I had expected to find a net work of spies surrounding the palace of
the Czar of all the Russias, as well as inside it, and I knew because
of my former experiences in the Moscovite capital, with what I would
have to contend if circumstances permitted me, as they now promised to
do, to take up and to perform what I considered would be the greatest
work of my life. There before me on the floor, prostrate and senseless,
although rapidly returning to consciousness, was the undoubted personal
proof of the deadly danger of my mission; but as I had foreseen and
forestalled this incident, so I believed I would be able to foresee and
forestall others that would be like unto it; and I determined to make
the most of this one, by using it to an advantage which had instantly
occurred to me when I saw and read the physiognomy, and behind that,
the character of the man on the floor. His features and the general air
of refinement about him, notwithstanding his dress and position,
suggested refinement, and I believed that I could appeal to him in a
way that would call forth some response if I were given the opportunity
to do so. He was lying on his back with his right arm outstretched, and
while the prince and I stood there regarding him with such different
emotions, his eyelids fluttered and parted and he once more became
conscious of his surroundings.
Beside him on the floor, was a long knife, which I have no doubt he
would have used upon me had my attack been less sudden and violent. As
it was, he opened his eyes and gazed sullenly upon us, realizing better
than I did, the fate that was in store for him now. I used the silken
curtain cords with which to bind him, and when that was accomplished,
placed him on one of the couches.
"Was it your intention to commit suicide when you entered this room to
spy upon us?" I asked; but he did not reply. "Prince," I added, turning
to my companion, "I think if you will leave me alone with this man, I
will find a way to make him talk. Will you return in half an hour?"
"Would it not be better to----"
"Must I wait until to-morrow for my authority?" I asked, smiling. So
the prince bowed and left me alone with the spy.