"A lie to cover a lamentable piece of incompetency, I should say," said Turbo coolly.
"That, sire, is a very natural solution for his excellency to offer," said the General, coming with subdued excitement to the aid of his subordinate; "but it hardly explains the fact that this note, directed in Mlle de Tricotrin's hand to his excellency, was found upon this unfortunate girl."
With all his self-control Turbo could not suppress an uneasy movement as the General produced the little note and handed it to the King. In the excitement of having the girl in his power he had quite forgotten this part of the arrangement, and so had omitted to possess himself of the evidence of Mlle de Tricotrin's treachery.
"It appears to be meant for you, Chancellor," said the King quietly, passing on the note to him. "You see?"
Turbo took it and read it through with deliberation. "It was intended for me, sire," he said imperturbably.
"Then the beggar who was guilty of this crime," said the King, with affected calm, "is no other than the High Chancellor of Oneiria."
"Your majesty's conjecture is perfectly correct," replied Turbo, who saw that all hope of concealment was now at an end.
"Before Heaven, this is too much!" exclaimed Kophetua, still in a well-controlled voice, but growing white with anger. "General Dolabella, you will arrest his excellency."
The General came forward with an uneasy air to receive the Chancellor's sword. Turbo drew it quietly from its sheath, and presented it with elaborate politeness.