The secretary bowed and went out. As he entered the reception room, Father Murray arose. Before the priest could speak, the secretary began:
"You desire to see His Excellency?"
Father Murray bowed.
"I am sorry, but His Excellency is very much engaged. He has requested me to ascertain the nature of your business."
"I regret that I may not tell you the nature of my business." Father Murray's reply was instant. "I may speak only to the Minister himself."
"Then," answered the secretary, "I regret to say that he cannot receive you. A diplomat's time is not his own. I am in his confidence. Could you not give me some inkling as to what you desire?"
"Since I cannot see him without giving you the information, you might say to His Excellency that I have come to speak to him in reference to Miss Ruth Atheson—" Father Murray paused, then added coolly: "He will understand."
The secretary bowed courteously. "I will deliver your message at once," he said.
In exactly one minute the Minister himself was bowing to Father Murray.
"I beg your pardon for detaining you, Reverend Sir, but, as my secretary explained, I am extremely busy. You mentioned Miss Atheson and, at least so I understand from my secretary, seemed to think I would know of her. In deference to your cloth, I thought I would see you personally, though I do not recall knowing anyone by that name. Perhaps she wishes a visé for a passport?"