Now the Secretary was duly impressed with all the dignity of his
official position, and he rarely failed to pull it on the ordinary
individual--cockey would be about the proper term. In Harleston,
however, he recognized an unusual personage; one to whom the Department
was wont to turn when all others had failed in its diplomatic problems;
who had some wealth and an absolutely secure social position; who
accepted no pecuniary recompense for his service, doing it all for pure
amusement, and because his government requested it.
"It's too fine a day to ride to the Department," said the Secretary.
"It's much too fine, really, to go anywhere except to the Rataplan and
play golf."
Harleston agreed.
"I'll take you on at four o'clock," the Secretary suggested.
"If that is not a command," said Harleston, "I should like first to
consult you about a matter which arose last night, or rather early this
morning. I was bound for your office now. I can, however, give you the
main facts as we go along."
"Proceed!" said the Secretary. "I'm all attention."
"It may be of grave importance and it may be of very little--"
"What do you think it is?"
"I think it is of first importance, judging from known facts. If
Carpenter can translate the cipher message, it will--"
"The Department has full faith in your diagnosis, Harleston.
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