <p> + “Holding the back of a taxicab, corner of Regent Street and Haymarket,” + Inspector Jacks reminded him. + </p> + <p> + The patient nodded. + </p> + <p> + “There was an electric brougham,” he continued, “drawn up alongside the + taxi. While we were there, waiting, I saw a chap get out, speak to some + one through the window of the taxi, open the door, and step in. When we + moved on, he stayed in the taxi. Dark, slim chap he was,” the patient + continued, “a regular howling swell,—silk hat, white muffler, white + kid gloves,—all the rest of it.” + </p> + <p> + “And afterwards?” the Inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + “I kept behind the taxi,” the youth continued. “We got blocked again at + Hyde Park Corner. I saw him step out of the taxi and disappear amongst the + vehicles. A moment or two later, I passed the taxi and looked in—saw + something had happened—the fellow was lying side-ways. It gave me a + bit of a start. I skidded, and over I went. Sort of had an idea that every + one in the world had started shouting to me, and felt that I was half + underneath an omnibus. Woke up to find myself here.” + </p> + <p> + “Should you know the man again?” the Inspector asked. “I mean the man whom + you saw enter and leave the taxi?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so—pretty sure!” + </p> + <p> + The nurse came up, shaking her head. Inspector Jacks rose from his seat. + </p> + <p> + “Right, nurse,” he said. “I’m off. Take care of our young friend. He is + going to be very useful to us as soon as he can use his feet and get + about. I’ll come and sit with you for half an hour next visiting day, if I + may?” he added, turning to the patient. + </p> + <p> + “Glad to see you,” the youth answered. “My people live down in the + country, and I haven’t many pals.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks left the hospital thoughtfully. The smell of anaesthetics + somehow reminded him of the library in the house at the corner of St. + James’ Square. It was not altogether by chance, perhaps, that he found + himself walking in that direction. He was in Pall Mall, in fact, before he + realized where he was, and at the corner of St. James’ Square and Pall + Mall he came face to face with Prince Maiyo, walking slowly westwards. + </p> + <p> + The meeting between the two men was a characteristic one. The Inspector + suffered no signs of surprise or even interest to creep into his + expressionless face. The Prince, on the other hand, did not attempt to + conceal his pleasure at this unexpected encounter. His lips parted in a + delightful smile. He ignored the Inspector’s somewhat stiff salute, and + insisted upon shaking him cordially by the hand. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Inspector Jacks,” he said, “you are the one person whom I desired to + see. You are not busy, I hope? You can talk with me for five minutes?” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector hesitated for a moment. He was versed in every form of + duplicity, and yet he felt that in the presence of this young aristocrat, + who was smiling upon him so delightfully, he was little more than a babe + in wisdom, an amateur pure and simple. He was conscious, too, of a + sentiment which rarely intruded itself into his affairs. He was conscious + of a strong liking for this debonair, pleasant-faced young man, who + treated him not only as an equal, but as an equal in whose society he + found an especial pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “I have the time to spare, sir, certainly,” he admitted. + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled gayly. + </p> + <p> + “Inspector Jacks,” he said, “you are a wonderful man. Even now you are + asking yourself, ‘What does he want to say to me—Prince Maiyo? Is he + going to ask me questions, or will he tell me things which I should like + to hear?’ You know, Mr. Inspector Jacks, between ourselves, you are just a + little interested in me, is it not so?” + </p> + <p> + The detective was dumb. He stood there patiently waiting. He had the air + of a man who declines to commit himself. + </p> + <p> + “Just a little interested in me, I think,” the Prince murmured, smiling at + his companion. “Ah, well, many of the things I do over here, perhaps, must + seem very strange. And that reminds me. Only a short time ago you were + asking questions about the man who travelled from Liverpool to London and + reached his destination with a dagger through his heart. Tell me, Mr. + Inspector Jacks, have you discovered the murderer yet?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” the detective answered. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard you speak of this affair,” the Prince continued, “and before + now I expected to read in the papers that you had put your hand upon the + guilty one. If you have not done so, I am very sure that there is some + explanation.” + </p> + <p> + “It is better sometimes to wait,” the detective said quietly. + </p> + <p> + The Prince bowed as one who understands. + </p> + <p> + “I think so,” he assented, “I think I follow you. On the very next day + there was another tragedy which seemed to me even more terrible. I mean + the murder of that young fellow Vanderpole, of the American Embassy. Mr. + Inspector Jacks, has it ever occurred to you, I wonder, that it might be + as well to let the solution of one await the solution of the other?” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Occasionally,” he admitted reluctantly, “when one is following up a clue, + one discovers things.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wonderful!” the Prince declared. “You are, indeed! I know what is + in your mind. You have said to yourself, ‘Between these two murders there + is some connection. They were both done by the hand of a master criminal. + The victims in both cases were Americans.’ You said to yourself, ‘First of + all, I will discover the motive; then, perhaps, a clue which seems to + belong to the one will lead me to the other, or both?’ You are not sure + which way to turn. There is nothing there upon which you can lay your + hand. You say to yourself, ‘I will make a bluff.’ That is the word, is it + not? You come to me. You tell me gravely that you have reason to suspect + some one in my household. That is because you believe that the crimes were + perpetrated by some one of my country. You do not ask for information. You + think, perhaps, that I would not give it. You confront me with a + statement. It was very clever of you, Mr. Inspector Jacks.” + </p> + <p> + “I had reason for what I did, sir,” the detective said. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt,” the Prince agreed. “And now, tell me, when are you going to + electrify us all? When is the great arrest to take place?” + </p> + <p> + The detective coughed discreetly. + </p> + <p> + “I am not yet in a position, sir,” he said, “to make any definite + announcement.” + </p> + <p> + “Cautious, Mr. Jacks, cautious!” the Prince remarked smilingly. “It is a + great quality,—a quality which I, too, have learned how to + appreciate. And now for our five minutes’ talk. If I say to you, ‘Return + home with me,’ I think you will remember that unpleasant room of mine, and + you will recollect an important engagement at Scotland Yard. In the clubs + one is always overheard. Walk with me a little way, Mr. Jacks, in St. + James’ Park. We can speak there without fear of interruption. Come!” + </p> + <p> + He thrust his arm through the detective’s and led him across the street. + Mr. Inspector Jacks was only human, and he yielded without protest. They + passed St. James’ Palace and on to the broad promenade, where there were + few passers-by and no listeners. + </p> + <p> + “You see, my dear Inspector,” the Prince said, “I am really a sojourner in + your marvellous city not altogether for pleasure. My stay over here is + more in the light of a mission. I have certain arrangements which I wish + to effect for the good of my country. Amongst them is one concerning which + I should like to speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + “To me, sir?” Inspector Jacks repeated. + </p> + <p> + The Prince twirled his cane and nodded his head. + </p> + <p> + “It is a very important matter, Mr. Jacks,” he said. “It is nothing less + than a desire on the part of the city government of Tokio to perfect + thoroughly their police system on the model of yours over here. We are a + progressive nation, you know, Mr. Jacks, but we are also a young nation, + and though I think that we advance all the time, we are still in many + respects a long way behind you. We have no Scotland Yard in Tokio. To be + frank with you, the necessity for such an institution has become a real + thing with us only during the last few years. Do you read history, Mr. + Jacks?” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector was doubtful. + </p> + <p> + “I can’t say, sir,” he admitted, “that I have done much reading since I + left school, and that was many years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” the Prince said, “it is one of the axioms of history, Mr. Jacks, + that as a country becomes civilized and consequently more prosperous, + there is a corresponding growth in her criminal classes, a corresponding + need for a different state of laws by which to judge them, a different + machinery for checking their growth. We have arrived at that position in + Japan, and in my latest despatches from home comes to me a request that I + send them out a man who shall reorganize our entire police system. I am a + judge of character, Mr. Jacks, and if I can get the man I want, I do not + need to ask my friends at Downing Street to help me. I should like you to + accept that post.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector was scarcely prepared for this. He allowed himself to show + some surprise. + </p> + <p> + “I am very much obliged to you, Prince, for the offer,” he said. “I am + afraid, however, that I should not be competent.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” the Prince reminded him, “is a risk which we are willing to take.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think, either,” the detective continued, “that at my time of + life I should care to go so far from home to settle down in an altogether + strange country.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be as you will, of course,” the Prince declared. “Only remember, + Mr. Jacks, that a great nation like mine which wants a particular man for + a particular purpose is not afraid to pay for him. Your work out there + would certainly take you no more than three years. For that three years’ + work you would receive the sum of thirty thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + The detective gasped. + </p> + <p> + “It is a great sum,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The Prince shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “You could hardly call it that,” he said. “Still, it would enable you to + live in comfort for the rest of your life.” + </p> + <p> + “And when should I be required to start, sir?” the Inspector asked. + </p> + <p> + “That, perhaps,” the Prince replied, “would seem the hardest part of all. + You would be required to start tomorrow afternoon from Southampton at four + o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector started. Then a new light dawned suddenly in his face. + </p> + <p> + “Tomorrow afternoon,” he murmured. + </p> + <p> + The Prince assented. + </p> + <p> + “So far as regards your position at Scotland Yard,” he said, “I have + influential friends in your Government who will put that right for you. + You need not be afraid of any unpleasantness in that direction. Remember, + Mr. Inspector, thirty thousand pounds, and a free hand while you are in my + country. You are a man, I should judge, of fifty-two or fifty-three years + of age. You can spend your fifty-sixth birthday in England, then, and be a + man of means for the remainder of your days.” + </p> + <p> + “And this sum of money,” the detective said, “is for my services in + building up the police force of Tokio?” + </p> + <p> + “Broadly speaking, yes!” the Prince answered. + </p> + <p> + “And incidentally,” the detective continued, glancing cautiously at his + companion, “it is the price of my leaving unsuspected the murderer of two + innocent men!” + </p> + <p> + The Prince walked on in silence. Every line in his face seemed slowly to + have hardened. His brows had contracted. He was looking steadfastly + forward at the great front of Buckingham Palace. + </p> + <p> + “I am disappointed in you, Mr. Jacks,” he said a little stiffly. “I do not + understand your allusion. The money I have mentioned is to be paid to you + for certain well-defined services. The other matter you speak of does not + interest me. It is no concern of mine whether this man of whom you are in + search is brought to justice or not. All that I wish to hear from you is + whether or not you accept my offer.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” he said, “there can be no question about that. I thank you very + much for it, but I must decline.” + </p> + <p> + “Your mind is quite made up?” the Prince asked regretfully. + </p> + <p> + “Quite,” the Inspector said firmly. + </p> + <p> + “Japan,” the Prince said thoughtfully, “is a pleasant country.” + </p> + <p> + “London suits me moderately well,” Inspector Jacks declared. + </p> + <p> + “Under certain conditions,” the Prince continued, “I should have imagined + that the climate here might prove most unhealthy for you. You must + remember that I was a witness of your slight indisposition the other day.” + </p> + <p> + “In my profession, sir,” the detective said, “we must take our risks.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince came to a standstill. They were at the parting of the ways. + </p> + <p> + “I am very sorry,” he said simply. “It was a great post, and it was one + which you would have filled well. It is not for me, however, to press the + matter.” + </p> + <p> + “It would make no difference, sir,” the detective answered. + </p> + <p> + The Prince was on the point of moving away. + </p> + <p> + “I shall not seek in any case to persuade you,” he said. “My offer remains + open if you should change your mind. Think, too, over what I have said + about our climate. At your time of life, Mr. Inspector Jacks, and + particularly at this season of the year, one should be careful. A sea + voyage now would, I am convinced, be the very thing for you. Good day, Mr. + Jacks!” + </p> + <p> + The Prince turned towards Buckingham Palace, and the Inspector slowly + retraced his steps. + </p> + <p> + “It is a bribe!” he muttered to himself slowly,—“a cleverly offered + bribe! Thirty thousand pounds to forget the little I have learned! Thirty + thousand pounds for silence!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. HOBSON’S CHOICE + </h2> + <p> + There were some days when the absence of patients seemed to Dr. Spencer + Whiles a thing almost insupportable. Too late he began to realize that he + had set up in the wrong neighborhood. In years to come, he reflected + gloomily, when the great building estate which was to have been developed + more than a year ago was really opened up, there might be an opportunity + where he was, a very excellent opportunity, too, for a young doctor of + ability. Just now, however, the outlook was almost hopeless. He found + himself even looking eagerly forward every day for another visit from Mr. + Inspector Jacks. Another trip to town would mean a peep into the world of + luxury, whose doors were so closely barred against him, and, what was more + important still, it would mean a fee which would keep the wolf from the + door for another week. It had come to that with Dr. Whiles. His little + stock of savings was exhausted. Unless something turned up within the + course of the next few weeks, he knew very well that there was nothing + left for him to do but to slip away quietly into the embrace of the more + shady parts of the great city, to find a situation somewhere, somehow, + beyond the ken of the disappointed creditors whom he would leave behind. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Inspector Jacks, however, had apparently no further use, for the + present at any rate, for his medical friend. On the other hand, Dr. + Spencer Whiles was not left wholly to himself. On the fourth day after his + visit to London a motor car drew up outside his modest surgery door, and + with an excitement which he found it almost impossible to conceal, he saw + a plainly dressed young man, evidently a foreigner and, he believed, a + Japanese, descend and ring the patients’ bell. The doctor had dismissed + his boy a week ago, from sheer inability to pay his modest wages, and he + did not hesitate for a moment about opening the door himself. The man + outside raised his hat and made him a sweeping bow. + </p> + <p> + “It is Dr. Spencer Whiles?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The doctor admitted the fact and invited his visitor to enter. + </p> + <p> + “It is here, perhaps,” the latter continued, “that a gentleman who was + riding a bicycle and was run into by a motor car, was brought after the + accident and treated so skilfully?” + </p> + <p> + “That is so,” Dr. Whiles admitted. “There was nothing much the matter with + him. He had rather a narrow escape.” + </p> + <p> + “I am that gentleman’s servant,” the visitor continued with a bland smile. + “He has sent me down here to see you. The leg which was injured is + perfectly well, but there was a pain in the side of which he spoke to you, + which has not disappeared. This morning, in fact, it is worse,—much + worse. My master, therefore, has sent me to you. He begs that if it is not + inconvenient you will return with me at once and examine him.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor drew a little breath. This might mean another week or so of + respite! + </p> + <p> + “Where does your master live?” he asked the man. + </p> + <p> + “In the West end of London, sir,” was the reply. “The Square of St. James + it is called.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Whiles glanced at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “It will take me some time to go there with you,” he said, “and I shall + have to arrange with a friend to treat any other patients. Do you think + your master will understand that I shall need an increased fee?” + </p> + <p> + “My master desired me to say,” the other answered, “that he would be + prepared to pay any fee you cared to mention. Money is not of account with + him. He has not had occasion to seek medical advice in London, and as he + is leaving very soon, he did not wish to send for a strange physician. He + remembered with gratitude your care of him, and he sends for you.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all right,” Dr. Whiles declared, “so long as it’s understood. + You’ll excuse me for a moment while I write a note, and I’ll come along.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Whiles had no note to write, but he made a few changes in his toilet + which somewhat improved his appearance. In due course he reappeared and + was rapidly whirled up to London, the sole passenger in the magnificent + car. The man who had brought him the message from his quondam patient was + sitting in front, next the chauffeur, so Dr. Whiles had no opportunity of + asking him for any information concerning his master. Nor did the car + itself slacken speed until it drew up before the door of the large corner + house in St. James’ Square. A footman in dark livery came running out; a + butler bowed upon the steps. Dr. Spencer Whiles was immensely impressed. + The servants were all Japanese, but their livery and manners were + faultless. He made his way into the hall and followed the butler up the + broad stairs. + </p> + <p> + “My master,” the latter explained, “will receive you very shortly. He is + but partly dressed at present.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Spencer Whiles came of a family of successful tradespeople, and he was + not used to such quiet magnificence as was everywhere displayed. Yet, with + it all, there seemed to him to be an air of gloom about the place, + something almost mysterious in the silence of the thick carpets, the + subdued voices, and the absence of maidservants. The house itself was + apparently an old one. He noticed that the doors were very heavy and + thick, the corridors roomy, the absence of light almost remarkable. The + apartment into which he was shown, however, came as a pleasant surprise. + It was small, but delightfully furnished in the most modern fashion. Its + only drawback was that it looked out upon a blank wall. + </p> + <p> + “My master will come to you in a few minutes,” the butler announced. “What + refreshments may I have the honor of serving?” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Whiles waved aside the invitation,—he would at any rate remain + professional. The man withdrew, and almost immediately afterwards Prince + Maiyo entered the room. The doctor rose to his feet with a little thrill + of excitement. The Prince held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + “I am very pleased to see you again, doctor,” he said. “You looked after + me so well last time that I was afraid I should have no excuse for sending + for you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to find that you are not suffering,” the doctor answered. “I + understood from your servant that you were feeling a good deal of pain in + the side.” + </p> + <p> + “It troubles me at times,” the Prince admitted, drawing a chair up towards + his visitor,—“just sufficiently, perhaps, to give me the excuse of + seeking a little conversation with you. You must let me offer you + something after your ride.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very good,” the doctor answered. “Perhaps I had better examine + you first.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince rang the bell and waved aside the suggestion. + </p> + <p> + “That,” he said, “can wait. In my country, you know, we do not consider + that a guest is properly treated unless he partakes of our hospitality the + moment he crosses the threshold. The whiskey and soda water,” he ordered + of the butler who appeared at the door. “We will talk of my ailments,” the + Prince continued, “in a moment or two. Tell me what you thought of that + marvellous restaurant where I saw you the other morning?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor drew a little breath. + </p> + <p> + “It was you, then!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “But naturally,” the Prince murmured. “I took it for granted that you + would recognize me.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor found some difficulty in proceeding. He was trying to imagine + the cousin of an Emperor riding a bicycle along a country road, staggering + into his surgery at midnight, covered with dust, inarticulate, pointing + only to the wounds beneath his cheap clothes! + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” the Prince continued easily, “has impressed me more in your + country than the splendor of your restaurants. You see, that side of your + life represents something we are altogether ignorant of in Japan.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a very wonderful place,” the doctor admitted. “We had luncheon, my + friend and I, in the grillroom, but we came for a few minutes into the + foyer to watch the people from the restaurant.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince nodded genially. + </p> + <p> + “By the bye,” he remarked, “it is strange that my very good friend—Mr. + Inspector Jacks—should also be a friend of yours.” + </p> + <p> + “He is scarcely that,” the doctor objected. “I have known him for a very + short time.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince raised his eyebrows. The whiskey and soda were brought, and the + doctor helped himself. How curiously deficient these Westerners were, the + Prince thought, in every instinct of duplicity! As clearly as possible the + doctor had revealed the fact that his acquaintance with Inspector Jacks + was of precisely that nature which might have been expected. + </p> + <p> + The Prince sighed. There was but one course open to him. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Dr. Whiles,” he said, “I will tell you something. You must listen to + me very carefully, please. I sent for you not so much on account of any + immediate pain but because my general health has been giving me a little + trouble lately. I have come to the conclusion that I require the services + of a medical attendant always at hand.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor looked at his prospective patient skeptically. + </p> + <p> + “You have not the appearance,” he remarked, “of being in ill health.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not,” the Prince answered. “Perhaps even, there is not for the + moment very much the matter with me. One has humors, you know, my dear + doctor. I have a somewhat large suite here with me in England, but I do + not number amongst them a physician. I wanted to ask you to accept that + position in my household for two months.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean come and live here?” the doctor asked. + </p> + <p> + “That is exactly what I do mean,” the Prince answered. “I am thankful to + observe that your apprehensions are so acute. I warn you that I am going + to make some very curious conditions. I do not know whether money is an + object to you. If not, I am powerless. If it is, I propose to make it + worth your while.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor did not hesitate. + </p> + <p> + “Money,” he said, “is the greatest object in life to me. I have none, and + I want some very badly.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I find your candor delightful,” he declared. “Now tell me, Dr. Whiles, + how many patients have you in your neighborhood absolutely dependent upon + your services?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor hesitated, opened his mouth and closed it again. + </p> + <p> + “Not one!” he declared. + </p> + <p> + Once more the Prince’s lips parted. His smile this time was definite, + transfiguring. + </p> + <p> + “I find you, Dr. Whiles,” he announced, “a most charmingly reasonable + person. I make you my offer, then, with every confidence, although I warn + you that there will be some strange conditions attached to it. I ask you + to accept the post of private physician to this household for the space of + one—it may be two months, and I offer you also, as an honorarium, + the fee of one thousand guineas.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor sat quite still for a moment. He was in a condition when speech + was difficult. Then his eyes fell upon his tumbler of whiskey and soda + still half filled. He emptied it at a draught. + </p> + <p> + “A thousand guineas!” he repeated hoarsely. + </p> + <p> + “I trust that you will find the sum attractive,” the Prince said smoothly, + “because, as I have warned you before, there are one or two curious + conditions coupled with the post.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t care what the conditions are,” the doctor said slowly. “I + accept!” + </p> + <p> + The Prince nodded. + </p> + <p> + “You are the man I thought you were, doctor,” he said. “The first + condition, then, is this. You see the sitting room we are now in—a + pleasant little apartment, I think,—books, you see, papers, a + smoking cabinet in which I can assure you that you will find the finest + Havana cigars and the best cigarettes to be procured in London. Through + here”—the Prince threw open an inner door—“is a small sleeping + apartment. It has, as you see, the same outlook. It is comfortable if not + luxurious.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor sighed. + </p> + <p> + “I am not used to luxury,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “These two rooms will be yours,” the Prince announced, “and the first + condition of our arrangement is that until two months are up, or our + engagement is finished, you do not leave them.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor stared at him blankly. + </p> + <p> + “Are you in earnest, sir?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “In absolute earnest,” the Prince assured him. “Not only that, but I + require you to keep your whereabouts, until after the period of time I + have mentioned, an entire secret from every one. I gather that you are not + married, and that there is no one living in your house to whom it would + seem necessary to disclose your movements. In any case, this is another of + my conditions. You are neither to write nor receive any letters whilst + here. You are to figure in the neighborhood from which you came as a man + who has disappeared,—as a man, in short, who has found it impossible + to pay his way and has preferred simply to slip out of his place. At the + end of two months you can reappear or not, as you choose. That rests with + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor smiled faintly. To make some sort of disappearance had been his + precise intention, but to disappear in this fashion and make his return to + the world with a thousand guineas in his pocket, had not exactly come + within the scope of his imagination. It was a situation full of + allurements. Nevertheless he was bewildered. + </p> + <p> + “I am to live in these two rooms?” he demanded. “I am to let no one know + where I am, to write no letters, to receive none? My duties are to be + simply to treat you?” + </p> + <p> + “When required,” the Prince remarked dryly. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose,” the doctor asked, “my friend Mr. Jacks was speaking the truth + when he told me your name?” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Prince Maiyo,” the Prince said. + </p> + <p> + Mechanically the doctor helped himself to another whiskey and soda. + </p> + <p> + “You are to be my only patient,” he said thoughtfully. “May I take the + liberty of feeling your pulse, Prince?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince extended his hand. The doctor felt it and resumed his seat. + </p> + <p> + “There is, of course, nothing whatever the matter with you,” he declared. + “You are, I should say, in absolutely perfect health. You have no need of + a physician.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary,” the Prince protested, smiling, “I need you, Dr. Whiles, + so much that I am paying you a thousand guineas—” + </p> + <p> + “To remain in these two rooms,” the doctor remarked quietly. + </p> + <p> + “It is not your business to think that or to know that,” the Prince said. + “Do you accept my offer?” + </p> + <p> + “If I should refuse?” the doctor asked. + </p> + <p> + The Prince hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Do not let us suppose that,” he said. “It is not a pleasant suggestion. I + do not think that you mean to refuse.” + </p> + <p> + “Frankly, I do not,” the doctor answered. “And yet treat it as a whim of + mine and answer my question. Supposing I should?” + </p> + <p> + “The matter would arrange itself in precisely the same way,” the Prince + answered. “You would not leave these rooms for two months.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor leaned back in his chair and laughed shortly. + </p> + <p> + “This is rather hard luck on Inspector Jacks,” he said. “He paid me ten + guineas the other day to lunch with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Inspector Jacks,” the Prince remarked, “is scarcely in a position to + bid you an adequate sum for your services.” + </p> + <p> + “It appears to me,” the doctor continued, “that I am kidnapped.” + </p> + <p> + “An admirable word,” the Prince declared. “At what time do you usually + lunch?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I am not used to motoring,” he said, “or interviews of this exciting + character. I lunch, as a rule, when I can get anything to eat. The present + seems to me to be a most suitable hour.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince nodded, and rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “I will send my servant,” he said, “to take your orders. My cook is very + highly esteemed here, and I can assure you that you will not be starved. + Please also make out a list of the newspapers, magazines, and books with + which you would like to be supplied. I fear that, for obvious reasons, my + people would hardly be able to anticipate your wants.” + </p> + <p> + “And about that examination?” the doctor remarked. + </p> + <p> + “I shall do myself the pleasure of seeing you every day,” the Prince + answered. “There will be time enough for that.” + </p> + <p> + With an amiable word of farewell the Prince departed. The doctor threw + himself into an easy chair. His single exclamation was laconic but + forcible. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. SOME FAREWELLS + </h2> + <p> + Never did Prince Maiyo show fewer signs of his Japanese origin than when + in the company of other men of his own race. Side by side with His + Excellency the Baron Hesho, the contrasts in feature and expression were + so marked as to make it hard, indeed, to believe that these two men could + belong to the same nation. The Baron Hesho had high cheekbones, a yellow + skin, close-cropped black hair, and wore gold-rimmed spectacles through + which he beamed upon the whole world. The Prince, as he lounged in his + wicker chair and watched the blue smoke of his cigarette curl upwards, + looked more like an Italian—perhaps a Spaniard. The shape of his + head was perfectly Western, perfectly and typically Romanesque. The + carriage of his body must have been inherited from his mother, of whom it + was said that no more graceful woman ever walked. Yet between these two + men, so different in all externals, there was the strongest sympathy, + although they met but seldom. + </p> + <p> + “So we are to lose you soon, Prince,” the Baron was saying. + </p> + <p> + “Very soon indeed,” Prince Maiyo answered. “Next week I go down to + Devenham. I understand that the Prime Minister and Sir Edward Bransome + will be there. If so, that, I think, will be practically my leave-taking. + There is no object in my staying any longer over here.” + </p> + <p> + The Baron blinked his eyes meditatively. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen very little of you, Maiyo,” he said, “since your last visit + to the Continent. I take it that your views are unchanged?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince assented. + </p> + <p> + “Unchanged indeed,” he answered,—“unchangeable, I think almost that + I might now say. They have been wonderful months, these last months, + Baron,” he continued. “I have seen some of those things which we in Japan + have heard about and wondered about all our lives. I have seen the German + army at manoeuvres. I have talked to their officers. Where I could, I have + talked to the men. I have been to some of their great socialist meetings. + I have heard them talk about their country and their Emperor, and what + would happen to their officers if war should come. I have seen the French + artillery. I have been the guest of the President. I have tried to + understand the peculiar attitude which that country has always adopted + toward us. I have been, unrecognized, in St. Petersburg. I have tried to + understand a little the resources of that marvellous country. I came back + here in time for the great review in the Solent. I have seen the most + magnificent ships and the most splendid naval discipline the world has + ever known. Then I have explored the interior of this island as few of our + race have explored it before, not for the purpose of studying the + manufactures, the trades, the immense shipbuilding industries,—simply + to study the people themselves.” + </p> + <p> + The Baron nodded gravely. + </p> + <p> + “I ask no questions,” he said. “It is the Emperor’s desire, I know, that + you go straight to him. I take it that your mind is made up,—you + have arrived at definite conclusions?” + </p> + <p> + “Absolutely.” Prince Maiyo answered. “I shall make no great secret of + them. You already, my dear Baron, know, I think, whither they lead. I + shall be unpopular for a time, I suppose, and your own position may be + made a little difficult. After that, things will go on pretty much the + same. Of one thing, though, I am assured. I see it as clearly as the + shepherd who has lain the night upon the hillside sees the coming day. It + may be twelve months, it may be two years, it may even be three, but + before that time has passed the clouds will have gathered, the storm will + have burst. Then, I think, Hesho, our master will be glad that we are + free.” + </p> + <p> + The Baron agreed. + </p> + <p> + “Only a few nights ago,” he said, “Captain Koki and the other attaches + spent an evening with me. We have charts and pieces, and with locked doors + we played a war game of our own invention. It should all be over in three + weeks.” + </p> + <p> + Prince Maiyo laughed softly. + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” he said. “I have gone over the ground myself. It could be + done in even less time. You should ask a few of our friends to that war + game, Baron. How they would smile! You read the newspapers of the + country?” + </p> + <p> + “Invariably,” the Ambassador answered. + </p> + <p> + “There is an undercurrent of feeling somewhere,” the Prince continued,—“one + of the cheaper organs is shrieking all the time a brazen warning. + Patriotism, as you and I understand it, dear friend, is long since dead, + but if one strikes hard enough at the flint, some fire may come. Hesho, + how short our life is! How little we can understand! We have only the + written words of those who have gone before, to show us the cities and the + empires that have been, to teach us the reasons why they decayed and + crumbled away. We have only our own imagination to help us to look forward + into the future and see the empires that may rise, the kingdoms that shall + stand, the kingdoms that shall fall. Amongst them all, Hesho, there is but + this much of truth. It is our own dear country and our one great rival + across the Pacific who, in the years to come, must fight for the supremacy + of the world.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be no fight, that,” the Ambassador answered slowly,—“no + fight unless a new prophet is born to them. The money-poison is sucking + the very blood from their body. The country is slowly but surely becoming + honey-combed with corruption. The voices of its children are like the + voices from the tower of Babel. If their strong man should arise, then the + fight will be the fiercest the world has ever known. Even then the end is + not doubtful. The victory will be ours. When the universe is left for them + and for us, it will be our sons who shall rule. Listen, Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + “I listen,” the Prince answered. + </p> + <p> + The Baron Hesho had laid aside his spectacles. He leaned a little towards + his companion. His voice had fallen to a whisper, his hand fell almost + caressingly upon his friend’s shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “I would speak of something else,” he continued. “Soon you go to the + Duke’s house. You will meet there the people who are in authority over + this country. When you leave it, everything is finished. Tell me, is the + way homeward safe for you?” + </p> + <p> + “Wonderful person!” Prince Maiyo said, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “No, I am not wonderful,” the Ambassador declared. “All the time I have + had my fears. Why not? A month ago I sought your aid. I knew from our + friends in New York that a man was on his way to England with letters + which made clear, beyond a doubt, the purpose of this world journey of the + American fleet. I sent for you. We both agreed that it was an absolute + necessity for us to know the contents of those letters.” + </p> + <p> + “We discovered them,” the Prince answered. “It was well that we did.” + </p> + <p> + “You discovered them,” the Ambassador interrupted. “I have taken no credit + for it. The credit is yours. But in this land there are so many things + which one may not do. The bowstring and the knife are unrecognized. + Civilization has set an unwholesome value upon human life. It is the + maudlin sentiment which creeps like corruption through the body of a dying + country.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it,” the Prince declared, sighing. “I know it very well indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Maiyo,” the Ambassador asked, “how well do you know it?” + </p> + <p> + “My friend,” the Prince answered, “it were better for you not to ask that + question.” + </p> + <p> + “Here under this roof,” the Baron continued, “is sanctuary, but in the + streets and squares beyond, it seems to me—and I have thought this + over many times,—it seems to me that even the person of the great + Prince, cousin of the Emperor, holy son of Japan, would not be safe.” + </p> + <p> + Prince Maiyo shrugged his shoulders. There was gravity in his face, but it + was the gravity of a man who has learnt to look upon serious things with a + light heart. + </p> + <p> + “I, also,” he said, “have weighed this matter very carefully in my mind. + What I did was well done, and if the bill is thrust into my face, I must + pay. First of all, Baron, I promise you that I shall finish my work. After + that, what does it matter? You and I know better than this nation of + life-loving shopkeepers. A week, a year, a span of years,—of what + account are they to us who have sipped ever so lightly at the great cup? + If we died tomorrow for the glory of our country, should we not say to one + another, you and I, that it was well?” + </p> + <p> + The Baron rose to his feet and bowed. Into his voice there had crept a + note almost of reverence. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” he said, “almost you take me back to the one mother country. + Almost your words persuade me that the strangeness of these Western lands + is a passing thing. We wonder, and as we wonder they shall crumble away. + The sun rises in the East.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince also rose. Servants came silently forward, bearing his hat and + gloves. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” the Prince smiled, as he made his adieux— + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” the Ambassador echoed. “Who can tell?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince sent away his carriage and walked homeward, greeting every now + and then an acquaintance. He walked cheerfully and with a smile upon his + face. There was nothing in his appearance which could possibly have + indicated to the closest observer that this was a man who had taken death + by the hand. At the corner of Regent Street and Pall Mall he overtook + Inspector Jacks. He leaned forward at once and touched the detective on + the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jacks,” he said, “it is pleasant to see you once more. I was afraid + that I should have to leave without bidding you farewell.” + </p> + <p> + The Inspector started. The Prince laughed to himself as he watched that + gesture. Indeed, a man who showed his feelings so easily would be very + much at a loss in Tokio! + </p> + <p> + “You are going away, Prince?” the Inspector asked quickly. “When?” + </p> + <p> + “The exact day is not fixed,” the Prince replied, “but it is true that I + am going home. I have finished my work, and, you see, there is nothing to + keep me over here any longer. Tell me, have you had any fortune yet? I + read the papers every day, hoping to see that you have cleared up those + two terrible affairs.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Not yet, Prince,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” the Prince echoed. “Dear me, that is very unfortunate!” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks watched the people who were passing, for a moment, with a + fixed, unseeing gaze. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” he said, “that we must seem to you very slow and very + stupid. Very likely we are. And yet, yet in time we generally reach our + goal. Sometimes we go a long way round. Sometimes we wait almost over + long, but sooner or later we strike.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince nodded sympathetically. + </p> + <p> + “The best of fortune to you, Mr. Jacks!” he said. “I wish you could have + cleared these matters up before I left for home. It is pure selfishness, + of course, but I have always felt a great interest in your work.” + </p> + <p> + “If we do not clear them up before you leave the country, Prince,” the + Inspector answered, “I fear that we shall never clear them up at all.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince passed on smiling. A conversation with Inspector Jacks seemed + always to inspire him. It was a fine afternoon and Pall Mall was crowded. + In a few moments he came face to face with Somerfield, who greeted him a + little gloomily. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Charles,” the Prince said, “I hope that I shall have the pleasure of + meeting you at Devenham?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not sure,” Somerfield answered. “I have been asked, but I promised + some time ago to go up to Scotland. I have a third share in a river there, + and the season for salmon is getting on.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” the Prince declared. “I have no doubt, however, but that + Miss Morse will induce you to change your mind. I should regret your + absence the more,” he continued, “because this, I fear, is the last visit + which I shall be paying in this country.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield was genuinely interested. + </p> + <p> + “You are really going home?” he asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Almost at once,” the Prince answered. + </p> + <p> + “Only for a time, I suppose?” Somerfield continued. + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary,” he said, “I imagine that this will be a long goodbye. I + think I can promise you that if ever I reach Japan I shall remain there. + My work in this hemisphere will be accomplished.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield looked at him with the puzzled air of a man who is face to face + with a problem which he cannot solve. + </p> + <p> + “You’ll forgive my putting it so plainly, Prince,” he remarked, “but do + you mean to say that after having lived over here you could possibly + settle down again in Japan?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince returned for a moment his companion’s perplexed gaze. Then his + lips parted, his eyes shone. He laughed softly, gracefully, with genuine + mirth. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Charles,” he said, “I shall not forget that question. I think that of + all the Englishmen whom I have met you are the most English of all. When I + think of your great country, as I often shall do, of her sons and her + daughters, I will promise you that to me you shall always represent the + typical man of your race and fortune.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince left his companion loitering along Pall Mall, still a little + puzzled. He called a taxi and drove to Devenham House. The great drawing + rooms were almost empty. Lady Grace was just saying goodbye to some + parting guests. She welcomed the Prince with a little flush of pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “I find you alone?” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “My mother is opening a bazaar somewhere,” Lady Grace said. “She will be + home very soon. Do let me give you some tea.” + </p> + <p> + “It is my excuse for coming,” the Prince admitted. + </p> + <p> + She called back the footman who had shown him in. + </p> + <p> + “China tea, very weak, in a china teapot with lemon and no sugar. Isn’t + that it?” she asked, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Grace,” he declared, “you spoil me. Perhaps it is because I am going + away. Every one is kind to the people who go away.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “Going away!” she exclaimed. “When? Do you mean back to Japan?” + </p> + <p> + “Back to my own country,” he answered. “Perhaps in two weeks, perhaps + three—who can tell?” + </p> + <p> + “But you are coming to Devenham first?” she asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “I am coming to Devenham first,” he assented. “I called this afternoon to + let your father know the date on which I could come. I promised that he + should hear from me today. He was good enough to say either Thursday or + Friday. Thursday, I find, will suit me admirably.” + </p> + <p> + She drew a little sigh. + </p> + <p> + “So you are going back,” she said softly. “I wonder why so many people + seem to have taken it for granted that you would settle down here. Even I + had begun to hope so.” + </p> + <p> + He smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Grace,” he said, “I am not what you call a cosmopolitan. To live + over here in any of these Western countries would seem to denote that one + may change one’s dwelling place as easily as one changes one’s clothes. + The further east you go, the more reluctant one is, I think, to leave the + shadow of one’s own trees. The man who leaves my country leaves it to go + into exile. The man who returns, returns home.” + </p> + <p> + She was a little perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “I should have imagined,” she said, “that the people who leave your + country as emigrants to settle in American or even over here might have + felt like that. But you of the educated classes I should have thought + would have found more over here to attract you, more to induce you to + choose a new home.” + </p> + <p> + He shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Grace,” he said, “believe me that is not so. The traditions of our + race—the call of the blood, as you put it over here—is as + powerful a thing with our aristocratics as with our peasants. We find much + here to wonder at and admire, much that, however unwillingly, we are + forced to take back and adopt in our own country, but it is a strange + atmosphere for us, this. For my country-people there is but one real home, + but one motherland.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet you have seemed so contented over here,” she remarked. “You have + entered so easily into all our ways.” + </p> + <p> + He set down his teacup and smiled at her for a moment gravely. + </p> + <p> + “I came with a purpose,” he said. “I came in order to observe and to study + certain features of your life, but, believe me, I have felt the strain—I + have felt it sometimes very badly. These countries, yours especially, are + like what one of your great poets called the Lotus-Lands for us. Much of + your life here is given to pursuits which we do not understand, to sports + and games, to various forms of what we should call idleness. In my country + we know little of that. In one way or another, from the Emperor to the + poor runner in the streets, we work.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there nothing which you will regret?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I shall regret the friends I have made,—the very dear friends,” he + repeated, “who have been so very much kinder to me than I have deserved. + Life is a sad pilgrimage sometimes, because one may not linger for a + moment at any one spot, nor may one ever look back. But I know quite well + that when I leave here there will be many whom I would gladly see again.” + </p> + <p> + “There will be many, Prince,” she said softly, “who will be sorry to see + you go.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince rose to his feet. Another little stream of callers had come + into the room. Presently he drank his tea and departed. When he reached + St. James’ Square, his majordomo came hurrying up and whispered something + in his own language. + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I go to see him,” he said. “I will go at once.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. A PRISONER + </h2> + <p> + Dr. Spencer Whiles was sitting in a very comfortable easy chair, smoking a + particularly good cigar, with a pile of newspapers by his side. His + appearance certainly showed no signs of hardship. His linen, and the + details of his toilet generally, supplied from some mysterious source into + which he had not inquired, were much improved. Notwithstanding his + increased comfort, however, he was looking perplexed, even a little + worried, and the cause of it was there in front of him, in the + advertisement sheets of the various newspapers which had been duly laid + upon his table. + </p> + <p> + The Prince came in quietly and closed the door behind him. + </p> + <p> + “Good afternoon, my friend!” he said. “I understood that you wished to see + me.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor had made up his mind to adopt a firm attitude. Nevertheless the + genial courtesy of the Prince’s tone and manner had the same effect upon + him as it had upon most people. He half rose to his feet and became at + once apologetic. + </p> + <p> + “I hope that I have not disturbed you, Prince,” he said. “I thought that I + should like to have a word or two with you concerning something which I + have come across in these journals.” + </p> + <p> + He tapped them with his forefinger, and the Prince nodded thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Your wonderful Press!” he exclaimed. “How much it is responsible for! + Well, Dr. Whiles, what have the newspapers to say to you?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor handed across a carefully folded journal and pointed to a + certain paragraph. + </p> + <p> + “Will you kindly read this?” he begged. + </p> + <p> + The Prince accepted the sheet and read the paragraph aloud: + </p> + <p> + “FIFTY POUNDS REWARD! Disappeared from his home in Long Whatton on + Wednesday morning last, Herbert Spencer Whiles, Surgeon. The above reward + will be paid to any one giving information which will lead to the + discovery of his present whereabouts. Was last seen in a motor car, + Limousine body, painted dark green, leaving Long Whatton in the direction + of London.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince laid down the paper, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he asked. “That seems clear enough. Some one is willing to give + fifty pounds to know where you are.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor tapped the advertisement with his forefinger impressively. + </p> + <p> + “Fifty pounds!” he repeated. “There isn’t a person in the world to whom + the knowledge of my movements is worth fifty pounds—except—” + </p> + <p> + “Except?” the Prince murmured. + </p> + <p> + “Except Mr. Inspector Jacks,” Dr. Whiles said slowly. + </p> + <p> + The Prince seemed scarcely to grasp the situation. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “fifty pounds is not a great deal of money. Some unknown + person—possibly, as you suggest, Mr. Jacks—is willing to give + fifty pounds to discover your whereabouts. I, on the other hand, am giving + a thousand guineas to keep you here as my guest. The odds do not seem + even, do they?” + </p> + <p> + “Put in that way,” Dr. Whiles admitted, “they certainly do not. But there + is another thing which has come into my mind.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled and helped himself to one of the very excellent + cigarettes which had been provided for the delectation of his visitor. + </p> + <p> + “Pray treat me with every confidence, Dr. Whiles,” he said. “Tell me + exactly what is in your thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I will,” the doctor answered. “Sitting here with nothing + particular to do, one has plenty of leisure to think. For the first time, + I have seriously tried to puzzle out what Mr. Inspector Jacks really + wanted with me, why he came down to ask me about the person whom I treated + for injuries resulting from a bicycle accident one Wednesday evening not + long ago, why he took me up to London to see if I could identify that + person in a very different guise. I have tried to put the pieces together + and to ask myself what he meant by it all.” + </p> + <p> + “With so much time upon your hands, Dr. Whiles,” the Prince remarked, “you + can scarcely fail to have arrived at some reasonable explanation.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know whether it is reasonable or not,” the doctor answered, “but + the obvious explanation is getting on my nerves. There are two things + which I cannot get away from. One is that I cannot for the life of me + imagine your riding a bicycle twelve or fifteen miles north of London + between eleven o’clock and midnight; and the other—” + </p> + <p> + “Come, the other?” the Prince remarked encouragingly. + </p> + <p> + “The other,” the doctor continued, “is the fact that within half a mile of + my house runs the main London and North Western line.” + </p> + <p> + “The London and North Western Railway line,” the Prince repeated, “and + what has that to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “This much,” the doctor answered, “that on that very night, about half an + hour before your—shall we call it bicycle accident?—the + special train from Liverpool to London passed along that line. You will + remember the tragic occurrence which took place before she reached London, + the murder of the man Hamilton Fynes. If you read the report of the + evidence at the inquest, you will notice the engine driver’s declaration + that the only time on the whole journey when he travelled at less than + forty miles an hour was when passing over the viaduct and before entering + the tunnel which is plainly visible from my house.” + </p> + <p> + “This is very interesting,” the Prince remarked, “but it is not new. We + have known all this before. Perhaps, though, some fresh thing has come + into your mind connected with these happenings. If so, please do not + hesitate. Let me hear it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a fresh thing to me,” the doctor said,—“fresh, in a sense, + though all the time I have had an uneasy feeling at the back of my head. I + know now what it was which brought Inspector Jacks to see me. I know now + what it was he had at the back of his head concerning the man who met with + a bicycle accident at this psychological moment.” + </p> + <p> + “Inspector Jacks is a very shrewd fellow,” the Prince said. “I should not + be in the least surprised if you were entirely right.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor moved restlessly in his chair. His eyes remained on his + companion’s face, as though fascinated. + </p> + <p> + “Can’t you understand,” he said, “that Inspector Jacks is on your track? + Rightly or wrongly, he believes that you had something to do with the + murder on the train that night.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince nodded amiably. He seemed in no way discomposed. + </p> + <p> + “I feel convinced,” he said, “that you are right. I agree with you. I + believe that Inspector Jacks has had that idea for some little time now.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor gripped the sides of his chair and stared at this man who + discussed a matter so terrible with calm and perfect ease. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have felt that more than once,” the Prince continued. “My presence + upon the spot at that precise moment with injuries which had to be + explained somehow or other, was, without doubt, unfortunate.” + </p> + <p> + The two men sat for several moments without further speech. The doctor’s + features seemed to reflect something of the horror which he undoubtedly + felt. The Prince appeared only a trifle bored. + </p> + <p> + “So that is why,” the former exclaimed hoarsely, “I have been appointed + your physician in chief!” + </p> + <p> + “I had given you the credit, my dear doctor,” the Prince said smoothly, + “of having arrived at that decision some time ago. To a man of your + perceptions there can scarcely have been any question about it at all. + Besides, even Princes, you know, do not give fees of a thousand guineas + for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Whiles rose slowly to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “You know the secret of that murder!” he declared. + </p> + <p> + “Why ask me?” the Prince answered. “If I tell you that I do, you may find + conscientious scruples about remaining here. A man is not bound, you know, + to give himself away. Make the best of things, and do not try to see too + far.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor was looking a little shaken. + </p> + <p> + “If you were mixed up in that affair,” he said, “and if I remain here when + my evidence is needed, I become an accomplice.” + </p> + <p> + “Only if you remain here voluntarily,” the Prince reminded him cheerfully. + “Remember that and be comforted. No effort that you could make now would + bring you into touch with Mr. Inspector Jacks until I am quite prepared. + So you see, my dear doctor, that you have nothing with which to reproach + yourself. I will not insult you,” he continued, “by suggesting that a + reward of fifty pounds could possibly have influenced your attitude. If + you have suffered your mind to dwell upon it for a single moment, try and + remember the relative unimportance of such an amount when compared with a + thousand guineas.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor moved to the window and back again. + </p> + <p> + “Supposing,” he said, “I decline to remain here? Supposing I say that, + believing you now to have a guilty knowledge of this murder, I repudiate + our bargain? Supposing I say that I will have nothing more to do with your + thousand guineas,—that I will leave this house?” + </p> + <p> + “Then we come to close quarters,” the Prince answered, “and you force me + to tell you in plain words that, until I am ready for you to leave it, you + are as much a prisoner in this room as though the keys of the strongest + fortress in Europe were turned upon you. I have told you this before. I + thought that we perfectly understood one another.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not understand,” the doctor protested. “I knew that there was + trouble, but I did not know that it was this!” + </p> + <p> + “The fact of your knowing or not knowing makes no difference,” the Prince + answered. “You are no longer a free agent. The only question for you to + decide is whether you remain here willingly or whether you will force me + to remind you of our bargain.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor was sitting down again now. All the time he watched the Prince + with a gleam in his eyes, partly of horror, partly of fear. He no longer + doubted but that he was in the presence of a criminal. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” the Prince continued, “that you have allowed this little + matter to disturb you. I thought that we had arranged it all at our last + interview. If you did not surmise my reasons for keeping you here, then I + am afraid I gave you credit for more intelligence than you possess. You + will excuse me now, I am sure,” he added, rising. “I have some letters to + send off before I change. By the bye, do you care to give me your parole? + It might, perhaps, lessen the inconvenience to which you are unfortunately + subject.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said, “I will not give my parole!” + </p> + <p> + Late that night, he tried the handle of his door and found it open. The + corridor outside was in thick darkness. He felt his way along by the wall. + Suddenly, from behind, a pair of large soft hands gripped him by the + throat. Slowly he was drawn back—almost strangled. + </p> + <p> + “Let me go!” he called out, struggling in vain to find a body upon which + he could gain a grip. + </p> + <p> + The grasp only tightened. + </p> + <p> + “Back to your rooms!” came a whisper through the darkness. + </p> + <p> + The doctor returned. When he staggered into his sitting room, he turned up + the electric light. There were red marks upon his throat and perspiration + upon his forehead. He opened the door once more and looked out upon the + landing, striking a match and holding it over his head. There was no one + in sight, yet all the time he had the uncomfortable feeling that he was + being watched. For the first time in his life he wondered whether a + thousand guineas was, after all, such a magnificent fee! + </p> + <p> + Almost at the same time the Prince sat back in the shadows of the Duchess + of Devenham’s box at the Opera and talked quietly to Lady Grace. + </p> + <p> + “But tell me, Prince,” she begged, “I know that you are glad to go home, + but won’t you really miss this a little,—the music, the life, all + these things that make up existence here? Your own country is wonderful, I + know, but it has not progressed so far, has it?” + </p> + <p> + He shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he said, “that the portion of our education which we have most + grievously neglected is the development of our recreations. But then you + must remember that we are to a certain extent without that craving for + amusement which makes these things necessary for you others. We are + perhaps too serious in my country, Lady Grace. We lack altogether that + delightful air of irresponsibility with which you Londoners seem to make + your effortless way through life.” + </p> + <p> + She was a little perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t believe,” she said, “that in your heart you approve of us at + all.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not say that, Lady Grace,” he begged. “It is simply that I have been + brought up in so different a school. This sort of thing is very wonderful, + and I shall surely miss it. Yet nowadays the world is being linked + together in marvellous fashion. Tokio and London are closer today than + ever they have been in the world’s history.” + </p> + <p> + “And our people?” she asked. “Do you really think that our people are so + far apart? Between you and me, for instance,” she added, meaning to ask + the question naturally enough, but suddenly losing confidence and looking + away from him,—“between you and me there seems no radical difference + of race. You might almost be an Englishman—not one of these men of + fashion, of course, but a statesman or a man of letters, some one who had + taken hold of the serious side of life.” + </p> + <p> + “You pay me a very delightful compliment,” he murmured. + </p> + <p> + “Please repay me, then, by being candid,” she answered. “Consider for a + moment that I am a typical English girl, and tell me whether I am so very + different from the Japanese women of your own class?” + </p> + <p> + He hesitated for a moment. The question was not without its + embarrassments. + </p> + <p> + “Men,” he said, “are very much the same, all the world over. They are like + the coarse grass which grows everywhere. But the flowers, you know, are + different in every country.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace sighed. Perhaps she had been a trifle too daring! She was + willing enough, at any rate, to let the subject drift away. + </p> + <p> + “Soon the curtain will go up,” she said, “and we can talk no longer. I + should like to tell you, though, how glad I am—how glad we all are—that + you can come to us next week.” + </p> + <p> + “I can assure you that I am looking forward to it,” he answered a little + gravely. “It is my farewell to all of you, you know, and it seems to me + that those who will be your father’s guests are just those with whom I + have been on the most intimate terms since I came to England.” + </p> + <p> + She nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope is coming,” she said quickly,—“you know that?—Penelope + and Sir Charles Somerfield.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he answered, “I heard so.” + </p> + <p> + The curtain went up. The faint murmur of the violins was suddenly caught + up and absorbed in the thunderous music of a march. Lady Grace moved + nearer to the front. Prince Maiyo remained where he was among the shadows. + The music was in his ears, but his eyes were half closed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. PATRIOTISM + </h2> + <p> + The Duke’s chef had served an Emperor with honor—the billiard room + at Devenham Castle was the most comfortable room upon earth. The three men + who sat together upon a huge divan, the three men most powerful in + directing the councils of their country, felt a gentle wave of optimism + stealing through their quickened blood. Nevertheless this was a serious + matter which occupied their thoughts. + </p> + <p> + “We are becoming,” the Prime Minister said, “much too modern. We are + becoming over-civilized out of any similitude to a nation of men of blood + and brawn.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quoting some impossible person,” Sir Edward Bransome declared. + </p> + <p> + “One is always quoting unconsciously,” the Prime Minister admitted with a + sigh. “What I mean is that five hundred years ago we should have locked + this young man up in a room hung with black crape, and with a pleasant + array of unfortunately extinct instruments we should have succeeded, + beyond a doubt, in extorting the truth from him.” + </p> + <p> + “And if the truth were not satisfactory?” the Duke asked, lighting a + cigar. + </p> + <p> + “We should have endeavored to change his point of view,” the Prime + Minister continued, “even if we had to change at the same time the outline + of his particularly graceful figure. The age of thumbscrews and the rack + was, after all, a very virile age. Just consider for a moment our + positions—three of the greatest and most brilliant statesmen of our + day—and we can do very little save wait for this young man to + declare himself. We are the puppets with whom he plays. It rests with him + whether our names are written upon the scroll of fame or whether our + administration is dismissed in half a dozen contemptuous words by the + coming historian. It rests with him whether our friend Bransome here shall + be proclaimed the greatest Foreign Minister that ever breathed, and + whether I myself have a statue erected to me in Westminster Yard, which + shall be crowned with a laurel wreath by patriotic young ladies on the + morning of my anniversary.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke stretched himself out with a sigh of content. His cigar was + burning well, and the flavor of old Armignac lingered still upon his + palate. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” he protested, “I think you exaggerate Maiyo’s importance just a + little, Haviland. Hesho seems excellently disposed towards us, and, after + all, I should have thought his word would have had more weight in Tokio + than the word of a young man who is new to diplomacy, and whose claims to + distinction seem to rest rather upon his soldiering and the fact that he + is a cousin of the Emperor.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister sighed. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Duke,” he said, “no one of us, not even myself, has ever done that + young man justice. To me he represents everything that is most strenuous + and intellectual in Japanese manhood. The spirit of that wonderful country + runs like the elixir of life itself through his veins. Since the day he + brought me his letter from the Emperor, I have watched him carefully, and + I believe I can honestly declare that not once in these eighteen months + has he looked away from his task, nor has he given to one single person + even an inkling of the thoughts which have passed through his mind. He + came back from the Continent, from Berlin, from Paris, from Petersburg, + with a mass of acquired information which would have made some of our + blue-books read like Hans Andersen’s Fairy Tales. He had made up his mind + exactly what he thought of each country, of their political systems, of + their social life, of their military importance. He had them all weighed + up in the hollow of his hand. He was willing to talk as long as I, for + instance, was willing to listen. He spoke of everybody whom he had met and + every place which he had visited without reserve, and yet I guarantee that + there is no person in England today, however much he may have talked with + him, who knows in the least what his true impressions are.” + </p> + <p> + “Haviland is right,” Bransome agreed. “Many a time I have caught myself + wondering, when he talks so easily about his travels, what the real + thoughts are which lie at the back of his brain. We know, of course, what + the object of those travels was. He went as no tourist. He went with a + deep and solemn purpose always before him. He went to find out whether + there was any other European Power whose alliance would be a more + advantageous thing for Japan than a continuation of their alliance with + us. Such a thing has never been mentioned or hinted at between us, but we + know it all the same.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” the Duke remarked, “whether we shall really get the truth out + of him before he goes.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Look at him now teaching old Lady Saunderson how to hold her cue. He + singled her out because she was the least attractive person playing, + because no one took any particular notice of her, and every one seemed + disposed to let her go her own way! Those girls were all buzzing around + him as though he were something holy, but you see how gently he eluded + them! Watch what an interest she is taking in the game now. He has been + encouraging the poor old lady until her last few shots have been quite + good. That is Maiyo all the world over. I will wager that he is thinking + of nothing on earth at this moment but of making that poor old lady feel + at her ease and enjoy her game. A stranger, looking on, would imagine him + to be just a kind-hearted, simple-minded fellow. Yet there is not one of + us three who has wit enough to get a single word from him against his + will. You shall see. There is an excellent opportunity here. I suppose + both of you read his speech at the Herrick Club last night?” + </p> + <p> + “I did,” the Duke answered. + </p> + <p> + “And I,” Bransome echoed. “It seemed to me that he spoke a little more + freely than usual.” + </p> + <p> + “He went as near to censure as I have ever heard him when speaking of any + of the institutions of our country,” the Prime Minister declared. “I will + ask him about it directly we get the chance. You shall see how he will + evade the point.” + </p> + <p> + “You will have to be quick if you mean to get hold of him,” the Duke + remarked. “See, the game is over and there he goes with Penelope.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister rose to his feet and intercepted them on their way to + the door. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Morse,” he said, “may we ransom the Prince? We want to talk to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you insinuate,” she laughed, “that he is a captive of mine?” + </p> + <p> + “We are all captives of Miss Morse’s,” Bransome said with a bow, “and all + enemies of Somerfield’s.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield, hearing his name, came up to them. The Duchess, too, strolled + over to the fire. The Prime Minister and Bransome returned with Maiyo + towards the corner of the room where they had been sitting. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” the Prime Minister said, “we have been talking about your speech + at the Herrick Club last night.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled a little gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Did I say too much?” he asked. “It all came as a surprise to me—the + toast and everything connected with it. I saw my name down to reply, and + it seemed discourteous of me not to speak. But, as yet, I do not + altogether understand these functions. I did not altogether understand, + for instance, how much I might say and how much I ought to leave unsaid.” + </p> + <p> + “We have read what you said,” Bransome remarked. “What we should like to + hear, if I may venture to say so, is what you left unsaid.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince for a moment was thoughtful. Perhaps he remembered that the + days had passed when it was necessary for him to keep so jealously his own + counsel. Perhaps his natural love of the truth triumphed. He felt a sudden + longing to tell these people who had been kind to him the things which he + had seen amongst them, the things which only a stranger coming fresh to + the country could perhaps fully comprehend. + </p> + <p> + “What I said was of little importance,” the Prince remarked, “but I felt + myself placed in a very difficult position. Before I knew what to expect, + I was listening to a glorification of the arms of my country at the + expense of Russia. I was being hailed as one of a nation who possess + military genius which had not been equalled since the days of Hannibal and + Caesar. Many things of that sort were said, many things much too kind, + many things which somehow it grieved me to listen to. And when I stood up + to reply, I felt that the few words which I must say would sound, perhaps, + ungracious, but they must be said. It was one of those occasions which + seemed to call for the naked truth.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope and the Duchess had joined the little group. + </p> + <p> + “May we stay?” the former asked. “I read every word of your speech,” she + added, turning to the Prince. “Do tell us why you spoke so severely, what + it was that you objected to so strongly in General Ennison’s remarks?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince turned earnestly towards her. + </p> + <p> + “My dear young lady,” he said, “all that I objected to was this + over-glorification of the feats of arms accomplished by us. People over + here did not understand. On the one side were the great armies of Russia,—men + drawn, all of them, from the ranks of the peasant, men of low nerve force, + men who were not many degrees better than animals. They came to fight + against us because it was their business to fight, because for fighting + they drew their scanty pay, their food, and their drink, and the clothes + they wore. They fought because if they refused they faced the revolver + bullets of their officers,—men like themselves, who also fought + because it was their profession, because it was in the traditions of their + family, but who would, I think, have very much preferred disporting + themselves in the dancing halls of their cities, drinking champagne with + the ladies of their choice, or gambling with cards. I do not say that + these were not brave men, all of them. I myself saw them face death by the + hundreds, but the lust of battle was in their veins then, the taste of + blood upon their palates. We do not claim to be called world conquerors + because we overcame these men. If one could have seen into the hearts of + our own soldiers as they marched into battle, and seen also into the + hearts of those others who lay there sullenly waiting, one would not have + wondered then. There was, indeed, nothing to wonder at. What we cannot + make you understand over here is that every Japanese soldier who crept + across the bare plains or lay stretched in the trenches, who loaded his + rifle and shot and killed and waited for death,—every man felt + something beating in his heart which those others did not feel. We have no + great army, Mr. Haviland, but what we have is a great nation who have + things beating in their heart the knowledge of which seems somehow to have + grown cold amongst you Western people. The boy is born with it; it is + there in his very soul, as dear to him as the little home where he lives, + the blossoming trees under which he plays. It leads him to the rifle and + the drill ground as naturally as the boys of your country turn to the + cricket fields and the football ground. Over here you call that spirit + patriotism. It was something which beat in the heart of every one of those + hundreds of thousands of men, something which kept their eyes clear and + bright as they marched into battle, which made them look Death itself in + the face, and fight even while the blackness crept over them. You see, + your own people have so many interests, so many excitements, so much to + distract. With us it is not so. In the heart of the Japanese comes the + love of his parents, the love of his wife and children, and, deepest, + perhaps, of all the emotions he knows, the strong magnificent background + to his life, the love of the country which bore him, which shelters them. + It is for his home he fights, for his simple joys amongst those who are + dear to him, for the great mysterious love of the Motherland. Forgive me + if I have expressed myself badly, have repeated myself often. It is a + matter which I find it so hard to talk about, so hard here to make you + understand.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must not think, Prince, that we over here are wholly lacking in + that same instinct,” the Duke said. “Remember our South African war, and + the men who came to arms and rallied round the flag when their services + were needed.” + </p> + <p> + “I do remember that,” the Prince answered. “I wish that I could speak of + it in other terms. Yet it seems to me that I must speak as I find things. + You say that the men came to arms. They did, but how? Untrained, unskilled + in carrying weapons, they rushed across the seas to be the sport of the + farmers who cut them off or shot them down, to be a hindrance in the way + of the mercenaries who fought for you. Yes, you say they rallied to the + call! What brought them? Excitement, necessity, necessities of their + social standing, bravado, cheap heroism—any one of these. But I tell + you that patriotism as we understand it is a deeper thing. In the land + where it flourishes there is no great pre-eminence in what you call sports + or games. It does not come like a whirlwind on the wings of disaster. It + grows with the limbs and the heart of the boy, grows with his muscles and + his brawn. It is part of his conscience, part of his religion. As he + realizes that he has a country of his own to protect, a dear, precious + heritage come down to him through countless ages, so he learns that it is + his sacred duty to know how to do his share in defending it. The spare + time of our youth, Mr. Haviland, is spent learning to shoot, to scout, to + bear hardships, to acquire the arts of war. I tell you that there was not + one general who went with our troops to Manchuria, but a hundred thousand. + We have no great army. We are a nation of men whose religion it is to + fight when their country’s welfare is threatened.” + </p> + <p> + There was a short silence. The Prime Minister and Bransome exchanged rapid + glances. + </p> + <p> + “These, then,” Penelope said slowly, “were the things you left unsaid.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince raised his hand a little—a deprecatory gesture. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps even now,” he said, “it was scarcely courteous of me to say them, + only I know that they come to you as no new thing. There are many of your + countrymen who are speaking to you now in the Press as I, a stranger, have + spoken. Sometimes it is harder to believe one of your own family. That is + why I have dared to say so much,—I, a foreigner, eager and anxious + only to observe and to learn. I think, perhaps, that it is to such that + the truth comes easiest.” + </p> + <p> + Of a purpose, the three men who were there said nothing. The Prince + offered Penelope his arm. + </p> + <p> + “I will not be disappointed,” he said. “You promised that you would show + me the palm garden. I have talked too much.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. A RACE + </h2> + <p> + The Prince, on his way back from his usual before-breakfast stroll, + lingered for a short time amongst the beds of hyacinths and yellow + crocuses. Somehow or other, these spring flowers, stiffly set out and with + shrivelled edges—a little reminiscent of the last east wind—still + seemed to him, in their perfume at any rate, to being him memories of his + own country. Pink and blue and yellow, in all manner of sizes and shapes, + the beds spread away along the great front below the terrace of the + castle. This morning the wind was coming from the west. The sun, indeed, + seemed already to have gained some strength. The Prince sat for a moment + or two upon the gray stone balustrade, looking to where the level country + took a sudden ascent and ended in a thick belt of pine trees. Beyond lay + the sea. As he sat there with folded arms, he was surely a fatalist. The + question as to whether or not he should ever reach it, should ever find + himself really bound for home, was one which seemed to trouble him + slightly enough. He thought with a faint, wistful interest of the various + ports of call, of the days which might pass, each one bringing him nearer + the end. He suffered himself, even, to think of that faint blur upon the + horizon, the breath of the spicy winds, the strange home perfumes of the + bay, as he drew nearer and nearer to the outstretched arms of his country. + Well, if not he, another! It was something to have done one’s best. + </p> + <p> + The rustle of a woman’s garment disturbed him, and he turned his head. + Penelope stood there in her trim riding habit,—a garb in which he + had never seen her. She held her skirts in her hand and looked at him with + a curious little smile. + </p> + <p> + “It is too early in the morning, Prince,” she said, “for you to sit there + dreaming so long and so earnestly. Come in to breakfast. Every one is + down, for a wonder.” + </p> + <p> + “Breakfast, by all means,” he answered, coming blithely up the broad + steps. “You are going to ride this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose we all are, more or less,” she answered. “It is our hunt + steeplechases, you know. Poor Grace is in there nearly sobbing her eyes + out. Captain Chalmers has thrown her over. Lady Barbarity—that’s + Grace’s favorite mare, and her entry for the cup—turned awkward with + him yesterday, and he won’t have anything more to do with her.” + </p> + <p> + “From your tone,” he remarked, pushing open the French windows, “I gather + that this is a tragedy. I, unfortunately, do not understand.” + </p> + <p> + “You should ask Grace herself,” Penelope said. “There she is.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace looked round from her place at the head of the breakfast table. + </p> + <p> + “Come and sympathize with me, Prince,” she cried. “For weeks I have been + fancying myself the proud possessor of the hunt cup. Now that horrid man, + Captain Chalmers, has thrown me over at the last moment. He refuses to + ride my mare because she was a little fractious yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a great misfortune,” the Prince said in a tone of polite regret, + “but surely it is not irreparable? There must be others—why not your + own groom?” + </p> + <p> + A smile went round the table. The Duke hastened to explain. + </p> + <p> + “The race is for gentlemen riders only,” he said. “The horses have to be + the property of members of the hunt. There would be no difficulty, of + course, in finding a substitute for Captain Chalmers, but the race takes + place this morning, and I am afraid, with all due respect to my daughter, + that her mare hasn’t the best of reputations.” + </p> + <p> + “I won’t have a word said against Lady Barbarity,” Lady Grace declared. + “Captain Chalmers is a good horseman, of course but for a lightweight he + has the worst hands I ever knew.” + </p> + <p> + “But surely amongst your immediate friends there must be many others,” the + Prince said. “Sir Charles, for instance?” + </p> + <p> + “Charlie is riding his own horse,” Lady Grace answered. “He hasn’t the + ghost of a chance, but, of course, he won’t give it up.” + </p> + <p> + “Not I!” Somerfield answered, gorgeous in pink coat and riding breeches. + “My old horse may not be fast, but he can go the course, and I’m none too + certain of the others. Some of those hurdles’ll take a bit of doing.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a shame,” the Prince remarked, “that you should be disappointed, + Lady Grace. Would they let me ride for you?” + </p> + <p> + Nothing the Prince could have said would have astonished the little + company more. Somerfield came to a standstill in the middle of the room, + with a cup of tea in one hand and a plate of ham in the other. + </p> + <p> + “You!” Lady Grace exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Do you really mean it, Prince?” Penelope cried. + </p> + <p> + “Well, why not?” he asked, himself, in turn, somewhat surprised. “If I am + eligible, and Lady Grace chooses, it seems to me very simple.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” the Duke intervened, “I did not know—we did not know that you + were a sportsman, Prince.” + </p> + <p> + “A sportsman?” the Prince repeated a little doubtfully. “Perhaps I am not + that according to your point of view, but when it comes to a question of + riding, why, that is easy enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you ever ridden in a steeplechase?” Somerfield asked him. + </p> + <p> + “Never in my life,” the Prince declared. “Frankly, I do not know what it + is.” + </p> + <p> + “There are jumps, for one thing,” Somerfield continued,—“pretty + stiff affairs, too.” + </p> + <p> + “If Lady Grace’s mare is a hunter,” the Prince remarked, “she can probably + jump them.” + </p> + <p> + “The question is whether—” Somerfield began, and stopped short. + </p> + <p> + The Prince looked up. + </p> + <p> + “Yes?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + Somerfield hesitated to complete his sentence, and the Duke once more + intervened. + </p> + <p> + “What Somerfield was thinking, my dear Prince,” he said, “was that a + steeplechase course, as they ride in this country, needs some knowing. You + have never been on my daughter’s mare before.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled. + </p> + <p> + “So far as I am concerned,” he said, “that is of no account. There was a + day at Mukden—I do not like to talk of it, but it comes back to me—when + I rode twelve different horses in twenty-four hours, but perhaps,” he + added, turning to Lady Grace, “you would not care to trust your horse with + one who is a stranger to your—what is it you call them?—steeplechases.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, Prince,” Lady Grace exclaimed, “you shall ride her, and + I am going to back you for all I am worth.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome, who was also in riding clothes, although he was not taking part + in the steeplechases himself, glanced at the clock. + </p> + <p> + “You are running it rather fine,” he said. “You’ll scarcely have time to + hack round the course.” + </p> + <p> + “Some one must explain it to me,” the Prince said. “I need only to be told + where to go. If there is no time for that, I must stay with the other + horses until the finish. There is a flat finish perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “About three hundred yards,” the Duke answered. + </p> + <p> + “Have you any riding clothes?” Penelope whispered to him. + </p> + <p> + “Without a doubt,” he answered. “I will go and change in a few minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “We start in half an hour,” Somerfield remarked. “Even that allows us none + too much time.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” the Duke suggested diffidently, “you would like to ride over, + Prince? It is a good eleven miles, and you would have a chance of getting + into your stride.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said, “I should like to motor with you others, if I may.” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you like, of course,” the Duke agreed. “Grace’s mare is over + there now. We shall be able to have a look at her before the race, at any + rate.” + </p> + <p> + The opinions, after the Prince had left the table, were a little divided + as to what was likely to happen. + </p> + <p> + “For a man who has never even hunted and knows nothing whatever about the + country,” Somerfield declared, “to attempt to ride in a steeplechase of + this sort is sheer folly. If you take my advice, Lady Grace, you will get + out of it. Lady Barbarity is far too good a mare to have her knees + broken.” + </p> + <p> + “I am perfectly content to take my risks,” Lady Grace answered + confidently. “If the Prince had never ridden before in his life, I would + trust him.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield turned away, frowning. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think about it, Penelope?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” she answered, “that I agree with Grace.” + </p> + <p> + Two punctures and a leaking valve delayed them over an hour on the road. + When they reached their destination, the first race was already over. + </p> + <p> + “It’s shocking bad luck,” the Duke declared, “but there’s no earthly + chance of your seeing the course, Prince. Come on the top of the stand + with me, and bring your glasses. I think I can point out the way for you.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do excellently,” the Prince answered. “There is no need to go + and look at every jump. Show me where we start and as near as possible the + way we have to go, and tell me where we finish.” + </p> + <p> + The course was a natural one, and the stand itself on a hill. The greater + part of it was clearly visible from where they stood. The Duke pointed out + the water jump with some trepidation, but the Prince’s glasses rested on + it only for a moment. He pointed to a clump of trees. + </p> + <p> + “Which side there?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “To the left,” the Duke answered. “Remember to keep inside the red flags.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Where do we finish?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + The Duke showed him. + </p> + <p> + “That is all right,” he said. “I need not look any more.” + </p> + <p> + In the paddock some of the horses were being led around. The Prince noted + them approvingly. + </p> + <p> + “Very nice horses,” he said,—“light, but very nice. That one I like + best,” he added, pointing to a dark bay mare, who was already giving her + boy some trouble. + </p> + <p> + “That’s lucky,” the Duke answered, “for she’s your mount. I must go and + talk to the clerk about your entry. It is a little late, but I think that + it will be all right.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince glanced over Lady Grace’s mare and turned aside to join + Penelope and Somerfield. + </p> + <p> + “I like the look of my horse, Sir Charles,” he said. “I think that I shall + beat you today.” + </p> + <p> + “We both start at five to one,” Somerfield answered. “Shall we have a + bet?” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure,” the Prince agreed. “Will you name the amount? I do not + know what is usual.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything you like,” Somerfield answered, “from ten pounds to a hundred.” + </p> + <p> + “One hundred,—we will say one hundred, then,” the Prince declared. + “My mount against yours. So!” + </p> + <p> + He threw off his overcoat, and they saw for the first time that he was + dressed in English riding clothes of dark material, but absolutely correct + cut. + </p> + <p> + “I must go now and be introduced to the Clerk of the Course,” he said. + “Ah, here is Lady Grace!” he added. “Come with me, Lady Grace. Your father + is seeing about my entry. I think that in five minutes the bell will + ring.” + </p> + <p> + Everything was in order, and a few minutes later the Prince came out. The + mare was stripped, and the whole party gathered round to watch him mount. + He swung himself into the saddle without hesitation. The mare suddenly + reared. Prince Maiyo only smiled, and with loose reins stooped and patted + her neck. He seemed to whisper something in her ear, and she stood for a + moment afterwards quite still. Lady Grace drew a quick breath. + </p> + <p> + “What did you say to her, Prince?” she asked. “She is behaving beautifully + except for that first start.” + </p> + <p> + “Your mare understands Japanese, Lady Grace,” the Prince answered, + smiling. “She and I are going to be great friends. Show me the way, + please. Ah, I follow that other horse! I see. Lady Grace, au revoir. You + shall have your cup.” + </p> + <p> + “Gad, I believe she will!” the Duke exclaimed. “Look at the fellow ride. + His body is like whalebone.” + </p> + <p> + The parade in front of the stand was a short one. The Prince rode by in + the merest canter. The mare made one wild plunge which would have unseated + any ordinary person, but her rider never even moved in his saddle. + </p> + <p> + “I never saw a fellow sit so close in my life,” the Duke declared. “Do you + know, Grace, I believe, I really believe he’ll ride her!” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace laughed scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “I have a year’s allowance on already,” she said, “so you had better pray + that he does. I think it is very absurd of you all,” she added, “because + the Prince cares nothing for games, to conclude that he is any the less + likely to be able to do the things that a man should do. He perhaps cannot + ride about on a trained pony with a long stick and knock a small ball + between two posts, but I think that if he had to ride for his own life or + the life of others he would show you all something.” + </p> + <p> + “They’re off!” the Duke exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + They watched the first jump breathlessly. The Prince, riding a little + apart, simply ignored the hurdle, and the mare took it in her stride. They + turned the corner and faced an awkward post and rails. The leading horse + took off too late and fell. The Prince, who was close behind, steered his + mare on one side like lightning. She jumped like a cat,—the Prince + never moved in his seat. + </p> + <p> + “He rides like an Italian,” Bransome declared, shutting up his glasses. + “There’s never a thing in this race to touch him. I am going to see if I + can get any money on.” + </p> + <p> + Another set of hurdles and then the field were out of sight. Soon they + were visible again in the valley. The Prince was riding second now. + Somerfield was leading, and there were only three other horses left. They + cleared a hedge and two ditches. At the second one Somerfield’s horse + stumbled, and there was a suppressed cry. He righted himself almost at + once, however, and came on. Then they reached the water jump. There was a + sudden silence on the stand and the hillside. Somerfield took off first, + the Prince lying well away from him. Both cleared it, but whereas Lady + Grace’s mare jumped wide and clear, and her rider never even faltered in + his saddle, Somerfield lost all his lead and only just kept his seat. They + were on the homeward way now, with only one more jump, a double set of + hurdles. Suddenly, in the flat, the Prince seemed to stagger in his + saddle. Lady Grace cried out. + </p> + <p> + “He’s over, by Jove!” the Duke exclaimed. “No, he’s righted himself!” + </p> + <p> + The Prince had lost ground, but he came on toward the last jump, gaining + with every stride. Somerfield was already riding his mount for all he was + worth, but the Prince as yet had not touched his whip. They drew closer + and closer to the jump. Once more the silence came. Then there was a + little cry,—both were over. They were turning the corner coming into + the straight. Somerfield was leaning forward now, using his whip freely, + but it was clear that his big chestnut was beaten. The Prince, with merely + a touch of the whip and riding absolutely upright, passed him with ease, + and rode in a winner by a dozen lengths. As he cantered by the stand, they + all saw the cause of his momentary stagger. One stirrup had gone, and he + was riding with his leg quite stiff. + </p> + <p> + “You’ve won your money, Grace,” the Duke declared, shutting up his glass. + “A finely ridden race, too. Did you see he’d lost his stirrup? He must + have taken the last jump without it. I’ll go and fetch him up.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke hurried down. The Prince was already in the weighing room smoking + a cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “It is all right,” he said smiling. “They have passed me. I have won. I + hope that Lady Grace will be pleased.” + </p> + <p> + “She is delighted!” the Duke exclaimed, shaking him by the hand. “We all + are. What happened to your stirrup?” + </p> + <p> + “You must ask your groom,” the Prince answered. “The leather snapped right + in the flat, but it made no difference. We have to ride like that half the + time. It is quite pleasant exercise,” he continued, “but I am very dirty + and very thirsty. I am sorry for Sir Charles, but his horse was not nearly + so good as your daughter’s mare.” + </p> + <p> + They made their way toward the stand, but met the rest of the party in the + paddock. Lady Grace went up to the Prince with outstretched hands. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” she declared, “you rode superbly. It was a wonderful race. I + have never felt so grateful to any one in my life.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince smiled in a puzzled way. + </p> + <p> + “My dear young lady,” he said, “it was a great pleasure and a very + pleasant ride. You have nothing to thank me for because your horse is a + little better than those others.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not my mare alone,” she answered,—“it was your riding.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince laughed as one who does not understand. + </p> + <p> + “You make me ashamed, Lady Grace,” he declared. “Why, there is only one + way to ride. You did not think that because I was not English I should + fall off a horse?” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” the Duke remarked smiling, “that several Englishmen have + fallen off!” + </p> + <p> + “It is a matter of the horse,” the Prince said. “Some are not trained for + jumping. What would you have, then? In my battalion we have nine hundred + horsemen. If I found one who did not ride so well as I do, he would go + back to the ranks. We would make an infantryman of him. Miss Morse,” he + added, turning suddenly to where Penelope was standing a little apart. “I + am so sorry that Sir Charles’ horse was not quite so good as Lady Grace’s. + You will not blame me?” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him curiously. She did not answer immediately. Somerfield + was coming towards them, his pink coat splashed with mud, his face + scratched, and a very distinct frown upon his forehead. She looked away + from him to the Prince. Their eyes met for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “No!” she said. “I do not blame you!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. INSPECTOR JACKS IMPORTUNATE + </h2> + <p> + They were talking of the Prince during those few minutes before they + separated to dress for dinner. The whole of the house-party, with the + exception of the Prince himself, were gathered around the great open + fireplace at the north end of the hall. The weather had changed during the + afternoon, and a cold wind had blown in their faces on the homeward drive. + Every one had found comfortable seats here, watching the huge logs burn, + and there seemed to be a general indisposition to move. A couple of young + men from the neighborhood had joined the house-party, and the + conversation, naturally enough, was chiefly concerned with the day’s + sport. The young men, Somerfield especially, were inclined to regard the + Prince’s achievement from a somewhat critical standpoint. + </p> + <p> + “He rode the race well enough,” Somerfield admitted, “but the mare is a + topper, and no mistake. He had nothing to do but to sit tight and let her + do the work.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, he hadn’t to finish either,” one of the newcomers, a Captain + Everard Wilmot, remarked. “That’s where you can tell if a fellow really + can ride or not. Anyhow, his style was rotten. To me he seemed to sit his + horse exactly like a groom.” + </p> + <p> + “You will, perhaps, not deny him,” the Duke remarked mildly, “a certain + amount of courage in riding a strange horse of uncertain temper, over a + strange country, in an enterprise which was entirely new to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I call it one of the most sporting things I ever heard of in my life,” + Lady Grace declared warmly. + </p> + <p> + Somerfield shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “One must admit that he has pluck,” he remarked critically. “At the same + time I cannot see that a single effort of this sort entitles a man to be + considered a sportsman. He doesn’t shoot, nor does he ever ride except + when he is on military service. He neither plays games nor has he the + instinct for them. A man without the instinct for games is a fellow I + cannot understand. He’d never get along in this country, would he, + Wilmot?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I’m shot if he would!” that young man replied. “There must be + something wrong about a man who hasn’t any taste whatever for sport.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope suddenly intervened—intervened, too, in somewhat startling + fashion. + </p> + <p> + “Charlie,” she said, “you are talking like a baby! I am ashamed of you! I + am ashamed of you all! You are talking like narrow-minded, ignorant little + squireens.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield went slowly white. He looked across at Penelope, but the angry + flash in his eyes was met by an even brighter light in her own. + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you what I think!” she exclaimed. “I think that you are all + guilty of the most ridiculous presumption in criticising such a man as the + Prince. You would dare—you, Captain Wilmot, and you, Charlie, and + you, Mr. Hannaway,” she added, turning to the third young man, “to stand + there and tell us all in a lordly way that the Prince is no sportsman, as + though that mysterious phrase disposed of him altogether as a creature + inferior to you and your kind! If only you could realize the absolute + absurdity of any of you attempting to depreciate a person so immeasurably + above you! Prince Maiyo is a man, not an overgrown boy to go through life + shooting birds, playing games which belong properly to your schooldays, + and hanging round the stage doors of half the theatres in London. You are + satisfied with your lives and the Prince is satisfied with his. He belongs + to a race whom you do not understand. Let him alone. Don’t presume to + imagine yourselves his superior because he does not conform to your pygmy + standard of life.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope was standing now, her slim, elegant form throbbing with the + earnestness of her words, a spot of angry color burning in her cheeks. + During the moment’s silence which followed, Lady Grace too rose to her + feet and came to her friend’s side. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with every word Penelope has said,” she declared. + </p> + <p> + The Duchess smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” she said soothingly, “we mustn’t take this little affair too + seriously. You are all right, all of you. Every one must live according to + his bringing up. The Prince, no doubt, is as faithful to his training and + instincts as the young men of our own country. It is more interesting to + compare than to criticise.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield, who for a moment had been too angry to speak, had now + recovered himself. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he said stiffly, “that we had better drop the subject. I had no + idea that Miss Morse felt so strongly about it or I should not have + presumed, even here and amongst ourselves, to criticise a person who holds + such a high place in her esteem. Everard, I’ll play you a game of + billiards before we go upstairs. There’s just time.” + </p> + <p> + Captain Wilmot hesitated. He was a peace-loving man, and, after all, + Penelope and his friend were engaged. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps Miss Morse—” he began. + </p> + <p> + Penelope turned upon him. + </p> + <p> + “I should like you all to understand,” she declared, “that every word I + said came from my heart, and that I would say it again, and more, with the + same provocation.” + </p> + <p> + There was a finality about Penelope’s words which left no room for further + discussion. The little group was broken up. She and Lady Grace went to + their rooms together. + </p> + <p> + “Penelope, you’re a dear!” the latter said, as they mounted the stairs. “I + am afraid you’ve made Charlie very angry, though.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope I have,” Penelope answered. “I meant to make him angry. I think + that such self-sufficiency is absolutely stifling. It makes me sometimes + almost loathe young Englishmen of his class.” + </p> + <p> + “And you don’t dislike the Prince so much nowadays?” Lady Grace remarked + with transparent indifference. + </p> + <p> + “No!” Penelope answered. “That is finished. I misunderstood him at first. + It was entirely my own fault. I was prejudiced, and I hated to feel that I + was in the wrong. I do not see how any one could dislike him unless they + were enemies of his country. Then I fancy that they might have cause.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace sighed. + </p> + <p> + “To tell you the truth, Penelope,” she said, “I almost wish that he were + not quite so devotedly attached to his country.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope was silent. They had reached Lady Grace’s room now, and were + standing together on the hearthrug in front of the fire. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid he is like that,” Penelope said gently. “He seems to have + none of the ordinary weaknesses of men. I, too, wish sometimes that he + were a little different. One would like to think of him, for his own sake, + as being happy some day. He reminds me somehow of the men who build and + build, toiling always through youth unto old age. There seems no limit to + their strength, nor any respite. They build a palace which those who come + after them must inhabit.” + </p> + <p> + Once more Lady Grace sighed. She was looking into the heart of the fire. + Penelope took her hands. + </p> + <p> + “It is hard sometimes, dear,” she said, “to realize that a thing is + impossible, that it is absolutely out of our reach. Yet it is better to + bring one’s mind to it than to suffer all the days.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace looked up. At that moment she was more than pretty. Her eyes + were soft and bright, the color had flooded her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “But I don’t see <i>why</i> it should be impossible, Penelope,” she + protested. “We are equals in every way. Alliances between our two + countries are greatly to be desired. I have heard my father say so, and + Mr. Haviland. The trouble is, Pen,” she added with trembling lips, “that + he does not care for me.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot tell,” Penelope answered. “He has never shown any signs of + caring for any woman. Remember, though, that he would want you to live in + Japan.” + </p> + <p> + “I’d live in Thibet if he asked me to,” Lady Grace declared, raising her + handkerchief to her eyes, “but he never will. He doesn’t care. He doesn’t + understand. I am very foolish, Penelope.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope kissed her gently. + </p> + <p> + “Dear,” she said, “you are not the only foolish woman in the world.”... + </p> + <p> + Conversation amongst the younger members of the house-party at Devenham + Castle was a little disjointed that evening. Perhaps Penelope, who came + down in a wonderful black velveteen gown, with a bunch of scarlet roses in + her corsage, was the only one who seemed successfully to ignore the + passage of arms which had taken place so short a while ago. She talked + pleasantly to Somerfield, who tried to be dignified and succeeded only in + remaining sulky. Chance had placed her at some distance from the Prince, + to whom Lady Grace was talking with a subdued softness in her manner which + puzzled Captain Wilmot, her neighbor on the other side. + </p> + <p> + “I saw you with all the evening papers as usual, Bransome,” the Prime + Minister remarked during the service of dinner. “Was there any news?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing much,” the Foreign Secretary replied. “Consuls are down another + point and the Daily Comet says that you are like a drowning man clinging + to the raft of your majority. Excellent cartoon of you, by the bye. You + shall see it after dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” the Prime Minister said. “Was there anything about you in the + same paper by any chance?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing particularly abusive,” Sir Edward answered blandly. “By the bye, + the police declare that they have a definite clue this time, and are going + to arrest the murderer of Hamilton Fynes and poor dicky Vanderpole tonight + or tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent!” the Duke declared. “It would have been a perfect disgrace to + our police system to have left two such crimes undetected. Our respected + friend at the Home Office will have a little peace now.” + </p> + <p> + “How about me?” Bransome grumbled. “Haven’t I been worried to death, too?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince, who had just finished describing to Lady Grace a typical + landscape of his country, turned toward Bransome. + </p> + <p> + “I think that I heard you say something about a discovery in connection + with those wonderful murder cases,” he said. “Has any one actually been + arrested?” + </p> + <p> + “My paper was an early edition,” Bransome answered, “but it spoke of a + sensational denouement within the next few hours. I should imagine that it + is all over by now. At the same time it’s absurd how the Press give these + things away. It seems that some fellow who was bicycling saw a man get in + and out of poor Dicky’s taxi and is quite prepared to swear to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he not been rather a long time in coming forward with his evidence?” + the Prince remarked. “I do not remember to have seen any mention of such a + person in the papers before.” + </p> + <p> + “He watched so well,” Bransome answered, “and was so startled that he was + knocked down and run over. The detective in charge of the case found him + in a hospital.” + </p> + <p> + “These things always come out sooner or later,” the Prime Minister + remarked. “As a matter of fact, I am inclined to think that our police + wait too long before they make an arrest. They play with their victim so + deliberately that sometimes he slips through their fingers. Very often, + too, they let a man go who would give himself away from sheer fright if he + felt the touch of a policeman upon his shoulder.” + </p> + <p> + “As a nation,” Bransome remarked, helping himself to the entree, “we + handle life amongst ourselves with perpetual kid gloves. We are always + afraid of molesting the liberty of the subject. A trifle more brutality + sometimes would make for strength. We are like a dentist whose work + suffers because he is afraid of hurting his patient.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield was watching his fiancee curiously. + </p> + <p> + “Are you really very pale tonight, Penelope,” he asked, “or is it those + red flowers which have drawn all the color from your cheeks?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe that I am pale,” Penelope answered. “I am always pale when I + wear black and when people have disagreed with me. As a matter of fact, I + am trying to make the Prince feel homesick. Tell me,” she asked him across + the round table, “don’t you think that I remind you a little tonight of + the women of your country?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince returned her gaze as though, indeed, something were passing + between them of greater significance than that half-bantering question. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” he said, “I think that you do. You remind me of my country + itself—of the things that wait for me across the ocean.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince’s servant had entered the dining room and whispered in the ear + of the butler who was superintending the service of dinner. The latter + came over at once to the Prince. + </p> + <p> + “Your Highness,” he said, “some one is on the telephone, speaking from + London. They ask if you could spare half a minute.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince rose with an interrogative glance at his hostess, and the + Duchess smilingly motioned him to go. Even after he had left the room, + when he was altogether unobserved, his composed demeanor showed no signs + of any change. He took up the receiver almost blithely. It was Soto, his + secretary, who spoke to him. + </p> + <p> + “Highness,” he said, “the man Jacks with a policeman is here in the hall + at the present moment. He asks permission to search this house.” + </p> + <p> + “For what purpose?” the Prince asked. + </p> + <p> + “To discover some person whom he believes to be in hiding here,” the + secretary answered. “He explains that in any ordinary case he would have + applied for what they call a search warrant. Owing to your Highness’ + position, however, he has attended here, hoping for your gracious consent + without having made any formal application.” + </p> + <p> + “I must think!” the Prince answered. “Tell me, Soto. You are sure that the + English doctor has had no opportunity of communicating with any one?” + </p> + <p> + “He has had no opportunity,” was the firm reply. “If your Highness says + the word, he shall pass.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him alone,” the Prince answered. “Refuse this man Jacks permission to + search my house during my absence. Tell him that I shall be there at three + o’clock tomorrow afternoon and that at that hour he is welcome to return.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be done, Highness,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + The Prince set down the receiver upon the instrument and stood for a + moment deep in thought. It was a strange country, this,—a strange + end which it seemed that he must prepare to face. He felt like the man who + had gone out to shoot lions and returning with great spoil had died of the + bite of a poisonous ant! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. GOODBYE! + </h2> + <p> + The Prince on his return from the library intercepted Penelope on her way + across the hall. + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me,” he said, “but I could not help overhearing some sentences of + your conversation with Sir Charles Somerfield as we sat at dinner. You are + going to talk with him now, is it not so?” + </p> + <p> + “As soon as he comes out from the dining room.” + </p> + <p> + He saw the hardening of her lips, the flash in her eyes at the mention of + Somerfield’s name. + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” she continued, “Sir Charles and I are going to have a little + understanding.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure,” he asked softly, “that it will not be a misunderstanding?” + </p> + <p> + She looked into his face. + </p> + <p> + “What does it matter to you?” she asked. “What do you care?” + </p> + <p> + “Come into the conservatory for a few minutes,” he begged. “You know that + I take no wine and I prefer not to return into the dining room. I would + like so much instead to talk to you before you see Sir Charles.” + </p> + <p> + She hesitated. He stood by her side patiently waiting. + </p> + <p> + “Remember,” he said, “that I am a somewhat privileged person just now. My + days here are numbered, you see.” + </p> + <p> + She turned toward the conservatories. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” she said, “I must be like every one else, I suppose, and + spoil you. How dare you come and make us all so fond of you that we look + upon your departure almost as a tragedy!” + </p> + <p> + He smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” he declared, “there is a note of tragedy even in these simplest + accidents of life. I have been very happy amongst you all, Miss Penelope. + You have been so much kinder to me than I have deserved. You have thrown a + bridge across the gulf which separates us people of alien tongues and + alien manners. Life has been a pleasant thing for me here.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you go so soon?” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope,” he answered, “to those others who ask me that question, I + shall say that my mission is over, that my report has been sent to my + Emperor, and that there is nothing left for me to do but to follow it + home. I could add, and it would be true, that there is very much work for + me still to accomplish in my own country. To you alone I am going to say + something else.” + </p> + <p> + She was no longer pale. Her eyes were filled with an exceedingly soft + light. She leaned towards him, and her face shone as the face of a woman + who prays that she may hear the one thing in life a woman craves to hear + from the lips she loves best. + </p> + <p> + “Go on,” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “I want to ask you, Miss Penelope,” he continued, “whether you remember + the day when you paid a visit to my house?” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “I was showing you a casket,” he went on. + </p> + <p> + She gripped his arm. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t!” she begged. “Don’t, I can’t bear any more of that. You don’t know + how horrible it seems to me! You don’t know—what fears I have had!” + </p> + <p> + He looked away from her. + </p> + <p> + “I have sometimes wondered,” he said, “what your thoughts were at that + moment, what you have thought of me since.” + </p> + <p> + She shivered a little, but did not answer him. + </p> + <p> + “Very soon,” he reminded her, “I shall have passed out of your life.” + </p> + <p> + He heard the sudden, half-stifled exclamation. He felt rather than saw the + eyes which pleaded with him, and he hastened on. + </p> + <p> + “You understand what is meant by the inevitable,” he continued. “Whatever + has happened in the matters with which I have been concerned has been + inevitable. I have had no choice—sometimes no choice in such events + is possible. Do not think,” he went on, “that I tell you this to beg for + your sympathy. I would not have a thing other than as it is. But when we + have said goodbye, I want you to believe the best of me, to think as + kindly as you can of the things which you may not be able to comprehend. + Remember that we are not so emotional a nation as that to which you + belong. Our affections are but seldom touched. We live without feeling for + many days, sometimes for longer, even, than many days. It has not been so + altogether with me. I have felt more than I dare, at this moment, to speak + of.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet you go,” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “Yet I go,” he assented. “Nothing in the world is more certain than that I + must say farewell to you and all of my good friends here. In a sense I + want this to be our farewell. Leaving out of the question just now the + more serious dangers which threaten me, the result of my mission here + alone will make me unpopular in this country. As the years pass, I fear + that nothing can draw your own land and mine into any sort of accord. That + is why I asked you to come here with me and listen while I said these few + words to you, why I ask you now that, whatever the future may bring, you + will sometimes spare me a kindly thought.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you know,” she answered, “that you need not ask that.” + </p> + <p> + “You will marry Sir Charles Somerfield,” he continued, “and you will be + happy. In this country men develop late. Somerfield, too, will develop, I + am sure. He will become worthy even, I trust, to be your husband, Miss + Penelope. Something was said of his going into Parliament. When he is + Foreign Minister and I am the Counsellor of the Emperor, we may perhaps + send messages to one another, if not across the seas, through the clouds.” + </p> + <p> + A man’s footstep approached them. Somerfield himself drew near and + hesitated. The Prince rose at once. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Charles,” he said, “I have been bidding farewell to Miss Penelope. I + have had news tonight over the telephone and I find that I must curtail my + visit.” + </p> + <p> + “The Duke will be disappointed,” Somerfield said. “Are you off at once?” + </p> + <p> + “Probably tomorrow,” the Prince answered. “May I leave Miss Penelope in + your charge?” he added with a little bow. “The Duke, I believe, is + awaiting me.” + </p> + <p> + He passed out of the conservatory. Penelope sat quite still. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” Somerfield said, “if he is really going—” + </p> + <p> + “Charlie,” she interrupted, “if ever you expect me to marry you, I make + one condition, and that is that you never say a single word against Prince + Maiyo.” + </p> + <p> + “The man whom a month ago,” he remarked curiously, “you hated!” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “I was an idiot,” she said. “I did not understand him and I was prejudiced + against his country.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, as he actually is going away,” Sir Charles remarked with a sigh of + content, “I suppose it’s no use being jealous.” + </p> + <p> + “You haven’t any reason to be,” Penelope answered just a little wistfully. + “Prince Maiyo has no room in his life for such frivolous creatures as + women.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince found the rest of the party dispersed in various directions. + Lady Grace was playing billiards with Captain Wilmot. She showed every + disposition to lay down her cue when he entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “Do come and talk to us, Prince,” she begged. “I am so tired of this + stupid game, and I am sure Captain Wilmot is bored to tears.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” he said, “but I must find the Duke. I have just received a + telephone message and I fear that I may have to leave tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Tomorrow!” she cried in dismay. + </p> + <p> + The Prince sighed. + </p> + <p> + “If not tomorrow, the next day,” he answered. “I have had a summons—a + summons which I cannot disobey. Shall I find your father in the library, + Lady Grace?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” she answered. “He is there with Mr. Haviland and Sir Edward. Are + you really going to waste your last evening in talking about treaties and + such trifles?” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I must,” he answered regretfully. + </p> + <p> + “You are a hopelessly disappointing person,” she declared a little + pitifully. + </p> + <p> + “It is because you are all much too kind to me that you think so,” he + answered. “You make me welcome amongst you even as one of yourselves. You + forget—you would almost teach me to forget that I am only a wayfarer + here.” + </p> + <p> + “That is your own choice,” she said, coming a little nearer to him. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, no,” he answered. “There is no choice! I serve a great mistress, and + when she calls I come. There are no other voices in the world for one of + my race and faith. The library you said, Lady Grace? I must go and find + your father.” + </p> + <p> + He passed out, closing the door behind him. Captain Wilmot chalked his cue + carefully. + </p> + <p> + “That’s the queerest fellow I ever knew in my life,” he said. “He seems + all the time as though his head were in the clouds.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace sighed. She too was chalking her cue. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder,” she said, “what it would be like to live in the clouds.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. PRINCE MAIYO SPEAKS + </h2> + <p> + The library at Devenham Castle was a large and sombre apartment, with high + oriel windows and bookcases reaching to the ceiling. It had an unused and + somewhat austere air. Tonight especially an atmosphere of gloom seemed to + pervade it. The Prince, when he opened the door, found the three men who + were awaiting him seated at an oval table at the further end of the room. + </p> + <p> + “I do not intrude, I trust?” the Prince said. “I understood that you + wished me to come here.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” the Duke answered, “we were sitting here awaiting your + arrival. Will you take this easy chair? The cigarettes are at your elbow.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince declined the easy chair and leaned for a moment against the + table. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps later,” he said. “Just now I feel that you have something to say + to me. Is it not so? I talk better when I am standing.” + </p> + <p> + It was the Prime Minister who made the first plunge. He spoke without + circumlocution, and his tone was graver than usual. + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” he said, “this is perhaps the last time that we shall all meet + together in this way. You go from us direct to the seat of your + Government. So far there has been very little plain speaking between us. + It would perhaps be more in accord with etiquette if we let you go without + a word, and waited for a formal interchange of communications between your + Ambassador and ourselves. But we have a feeling, Sir Edward and I, that we + should like to talk to you directly. Before we go any further, however, + let me ask you this question. Have you any objection, Prince, to + discussing a certain matter here with us?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince for several moments made no reply. He was still standing facing + the fireplace, leaning slightly against the table behind him. On his right + was the Duke, seated in a library chair. On his left the Prime Minister + and Sir Edward Bransome. The Prince seemed somehow to have become the + central figure of the little group. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” he said, “if you had asked me that question a month ago, Mr. + Haviland, I might have replied to you differently. Circumstances, however, + since then have changed. My departure will take place so soon, and the + kindness I have met here from all of you has been so overwhelming, that if + you will let me I should like to speak of certain things concerning which + no written communication could ever pass between our two countries.” + </p> + <p> + “I can assure you, my dear Prince, that we shall very much appreciate your + doing so,” Mr. Haviland declared. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” the Prince continued, “that the greatest and the most subtle of + all policies is the policy of perfect truthfulness. Listen to me, then. + The thing which you have in your mind concerning me is true. Two years I + have spent in this country and in other countries of Europe. These two + years have not been spent in purposeless travel. On the contrary, I have + carried with me always a definite and very fixed purpose.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister and Bransome exchanged rapid glances. + </p> + <p> + “That has been our belief from the first,” Bransome remarked. + </p> + <p> + “I came to Europe,” the Prince continued gravely, “to make a report to my + cousin the Emperor of Japan as to whether I believed that a renewal of our + alliance with you would be advantageous to my country. I need not shrink + from discussing this matter with you now, for my report is made. It is, + even now, on its way to the Emperor.” + </p> + <p> + There was a moment’s silence, a silence which in this corner of the great + room seemed marked with a certain poignancy. It was the Prime Minister who + broke it. + </p> + <p> + “The report,” he said, “is out of your hands. The official decision of + your Government will reach us before long. Is there any reason why you + should not anticipate that decision, why you should not tell us frankly + what your advice was?” + </p> + <p> + “There is no reason,” the Prince answered. “I will tell you. I owe that to + you at least. I have advised the Emperor not to renew the treaty.” + </p> + <p> + “Not to renew,” the Prime Minister echoed. + </p> + <p> + This time the silence was portentous. It was a blow, and there was not one + of the three men who attempted to hide his dismay. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” the Prince continued earnestly, “that to you I must seem + something of an ingrate. I have been treated by every one in this country + as the son of a dear friend. The way has been made smooth for me + everywhere. Nothing has been hidden. From all quarters I have received + hospitality which I shall never forget. But you are three just men. I know + you will realize that my duty was to my country and to my country alone. + No one else has any claims upon me. What I have seen I have written of. + What I believe I have spoken.” + </p> + <p> + “Prince,” Mr. Haviland said, “there is no one here who will gainsay your + honesty. You came to judge us as a nation and you have found us wanting. + At least we can ask you why?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince sighed. + </p> + <p> + “It is hard,” he said. “It is very hard. When I tell you of the things + which I have seen, remember, if you please, that I have seen them with + other eyes than yours. The conditions which you have grown up amongst and + lived amongst all your days pass almost outside the possibility of your + impartial judgment. You have lived with them too long. They have become a + part of you. Then, too, your national weakness bids your eyes see what you + would have them see.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on,” Mr. Haviland said, drumming idly with his fingers upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “I have had to ask myself,” the Prince continued,—“it has been my + business to ask myself what is your position as a great military power, + and the answer I have found is that as a great military power it does not + exist. I have had to ask myself what would happen to your country in the + case of a European war, where your fleet was distributed to guard your + vast possessions in every quarter of the world, and the answer to that is + that you are, to all practical purposes, defenceless. In almost any + combination which could arrange itself, your country is at the mercy of + the invader.” + </p> + <p> + Bransome leaned forward in his chair. + </p> + <p> + “I can disprove it,” he declared firmly. “Come with me to Aldershot next + week, and I will show you that those who say that we have no army are + ignorant alarmists. The Secretary for War shall show you our new scheme + for defensive forces. You have gone to the wrong authorities for + information on these matters, Prince. You have been entirely and totally + misled.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince drew a little breath. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Edward,” he said, “I do not speak to you rashly. I have not looked + into these affairs as an amateur. You forget that I have spent a week at + Aldershot, that your Secretary for War gave me two days of his valuable + time. Every figure with which you could furnish me I am already possessed + of. I will be frank with you. What I saw at Aldershot counted for nothing + with me in my decision. Your standing army is good, beyond a doubt,—a + well-trained machine, an excellent plaything for a General to move across + the chessboard. It might even win battles, and yet your standing army are + mercenaries, and no great nation, from the days of Babylon, has resisted + invasion or held an empire by her mercenaries.” + </p> + <p> + “They are English soldiers,” Mr. Haviland declared. “I do not recognize + your use of the word.” + </p> + <p> + “They are paid soldiers,” the Prince said, “men who have adopted + soldiering as a profession. Come, I will not pause half-way. I will tell + you what is wrong with your country. You will not believe it. Some day you + will see the truth, and you will remember my words. It may be that you + will realize it a little sooner, or I would not have dared to speak as I + am speaking. This, then, is the curse which is eating the heart out of + your very existence. The love of his Motherland is no longer a religion + with your young man. Let me repeat that,—I will alter one word only. + The love of his Motherland is no longer <i>the</i> religion or even part + of the religion of your young man. Soldiering is a profession for those + who embrace it. It is so that mercenaries are made. I have been to every + one of your great cities in the North. I have been there on a Saturday + afternoon, the national holiday. That is the day in Japan on which our + young men march and learn to shoot, form companies and attend their drill. + Feast days and holidays it is always the same. They do what tradition has + made a necessity for them. They do it without grumbling, whole-heartedly, + with an enthusiasm which has in it something almost of passion. How do I + find the youth of your country engaged? I have discovered. It is for that + purpose that I have toured through England. They go to see a game played + called football. They sit on seats and smoke and shout. They watch a score + of performers—one score, mind—and the numbers who watch them + are millions. From town to town I went, and it was always the same. I see + their white faces in a huge amphitheatre, fifteen thousand here, twenty + thousand there, thirty thousand at another place. They watch and they + shout while these men in the arena play with great skill this wonderful + game. When the match is over, they stream into public houses. Their + afternoon has been spent. They talk it over. Again they smoke and drink. + So it is in one town and another,—so it is everywhere,—the + strangest sight of all that I have seen in Europe. These are your young + men, the material out of which the coming generation must be fashioned? + How many of them can shoot? How many of them can ride? How many of them + have any sort of uniform in which they could prepare to meet the enemy of + their country? What do they know or care for anything outside their little + lives and what they call their love of sport,—they who spend five + days in your grim factories toiling before machines,—their one + afternoon, content to sit and watch the prowess of others! I speak to + these footballers themselves. They are strong men and swift. They are paid + to play this game. I do not find that even one of them is competent to + strike a blow for his country if she needs him. It is because of your + young men, then, Mr. Haviland, that I cannot advise Japan to form a new + alliance with you. It is because you are not a serious people. It is + because the units of your nation have ceased to understand that behind the + life of every great nation stands the love of God, whatever god it may be, + and the love of Motherland. These things may not be your fault. They may, + indeed, be the terrible penalty of success. But no one who lives for ever + so short a time amongst you can fail to see the truth. You are + commercialized out of all the greatness of life. Forgive me, all of you, + that I say it so plainly, but you are a race who are on the downward + grade, and Japan seeks for no alliance save with those whose faces are + lifted to the skies.” + </p> + <p> + The pause which followed was in itself significant. The Duke alone + remained impassive. Bransome’s face was dark with anger. Even the Prime + Minister was annoyed. Bransome would have spoken, but the former held out + his hand to check him. + </p> + <p> + “If that is really your opinion of us, Prince,” he said, “it is useless to + enter into argument with you, especially as you have already acted upon + your convictions. I should like to ask you this question, though. A few + weeks ago an appeal was made to our young men to bring up to its full + strength certain forces which have been organized for the defence of the + country. Do you know how many recruits we obtained in less than a month?” + </p> + <p> + “Fourteen thousand four hundred and seventy-five,” the Prince answered + promptly, “out of nearly seven millions who were eligible. This pitiful + result of itself might have been included amongst my arguments if I had + felt that arguments were necessary. Mr. Haviland, you may drive some of + these young men to arms by persuasion, by appealing to them through their + womankind or their employers, but you cannot create a national spirit. And + I tell you, and I have proved it, that the national spirit is not there. I + will go further,” the Prince continued with increased earnestness, “if you + still are not weary of the subject. I will point out to you how little + encouragement the youth of this country receive from those who are above + them in social station. In every one of your counties there is a hunt, + cricket clubs, golf clubs in such numbers that their statistics absolutely + overwhelm me. Everywhere one meets young men of leisure, well off, calmly + proposing to settle down and spend the best part of their lives in what + they call country life. They will look after their estates; they will hunt + a little, shoot a little, go abroad for two months in the winter, play + golf a little, lawn tennis, perhaps, or cricket. I tell you that there are + hundreds and thousands of these young men, with money to spare, who have + no uniform which they could wear,—no, I want to change that!” the + Prince cried with an impressive gesture,—“who have no uniform which + they will be able to wear when the evil time comes! How will they feel + then, these young men of family, whose life has been given to sports and + to idle amusements, when their womankind come shrieking to them for + protection and they dare not even handle a gun or strike a blow! They must + stand by and see their lands laid waste, their womankind insulted. They + must see the land run red with the blood of those who offer a futile + resistance, but they themselves must stand by inactive. They are not + trained to fight as soldiers,—they cannot fight as civilians.” + </p> + <p> + “The Prince forgets,” Bransome remarked dryly, “that an invasion of this + country—a practical invasion—is very nearly an impossible + thing.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince laughed softly. + </p> + <p> + “My friend,” he said, “if I thought that you believed that, although you + are a Cabinet Minister of England I should think that you were the biggest + fool who ever breathed. Today, in warfare, nothing is impossible. I will + guarantee, I who have had only ten years of soldiering, that if Japan were + where Holland is today, I would halve my strength in ships and I would + halve my strength in men, and I would overrun your country with ease at + any time I chose. You need not agree with me, of course. It is not a + subject which we need discuss. It is, perhaps, out of my province to + allude to it. The feeling which I have in my heart is this. The laws of + history are incontrovertible. So surely as a great nation has weakened + with prosperity, so that her limbs have lost their suppleness and her + finger joints have stiffened, so surely does the plunderer come in good + time. The nation which loses its citizen army drives the first nail into + its own coffin. I do not say who will invade you, or when, although, to my + thinking, any one could do it. I simply say that in your present state + invasion from some one or other is a sure thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Without admitting the truth of a single word you have said, my dear + Prince,” the Prime Minister remarked, “there is another aspect of the + whole subject which I think that you should consider. If you find us in so + parlous a state, it is surely scarcely dignified or gracious, on the part + of a great nation like yours, to leave us so abruptly to our fate. + Supposing it were true that we were suffering a little from a period of + too lengthened prosperity, from an attack of over-confidence. Still think + of the part we have played in the past. We kept the world at bay while you + fought with Russia.” + </p> + <p> + “That,” the Prince replied, “was one of the conditions of a treaty which + has expired. If by that treaty our country profited more than yours, that + is still no reason why we should renew it under altered conditions. + Gratitude is an admirable sentiment, but it has nothing to do with the + making of treaties.” + </p> + <p> + “We are, nevertheless,” Bransome declared, “justified in pointing out to + you some of the advantages which you have gained from your alliance with + us. You realize, I suppose, that save for our intervention the United + States would have declared war against you four months ago?” + </p> + <p> + “Your good offices were duly acknowledged by my Government,” the Prince + admitted. “Yet what you did was in itself of no consequence. It is as sure + as north is north and south is south that you and America would never + quarrel for the sake of Japan. That is another reason, if another reason + is needed, why a treaty between us would be valueless. You and I—the + whole world knows that before a cycle of years have passed Japan and + America must fight. When that time comes, it will not be you who will help + us.” + </p> + <p> + “An alliance duly concluded between this country—” + </p> + <p> + The Prince held out both his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Listen,” he said. “A fortnight ago a certain person in America wrote and + asked you in plain terms what your position would be if war between Japan + and America were declared. What was your reply?” + </p> + <p> + Bransome was on the point of exclaiming, but the Prime Minister + intervened. + </p> + <p> + “You appear to be a perfect Secret Service to yourself, Prince,” he said + smoothly. “Perhaps you can also tell us our reply?” + </p> + <p> + “I can tell you this much,” the Prince answered. “You did not send word + back to Washington that your alliance was a sacred charge upon your honor + and that its terms must be fulfilled to the uttermost letter. Your reply, + I fancy, was more in the nature of a compromise.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know what our reply was?” Mr. Haviland asked. + </p> + <p> + “To tell you the truth, I do not,” the Prince answered, smiling. “I have + simply told you what I am assured that your answer must have been. Let us + leave this matter. We gain nothing by discussing it.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been very candid with us, Prince,” Mr. Haviland remarked. “We + gather that you are opposed to a renewal of our alliance chiefly for two + reasons,—first, that you have formed an unfavorable opinion of our + resources and capacity as a nation; and secondly, because you are seeking + an ally who would be of service to you in one particular eventuality, + namely, a war with the United States. You have spent some time upon the + Continent. May we inquire whether your present attitude is the result of + advances made to you by any other Power? If I am asking too much, leave my + question unanswered.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head slowly. + </p> + <p> + “Tonight,” he said, “I am speaking to you as one who is willing to show + everything that is in his heart. I will tell you, then. I have been to + Germany, and I can assure you of my own knowledge that Germany possesses + the mightiest fighting machine ever known in the world’s history. That I + do truthfully and honestly believe. Yet listen to me. I have talked to the + men and I have talked to the officers. I have seen them in barracks and on + the parade ground, and I tell you this. When the time arrives for that + machine to be set in motion, it is my profound conviction that the result + will be one of the greatest surprises of modern times. I say no more, nor + must you ask me any questions, but I tell you that we do not need Germany + as an ally. I have been to Russia, and although our hands have crossed, + there can be no real friendship between our countries till time has wiped + out the memory of our recent conflict. France hates us because it does not + understand us. The future of Japan is just as clear as the disaster which + hangs over Great Britain. There is only one possible ally for us, only one + possible combination. That is what I have written home to my cousin the + Emperor. That is what I pray that our young professors will teach + throughout Japan.. That is what it will be my mission to teach my country + people if the Fates will that I return safely home. East and West are too + far apart. We are well outside the coming European struggle. Our strength + will come to us from nearer home.” + </p> + <p> + “China!” the Prime Minister exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “The China of our own making,” the Prince declared, a note of tense + enthusiasm creeping into his tone,—“China recreated after its great + lapse of a thousand years. You and I in our lifetime shall not see it, but + there will come a day when the ancient conquests of Persia and Greece and + Rome will seem as nothing before the all-conquering armies of China and + Japan. Until those days we need no allies. We will have none. We must + accept the insults of America and the rough hand of Germany. We must be + strong enough to wait!” + </p> + <p> + A footman entered the room and made his way to the Duke’s chair. + </p> + <p> + “Your Grace,” he said, “a gentleman is ringing up from Downing Street who + says he is speaking from the Home Office.” + </p> + <p> + “Whom does he want?” the Duke asked. + </p> + <p> + “Both Your Grace and Mr. Haviland,” the man replied. “He wished me to say + that the matter was of the utmost importance.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke rose at once and glanced at the clock. + </p> + <p> + “It is an extraordinary hour,” he remarked, “for Heseltine to be wanting + us. Shall we go and see what it means, Haviland? You will excuse us, + Prince?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince bowed. + </p> + <p> + “I think that we have talked enough of serious affairs tonight,” he said. + “I shall challenge Sir Edward to a game of billiards.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. UNAFRAID + </h2> + <p> + The Prince, still fully attired, save that in place of his dress coat he + wore a loose smoking jacket, stood at the windows of his sitting room at + Devenham Castle, looking across the park. In the somewhat fitful moonlight + the trees had taken to themselves grotesque shapes. Away in the distance + the glimmer of the sea shone like a thin belt of quicksilver. The stable + clock had struck two. The whole place seemed at rest. Only one light was + gleaming from a long low building which had been added to the coach houses + of recent years for a motor garage. That one light, the Prince knew, was + on his account. There his chauffeur waited, untiring and sleepless, with + his car always ready for that last rush to the coast, the advisability of + which the Prince had considered more than once during the last twenty-four + hours. The excitement of the evening, the excitement of his unwonted + outburst, was still troubling him. It was not often that he had so far + overstepped the bounds which his natural caution, his ever-present + self-restraint, imposed upon him. He paced restlessly to and fro from the + sitting room to the bedroom and back again. He had told the truth,—the + bare, simple truth. He had seen the letters of fire in the sky, and he had + read them to these people because of their kindness, because of a certain + affection which he bore them. To them it must have sounded like a man + speaking in a strange tongue. They had not understood. Perhaps, even, they + would not believe in the absolute sincerity of his motives. Again he + paused at the window and looked over the park to that narrow, glittering + stretch of sea. Why should he not for once forget the traditions of his + race, the pride which kept him there to face the end! There was still + time. The cruiser which the Emperor had sent was waiting for him in + Southampton Harbor. In twenty-four hours he would be in foreign waters. He + thought of these things earnestly, even wistfully, and yet he knew that he + could not go. Perhaps they would be glad of an opportunity of getting rid + of him now that he had spoken his mind. In any case, right was on their + side. The end, if it must come, was simple enough! + </p> + <p> + He turned away from the window with a little shrug of the shoulders. Even + as he did so, there came a faint knocking at the door. His servant had + already retired. For a moment it seemed to him that it could mean but one + thing. While he hesitated, the handle was softly turned and the door + opened. To his amazement, it was Penelope who stood upon the threshold. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Morse!” he exclaimed breathlessly. + </p> + <p> + She held out her hand as though to bid him remain silent. For several + seconds she seemed to be listening. Then very softly she closed the door + behind her. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope,” he cried softly, “you must not come in here! Please!” + </p> + <p> + She ignored his outstretched hand, advancing a little further into the + room. There was tragedy in her white face. She seemed to be shaking in + every limb, but not with nervousness. Directly he looked into her eyes, he + knew very well that the thing was close at hand! + </p> + <p> + “Listen!” she whispered. “I had to come! You don’t know what is going on! + For the last half hour the telephone has been ringing continuously. It is + about you! The Home Office has been ringing up to speak to the Prime + Minister. The Chief Inspector of Scotland Yard has been to see them. One + of their detectives has collected evidence which justifies them in issuing + a warrant for your arrest.” + </p> + <p> + “For my arrest,” the Prince repeated. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you understand?” she continued breathlessly. “Don’t you see how + horrible it is? They mean to arrest you for the murder of Hamilton Fynes + and Dicky Vanderpole!” + </p> + <p> + “If this must be so,” the Prince answered, “why do they not come? I am + here.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must not stay here!” she exclaimed. “You must escape! It is too + terrible to think that you should—oh, I can’t say it!—that you + should have to face these charges. If you are guilty, well, Heaven help + you!—If you are guilty, I want you to escape all the same!” + </p> + <p> + He looked at her with the puzzled air of one who tries to reason with a + child. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Miss Penelope,” he said, “this is kind of you, but, after all, + remember that I am a man, and I must not run away.” + </p> + <p> + “But you cannot meet these charges!” she interrupted. “You cannot meet + them! You know it! Oh, don’t think I can’t appreciate your point of view! + If you killed those men, you killed them to obtain papers which you + believed were necessary for the welfare of your country. Oh, it is not I + who judge you! You did not do it, I know, for your own gain. You did it + because you are, heart and soul, a patriot. But here, alas! they do not + understand. Their whole standpoint is different. They will judge you as + they would a common criminal. You must fly,—you must, indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Miss Penelope,” he said, “I cannot do that! I cannot run away like a + thief in the dark. If this thing is to come, it must come.” + </p> + <p> + “But you don’t understand!” she continued, wringing her hands. “You think + because you are a great prince and a prince of a friendly nation that the + law will treat you differently. It will not! They have talked of it + downstairs. You are not formally attached to any one in this country. You + are not even upon the staff of the Embassy. You are here on a private + mission as a private person, and there is no way in which the Government + can intervene, even if it would. You are subject to its laws and you have + broken them. For Heaven’s sake, fly! You have your motor car here. Let + your man drive you to Southampton and get on board the Japanese cruiser. + You mustn’t wait a single moment. I believe that tomorrow morning will be + too late!” + </p> + <p> + He took her hands in his very tenderly and yet with something of reverence + in his gesture. He looked into her eyes and he spoke very earnestly. Every + word seemed to come from his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Miss Penelope,” he said, “it is very, very kind of you to have come + here and warned me. Only you cannot quite understand what this thing means + to me. Remember what I told you once. Life and death to your people in + this country seem to be the greatest things which the mind of man can + hold. It is not so with us. We are brought up differently. In a worthy + cause a true Japanese is ready to take death by the hand at any moment. So + it is with me now. I have no regret. Even if I had, even if life were a + garden of roses for me, what is ordained must come. A little sooner or a + little later, it makes no matter.” + </p> + <p> + She sank on her knees before him. + </p> + <p> + “Can’t you understand why I am here?” she cried passionately. “It was I + who told of the silken cord and knife!” + </p> + <p> + He was wholly unmoved. He even smiled, as though the thing were of no + moment. + </p> + <p> + “It was right that you should do so,” he declared. “You must not reproach + yourself with that.” + </p> + <p> + “But I do! I do!” she cried again. “I always shall! Don’t you understand + that if you stay here they will treat you—” + </p> + <p> + He interrupted, laying his hand gently upon her shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Dear young lady,” he said, “you need never fear that I shall wait for the + touch of your men of law. Death is too easily won for that. If the end + which you have spoken of comes, there is another way—another house + of rest which I can reach.” + </p> + <p> + She rose slowly to her feet. The absolute serenity of his manner bespoke + an impregnability of purpose before which the words died away on her lips. + She realized that she might as well plead with the dead! + </p> + <p> + “You do not mind,” he whispered, “if I tell you that you must not stay + here any longer?” + </p> + <p> + He led her toward the door. Upon the threshold he took her cold fingers + into his hand and kissed them reverently. + </p> + <p> + “Do not be too despondent,” he said. “I have a star somewhere which burns + for me. Tonight I have been looking for it. It is there still,” he added, + pointing to the wide open window. “It is there, undimmed, clearer and + brighter than ever. I have no fear.” + </p> + <p> + She passed away without looking up again. The Prince listened to her + footsteps dying away in the corridor. Then he closed the door, and, + entering his bedroom, undressed himself and slept... + </p> + <p> + When Prince Maiyo awoke on the following morning, the sunshine was + streaming into the room, and his grave-faced valet was standing over his + bed. + </p> + <p> + “His Highness’ bath is ready,” he announced. + </p> + <p> + The Prince dressed quickly and was first in the pleasant morning room, + with its open windows leading on to the terrace. He strolled outside and + wandered amongst the flower beds. Here he was found, soon afterwards, by + the Duke’s valet. + </p> + <p> + “Your Highness,” the latter said, “His Grace has sent me to look for you. + He would be glad if you could spare him a moment or two in the library.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince followed the man to the room where his host was waiting for + him. The Duke, with his hands behind his back, was pacing restlessly up + and down the apartment. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, Duke,” the Prince said cheerfully. “Another of your + wonderful spring mornings. Upon the terrace the sun is almost hot. Soon I + shall begin to fancy that the perfume of your spring flowers is the + perfume of almond and cherry blossom.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince bowed. + </p> + <p> + “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—” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “This,” the Prince admitted, “I fully apprehend. It is surely reasonable + that the stranger in your country should be subject to your laws.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, then,” the Duke continued. “Listen to me, Prince. This morning + a London magistrate will grant what is called a search warrant which will + enable the police to search, from attic to cellar, your house in St. + James’ Square. An Inspector from Scotland Yard will be there this + afternoon awaiting your return, and he believes that he has witnesses who + will be able to identify you as one who has broken the laws of this + country. I ask you no questions. There is the telephone on the table. My + eighty-horse-power Daimler is at the door and at your service. I + understand that your cruiser in Southampton Harbor is always under steam. + If there is anything more, in reason, that I can do, you have only to + speak.” The Prince shook his head slowly. + </p> + <p> + “Duke,” he said, “please send away your car, unless it will take me to + London quicker than my own. What I have done I have done, and for what I + have done I will pay.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke laid his hands upon the young man’s shoulders and looked down + into his face. The Duke was over six feet high, and broad in proportion. + Before him the Prince seemed almost like a boy. + </p> + <p> + “Maiyo,” he said, “we have grown fond of you,—my wife, my daughter, + all of us. We don’t want harm to come to you, but there is the American + Ambassador watching all the time. Already he more than half suspects. For + our sakes, Prince,—come, I will say for the sake of those who are + grateful to you for your candor and truthfulness, for the lessons you have + tried to teach us,—make use of my car. You will reach Southampton in + half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head. His lips had parted in what was certainly a + smile. At the corners they quivered, a little tremulous. + </p> + <p> + “My dear friend,” he said, and his voice had softened almost to affection, + “you do not quite understand. You look upon the things which may come from + your point of view and not from mine. Remember that, to your philosophy, + life itself is the greatest thing born into the world. To us it is the + least. If you would do me a service, please see that I am able to start + for London in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. BANZAI! + </h2> + <p> + It was curious how the Prince’s sudden departure seemed to affect almost + every member of the little house party. At first it had been arranged that + the Duke, Mr. Haviland, Sir Edward Bransome, and the Prince should leave + in the former’s car, the Prince’s following later with the luggage. Then + the Duchess, whose eyes had filled with tears more than once after her + whispered conversation with her husband, announced that she, too, must go + to town. Lady Grace insisted upon accompanying her, and Penelope reminded + them that she was already dressed for travelling and that, in any case, + she meant to be one of the party. Before ten o’clock they were all on + their way to London. + </p> + <p> + The Prince sat side by side with Lady Grace, the other two occupants of + the car being the Duke himself and Mr. Haviland. No one seemed in the + least inclined for conversation. The Duke and Mr. Haviland exchanged a few + remarks, but Lady Grace, leaning back in her seat, her features completely + obscured by a thick veil, declined to talk to any one. The Prince seemed + to be the only one who made any pretence at enjoying the beauty of the + spring morning, who seemed even to be aware of the warm west wind, the + occasional perfume of the hedgeside violets, and the bluebells which + stretched like a carpet in and out of the belts of wood. Lady Grace’s + eyes, from beneath her veil, scarcely once left his face. Perhaps, she + thought, these things were merely allegorical to him. Perhaps his eyes, + fixed so steadfastly upon the distant horizon, were not, as it seemed, + following the graceful outline of that grove of dark green pine trees, but + were indeed searching back into the corners of his life, measuring up the + good and evil of it, asking the eternal question—was it worth while? + </p> + <p> + In the other car, too, silence reigned. Somerfield was the only one who + struggled against the general air of depression. + </p> + <p> + “After all,” he remarked to Bransome, “I don’t see what we’re all so blue + about. If Scotland Yard are right, and the Prince is really the guilty + person they imagine him, I cannot see what sympathy he deserves. Of + course, they look upon this sort of thing more lightly in his own country, + but, after all, he was no fool. He knew his risks.” + </p> + <p> + Penelope spoke for the first time since they had left Devenham. + </p> + <p> + “If you begin to talk like that, Charlie,” she said, “I shall ask the + Duchess to stop the car and put you down here in the road.” + </p> + <p> + Somerfield laughed, not altogether pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + “Seven miles from any railway station,” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + Penelope shrugged her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “I should not care in the least what happened to you, today or at any + other time,” she declared. + </p> + <p> + After that, Somerfield held his peace, and a somewhat strained silence + followed. Soon they reached the outskirts of London. Long before midday + they slackened speed, after crossing Battersea Bridge, and the two cars + drew alongside. They had arranged to separate here, but, curiously enough, + no one seemed to care to start the leave taking. + </p> + <p> + “You see the time!” the Prince exclaimed. “It is barely eleven o’clock. I + want you all, if you will, to come with me for ten minutes only to my + house. Tomorrow it will be dismantled. Today I want you each to choose a + keepsake from amongst my treasures. There are so many ornaments over here, + engravings and bronzes which are called Japanese and which are really only + imitations. I want you to have something, if you will, to remember me by, + all of you, something which is really the handicraft of my country + people.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke looked for a moment doubtful. + </p> + <p> + “It wants an hour to midday,” the Prince said, softly. “There is time.” + </p> + <p> + They reached St. James’ Square in a few minutes. There were no signs of + disturbance. The door flew open at their approach. The same solemn-faced, + quietly moving butler admitted them. The Prince led the way into the room + upon the ground floor which he called his library. + </p> + <p> + “It is a fancy of mine,” he said, smiling, “to say goodbye to you all + here. You see that there is nothing in this room which is not really the + product of Japan. Here I feel, indeed, as though I had crossed the seas + and were back under the shadow of my own mountains. Here I feel, indeed, + your host, especially as I am going to distribute my treasures.” + </p> + <p> + He took a picture from the wall and turned with it to the Duke. + </p> + <p> + “Duke,” he said, “this engraving is a rude thing, but the hand which + guided the steel has been withered for two hundred years, and no other + example remains of its cunning. Mr. Haviland,” he added, stepping to his + writing table, “this lacquered shrine, with its pagoda roof, has been + attributed to Kobo-Daishi, and has stood upon the writing table of seven + emperors. Sir Edward, this sword, notwithstanding its strange shape and + gilded chasing, was wielded with marvellous effect, if history tells the + truth, a hundred and thirty years ago by my great-grandfather when he + fought his way to the throne. Sir Charles, you are to go into Parliament. + Some day you will become a diplomat. Some day, perhaps, you will + understand our language. Just now I am afraid,” he concluded, “this will + seem to you but a bundle of purple velvet and vellum, but it is really a + manuscript of great curiosity which comes from the oldest monastery in + Asia, the Monastery of Koya-San.” + </p> + <p> + He turned to the Duchess. + </p> + <p> + “Duchess,” he said, “you see that my tapestries have already gone. They + left yesterday for Devenham Castle. I hope that you will find a place + there where you may hang them. They are a little older than your French + ones, and time, as you may remember, has been kind to them. It may + interest you to know that they were executed some thirteen hundred and + fifty years ago, and are of a design which, alas, we borrowed from the + Chinese.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince paused for a moment. All were trying to express their thanks, + but no one was wholly successful. He waved their words gently aside. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Grace,” he said, turning to the statuette of Buddha in a corner of + the room and taking from its neck a string of strange blue stones, “I will + not ask you to wear these, for they have adorned the necks of idols for + many centuries, but if you will keep them for my sake, they may remind you + sometimes of the color of our skies.” + </p> + <p> + Once more he went to his writing table. From it he lifted, almost + reverently, a small bronze figure,—the figure of a woman, strongly + built, almost squat, without grace, whose eyes and head and arms reached + upwards. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Penelope,” he said, “to you I make my one worthless offering. This + statuette has no grace, no shapeliness, according to the canons of your + wonderful Western art. Yet for five generations of my family it has been + the symbol of our lives. We are not idol worshippers in Japan, yet one by + one the men of my race have bent their knee before this figure and have + left their homes to fight for the thing which she represents. She is not + beautiful, she does not stand for the joys and the great gifts of life, + but she represents the country which to us stands side by side with our + God, our parents, and our Emperor. Nothing in life has been dearer to me + than this, Miss Penelope. To no other person would I part with it.” + </p> + <p> + She took it with a sudden hysterical sob, which seemed to ring out like a + strange note upon the unnatural stillness of the room. And then there came + a thing which happened before its time. The door was opened. Inspector + Jacks came in. With him were Dr. Spencer Whiles and the man who a few days + ago had been discharged from St. Thomas’ Hospital. Of the very + distinguished company who were gathered there, Inspector Jacks took little + notice. His eyes lit upon the form of the Prince, and he drew a sigh of + relief. The door was closed behind him, and he saw no way by which he + could be cheated of his victory. He took a step forward, and the Prince + advanced courteously, as though to meet him. The others, for those few + seconds, seemed as though they had lost the power of speech or movement. + Then before a word could be uttered by either the Inspector or the Prince, + the door was opened from the outside, and a man came running in,—a + man dressed in a shabby blue serge suit, dark and thin. He ran past the + Inspector and his companions, and he fell on his knees before his master. + </p> + <p> + “I confess!” he cried. “It was I who climbed on to the railway car! It was + I who stabbed the American man in the tunnel and robbed him of his papers! + The others are innocent. Marki, who brought the car for me, knew nothing. + Those who saw me return to this house knew nothing. No man was my + confidant. I alone am guilty! I thought they could not discover the truth, + but they have hunted me down. He is there—the doctor who bandaged my + knee. I told him that it was a bicycle accident. Listen! It was I who + killed the young American Vanderpole. I followed him from the Savoy Hotel. + I dressed myself in the likeness of my master, and I entered his taxi as a + pleasant jest. Then I strangled him and I robbed him too! He saw me—that + man!” Soto cried, pointing to the youth who stood at the Inspector’s left + hand. “He was on his bicycle. He skidded and fell through watching me. I + told my master that I was in trouble, and he has tried to shield me, but + he did not know the truth. If he had, he would have given me over as I + give myself now. What I did I did because I love Japan and because I hate + America!” + </p> + <p> + His speech ended in a fit of breathlessness. He lay there, gasping. The + doctor bent forward, looking at him first in perplexity and afterwards in + amazement. Then very slowly, and with the remnants of doubt still in his + tone, he answered Inspector Jacks’ unspoken question. + </p> + <p> + “He is the image of the man who came to me that night,” he declared. “He + is wearing the same clothes, too.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you say?” the Inspector whispered hoarsely to the youth on his + other side. “Don’t hurry. Look at him carefully.” + </p> + <p> + The young man hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “He is the same height and figure as the man I saw enter the taxi,” he + said. “I believe that it is he.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks stepped forward, but the Prince held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Wait!” he ordered, and his voice was sterner than any there had ever + heard him use. There was a fire in his eyes from which the man at his feet + appeared to shrink. + </p> + <p> + “Soto,” the Prince said, and he spoke in his own language, so that no + person in that room understood him save the one whom he addressed,—“why + have you done this?” + </p> + <p> + The man lay there, resting now upon his side, and supporting himself by + the palm of his right hand. His upturned face seemed to have in it all the + passionate pleading of a dumb animal. + </p> + <p> + “Illustrious Prince,” he answered, speaking also in his own tongue, “I did + it for Japan! Who are you to blame me, who have offered his own life so + freely? I have no weight in the world. For you the future is big. You will + go back to Japan, you will sit at the right hand of the Emperor. You will + tell him of the follies and the wisdom of these strange countries. You + will guide him in difficulties. Your hand will be upon his as he writes + across the sheets of time, for the glory of the Motherland. Banzai, + illustrious Prince! I, too, am of the immortals!” + </p> + <p> + He suddenly collapsed. The doctor bent over him, but the Prince shook his + head slowly. + </p> + <p> + “It is useless,” he said. “The man has confessed his crime. He has told me + the whole truth. He has taken poison.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Grace began to cry softly. The air of the room seemed heavy with + pent-up emotions. The Prince moved slowly toward the door and threw it + open. He turned towards them all. + </p> + <p> + “Will you leave me?” he asked. “I wish to be alone.” + </p> + <p> + His eyes were like the eyes of a blind man. + </p> + <p> + One by one they left the room, Inspector Jacks amongst them. The only + person who spoke, even in the hall, was the Inspector. + </p> + <p> + “It was the Prince who brought the doctor here,” he muttered. “He must + have known! At least he must have known!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Haviland touched him on the arm. + </p> + <p> + “Inspector Jacks!” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + Inspector Jacks saluted. + </p> + <p> + “The murderer is dead,” he continued, speaking still under his breath. + “Silence is a wonderful gift, Mr. Jacks. Sometimes its reward is greater + even than the reward of action.” + </p> + <p> + They passed from the house, and once more its air of deep silence was + unbroken. The Prince stood in the middle of that strange room, whose + furnishings and atmosphere seemed, indeed, so marvellously reminiscent of + some far distant land. He looked down upon the now lifeless figure, raised + the still, white fingers in his for a moment, and laid them reverently + down. Then his head went upward, and his eyes seemed to be seeking the + heavens. + </p> + <p> + “So do the great die,” he murmured. “Already the Gods of our fathers are + calling you Soto the Faithful. Banzai!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1447 ***</div> +</body> +</html> |