Lord Ancoats looked grave. "Well, Mr. Rivers," he said, "I will not inquire too closely what that other business was. You have rendered a service to the State which will not be forgotten. Now, what about this?" pointing to the box.
"I will see that the Vizier gets it."
"At once?"
Rivers hesitated. Only then did he remember he now had in his possession what he wanted. He could pay his entrance fee.
"I will see that it is at Denton House by the morning," he said.
Lord Ancoats watched him intently.
"Does the Burglars' Club meet to-night?" he said quietly.
"I—I beg your pardon," stammered Rivers.
Lord Ancoats laid a kindly hand on his shoulder. "I was only told of that institution within the hour," he said, "and till a moment ago I didn't believe the information. Take my advice, Rivers, and leave it. Its existence, you see, is known to some of the outside world. As a friend I warn you that you will be watched to-night. Don't spoil your career. Why did you leave the Service? Oh, I remember; but you're not satisfied with merely killing time, are you? Will you come back to us? The First Secretaryship at Vienna is vacant. Would you take it?"
Rivers' face beamed. "I'd jump at it, my lord."