"It seems an outrage in these days of our boasted civilization that a man of such brilliant attainments, a man whose life is of benefit to his country, should be killed wantonly by a worthless, drunken negro," exclaimed the Secretary, with much feeling. "You believe, then, that Senator Carew was murdered by his servant?" "I gathered that impression from the newspapers, and they all insist that the negro is guilty. Do you think otherwise?" "I do." "And your reasons?" "The use of the letter file, an extraordinary weapon for a negro coachman to use." "Is that your only reason for believing the negro innocent?" The Secretary's piercing eyes studied Douglas' face intently. "No, sir." "Is there anything which strikes you as being of vital importance in the case which has not yet been brought out?" "Senator Carew was chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee." The Secretary stared at Douglas for a full minute without speaking. "I don't quite catch your meaning, Mr. Hunter," he said finally. "Let me explain, Mr. Secretary," began Douglas earnestly. "Some time ago I received a letter from Senator Carew _suggesting_ that I apply for leave of absence." "Why?" snapped out the Secretary. "He did not specify directly," returned Douglas calmly; "he said he wished to consult me about my future. One moment"--as the Secretary opened his lips to speak. "At the end of the letter the Senator added that he hoped I was making the most of my opportunities; that it was only the part of wisdom to inform myself of all that was going on in Japan, and that he expected that I would be able to give him some interesting data about the 'Yankees of the East,' as he had always been curious as regards their customs, past history, and future plans." The Secretary settled back in his chair and fumbled with his watch chain. He was the first to break the silence. "Did you follow Senator Carew's advice?" "I did, sir." "With what results?" "Among other things I discovered that there was an unusual activity commencing in the shipyards; army maneuvers were being conducted unostentatiously, and finally, the day I sailed, I heard a report that three transports were being fitted out at Wakayama, a closed port, and were to sail shortly under sealed orders." "Excellent! Have you any idea of the transports' destination?" "No, sir." "Why did you not send me this information before?" the Secretary spoke with unwonted sternness. "I did cable a cipher despatch to Senator Carew. I thought you had requested him to get certain information, and did not care to have it sent through the Department directly." "The Senator did not take me into his confidence in the matter," declared the Secretary, studying his companion's face intently.