paper-bound book. He returned to his seat at the table.

"In this little book," he said, tapping the table gently with it, "are
the names of our agents in America. See, I'll show you a name, of
worldwide importance, who is acting for us."

General Rentzel exposed a name. Hal glanced at it and then gave a long
whistle.

"It's no wonder you are surprised," said the general, smiling.
"Neither is it any wonder that our agents have been so successful in
America, considering names like that."

"I should say not, sir," returned Hal grim.

General Rentzel returned the book to his safe, closed the heavy iron
door and twirled the knob.

"What do you say, sir?" he demanded, as he resumed his seat.

For a moment Hal seemed to hesitate. Then he said:

"I accept on one condition, sir."

"And that?" asked the general.

"That," said Hal, "is that I may have the week in which to put my
affairs in shape. I shall have to resign my position with my paper and
attend to a few other matters, sir."