connection with the foreign affairs of the Revolutionary Government
had been invaluable, both before and since the beginning of the
European War. At one time he formed part of that merciless
decemvirate which--with Robespierre at its head--meant to govern
France by laws of bloodshed and of unparalleled ferocity.

But the sea-green Incorruptible had since tired of him, then had
endeavoured to push him on one side, for Chauvelin was keen and
clever, and, moreover, he possessed all those qualities of selfless
patriotism which were so conspicuously lacking in Robespierre.

His failure in bringing that interfering Scarlet Pimpernel to justice and
the guillotine had completed Chauvelin's downfall. Though not
otherwise molested, he had been left to moulder in obscurity during
this past year. He would soon enough have been completely
forgotten.

Now he was not only to be given one more chance to regain public
favour, but he had demanded powers which in consideration of the
aim in view, Robespierre himself could not refuse to grant him. But
the Incorruptible, ever envious and jealous, would not allow him to
exult too soon.

With characteristic blandness he seemed to be entering into all
Chauvelin's schemes, to be helping in every way he could, for there
was something at the back of his mind which he meant to say to the
ex-ambassador, before the latter took his leave: something which
would show him that he was but on trial once again, and which would
demonstrate to him with perfect clearness that over him there
hovered the all-powerful hand of a master.