"The meaning is plain enough to a certain point," he answered. "I haven't the least doubt that they intend to sell the secret of your powder to Germany, just as they've sold their other information. If I knew for certain it was only that, I should act, and act at once." He stopped. "Well?" I said. "I believe there's something more behind it--something we've got to find out before we strike. For the last two months Germany has taken a tone towards us diplomatically that can only have one explanation. They mean to get their way or fight, and if it comes to a fight they're under the impression they're going to beat us." "And you really believe McMurtrie and Savaroff are responsible for their optimism?" I asked a little incredulously. Latimer nodded. "Dr. McMurtrie," he said in his quiet drawl, "is the most dangerous man in Europe. He is partly English and partly Russian by birth. At one time he used to be court physician at St. Petersburg. Savaroff is a German Pole--his real name is Vassiloff. Between them they were largely responsible for the early disasters in the Japanese war." For a moment no one spoke. Then Tommy leaned forward. "I say, Latimer," he exclaimed, "is this serious history?" "The Russian Government," replied Latimer, "are most certainly under that impression." "But if they know about it," I objected, "how is it that McMurtrie and Savaroff aren't in Siberia? I've never heard that the Russians are particularly tender-hearted where traitors are concerned." Latimer indulged in that peculiarly dry smile of his. "If the Government had got hold of them I think their destination would have been a much warmer one than Siberia. As it was they disappeared just in time. There was a gang of them--four or five at the least--and all men of position and influence. They must have made an enormous amount of money out of the Japs. In the end one of them rounded on the others--at least that's what appears to have happened. Anyhow McMurtrie and Savaroff skipped, and skipped in such a hurry that they seem to have left most of their savings behind them. I suppose that's what made them start business again in England." "You're absolutely sure they're the same pair?" asked Tommy. "Absolutely. I've got their full description from the Russian police. It tallies in every way--even to Savaroff's daughter. There _is_ a girl with them, I believe?"