“I am not informed concerning his regard for her, nor as to what his estimate of her character may have been; but speaking for myself, I can say that she is at once the most compelling creature, the most attractive woman, the most fascinating personality, and the most beautiful human creation that God ever put into the world. At the same time she is the most dangerous. All the objections to her are summed up in that one word dangerous, Mr. Carter.” “One more question, colonel.” “Yes, sir.” “If I had not addressed you as prince, and hence, had not called up the unpleasant recollections of your father, would you have mentioned this woman in connection with the matter that sent you to me?” “I should have mentioned her, but not in the manner I have now chosen. Her name would have been mentioned, but not in just the way I have done it.” “Would you have told me this story about your father, and his relations with her, if the subject had not been brought about in the manner it was?” “No. I should not have done that—now.” “But later you might have done so?” “Yes. Later I am certain that I would have done so.” “Why? I would like to know that before we proceed. You see you are somewhat ambiguous, Colonel Turnieff.” “I don’t know that I can explain why, unless it arises from the natural inclination to clear up the mystery of my father’s death. That is human—and filial—isn’t it?” “Decidedly.” “Now, shall we get at the object of my mission here to you?” “Yes.” “May I ask you, first, if you are at all familiar with the methods employed in diplomatic affairs, where the thing to be done is a secret one and bears no direct relations to the official duties of an ambassador?” “Your question is somewhat involved. I will reply to it generally. Yes; I know that a representative of royalty, no matter where stationed, is supposed to take his orders without question, and to execute them literally, no matter what the consequences, or what means it may be necessary to employ.” “Very well, sir. My chief, whom I now represent unofficially, has been engaged upon an affair of great delicacy for his royal master. Concerned in that affair are papers of the vastest importance imaginable—of such supreme value that their loss cannot be estimated in words or in figures. Mr. Carter, one-half of those papers have disappeared absolutely. They must be recovered at any cost. In the meantime the remaining half of them must be safeguarded so thoroughly that there can be no chance that they will follow after the others.” CHAPTER XXIII. THE WORK OF A SECRET AGENT. “It seems to be your pleasure to speak in enigmas, colonel,” said the detective. “In enigmas? How so, sir?” was the reply.