Page:The Prime Minister by Hall Caine.djvu/42

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18
THE PRIME MINISTER

The men seat themselves about the table as before.

Carfax.
But the answer may come still. This telephone bell may ring at any moment.

Hallam.
Besides there may be a breakdown on the wires.

Carfax.
That is possible.

Sir Robert.
[Speaking at the telephone.] Is that you, Denham?— Any answer from the Embassy?—No?—Has there been a breakdown on the continental wires to-night? —Not heard of any? Inquire, please, and ring up immediately.

[He puts back the receiver. There is another painful silence.

Dundas.
[In a low voice.] What is the time now?

Sir Robert.
[Looking at watch.] Seven minutes to eleven.

Lord Burnley.
[Gazing forwards towards audience.] Terrible to think that at this very moment the electric wires may be flashing the awful news through the dark air all over Europe.

[The telephone bell rings. There is a startled movement about the table.