Don't think that the money I've had for my work--hateful work often--has been used for myself.

It's been for my father's country--poor, sad country--every shilling of English coin.

As an actress I've supported myself, and, as an actress, it has been easier for me to do the other secret work than it would have been for a woman leading a more sheltered life, mingling less with distinguished persons of different countries, or unable to be eccentric without causing scandal.

As for France, she's the friend of Russia, and I haven't a drop of French blood in my veins, so, at least, I've never been treacherous to my own people.

Oh, I have made some great _coups_ in the last eight or nine years, Ivor!...