www.freeclassicebooks.com

"Now don't get mad. You must see I'm not such a kid as to leave you here. You'd

ring up your friends on that telephone first thing! Ah!" He observed the fall on the

other's face. "You see, you'd got it all fixed. No, sir, you're coming along with me.

This your bedroom next door here? Walk right in. Little Willie and I will come

behind. Put on a thick coat, that's right. Fur lined? And you a Socialist! Now

we're ready. We walk downstairs and out through the hall to where my car's

waiting. And don't you forget I've got you covered every inch of the way. I can

shoot just as well through my coat pocket. One word, or a glance even, at one of

those liveried menials, and there'll sure be a strange face in the Sulphur and

Brimstone Works!"

Together they descended the stairs, and passed out to the waiting car. The

Russian was shaking with rage. The hotel servants surrounded them. A cry

hovered on his lips, but at the last minute his nerve failed him. The American

was a man of his word.

When they reached the car, Julius breathed a sigh of relief. The danger-zone was

passed. Fear had successfully hypnotized the man by his side.

"Get in," he ordered. Then as he caught the other's sidelong glance, "No, the

chauffeur won't help you any. Naval man. Was on a submarine in Russia when

the Revolution broke out. A brother of his was murdered by your people. George!"

"Yes, sir?" The chauffeur turned his head.

"This gentleman is a Russian Bolshevik. We don't want to shoot him, but it may

be necessary. You understand?"

Perfectly, sir."

I want to go to Gatehouse in Kent. Know the road at all?"

Yes, sir, it will be about an hour and a half's run."

Make it an hour. I'm in a hurry."

I'll do my best, sir." The car shot forward through the traffic.

Julius ensconced himself comfortably by the side of his victim. He kept his hand

in the pocket of his coat, but his manner was urbane to the last degree.

219

The Secret Adversary