'Not at all,' said I, 'I shall be very happy to accommodate myself to your wishes.

I should like, however, to understand a little more clearly what it is that you wish me to do.' "'Quite so.

It is very natural that the pledge of secrecy which we have exacted from you should have aroused your curiosity.

I have no wish to commit you to anything without your having it all laid before you.

I suppose that we are absolutely safe from eavesdroppers ?' "'Entirely.' "'Then the matter stands thus.