The ambassador was in his study, reading.
"Your Excellency, there is a man in the office who desires to see you quickly." The ambassador laid down his book.

"Upon what pretense did he gain admittance at this hour ?" he demanded.
"I refused him admittance, your Excellency, because he was dressed like a carter.--" "A carter!" The ambassador wrathfully jumped to his feet.
"One moment, your Excellency.

He wore a ring on his finger, and I could not refuse him." "A ring, you say ?" Guarding his voice with his hand, the majordomo whispered two words.
"Here, and dressed like a carter?
What the devil!" The ambassador rushed from the study.
It was dark in the embassy office.

Quickly the ambassador lighted some candles.

Gas would be too bright for such a meeting.
"Well, your Excellency ?" said a voice from the leather lounge.
"Who are you ?" For this was not the voice the baron expected to hear.
"My name at present does not matter.