“Herr Rizzio has advised me that you are disloyal to Germany,” said the General at last. “You inform me that he is loyal to England.” Hammersley shrugged and laughed. “If I were disloyal to Germany, surely I had proof enough of your suspicions in your secret summons, to remain at Ben-a-Chielt. It is unnecessary for me to say that I should have come without that summons, because it was dangerous for me to stay.” “You would, then, have me disregard the message from Herr Rizzio?” “No. I merely ask that you wait until you hear from Herr Maxwell.” “And if Herr Maxwell be dead?” asked von Stromberg quietly. Hammersley’s face became grave. “In that case, Excellenz, I must rely on your keenness to decide the issue between us.” Von Stromberg slipped the packet of papers into an inner pocket and rose with a laugh. He covered the distance between himself and Hammersley in three paces with extended hands. “I was only trying you, Herr Hammersley. It is a habit of mine. It amuses me. You will forgive me, _nicht wahr_?” “Willingly, Excellenz, if you will provide me with food and a bed. Failing those, you may have me shot at once.” “Food you shall have, and a bed is prepared in your room upstairs. As for the shooting, perhaps we may as well postpone that until morning.” He laughed jovially, showing a very fine set of teeth, and, touching a bell which was answered by Captain Wentz, directed that food and coffee be prepared at once. “One word more,” he went on, when Wentz went out, “where did you put this copy after leaving Lady Heathcote’s in London?” “I slipped it down the window sash in my automobile. They did not even search for it. I got away by a ruse.” “No one saw it?” “No one. The message is the same.” “H--m! You have a good memory?” “Excellent.” “Are you sure that the War Office knew of your movements?” “Positive. I know of no one who would try to kill me----” “Rizzio?” “Acting for England, yes.” “And if he were acting for Germany?” “Then he is a fool.” Von Stromberg folded his long arms and gazed at the lamp. “You do not feel that it would be possible to return at once?” “Not unless I wished to be shot as a spy.” “What will you do?” “Take whatever service you will give me. Failing that I will volunteer for aviation.” The General, without pursuing the subject further, motioned Hammersley to the door. “You will find food ready. After eating you had better get to bed. I will talk with you further in the morning.”