"So I supposed; it hasn't occurred to you to take it in a more literal sense?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well, say that all he holds most dear refers to the five chests of sovereigns."
"You believe this?"
"I know it to be so—and have known it all along—the fact that I tell you confidentially, that I'm acting under secret instructions in this matter, will, I'm sure, suffice not only to seal your lips, but to make you understand that, for the present, you must be contented not to know more."
Kent-Lauriston nodded.
"You'll see, then," continued the Secretary, "that what you supposed was an intrigue turns out to be—shall we say—a commercial transaction."
Kent-Lauriston shrugged his shoulders, remarking:—
"I'd better return the letters to Madame Darcy at once then?"
"No, leave that to me, I shall ask her to let me keep them, if she will; they may be useful—as evidence."