“I do not like Hammersley, Excellenz.”
“Natürlich! But that need not prevent your interest in him, even though your interest is largely in his death.”
The phrase was significant, delivered significantly, and in spite of himself Rizzio felt the gaze of the General piercing his veneer.
“I could feel no happiness in such a misfortune,” he said gravely, “notwithstanding my dislike of him.”
A knock at the door interrupted further conversation and, at a command from the General, Hammersley entered.
[CHAPTER XV]
THE INQUISITION
If General von Stromberg had counted upon playing a trump card in producing Rizzio at this interview, Herr Hammersley’s demeanor must have disappointed him. For he entered the room with cheerful composure, noted Rizzio, stared at him in sudden seriousness, and then turned to von Stromberg with the air of a man briskly intent.
“You wanted to see me, Excellenz?” he asked quietly.