"I dare say," he said in English; and when the old statesman glared at
him he said in German: "No doubt you are speaking the truth."

"Of course I speak the truth; but this is a matter for action, and not
for discussion. That packet was stolen by intention, and not by chance,
John Armitage!"

There was a slight immaterial sound in the hall, and the old prime
minister slipped from German to French without changing countenance as he
continued:

"We have enough troubles in Austria without encouraging treason. If
Rambaud and his chief, Winkelried, could make a king of Francis, the
brokerage--the commission--would be something handsome; and Winkelried
and Rambaud are clever men."

"I know of Winkelried. The continental press has given much space to him
of late; but Rambaud is a new name."

"He is a skilled hand. He is the most daring scoundrel in Europe."

Count von Stroebel poured a glass of brandy from a silver flask and
sipped it slowly.

"I will show you the gentleman's pleasant countenance," said the
minister, and he threw open a leather portfolio and drew from it a small
photograph which he extended to Armitage, who glanced at it carelessly
and then with sudden interest.

"Rambaud!" he exclaimed.