Shall we discuss the matter of those Peruvian claims?
That is business.

These other affairs are more in the nature of delightful diversions, my dear comrade." They drew nearer the table and Durand produced a box of papers over which he bent with serious attention.

Armitage had heard practically all of their dialogue, and, what was of equal interest, had been able to study the faces and learn the tones of voice of the two conspirators.

He was cramped from his position on the narrow balcony and wet and chilled by the rain, which was now slowly abating.

He had learned much that he wished to know, and with an ease that astonished him; and he was well content to withdraw with gratitude for his good fortune.
His legs were numb and he clung close to the railing of the little ladder for support as he crept toward the area.