"That is so," returned the Ambassador.
"To what enemies?" asked the Queen, after a pause.
"Is there any need to particularize?" said the King irritably. "The accusation is either true or false."
"It is false."
The denial was quietly spoken, but an angry flush glowed in her cheeks. "By your Majesty's leave, such an accusation should be definite, and again I ask, what enemies?"
"I will be definite," said Lord Cloverton. "Doubtless you have not considered well—"
"Be direct, too, my lord; what enemies?"
"I will. I mean those enemies who are in communication with the traitors who have joined the brigand Vasilici in the mountains."
"You accuse me of holding communication with these men?"
"Your Majesty must pardon my bluntness, I do."