possibly not then."

"Let me see, what did he get - fifteen years!"

"Fifteen years," repeated T. X., "and a very fortunate man to
escape with his life."

Sir George walked to the window and stared out on to busy
Whitehall.

"I am told you are quite friendly with Kara again."

T. X. made a noise which might be taken to indicate his assent to
the statement.

"I suppose you know that gentleman has made a very heroic attempt
to get you fired," he said.

"I shouldn't wonder," said T. X. "I made as heroic an attempt to
get him hung, and one good turn deserves another. What did he do?
See ministers and people?"

"He did," said Sir George.

"He's a silly ass," responded T. X.

"I can understand all that" - the Chief Commissioner turned round -
"but what I cannot understand is your apology to him."

"There are so many things you don't understand, Sir George," said