he fund devoted to secret services
could not be more fittingly appropriated than in acquiring documents whose
publicity could prove a national injury.'

'Totally wrong--utterly wrong. The money could never be paid on such a
pretence--the "Office" would not sanction--no Minister would dare to advise
it.'

'Then I come back to my original suggestion. I should give a conditional
acceptance, and treat for a reduction of the amount.'

'You would say five?'

'I opine, my lord, eight would have more chance of success.'

'You are a warm advocate for your client,' said his lordship, laughing; and
though the shot was merely a random one, it went so true to the mark that
Atlee flushed up and became crimson all over. 'Don't mistake me, Atlee,'
said his lordship, in a kindly tone. 'I know thoroughly how _my_ interests,
and only mine, have any claim on your attention. This Greek fellow must be
less than nothing to you. Tell me now frankly, do you believe one word he
has told you? Is he really named as Minister to Turkey?'

'That much I can answer for--he is.'

'What of the daughter--is there a daughter?'

'I suspect there may be. However, the matter admits of an easy proof. He
has given me names and addresses in Ireland of relatives with whom she
is living. Now, I am thoroughly conversant with Ireland, and, by the
indications in my power, I can pledge myself to learn all, not only about
the existence of this person, but of such family circumstances as might
serve to guide you in your resolve. Time is what is most to be thought of
here. Kostalergi requires a prompt answer--first of all, your assurance
that you will support his claim to be received by the Sultan. Well, my
lord, if you refuse, Mouravieff will do it. You know better than me how
impolitic it might be to throw those Turks more into Russian influence--'

'Never mind _that_, Atlee. Don't distress yourself about the political
aspect of the question.'

'I promised a telegraphic line to say, would you or would you not sustain
his nomination. It was to be Yes or No--not more.'

'Say Yes. I'll not split hairs about what Greek best represents his nation.
Say Yes.'

'I am sure, my lord, you do wisely. He is evidently a man of ability, and,
I suspect, not morally much worse than his countrymen in general.'

'Say Yes; and then'--he mused for some minutes before he continued--'and
then run over to Ireland--learn something, if you can, of this girl, with
whom she is stay