“Let us first speak of the reward, sire.” “How much do you want?” demanded Gilbert sharply. “Remember, I can hand you over to the police, if I desire.” “The police!” At the threat the young Russian grew pale, for the police department is a terror to all who live under Russian law, its findings being generally final and absolute. “How so?” “For aiding Ivan Snokoff to get away without paying his just debts.” “I did not aid him, no, no! When he went I thought all was right—I did not learn the truth until later. I have lost much myself, for I thought I was to have a steady position with him.” “How much do you want me to pay you?” “Not much, sire, no. Surely you will never miss ten rubles,” went on the young Russian, mentioning a sum less than eight dollars, a Russian ruble being worth, at the present time, 76 to 78 cents. “Can you give me information of value?” “I think I can.” “Then tell me what you know, and if the news is worth anything you shall have your money.” “Ah, I knew the American would be generous to a poor Russian—the United States is a great country.” “What do you know?” [Pg 14] [Pg 14] “It is of Captain Barusky that I would speak—he who comes of a most honorable family.” “The same captain that had an interest in the trading company?” questioned Gilbert quickly. “Yes, the same. He and Ivan Snokoff are great friends—I have heard that they have been in many business ventures together.” “Do you know where Captain Barusky is?” “He was out of active service for several years, but now he is once more in the army. Since it looks so much like war with Japan the Czar has called upon all our
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