"Well, you nearly had a worse one, for I believe they are not far
off me."

"You don't mean that!"

"Sure thing. My landlady down Fratton way had some inquiries,
and when I heard of it I guessed it was time for me to hustle.
But what I want to know, mister, is how the coppers know these
things? Steiner is the fifth man you've lost since I signed on
with you, and I know the name of the sixth if I don't get a move
on. How do you explain it, and ain't you ashamed to see your men
go down like this?"

Von Bork flushed crimson.

"How dare you speak in such a way!"

"If I didn't dare things, mister, I wouldn't be in your service.
But I'll tell you straight what is in my mind. I've heard that
with you German politicians when an agent has done his work you
are not sorry to see him put away."

Von Bork sprang to his feet.

"Do you dare to suggest that I have given away my own agents!"

"I don't stand for that, mister, but there's a stool pigeon or a
cross somewhere, and it's up to you to find out where it is.
Anyhow I am taking no more chances. It's me for little Holland,