For a moment all was still, the two stared at each other in dead silence, measuring glances of hatred and contempt. Then Jeffreys rose from his chair and stepped quickly forward.
"What do you want, colonel?" he asked hoarsely.
Kirke turned abruptly to the judge.
"What is this man doing here, my lord?" he demanded sharply.
Jeffreys moved nervously.
"Captain Protheroe is about to start upon a mission to Holland, at my direction," he answered nervously.
"But, my lord, have you forgot? this fellow is an escaped rebel, committed for treason."
"I know, colonel. But he is pardoned."
"Pardoned! By whom? For what reason?"
"In return for information received," answered Jeffreys quickly.