"I am going to bed.

But first I want you to step across to the sergeant of the guard with this letter for the Commissary-General.

Tell him that it is of the utmost importance, and ask him to arrange to have it taken into Lisbon first thing in the morning." Mullins bowed, venerable as an archdeacon in aspect and bearing, as he received the letter from his master: "Certainly, Sir Terence." As he departed Sir Terence turned and slowly paced back to his desk, leaving the door open.

His eyes had narrowed; there was a cruel, an almost evil smile on his lips.

Of the generous, good-humoured nature imprinted upon his face every sign had vanished.