Fenshawe probably found in marked
contrast with her usual honeyed speech.
"That agreement would have been kept by me," said Fenshawe. "You may
not be aware that Baron von Kerber pleaded poverty, and I promised to
remunerate him for his services, whether we won or lost. I have no
doubt he has my letter, duly stamped at Somerset House, carefully
packed away with Mr. Royson's agreement."
The retort was in the nature of the tac-au-tac riposte beloved of the
skilled swordsman. It was succeeded by a tense silence. Mrs. Haxton
glared at the Baron. The ghost of a smile flickered on Irene's lips as
she glanced at Dick. Von Kerber swished one of his boots viciously with
a riding-whip. He found he must say something.
"Why are we creating difficulties where none exist?" he snarled. "If
the agreement stands in the way, I absolve Mr. Royson from any promise
he has made. I wanted to guard against treachery, not to tie him down
to serve me exclusively."
"You asked for obedience and a still tongue, Baron. I have given you
both," said Dick.
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