“Yes, an intentional murder,” said Baron Waltz, emphatically—“the murder of the King of Prussia. If you prevent this crime, you will receive ten thousand guilders,” said Zetto, examining Weingarten’s countenance closely. He remarked that the baron, who was but a moment ago pale from terror, now reddened, and that his eyes sparkled joyously.
“And what can I do to prevent this murder?” asked Weingarten, hastily.
“You can warn the king.”
“But to warn successfully, I must have proofs.”
“We are ready to give the most incontrovertible proofs.”
“I must, before acting, be convinced of the veracity of your charges.”
“I hope that my word of honor will convince you of their truth,” said Baron Waltz, pathetically.
Weingarten bowed, with an ambiguous smile, that did not escape Zetto. He drew forth his pocket-book, and took from it a small, folded paper, which he handed to Weingarten.
“If I strengthen my declaration with this paper, will you trust me?”
Weingarten looked with joyful astonishment at the paper; it was a check for two thousand guilders. “My sister’s dowry,” thought Weingarten, with joy. But the next moment came doubt and suspicion. What if they were only trying him—only convincing themselves if he could be bought? Perhaps he was suspected of supplying the Prussian Government from time to time with Austrian news—of communicating to them the contents of important dispatches!