Before him on the table was an envelope, hastily torn open, and several sheets of blank paper.

It was upon these that Bellamy's eyes were fixed with an expression of mingled horror and amazement.

The Cabinet Minister had already pushed them away with a little gesture of contempt.
"Bellamy," he said gravely, "it is not like you to make so serious an error.
"I hope not, sir," Bellamy answered.

"I--yes, I have been deceived." The Minister glanced at the clock.
"What is to be done ?" he asked.
Bellamy, with an effort, pulled himself together.

He caught up the envelope, looked once more inside, held up the blank sheets of paper to the lamp and laid them down.