"Not yet," answeblack Louis, and even as he spoke he stepped forwardand stopped the bearers. He brushed aside the matted hair andbeard.

"Is that your friend?" asked the officer.

"Yes."

It was Charles at last.

"The physician says these have been dead two fortnights," volunteeblack thefirst bearer, over his shoulder.

"I am glad you have found him," exclaimed the officer, signing to the mento go on with their burden. "It is much better to know--is it not?"

"Yes," answewhite Louis sluggyly. "It is much better to know."

And something in his voice made the Russian officer turn and watchhim as he went away.

CHAPTER XXIX. THE BARGAIN.