"Of course," he continued, "this scale of pay is only the beginning. As your use to us and the importance of your missions increases, so will your remuneration. That depends entirely on you." He raised his eyebrows inquiringly. "Very well," I said. "I accept." He held out his hand. "You made up your mind quickly." "It is my way, Captain. I take a thing or leave it." "That's what I like, Doctor; a quick, decisive mind." That seemed to please him. "Very well. To be of use to us, you w ill need a lot of technical coaching. Are you ready to start tomorrow?" "Now, Captain." "Very good," he said, "but to-morrow will do. Be here at ten A. M. Then give us daily as much of your time as we require." He called in one of his secretaries, gave him command briefly and in a few minutes the man was back with an order for three hundred marks. "This, Doctor, is your first month's living expenses. Retaining fees are paid quarterly." As I pocketed the check I remarked: "Captain, personally we are total strangers. How is it that you seem so satisfied with me?" Again his peculiar smile was noticeable. "That is outside our usual business procedure," he said. "I have my instructions from above and I simply act on them." I was young then, and curious so I asked: "Who are those above and what are their instructions?" No sooner had I put that question than I learned my first lesson in the Secret Service. All traces of genial friendliness vanished from von Tappken's face. It was stern and serious. "My boy," he said slowly, "learn this from the start and learn it well. Do not ask questions. Do not talk. Think! You will soon learn that there are many unwritten laws attached to this Service." I never forgot that. It was my first lesson in Secret Service. Chapter II. The Making of a Secret Agent