"
"Yes," observed Vernon, sarcastically, "you fellows seem to think the
peace of Europe depends on it."
"I should say that would not be overstating it in the least," said
Collins, with a solemnity almost religious.
"Oh, nonsense; you diplomatic fellows make mountains out of molehills;
you see a storm in every cloud; you imagine the lightning's going to
strike you every time it flashes! You're all nerves!"
"Anyway, you agreed--"
"Yes, I know I agreed," interrupted Vernon, irritably, "and I was a fool
to do it."
"Besides," added Blake, "we've got to play very close, since it happens
that Markeld is in this very hotel. We supposed, of course, that he
would go on to London. I must say that I think he showed exceedingly
poor taste in following us here."
"Oh, I don't know," said Vernon. "I think it was rather enterprising. I
only wish we could treat the poor devil fairly."
"Well, since he is here," continued Blake, "there's only one thing for
you to do, and that is to stay under cover."
"But, confound it!" protested Vernon, "I can't stay cooped up here in
these rooms all the time!"
"That's the only safe way," observed Collins. "Suppose Markeld should
find out how the land lies! The fat would be in the fire for sure; and
we'd be in a mighty awkward position! Suppose the jingoes got hold of
it!" and he turned pale at the thought.
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