The embarrassment in the deep, shining eyes beneath the shaggy grey brows was growing. To Ruxton they were almost a child's eyes, so simple and earnest, and so full of unconcealed trouble.
"It is an ominous prelude," the Pole replied, with a poor attempt at a smile.
"But not so ominous as the dénouement which, I fear, is likely to come when you attempt to leave these shores."
Ruxton's retort came with a quiet emphasis and directness which completely took the other aback.
"I do not see—— Is that a threat, Mr. Farlow?" All the childlike trouble had vanished from the man's luminous eyes. They were shining with a definite challenge which revealed the ready spirit of the man, which Vita always told of.
Ruxton smiled.
"Not from me, sir."
"Then from whom?" The words were incisive.
"From your—our enemies across the water."
All the fire had departed out of Von Hertzwohl's eyes; only was there interest in them.