Never having dealt in mysteries, Nikky was slow recognizing one. But, he reflected, many things were going on in the old city in these troubled days.
Came to Nikky, all at once; that this man on his arm might be one of the hidden eyes of Government.
“These are difficult times,” he ventured, “for those who are loyal.”
Peter Niburg gave him a sidelong glance. “Difficult indeed,” he said briefly.
“But,” said Nikky, “perhaps we fear too much. The people love the boy Prince. And without the people revolution can accomplish nothing.”
“Nothing at all,” assented Peter Niburg.
“I think,” Nikky observed, finding his companion unresponsive, “that, after I see you safely home, I shall report this small matter to the police. Surely there cannot be in the city many such gorillas as our friend with the beard and the huge body.”
But here Peter Niburg turned even paler. “Not—not the police!” he stammered.
“But why? You and I, my friend, will carry their insignia for some days. I have a mind to pay our debts.”
Peter Niburg considered. He stopped and faced Nikky. “I do not wish the police,” he said. “Perhaps I have said too little. This is a private matter. An affair of jealousy.”