She knew that gradual approach to her purpose would count for nothing here. “First, I desire to say, governor, that I realise that in coming here I have put my life in your hands.”
“Eh?” said he, raising his heavy eyebrows.
“For I am a revolutionist.”
“What!” He sat up straight and reached for the pistol.
“I have been searched, you know,” she quietly reminded him.
He drew back his hand. “What is your business here?” he asked sharply.
“I wish to free Borodin.”
He fairly gasped. “And you tell me that! And here in Peter and Paul! You certainly are a bold one!”
“We thought that you might help us.”
“Help you?”