He ceased to meet my gaze.
“You are therefore not even a political criminal. You are a common felon. As such I warn you that I shall execute you without notice, and without reprieve.”
The Russian scowled fiercely.
“We will see about that,” he blustered. “I have a loaded revolver in my pocket.”
I waved my hand scornfully.
“Undeceive yourself, George Petrovitch. I am not proposing a duel. I cannot be expected to fight with a condemned murderer. I sentence you to death—and may the Lord have mercy on your soul.”
“By what right?” he demanded furiously.
“I am accredited by the Emperor of Japan to the Emperor of Russia. This house is Japanese soil. Farewell!”
Petrovitch rose from his chair, wavering between indignation and alarm.