“No doubt,” Von Tressen agreed. “Nevertheless, you must not take me into your confidence against your better judgment.”
“I would not. Still I feel sure you can help me here if you will. It is a business where pluck and nerve are likely to be needed. You will give me your word of honour to be secret?”
“Certainly. You have my word of honour. Beyond that, if, as I understand, it is a state affair, and no private business, I am already bound by my oath of service.”
“Of course, my dear Osbert, I know you would be loyal to the death.”
“Now what is this mysterious undertaking?”
“Principally to find out all about your friend at Rozsnyo.”
Von Tressen laughed. “As I had already guessed. He is suspect?”
Galabin nodded. “There is an idea that he is in the pay of Russia. And, incidentally that he knows as much, or rather more, than anybody else about the disappearance of Prince Roel of Rapsberg.”
“And your mission is to convert the conjecture into a certainty.”
“Precisely. Now, tell me what you know.”