The only path to freedom lay through revolution, and I had reason to believe that the ruling faction could be overthrown by a well-organized and properly financed movement without the appalling bloodshed which often accompanies such dynastic changes.
At any rate, I entered the conspiracy, heart and soul.

But I met with two difficulties at the outset.

I could not exercise efficient financial control in London, and I could neither go and live in the Far East nor transact my business through ordinary banking channels.

So I had to find a substitute, and my choice fell on a rising young barrister named Arthur Lester, whom I had known since he was a boy who had married the daughter of an old friend.

He had a taste for adventure, and was alive to the magnificent career which lay before one who helped materially in the rebirth of China.