But how is this to be accomplished ?" "Give immediate notice to the--Government, that he is in possession of the funds due them by the Company, and they will not fail to secure his person," said Markland.
"A good suggestion," replied Fenwick.

And he sat in a thoughtful attitude for some moments.

"Yes, that is a good suggestion," he repeated.

"We must send a shrewd, confidential agent at once to L--, and give information of the exact position of affairs." "What is the date of the last communication from Lyon ?" asked Markland.
"He wrote on the tenth." "Of last month ?" "Yes." "And the--Government threatened to enter upon and seize our property on the first of the present month ?" "True--true; and the worst may have already happened," said Fenwick.
"Still, an agent must go out, and vigorous efforts be made to save our property." "It will scarcely be worth saving, if in the condition represented, and all our funds dissipated." Fenwick sighed.

There was something in that sigh, as it reached the ears of Markland, which seemed like a mockery of trouble.