"I hope so in the future. At present there is too much unrest. With the Princess Maritza in Sturatzberg—"
"In that I think you are mistaken, monsieur."
"No, my lord. Mine was trusted information. Through the same channel
I shall learn where Captain Ellerey is."
"A spy, monsieur?"
"He would be hurt to hear himself called so. He is a servant of mine, interested in my business, and a valuable fellow. He has known Captain Ellerey's movements for months past, and even now, I warrant, is at his heels. You shall hear from me, my lord, the moment he returns."
"A thousand thanks, monsieur; you will place me under an obligation.
And the value of the news will depend on the state of the timber trade,"
he added to himself as he turned away. "Something has frightened
Monsieur De Froilette; I wonder what it is."
Joining the little crowd round the Countess Mavrodin, he entered into the conversation with the heartiness of a man who hasn't a care in the world; and one by one the others withdrew, it was so evident that the Ambassador intended to remain. Frina Mavrodin desired nothing better. Lord Cloverton could doubtless tell her the truth, and although she did not for one moment expect him to do so, she thought she could probably draw it from him with the help of the knowledge she already possessed.
"My horses are getting rather restive, they have been standing so long.
Will you drive with me, Lord Cloverton?"
He thanked her and got in beside her.
"One seldom sees you in the Bois," she said.