De Leval replied: "Without doubt I consider it so, but I must refuse to tell you from whom I received the information. Besides, what difference does it make? If the information is true, our presence at this hour is justified; if it is not true, I am ready to take the consequences of my mistake." The Baron grew irritated. "What," he said, "is it on the hint of mere rumor that you come and disturb me at such an hour, me and these gentlemen? No, no, gentlemen, this news can not be true. Orders are never executed with such precipitation, especially when a woman is concerned. Come and see me to-morrow. Besides, how do you think that at this hour I can obtain any information? The Governor-General must certainly be sleeping." Gibson, or one of them, suggested to him that a very simple way of finding out would be to telephone to the prison. "Quite right," said he. "I had not thought of that." He went out, was gone a few minutes and came back embarrassed, so they said, even a little bit ashamed, for he said: [Sidenote: The sad news confirmed.] "You are right, gentlemen; I have heard by telephone that Miss Cavell has been condemned and that she will be shot to-night." Then de Leval drew out the letter that I had written to the Baron and gave it to him, and he read it in an undertone--with a little sardonic smile, de Leval said--and when he had finished he handed it back to de Leval and said: [Sidenote: The plea for mercy.] "But it is necessary to have a plea for mercy at the same time." "Here it is," said de Leval, and gave him the document. Then they all sat down. [Sidenote: Von der Lancken's attitude.] [Sidenote: Miss Cavell not a spy.]