“You may have experienced some reticence on that subject from those about you,” he said, “for it is well that subordinates should be trained to caution and to secrecy, but I have no hesitation in satisfying your inquiry. You are prisoners by the right of Might--the paramount right in the affairs of this world--and the body to which you are prisoners is the Federated Nihilists of America.” “Ah, Nihilists!” exclaimed Mortimer. “Yes,” was the reply; “commonly but very inaccurately referred to by you of the Court as ‘Reactionists.’” “And you,” said Mortimer; “you are the High President?” “I am the High President.” There was a momentary pause and Mortimer again spoke. “Then, may I ask of you,” he said, “as the head of this organization, what are your plans concerning us? Is this detention to last indefinitely, or have you any terms to offer us?” “Let us be seated,” answered the High President. “I have much to say to you and much may depend upon our conference. I see that you have smoking materials on the table. Pray smoke, if it please you, and if you think it will add calmness and wisdom to our deliberations.” Professor Dean had thus far not uttered a single word. There was a strange straining and puzzling going on in his mind. Certain accents in the voice of the High President struck upon his ear with a strange familiarity. Where before had he heard that voice? Was it among some of those whom he had recently met, or was it merely a resemblance conveying a suggestion of his former life--of the long ago? They took their seats about the table and faced each other for a moment. Then the High President spoke. “As I have told you,” he said, “this body is known as the Federated Nihilists of America--a body which you, Captain Mortimer, have doubtless now and again vaguely heard referred to as ‘The Reactionists.’ Nothing could be more inaccurate, or misleading, than this term, inasmuch as the entire spirit of our organization is directly opposed to reaction. The royalists call us ‘Reactionists’ because they believe our aim is to upset the monarchical establishment and revert to the former Republic. Nothing could be more wrong, and I say to you frankly that between the Monarchy of to-day and the old-time Republic, as it existed prior to the crowning of the first American King, the Monarchy is the better institution.” “If you admit that,” said Mortimer argumentatively, “what is it you seek to attain?”