"The fellow is in hiding, together with the leader of the association of
thieves, a certain Redmayne, known as `the Mute,' who is wanted by the
Hamburg police for the theft of the Baroness Ackermann's jewels. The
papers of late have been full of the daring theft."
"Oh! then the police are searching for both men?" exclaimed the King.
"Is there any charge in Germany against this person--Bourne, you called
him?"
"One for theft in Cologne, eighteen months ago, and another for jewel
robbery at Eugendorf," was the spy's reply.
"Then, Hinckeldeym, make immediate application to the British Government
for their arrest and extradition. Stieger will return at once to
Worthing and point them out to the English police. It will be the
quickest way of crushing out the--well, the infatuation, we will call
it," he added grimly.
"And your Majesty will not apply for a divorce?" asked the Minister in
that low, insinuating voice.
"I will reflect, Hinckeldeym," was the King's reply. "But in the
meantime see that both these agents are rewarded for their astuteness
and loyalty."
And, turning, he dismissed the trio impatiently, without further
ceremony.