"
"This is scarcely the time," put in Blake, "for a lecture upon ethics."
"And it would, in any event," added Vernon, "be entirely wasted upon the
present audience. Well, what next?"
"I think you understand your part," answered Collins, curtly. "The only
question is, are you prepared to play it?"
Vernon hesitated for an instant, his hands trembling slightly.
"I feel the veriest scoundrel," he said, bitterly. "It sickens me--but
you've got me fast."
"Yes," agreed Collins, with a malicious grin, "we've got you fast."
"Though not quite as fast as you think, perhaps," added Vernon,
quietly. "I warn you that I will break the bonds if they become too
galling. I see that I'm going to owe Prince Frederick a hearty apology
before this thing is over."
"Oh, I shan't interfere with your apology when the time conies,"
retorted Collins.
"I should hope not," said Vernon, still more quietly; then he turned and
entered the inner room.
"You mustn't push him too hard, Arthur," said Blake, in a low tone, "or
he'll kick over the traces. Remember, he is devilish high-spirited. And
he won't lie."
"It takes a firm hand to keep him under control; but I'll be careful.
And he won't have to lie. It's confoundedly unfortunate Markeld couldn't
have left his dog at home! Just see how small a thing may affect the
fate of nations!"
"Don't get philosophical," advised Blake.
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