The Frenchman turned quickly from contemplation of the landscape to her face.
"Ah!" he exclaimed. "Once more you are yourself; the cleverest woman in Europe, as, always, you are the most charming!"
"Do you know where Monsieur Martin may be found?"
Jusseret looked at her in surprise.
"I supposed he was here, consulting with you. I sent him to you with a letter—recommending him as a useful instrument."
"He was in Algiers, but I sent him away." The Countess laughed. "He wanted money, always money, until I wearied of furnishing his purse."
"Even if he were available he could hardly go to Puntal, Madame," demurred Jusseret. "Von Ritz knows him."
"True." The Countess sat for a time in deep thought.
"There is one man in Puntal," said Jusseret with sudden thought, "who might possibly be of assistance to you. He is not legally a citizen of Galavia. He even has a certain official connection with another government. He is a man I cannot myself approach." Jusseret had been talking in a low tone, too low to endanger being overheard by the cocher, but now with excess of caution he leaned forward and whispered a name. The name was José Reebeler.