“What is it you want?” growled Colonel Vallenot to Baudoin, as he saluted. “To see the Minister? Well, you are lucky. If you go in there I will not guarantee your safe exit. And, then, what is it you want to tell him? That the agent he had placed at your disposal has disappeared? It is now three weeks since we heard from him.” “I have brought you news of him.” “Ah! What is the matter?” “He is dead.” “The deuce! How did that happen!” “He has been killed.” “Who has killed him?” “The same who killed General de Trémont.” “What was his object?” “The same as before—to obtain possession of my master’s secrets.” “Was he successful?” “Yes.” “So now he is in possession of the powder formula?” “He is.” “Well, this is a fine business. We suspected something of the kind, for we have received notice from abroad that experiments have been made with smokeless powder of extraordinary power.” “That is the one.” Colonel Vallenot had forgotten all about the Deputy’s question. He pulled and twisted his moustache furiously. Finally he asked— “When was poor Laforêt murdered?” “Nearly a fortnight ago. But it was only later that we had the proof of his death. The poor fellow had been flung into the river, and the current had carried him into a millrace. He remained several days fastened to some piles under water, and it is only just recently that his body mounted to the surface. It was taken out, recognized, and buried as was fitting for an old soldier and an honest man. Now he is lying under the green turf of the cemetery of Ars.” “And his murderers?” “Ah, that is what I have come to speak to the Minister about. I know the villains.” Vallenot sat upright. “Those spies! You know who they are?” “And you, also, Colonel, without doubt, for this is not their first attempt. The Minister, before now, has had a crow to pick with them. They are professionals in treason!” The Colonel rose, and, with changed expression, said— “Ah! Here, at any rate, is something which will distract him! I will risk entering his room without being summoned. Yes, it is possible such news may restore him to good humour again. Wait for me here.” Opening a door, he left the room. Baudoin, standing near the mantel-piece, stood there a few minutes ‘attentively listening to the hum of voices which proceeded from the next room; then suddenly the door opened, and a voice called— “Baudoin!” The old soldier advanced, and, on reaching the threshold of the study, he saw the Minister standing there, a frown on his face, which was even redder than usual. “Come in!” he said. Baudoin entered. The General, who wore a black frock-coat and grey trousers, was striding to and fro. Vallenot stood waiting in the embrasure of the window. “The Colonel informs me that you have very important news to relate concerning the death of M. de Trémont and my agent.” “Yes, General.” “You think you know the rascals who have committed these murders?” “Yes, General.” “Tell me all about it.”