[CHAPTER I]
Some Peculiar Circumstances
Fuller studied the heavy, decided signature at the bottom of the typed page; then he laid the letter upon the table.
"One who judges character by handwriting," said he, "would probably think the secretary a strong man."
Ashton-Kirk took the stem of the long German pipe from between his lips.
"From your tone," said he, "you do not so consider him."
Fuller was looking down at the letter.
"With that looking me in the face, how can I? Here is a matter of tremendous importance—one of the most guarded secrets of the government is endangered. Yesterday, in what was undoubtedly a panic, he wired you, begging help. Then, almost immediately after, he weakens and writes, requesting you to do nothing."