"Altogether. The man who could rob you before your very eyes is too clever to allow himself to be robbed in turn. I do not care for missions without a hope of success. There is but one thing you can do: bribe Hun Sun to come over to the side of France."
"Unfortunately, Hun Sun has departed for the land where bribery is unknown."
I sat forward in my seat in amazement; even monsieur's diplomatic manner of putting it did not completely hide his meaning.
"When did it happen?"
"Late last night. He returned from his appointment with me to his suite at L'Imperatrice Hôtel, and, after transacting some business with his secretary Ling Wen, retired for the night, and forever. Living diplomats mourn a talented man, who has gone to join the politicians who have preceded him—or, at least, some of them."
"And that being so, mon ami, I undertake the mission. You may make your plans, for I promise you shall have the seal within twenty-four hours—unless," I added, "it was never taken to the hotel."
"You mean it?" he cried, a flush of pleasure chasing the sallow lines of worry from his face.
"In spite of cheap masculine cynicism, mon cher, a woman sometimes means what she says. I think I can regain it for you. Where is the—"
"The body was removed secretly in the early morning to the Chinese Embassy."
"And no one knows of his Excellency's death?"