As a matter of fact, I believe he has been on the Continent exploiting some patents of his own invention." The newcomer accepted the burden of his altered nomenclature and took up the letter.

He glanced at the signature, and his manner became at once more interested.

He accepted the chair which Sir Edward had placed by his side, and, drawing the electric light a little nearer, read the document through, word by word.

Then he folded it up, and glanced first at his colleague and afterwards at Mr.Coulson.
"I understand," he said, "that this is a private inquiry from a private gentleman, who is entitled, however, to as much courtesy as it is possible for us to show him." "That is exactly the position, sir," Mr.Coulson replied.

"Negotiations of a more formal character are naturally conducted between your Foreign Office and the Foreign Office of my country.