He might do what he pleased, but I had the stock of the whip in my hand, and there were two long biting thongs on it.
I sat down on the edge of an office table, and swinging my leg carelessly, smiled and opened the business.
“I am not so entirely surprised to see you as you may think—nor so sorry. I would rather see his Majesty, but that will come presently.”
“You play very adroitly and very confidently, M. Denver. Who is in your place yonder—your cell?”
I affected not to understand him.
“My cell?”
“Need we pretend? What American has personated you?”
“No one, Prince; I am not an Emperor.” Then in an indifferent tone I added: “Have you got an American? I heard as I came back through Kovna that your people had blundered and had made an arrest. I think something was said about a murder, but, of course, we know that’s all mere wishwash and wind baggery.”
“You will find it serious enough, monsieur. Who is he?” he asked sharply.
I pretended to think a moment, then slapped my knee and laughed.