“The matter has been reported to me,” he said, “and you may rely upon it that I have severely reprimanded the offender. Only the existence of an extraordinary exigency has prevented the summary removal of the officer. Such action, I beg to assure you, is entirely contrary to the spirit and rules of our organization.”
“Then I accept your explanation,” answered Mortimer. “I’ll only hold the man himself responsible for his act. Let us put that matter aside and pass on to other subjects. I wish to know what is this organization assembled here that has dared to hold in detention my friend and myself, both in the service of His Majesty, the King.”
The visitor threw back his head proudly and answered without a moment’s hesitation.
“You may have experienced some reticence on that subject from those about you,” he said, “for it is well that subordinates should be trained to caution and to secrecy, but I have no hesitation in satisfying your inquiry. You are prisoners by the right of Might—the paramount right in the affairs of this world—and the body to which you are prisoners is the Federated Nihilists of America.”
“Ah, Nihilists!” exclaimed Mortimer.
“Yes,” was the reply; “commonly but very inaccurately referred to by you of the Court as ‘Reactionists.’”
“And you,” said Mortimer; “you are the High President?”
“I am the High President.”
There was a momentary pause and Mortimer again spoke.
“Then, may I ask of you,” he said, “as the head of this organization, what are your plans concerning us? Is this detention to last indefinitely, or have you any terms to offer us?”