“Hebblethwaite,” Norgate declared solemnly, “if you didn’t understand the temperament and character of your constituents better than you do the German temperament and character, you would never have set your foot across the threshold of Westminster.  The fact of it is you’re a domestic politician of the very highest order, but as regards foreign affairs and the greater side of international politics, well, all I can say is you’ve as little grasp of them as a local mayor might have.”

“Look here, young fellow,” Hebblethwaite protested, “do you know that you are talking to a Cabinet Minister?”

“To a very possible Prime Minister,” Norgate replied, “but I am going to tell you what I think, all the same.  I’m fed up with you all.  I bring you some certain and sure information, proving conclusively that Germany is maintaining an extraordinary system of espionage over here, and you tell me to mind my own business.  I tell you, Hebblethwaite, you and your Party are thundering good legislators, but you’ll ruin the country before you’ve finished.  I’ve had enough.  It seems to me we thoroughly deserve the shaking up we’re going to get.  I am going to turn German spy myself and work for the other side.”

“You do, if there’s anything in it,” Hebblethwaite retorted, with a grin.  “I promise we won’t arrest you.  You shall hop around the country at your own sweet will, preach Teutonic doctrines, and pave the way for the coming of the conquerors.  You’ll have to keep away from our arsenals and our flying places, because our Service men are so prejudiced.  Short of that you can do what you like.”

Norgate finished his cigar in silence.  Then he threw the end into the fireplace, finished his whisky and soda, and rose.

“Hebblethwaite,” he said, “this is the second time you’ve treated me like this.  I shall give you another chance.  There’s just one way I may be of use, and I am going to take it on.  If I get into trouble about it, it will be your fault, but next time I come and talk with you, you’ll have to listen to me if I shove the words down your throat.  Good night!”

“Good night, Norgate,” Hebblethwaite replied pleasantly.  “What you want is a week or two’s change somewhere, to get this anti-Teuton fever out of your veins.  I think we’ll send you to Tokyo and let you have a turn with the geishas in the cherry groves.”

“I wouldn’t go out for your Government, anyway,” Norgate declared.  “I’ve given you fair warning.  I am going in on the other side.  I’m fed up with the England you fellows represent.”

“Nice breezy sort of chap you are for a pal!” Hebblethwaite grumbled.  “Well, get along with you, then.  Come and look me up when you’re in a better humour.”

“I shall probably find you in a worse one,” Norgate retorted.  “Good night!”

* * * * *

It was one o’clock when Norgate let himself into his rooms.  To his surprise, the electric lights were burning in his sitting-room.  He entered a little abruptly and stopped short upon the threshold.  A slim figure in dark travelling clothes, with veil pushed back, was lying curled up on his sofa.  She stirred a little at his coming, opened her eyes, and looked at him.