"This paper was prepared entirely by you, was it?"
"Yes," the cataloger answered.
"And it has been in no other person's hands at any time since you began work on it?"
"No."
"And you vouch for the accuracy and thoroughness of its preparation?"
"Yes."
"That's all. You may retire."
Strauss left the room. "The baron" turned to Irving, handed him the letter, and said:
"This innocent looking missive is of vast importance. It is addressed in cipher to a very important person in America who is high in the confidence of the United States government. You have learned how to read this cipher and will work it out for yourself. That is all. Good-by. I wish you a continuation of the success that has been yours in a remarkable degree heretofore."
Irving took "the baron's" offered hand and then left the office accompanied by Capt. Bartholf. As he went the name of Strauss continued to ring in his head, together with this startling conviction: