“Perhaps,” suggested Noyes, “it was due to the effect of the poison. Holtmann may have experienced an agony that gave him superhuman strength.”
“I believe you are right!” returned Froman, the idea occurring to him for the first time. “Yes, that must be the explanation. Nevertheless” — Froman shook his head seriously — “I feel sure that it is an evil omen. Perhaps you think I am superstitious. If I am, it is because my superstitions bear fruit.
“I feel convinced that our well-calculated plan is due to fail. They are waiting in Moscow for action. They want it now. We cannot wait!”
RISING, Froman began to pace the floor nervously. This man was a paradox. He had calmly taken human life in a most insidious and gruesome manner; yet his nerves were cracking under the strain of inactivity.
Parker Noyes sensed his companion’s disturbed condition and spoke reassuringly.
“By action,” he said, “I suppose you mean action in Moscow? So long as you know the work has been completed there, I presume you will be satisfied. Am I not correct?”
“You are,” said Froman decisively. “I should like to send word that our men may proceed any time — to know that they are free to act — to avoid this dependence upon Helmsworth.
“You recall that my scheme of using Paris as a temporary base was founded on that thought. But from Paris to America has proven an insurmountable obstacle.”
“It was an obstacle,” smiled Noyes. “I think that it will no longer remain one. My plan involves a new person, but one who will prove quite as reliable as Helmsworth. In fact, I am not eliminating Helmsworth. He has his place in this arrangement.
“I am glad that you are here, Froman, because I can speak more freely with my next visitor. I have a very excellent arrangement, which will enable you to check on what I say, and advise me whether to proceed or not. I shall show you that, when the time arrives.”