The Russian, studying him attentively with his pale venomous eyes, bowed.

“Pleased to meet you,” said the American. “I’ve got some very important business I’d like to talk over with you, if I can see you alone.” He looked pointedly at the other.

“My secretary, Monsieur Grieber, from whom I have no secrets.”

“That may be so⁠—but I have,” said Julius dryly. “So I’d be obliged if you’d tell him to scoot.”

“Ivan,” said the Russian softly, “perhaps you would not mind retiring into the next room⁠—”

“The next room won’t do,” interrupted Julius. “I know these ducal suites⁠—and I want this one plumb empty except for you and me. Send him round to a store to buy a penn’orth of peanuts.”