could have him arrested as a spy, and it would go hard
with him here in Paris before a military court. But in that case there
are others in the band of plotters whom we do not know and cannot
locate. So, for very good reasons, we prefer to have Gortchky at
large."

"I would like immensely to see Gortchky in Paris," Dave muttered.

"Perhaps you will have your wish," replied Mr. Caine, with an odd
smile.

Soon after that the interview came to an end, but Dave and Dan
remained in the Embassy building through the day. An attendant was
sent out to get them what they needed in linen and other small items.

Dinner was to be served at seven o'clock, and, as Mr. Caine did not
wish the presence of the young officers from the Mediterranean Fleet
in his house to be known, it was arranged that they should dine in a
smaller room alone with Mr. Lupton.

At six, however, the Ambassador sent in haste for Dave to come to his
office.

"That invitation doesn't seem to include me," remarked Dalzell, rather
ruefully, as he glanced up from a book he was reading in the Embassy
library.

"I'm afraid it doesn't," Dave returned.

Mr. Caine was at his office desk, holding a telegram sheet in his
hand.

"Gortchky is expected in town at 7.30 this evening, Mr. Darrin,"
announced the Ambassador.

"Is there anything that I can do in this matter, sir?" Darrin asked,
after a pause.

"You may go and watch for Gortchky, if you think it possible to do so
without his detecting you," Mr. Caine replied slowly.

"The opportunity would delight me beyond measure," Dave rejoined
quickly. "I suppose I had better take a taxicab that I may be ready to
give effective chase in case Emil Gortchky uses that kind of
transportation."

"I can supply you with a taxicab and with a chauffeur who can be
trusted," replied the Ambassador. "The driver I have in mind is a
highly intelligent fellow who has many times been employed by me. And
you can dismiss him at any point, or retain him as long as you wish.
The bill for the taxicab charges will be sent to the Embassy. How soon
do you wish to have this taxicab here?"

"Perhaps I should have it at once," Dave replied. "Gortchky would know
me in these clothes at first glance, so it would be advantageous if I
arranged to disguise myself. On the streets, as we came here, I
noticed not a few young men wearing baggy suits of clothes of most
un-American cut. They wore also flowing neckties, and some of them had
blue e