"In fact, Fritz," said I, "I am reminded of a situation in one of our
English plays--The Critic--have you heard of it? Or, if you like, of two
men, each covering the other with a revolver. For I can't expose Michael
without exposing myself--"

"And the King," put in Sapt.

"And, hang me if Michael won't expose himself, if he tries to expose
me!"

"It's very pretty," said old Sapt.

"If I'm found out," I pursued, "I will make a clean breast of it, and
fight it out with the duke; but at present I'm waiting for a move from
him."

"He'll kill the King," said Fritz.

"Not he," said Sapt.

"Half of the Six are in Strelsau," said Fritz.

"Only half? You're sure?" asked Sapt eagerly.

"Yes--only half."

"Then the King's alive, for the other three are guarding him!" cried
Sapt.