"'Who wrote this?' demanded Nicholas.
"'My master.'
"'And who is your master?'
"'The Little Man in Green. Ha! ha!' laughed the dwarf.
"'His name? I must know his name!' exclaimed Nicholas.
"The abbreviated Mercury placed a finger beside his little nose, in a very knowing manner, at the same time winking sagaciously.
"'I can answer no such question,' he said; 'my master desires to remain incog. at present. My name is Orloff, and I wish you to answer one inquiry: Does the ward of the Countess Walewski have an interview with Admiral Praxin to-day?'
"'She does.'
"'That is sufficient; you will hear from me soon,' and Orloff fled through the open door, with a speed truly marvelous.