He was surprised at the sound of his own tones. His words did not seem natural. It was impossible to recognize a familiar voice in this strange room.
Paget gained reassurance. He had feared these men until now, but he was rapidly becoming confident.
“My plan,” he continued, “will bring us millions. In order to accomplish it, I must have full services of the Faithful Fifty. I have used some of them before now” — he was glib as he spoke this falsehood — “but I need the services of those most suited to my present needs. I wish to obtain them through Number One.”
“Does your plan require crime?”
The interrupting voice was that of Number One.
“Yes.”
“Of what nature?”
“Abduction.”
“Is that all?”
“There may be complications,” ventured Paget uneasily.