"I have been executing your Excellency's orders," the man answered.
"My orders? I do not remember having given you any."
"Pardon me, my lord, if I venture to remind you of certain facts, which appear to have escaped your memory."
"Do so, my good fellow, I shall be delighted at it; still, I would remark that my time is valuable, and that others besides yourself are awaiting an audience."
"I will be brief, Excellency."
"That is what I wish. Go on,"
"A few days after the affair of the ladrones, does not your Excellency remember saying to me in a moment of anger or impatience, that you would give ten thousand piastres to obtain positive information about the adventurers, their strength, plans, &c.?"
"Yes, I remember saying that; what then?"
"Well, Excellency, I was present when you made that promise. Your Excellency had deigned to employ me several times before; as you looked at me while speaking, I supposed that you were addressing me, and I have acted accordingly."
"That is to say?"