The book of John Doe

—Firstly, allow me to prove my loyalty to you — she says, presenting you with a small bag filled with diamonds.
— For your struggle — she adds — which is far from over.
— What is the meaning of this? — you ask, surprised. — You have no reason to give me money. Taxes are owed to the treasurer, not to me.
— These are no taxes, but a token of my unwavering loyalty to the Slavic cause, — she replies.
Her answer unsettles you even more. On any other day, you would have accepted the money without hesitation. But here, in the middle of a foreign land, surrounded by unknown dangers, it feels too generous to trust.
— What do you expect in return? — you ask cautiously.
— Oh, Your Grace, it is not for me to command, but for you, — she says. — Even here, far from our homeland, my loyalty to you remains unchanged.
You hesitate no more. You know what you must do.

— I gratefully accept your donation, Baroness, and I assure you — I will do all that’s in my power to promote the Slavic cause.— you say, slipping the bag into your pocket. — Now, please… tell me more about your odyssey.

— I’m sorry, Baroness, but I can’t accept this gift. I’m in no position to influence the Slavic cause, and I wouldn’t want to mislead you. Please—tell me— what danger is lurking in front of me?