14/31 You have something which almost approaches an alliance with another country. I am going to tell you in plain words what I think you have been given to understand indirectly many times during the last few years--that understanding is not approved of in St.Petersburg." Monsieur Douaille knocked the ash from his cigarette. He gazed thoughtfully into the fire of pine logs which was burning upon the open hearth. "Such a statement on my part may sound a little startling, but I make it advisedly. I know the feeling--you will grant that my position entitles me to know the feeling--of the men who count for anything in Russian politics. |