"Huon, has any person from your room been in here within the last few minutes?"
"No, Excellency, no one," replied the clerk.
"Are you certain of that?"
"I am, for I am seated by the door, and I never allow anyone to enter your Excellency's chamber unless you summon them."
"And have you seen any person here?"
"No one, Excellency."
"Will you swear to that, or shall I work the knout in order to bring out the truth?" demanded the prince.
"I swear it by my religion."
"Down on your knees and swear!" thundered the prince, and the trembling wretch obeyed like a true Russian slave.
"Return," added the tyrant, pointing the way, and the next instant he was alone.