"Swine!" hissed Kalmar with unutterable scorn. "Why are you here?
Go from me!"

From his outstretched hand Joseph fell back in sudden fear. Kalmar
strode to the door and rattled it in its lock.

"This man wishes to go," he said, as the guard appeared. "Let him go."

"What about the others?" said the guard.

"Permit them to remain for a few moments," said Kalmar, recovering
the even tone of his voice with a tremendous effort.

"Now, Simon Ketzel," he said, turning back to the man who stood
waiting him in fear, "what is your answer?"

Simon took his hand and kissed it. "I will serve you with my money,
with my life. I am all Russian here," smiting on his breast, "I
cannot forget my countrymen in bondage. I will help them to freedom."

"Ah," said Kalmar, "good. Now listen. This Rosenblatt betrayed us,
brought death and exile to many of our brothers and sisters. He
still lives. He ought to die. What do you say?"

"He ought to die," answered Simon.

"The oath is laid upon me. I sought the privilege of executing
vengeance; it was granted me. I expect to fulfil my oath, but I
may fail. If I fail," here he bent his face toward that of Simon