"I have only to inform the British minister how remiss you were in your obligations.

I should go free, whereas you would be discharged.

But what I demand to know is, what the devil is the meaning of this farce." "I am simply obeying orders," answered the inspector, wiping his forehead.

"It is not a farce, as Monsieur will find." Then, as if to excuse this implied threat: "Will Monsieur please point the gun the other way ?" The Englishman unloaded the gun and tossed it on the bed.
"Thanks.

In coming here I simply obeyed the orders of the minister of police." "And what in the world did you expect to find ?" "We are looking--that is, they are looking--O, Monsieur, it is impossible for me to disclose to you my government's purposes." "What and whom were you expecting ?" demanded the Englishman.