It is
reported that they propose to raise the siege, or at least reduce it
to a mere blockade. The great bulk of the allied army would then be
transferred to sea to another point where it would take the field
against our line of communications. It is essential that we should
know at the earliest date whether there is any foundation in this
report. Use every endeavour to this end.'
"Yes; there can be no doubt that this surmise is corroborated by the
latest news. But I must have more precise and correct information
without delay. How is it to be obtained? Which of my agents can help
me best? Lavitsky? He works in Woolwich Arsenal--he might know if more
wheeled transport had been ordered. Or Bauer, at Portsmouth--he would
know of any movements in the fleet. Or--
"Of course!" and he slapped his forehead, despising his own stupidity.
"Cyprienne--she can, and must, manage this."
He proceeded to put back the papers into the secret drawer; he
replaced the volume on the shelf, and, taking the telegram he had
written in his hand, left the office, carefully locking the door
behind him.
Hailing a cab, he was driven first to a telegraph-station, where he
sent off his despatch, only adding the words:--
"Other important transactions in the shipping interest will shortly
be undertaken; more precise details will speedily follow.
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