find out nothing from us."

The prince shrugged his shoulders indifferently. He did not attach much
importance to these foreigners.

"Of course," went on Kosmaroff, "they are only watchers. But, as Wanda
says, some people see more than others. The American, Mangles, who has
ladies with him, will report upon events after they have happened. So
will Deulin, who is an idler. He never sees that which will give him
trouble. He does not write long despatches to the Quai d'Orsay, because
he knows that they will not be read there. But Cartoner is different.
There are never any surprises for the English in matters that Cartoner
has in hand. He reports on events before they have happened, which is a
different story. I merely warn you."

As he spoke, Kosmaroff rose, glancing at the clock.

"There are no instructions?"

"None," answered the prince. "Except the usual one--patience!"

"Ah yes," replied Kosmaroff, "we shall be patient."

He did not seem to think that it might be easier to be patient in this
comfortable house than on the sand-hills of the Vistula in the coming
winter months.

"But be careful," he added, addressing Martin more particularly, "of
this man Cartoner. He will not betray, but he will know--you understand.
And no one must know!"