ould hold in the political conduct of the world. I have seen
the danger of letting the voice of the people remain unheard too long.
Russia to-day is a practical and terrible example of that danger.
England is, in her way, a free country, and our Government a good one,
but in the world's history there arrive sometimes crises with which
no stereotyped form of government can cope, when the one thing that is
desired is the plain, honest mandate of those who count for most in
the world, those who, in their simplicity and in their absence from all
political ties and precedents and liaisons, see the truth. That is why
I have appealed with my pen to Labour, to end this war. That is why
I shall go willingly as your representative to the Prime Minister
to-night."

The Bishop held out his hand. There was a little reverent hush, for his
words were in the nature of a benediction.

"And may God be with you, our messenger," he said solemnly.

CHAPTER XVI

Julian, duly embarked upon his mission, was kept waiting an unexpectedly
short time in the large but gloomy apartment into which Mr. Stenson's
butler had somewhat doubtfully ushered him. The Prime Minister entered
with an air of slight hurry. He was also somewhat surprised.

"My dear Orden," he exclaimed, holding out his hand, "what can I do for
you?"

"A great deal," Julian replied gravely. "First of all, though, I have an
explanation to make."

"I am afraid," Mr. Stenson regretted, "that I am too much engaged this
evening to enter into any personal matters. I am expecting a messenger
here on very important official business."

"I am that messenger," Julian announced.

Mr. Stenson started. His visitor's tone was serious and convincing.

"I fear that we are at loggerheads. It is an envoy from the Labour Party
whom I am expecting."

"I am that envoy."

"You?" Mr. Stenson exclaimed, in blank bewilderment.

"I ought to explain a little further, perhaps. I have been writing on
Labour questions for some time under the pseudonym of `Paul Fiske'."

"Paul Fiske?" Mr. Stenson gasped. "You--Paul Fiske?"

Julian nodded assent.

"You are amazed, of course," he proceeded, "but it is nevertheless the
truth. The fact has just come to light, and I have been invited to
join this new emergency Council, composed of one or two Socialists and
writers, amongst them a very distinguished prelate; Labour Members of
Parliament, and representatives of the various Trades Unions, a bo