“Exactly. I am glad you agree with me. What I now propose to do is to set the lie in motion. The easiest way to provoke a liar is to put him upon the defensive. You and Hammersley shall debate the matter. I shall be the judge of the debate. We shall see what we shall see.” He strode to the table and was about to touch the bell when Rizzio broke in. “One moment, Excellenz. I should like to know on what he bases his accusation.” “Humph! Not weakening, Rizzio?” “Hardly, Excellenz,” the other smiled. “It will not be difficult for me to verify my statements if Hammersley will only talk.” “You need not fear. He will talk.” “What I wanted to know, Excellenz, was the nature of the information received in the yellow packet. Would you permit----?” “Not yet, Herr Rizzio, not yet. The contents of the message will come in time. For the present there is quite enough to occupy Herr Hammersley’s mind--and yours.” Rizzio shrugged. “As you please. I would like to know, however, before you summon him, whether his accusation is based on my attempt upon his life.” Von Stromberg chuckled. “Is not that enough to prejudice a man--if he were honest?” “Yes, if he were honest,” said Rizzio. “Did he have any authority for his belief?” “Yes, Herr Rizzio,” said the General, fixing Rizzio with his stare. “He told me that Maxwell had learned it from Byfield.” “Byfield!” Rizzio started forward quickly. “Hammersley is a fool. Have I not told Excellenz that Byfield knew nothing whatever of my connection with the affair?” Von Stromberg stretched his long arms impatiently. “Herr Maxwell, unfortunately, is silent. Captain Byfield is in a position where the only questions that can be put to him will be those at the Gates of Heaven by his Maker.” He gave the bell on the table a resounding blow and grinned mischievously at Rizzio. “You say that Herr Hammersley is a fool. He asserts that you are one. I shall now smoke a cigar and decide for myself which of you is correct.” And, as the soldier entered, “Tell Herr Hammersley that I wish to see him here at once.” “I can only say, Excellenz,” said Rizzio, when the man went out, “that I am willing to abide by your verdict.” “Even though it should be unfavorable to yourself?” growled von Stromberg. “That, Excellenz, is quite impossible.” “I have known stranger things to happen. The worst aspect of your case is that Herr Hammersley is here. There was no need for him to come. You yourself admit that. He had only to stay in England to devote his talents to a more congenial occupation.” Von Stromberg puffed on his cigar and leaned across the table. “Can you tell me why Herr Hammersley came to Germany? Answer me correctly, Rizzio, and I will give you every masterpiece in Belgium.” Rizzio frowned into the fire.