This message was a welcome proof to me that my bluff had produced the desired effect. I accepted the invitation as if it was a matter of course.
I dressed, and went to the cabin where Vassileffsky awaited me.
“Are we friends or foes this morning?” I called out with a good-humored laugh, as I greeted him.
The Russian looked dull and nervous.
“I hope all will be well,” he muttered. “Let us have something to eat before we talk.”
He might have said, something to drink, for his own breakfast was mainly of champagne. I, myself, made a point of eating heartily, and drank only coffee.
“Now, Vassileffsky,” I said in authoritative tones, “to business. First of all, you want some money.”
It was a guess, but a fairly safe one. Without waiting for the astonished man to reply, I took out my pocket-book.
“How much can you do with till the fleet sails?” I asked, still in the same matter-of-fact tone.