Whether we are really to
blame or not is of no consequence. It does not matter to the dog whether
he deserves his bad name or not--after he is hanged. But it is not good
to be a Bukaty and live in Poland just now, though some of us manage to
have a good time despite them all--eh, Wanda?"
And he laid his hand momentarily on his sister's arm. But she did not
answer. She desired before all things that clear understanding which was
part of her creed of life, and she glanced quickly from side to side for
fear some interruption should approach.
"Mr. Cartoner, on the other hand," he continued, in his airy way, "is a
most respectable man--in the employ of his country. That is what damns
Mr. Cartoner. He is in the employ of his country. And he has a great
reputation, to which I take off my hat."
And he saluted gayly Cartoner's reputation.
"It would never do," continued Martin, "for us, the suspects, to be
avowedly the friend of the man who is understood to be an envoy in some
capacity of his government. Whether he is really such or not is of no
consequence. It matters little to the dog, you remember."
"But what are we to do?" asked Wanda, practically. "Let us have a clear
understanding.
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