Moret argued his proposition with vigour and earnestness, and never had his leader seemed so agreeable to the violent measures he proposed. For half an hour they discussed the point. Savrola still appeared unconvinced; he looked at his watch. "It is past two o'clock," he said. "Let us lunch here and thrash the matter out." They did so. The luncheon was excellent, and the host's arguments became more and more convincing. At last, with the coffee, Moret admitted that perhaps it was better to wait, and they parted with great cordiality. CHAPTER V. A PRIVATE CONVERSATION. "That," said the President to his confidential secretary, so soon as the door had closed on the retiring deputation, "is over, but we shall have plenty more in the future. Savrola will most certainly be elected for the Central Division, and we shall then have the pleasure of listening to him in the Senate." "Unless," added Miguel, "anything should happen." The President, who knew his man well, understood the implication. "No, it is no good; we cannot do that. Fifty years ago it might have been possible. People won't stand that sort of thing now-a-days; even the army might have scruples. So long as he keeps within the law, I don't see how we can touch him constitutionally." "He is a great force, a great force; sometimes, I think, the greatest in Laurania. Every day he grows stronger. Presently the end will come," said the Secretary slowly and thoughtfully, who, as the partner of Molara's dangers, no less than of his actions, had a claim to be heard. "I think the end is coming," he continued; "perhaps quite soon--unless----?" he paused. "I tell you it can't be done. Any accident that happened would be attributed to me. It would mean a revolution here, and close every asylum abroad." "There are other ways besides force, physical force." "None that I can see, and he is a strong man." "So was Samson, nevertheless the Philistines spoiled him." "Through a woman. I don't believe he has ever been in love." "That is no reason against the future." "Wanted a Delilah," said the President dryly. "Perhaps you will find one for him." The Secretary's eyes wandered round the room artlessly, and paused for a moment on a photograph of Lucile. "How dare you, Sir! You are a scoundrel! You have not an ounce of virtue in you!" "We have been associated for some time, General." He always called him _General_ on these occasions, it reminded the President of various little incidents which had taken place when they had worked together during the war. "Perhaps that is the cause." "You are impertinent." "My interests are concerned. I too have enemies. You know very well how much my life would be worth without the protection of the Secret Police. I only remember with whom and for whom these things were done."