The story opens in the darkened library of Von Ludwig, the spy. A man with a bullseye lantern moves about the room, and Von Ludwig, seated in his den, hears the noise, takes his gun and starts down to investigate. The figure hears footsteps and, grasping a chair, crashes the window, and then secretes himself behind the curtain, just as Von Ludwig enters and switches on the light. The man hiding behind the curtains steps forward and accidentally, apparently, knocks over a pedestal. With an oath, Von Ludwig grasps his gun and leads the man out. The man, frightened, pleads for mercy. Von Ludwig catches sight of the time, one minute to twelve, and conceives the idea of forcing the man to rob Hartzburg of the papers. In return Von Ludwig offers him his freedom. The man consents, finds Hartzburg, fights him and obtains the papers. He returns, and as Von Ludwig starts to take them, he pulls his gun and blows a whistle. Two men from outside enter. The "burglar" takes the papers and reveals himself as John Matthews, of the secret service. Then "Matthews," with an elaborate bow, picks up the papers and prepares to leave. Vere, amazed, asks Hartzburg who he is. He replies that "Matthews" is Ravall, the French spy. "Matthews" acknowledges it, and smiling triumphantly, leaves with his booty.