hands with an indifference that was belied by the sharp glint of his eyes.
Did he know of that night adventure, after all? If so, I had indeed walked into the spider's web.
"No, I have not been inactive, certainly not," I answered carelessly. "I have had to find a house suitable for my position and my means. I am a man of some wealth, and the work has taken time and care."
"No doubt. But I did not mean that kind of activity, Count. My sources of information are many—and secret. Few things are done in Sofia without my knowing them, as well as those who do them."
"Through your spies, you mean?"
He waved the term aside and passed over the question.
"We have had an accident lately, rather an awkward affair, which resulted in the death of a couple of our agents; but a third escaped and tells a strange story. Even your short acquaintance with Bulgarian affairs will tell you that the consequences may be serious for those concerned in their death."
"I can understand that. But with what object do you make me the recipient of such a confidence?" I asked coolly.
"You have made some shrewd guesses during our talk; I will leave you to make another in that matter. It may be only a parable; or, on the contrary, a matter of life or death for those concerned. In any case, the person concerned is known to me." The threat was conveyed with unmistakable significance. I understood him well enough, and he knew that I did; but I answered lightly:
"I don't see that this affects me."
"I hope with all my heart that it never will," he
