"You are shrewd," observed the chief of Secret Police, with a grim smile. "But I ought to indicate that I require to know more of the plans of that highly interesting circle of gentlemen who comprise the Revolutionary Executive Committee; and you are the person to furnish it." "How can I, when I am not a member of the organisation?" "To prevaricate is useless. It is only by consenting to become an agent of the Third Section that you can escape arrest and punishment," he said slowly. "A police agent?" she gasped. "It would mean death!" "Ah!--so you _are_ a Revolutionist! I was not mistaken. Very well, I put it plainer. Either you will enter our service, and, while retaining your connection with the Nihilist Circle at Petersburg, disclose their secrets, or I shall execute the warrant. Remember, the Ministry of Police are liberal, and you will be well paid for your information." Adine was silent. This man was her enemy, and she saw the deeply-laid plot to secure her conviction and exile to Siberia. The allegations against her of promoting the Nihilist propaganda and taking part in conspiracies were true, and she well knew how easily they could be proved. She had been an active agent in a recent attempt to wreck the Tzar's palace, the discovery of which plot had caused Paul Denissoff's flight from Russia. But, on the other hand, she remembered that with members of the Circle treachery was punishable by death. "Come, I am awaiting your decision," he said impatiently. In desperation she asked for time to consider. But he was inexorable, and she saw there was but one course open to her--namely, to become a spy. "I--I will enter your service," she said at length, in a low, hoarse voice. "I cannot refuse, since you make it the price of my freedom." "Very well," he exclaimed, with satisfaction. "You will find our Tzar a liberal master, and should occasion arise, you will receive our protection. As for your secret alliance with us, no one will be aware of it except yourself. Let us shake hands, madame--or is it mademoiselle?--upon our agreement." "No, Colonel Solovieff," she replied, drawing herself up haughtily. "I have sufficient reason for declining that honour. It is enough that I have allied myself with your despicable spies. I must wish you good-night." "Very well, very well," he said in a tone of annoyance, as he picked up his hat and bowed. "_Au revoir_, madame; we shall meet again before long," he added meaningly, and, turning, he unlocked the door and went out. "To-night--to-night I am vanquished!" she muttered fiercely between her teeth when he was out of hearing; "but henceforward I shall play a double game; and, _ma foi_! I intend to be victor!" ------------------------------------------------------------------------