Apparently Herr Schneider already knew something about the raid upon Krutzmacht’s safe.
“I took everything in sight,” Brainard said simply.
“And I am to understand that you have these”—the banker pointed to the inventory—“with you in Europe?”
“They are where I can get at them easily,” Brainard replied guardedly.
For several moments the two men looked at each other across the table.
“What do you mean to do with it?” the banker asked casually at last.
“I don’t know yet,” Brainard replied lightly. “I want to find out what it’s worth, if I can.”
“Your coup has created much excitement in certain quarters. I suppose you are aware of that,” Herr Adolf observed in a warning tone. “You will find it difficult to negotiate any securities you may have—if you escape worse complications!”
Brainard realized that the German was speaking diplomatically—bluffing, to use a plainer word.
“I have merely obeyed the orders I received,” he observed innocently, handing the banker a copy of Krutzmacht’s power of attorney. “Unfortunately, as you know, Mr. Krutzmacht died suddenly, and I am left with only the most general instructions to direct my future movements.”