Kearns was visibly nettled. This was, indeed, different from the old days. He was certainly not accustomed to being laughed at. The last time this had occurred was when he had been outwitted upon one occasion by Converse, the so-called King of Counterfeiters--an experienced, clever and wily old wrongdoer. Kearns never forgave that laugh, and it was not long until Converse, in spite of his great ability, fell into an especially clever net set by Kearns. Incidentally, he paid the penalty of that laugh with a twenty years’ sentence. It was not a healthy occupation to laugh at Mr. Kearns in those days. Lord Ashley noticed Kearns’ very evident chagrin. “No, no,” he hastened to explain; “thanks to our modern scientists we have no flies or--ah--mosquitoes in these days. They are unknown to-day except as curiosities in the collection of some scientist, or under the glass cases in our museums. It is quite natural,” he added, with a conciliatory wave of the hand, “that you should have--ah--overlooked this fact.” But Mr. Kearns’ chagrin was not to be so easily dissipated. “Conditions have doubtless changed,” he said somewhat testily, “and I see nothing to be gained by any desultory examination of the facts. It will be necessary for me to make a personal investigation of the surroundings themselves.” “Every facility shall be accorded you,” said the King. “Quarters shall be assigned you in the palace. Do you think,” he inquired anxiously, “that you will succeed?” “I’m not accustomed to failure, Sire,” answered Kearns almost curtly. “Succeed, then,” exclaimed the King, “and the reward which shall be yours shall be such as to emphasize the distinction between the liberality of a Court and the proverbial ingratitude of Republics.” Kearns bowed. “I can undertake to prosecute this investigation successfully,” he said, “under one condition only.” “It is?” asked the King. “I’ve been accustomed, Sire,” said Kearns with dignity, “to pursue certain methods peculiarly my own. Those methods I must continue if I am to be successful. You’ve doubtless had people at work on this case. They must be called off. In a word, I must not be interfered with. I must have sole and entire charge.” “But suppose you should need assistance?” “Then I’ll ask for it. Also, I reserve the right to select my assistants.” Both the King and Lord Ashley seemed to hesitate. At last the King spoke. “Those so far employed have failed,” he said. “It shall be as you ask.” “Then, Sire,” said Kearns, “I’ve but one other request to make.” “Name it,” said the King. “That my companion, Professor Dean, be permitted to remain.” “A most natural desire,” exclaimed the King. “Our Master of the Household will issue such orders as will insure every facility to you and every comfort to you both. You will attend the Court ball to-night; it will afford you opportunities of observation.” His Majesty signified that the audience was at an end and Mr. Kearns withdrew.