"But," and the ambassador's voice came faintly to them, "such a thing as
you suggest is dishonorable."

"What has that to do with it, sir?" came Robard's reply. "Our enemies
would do the same thing had they the opportunity. All's fair in war, you
know, sir."

"Not that," said the ambassador. "You must remember that until I have
crossed the frontier I am still the ambassador to Italy. I am upon my
honor to leave the country peaceably."

"But no one would know you had a hand in the matter, sir."

"That is not the point," was the reply.

"But I have made all arrangements," protested Robard. "Everything is
ready. The chief of the Italian general staff is in Venice at this
moment, and at noon will inspect the large stores of ammunition at the
northern outskirts of the city. A word from you and ammunition, chief of
staff and all will be destroyed."

"I will give no such word," was the angry response. "Besides," and the
ambassador considered a moment, "why do you wish a word from me in this
matter? It could have been done without my consent."

"Well, sir, I--we--I," stammered Robard, evidently at a loss for a
convincing reply.

There came the sound of a blow, as though a hand had struck a table and
the ambassador's voice rose angrily.