“But if you’re to stay on with me,” said Donovan, “we’ve got to have some straight talk. I’d like it to be clearly understood that your engagement with me is to be a whole-time job for the future.”
“More satisfactory, sir, certainly.”
“At present,” said Donovan, “you’re also engaged by Mr. Steinwitz.”
“Not by Mr. Steinwitz, sir, if you’ll excuse my correcting you. By the Emperor.”
Gorman groaned deeply. Smith turned to him, solicitous, anxious to be of use.
“Beg pardon, sir, can I do anything for you, sir? Anything wrong, sir?”
“No,” said Gorman, “no. The mention of the Emperor upsets me a little. That’s all. Don’t do it again, if you can help it, Smith. I’m sorry, Donovan. I didn’t mean to interrupt.”
Smith turned to Donovan again.
“Perhaps I should say, sir, the Imperial Secret Service.”
“Salary?” said Donovan.