"Well," said the American good-humoredly, "what's the order of business?"
"The reports from the various central committees which these Councilors represent, appropriations of money to carry on the propaganda and the plans for Russia. But first it is necessary to see into the condition of the affairs of Monsieur Ivanitch. The vault must be opened."
"The vault?" echoed Rowland.
Khodkine nodded and glanced at Tanya.
"The Priest of Nemi is sole custodian of the documents and funds of the order. Only Ivanitch knew the secret of the doors to the vault----" Here he turned suddenly to the girl--"Unless perhaps you, Tatyana----"
"What should I know, Grisha Khodkine?" she said coolly. "I have merely obeyed orders. Kirylo Ivanitch entrusted me with no such weighty responsibility as this."
"And yet it is strange, that no record should be left----"
"Kirylo Ivanitch died without speaking."
"But you Tatyana were closest in his confidence. He must have given some sign, left some paper----"
"Search for it then, his room, his desk, his clothing----"