During the questioning Caruth had studied every detail of the room, hoping to find something that would show the presence near at hand of the girl on whom he had set his heart; but he had looked in vain. Now at last, with a tightening around his heart, he realized that his time had come, and he summoned all his faculties for the contest. “Mr. Lermantoff,” he began, “you understand, of course, that I embarked in this enterprise for selfish motives. I make no pretenses. I sympathize with the Russian people in their fight for liberty, but I did not and do not sympathize with them enough to risk my life and liberty for their sake. I came to Russia simply and solely because I hoped to aid the lady whom I know only as Marie Fitzhugh.” The leader nodded. “Most men have selfish or partly selfish motives for what they do,” he agreed, with a suspicion of a smile. “Your motive is quite clear; I take it you expected Marie Fitzhugh to reward you.” “I hoped she might. From the moment I saw her, I wanted her for my wife. That was why I kept silence in New York when my valet was murdered, and thereby saved your scheme from being wrecked at the outset. That was why I came to Russia. That is why I am here.” “Well, what did she tell you? Why do you come to us?” Caruth threw out his hands. “Don’t fence with me,” he protested. “You know what she told me. You know you took her vows--the vows of a mere child--to devote her life and her beauty to your cause. You know that you are holding her practically for sale to the highest bidder--to him who will do most for that cause. It isn’t fair! It is an outrage on womanhood. It is trafficking in all that is holiest and highest in life. No cause will prosper that depends on such methods. Be advised! She has done her best for you. She has done more than most women could do. Release her! Let her marry me--if she will.” Caruth’s breath came quick and fast. His words tumbled over each other. With outflung hands, he leaned forward across the heavy table.