"But you do not regard me as your enemy?"

"I am forced to do so. Personally, I thank you; professionally, I
must fight you. Socially, I must be--what did you say,--your
amanuensis? So! We are engaged in a great work, a treatise on our
river fortifications, perhaps? But since when did army officers
afford the luxury of amanuenses in this simple republic? Does your
Vehmgerichte pay such extraordinary expenses? Does your carte
blanche run so far as that also?"

"You must not use such terms regarding the government of this
country," he protested. "Our administration does not suit me, but
it has pleased a majority of our people, else it would not be in
power, and it is no Vehmgerichte, The law of self preservation
obtains in this country as with all nations, even in Europe. But
we have planned no confiscation of your property, nor threatened
any forfeiture of your life."

"No, you have only taken away that which is dearer than anything
else, that which your government guarantees to every human being in
this country--liberty!"

"And even that unconstitutional point shall remain such no longer
than I can help, Madam. Do not make our journey longer by leaving
it more difficult. God knows, I am beset enough even as it is now.
But be sure our Vehmgerichte, as you are pleased to call it, shall
never, at least while I am its agent, condemn you to any situation
unsuited to a gentlewoman. A very high compliment has been paid
you in holding you dangerous because of your personal charm. It is