But he was an old soldier in the game of words and cross-purposes.
"We should be happy to accord you the privilege of becoming the kingdom's creditor," he said, smiling at the diplomat, whom nothing had escaped.

"I am afraid, however, that your request has been submitted too late.

At ten o'clock this morning the transfer of the certificates would have been a simple matter.

There are twenty in all; it may not be too late to secure some of them." He looked tranquilly from the Englishman to the king.
The smiling mask fell from the king's face; he felt that he was lost.

He tried to catch his friend's eye, but the diplomat was deeply interested in the console of the fireplace.
"They seem to be at a premium," the Englishman said, "which speaks well for the prosperity of the country.