give to
possess your executive talent. Well, I have been thinking considerably
since you left, and I believe I can solve the difficulty."

Nello followed him with the closest attention. To a certain extent he
had found a fairy godfather in Papa Peron, for from the chance meeting
on that snowy winter's night had flowed his present success, his
introduction to Gay, through Gay his meeting with Paul Degraux. Was he
about to find a more powerful and influential one in this
world-renowned financier?

"Suppose I sent you on a partly diplomatic mission to Russia, and at
the same time insured you certain introductions which would help you
greatly in your musical career--What would you say to that? Does the
suggestion impress you?"

The young man could hardly believe his ears. Again his thoughts went
back to the days when he had played in the streets for a few miserable
coppers. And to-day he was sitting, an honoured guest, at the table of
one of the greatest financiers in the world. He had to assure himself
that he was not dreaming.

"I cannot think of anything more delightful," was the fervent answer.

The Baron proceeded. "I want a very private and confidential
letter--it will, of course, be written in cipher--carried to Lord
Ickfold, the British Ambassador at Saint Petersburg."

Nello bowed. This would surely not be a very difficult task.

"You may wonder why I should employ you on this mission. I could get
it through a Foreign Office Messenger, as a matter of course, but he
would be suspected, and my letter might be abstracted. They have some
very clever people on the other side. You follow me?"

Nello assured him that he did. He was not at all sure that he did
follow the windings of this subtle intelligence. But it would never do
to let the Baron suspect that.

"Now, nobody will suspect you. It is well known that I am a rather
generous patron of the arts, that I have befriended many a struggling
genius; helped him upwards in his career. Poor old Jean Villefort has
sent you to me, soliciting my influence. I have numerous friends in
Russia. You consult me. I come to the conclusion that a short absence
from England will whet the appreciation of those who have already
recognised you as an artist of considerable ability."

Nello nodded his handsome head. Salmoros was now getting on ground
where he could easily follow him.

"I suggest that, with my introduction, you can make a greater and
quicker success than here-