“Some one has worked upon your mind,” replied the Red Envoy. “You have betrayed yourself. More than that: you have betrayed our cause.”
Stanley Berger became suddenly rigid; his eyes stared ahead. He clenched his fists.
“You have been released,” said the Red Envoy, in even tones. “That is customary with those who have done their work for the cause. But you know the terms of that release. Silence. Absolute silence.”
Berger nodded.
“You know what happens to those who betray the cause.” The Red Envoy’s voice came like the sound of doom. “They are our worst enemies. We may let other enemies wait; but not those who have betrayed us. We strike them quickly.”
Again Berger nodded.
“I feared this,” said the Red Envoy solemnly. “I feared that you would unwittingly betray the cause. I came to talk with you — to help you leave the country.
“I still offer you that opportunity. But you must first undo this work. Bring out paper, and another envelope. Are there stamps here?”
Berger nodded as he opened the table drawer and produced the required envelopes. The masked man extinguished the ceiling light. The room was illuminated only by the table lamp.
“Write this note,” directed the Red Envoy. “Start it with ‘Dear Sir,’ as you began the letter to Harry Vincent.”