‘Why not eight—perhaps five? I have not your lordship’s great knowledge to guide me, and I cannot tell when these men really mean to maintain their ground. From my own very meagre experiences, I should say he was not a very tractable individual. He sees some promise of better fortune before him, and like a genuine gambler—as I hear he is—he determines to back his luck.’
‘Ten thousand pounds!’ muttered the other, below his breath.
‘As regards the money, my lord, I take it that these same papers were documents which more or less concerned the public service—they were in no sense personal, although meant to be private; and, although in my ignorance I may be mistaken, it seems to me that the fund devoted to secret services could not be more fittingly appropriated than in acquiring documents whose publicity could prove a national injury.’
‘Totally wrong—utterly wrong. The money could never be paid on such a pretence—the “Office” would not sanction—no Minister would dare to advise it.’
‘Then I come back to my original suggestion. I should give a conditional acceptance, and treat for a reduction of the amount.’
‘You would say five?’
‘I opine, my lord, eight would have more chance of success.’
‘You are a warm advocate for your client,’ said his lordship, laughing; and though the shot was merely a random one, it went so true to the mark that Atlee flushed up and became crimson all over. ‘Don’t mistake me, Atlee,’ said his lordship, in a kindly tone. ‘I know thoroughly how my interests, and only mine, have any claim on your attention. This Greek fellow must be less than nothing to you. Tell me now frankly, do you believe one word he has told you? Is he really named as Minister to Turkey?’
‘That much I can answer for—he is.’
‘What of the daughter—is there a daughter?’