‘“True, true,” the Minister responded, with increased thoughtfulness.
‘“That argues that he was behind the scenes; he knew a good deal of what was going on, and was particularly well acquainted with the importance of the treaty.”
‘“Obviously.”
‘“And the document has been stolen for political purposes?”
‘“Obviously, again.”
‘“Or the thief, being a traitor to his country, if he belongs to this country, was actuated by mercenary motives only, and stole the draft to sell it to our enemies?”
‘The Prince fixed his eye upon me again, and answered very slowly, and with emphasis on every word:
‘“It might be so—perhaps it is so.”
‘“Very well,” I said. “Now, Prince, I must ask you to let your mind dwell upon everyone in touch with you, and tell me if there is a single one of them against whom you might justifiably entertain some suspicion.”
‘“There is no one,” he answered, after a thoughtful pause.