Part 7 (1/2)
”I notice you say foe,” said the young German; ”Yet you have American blood in your veins.”
”A trifle,” returned Hal quietly; ”not enough to make me lose sight of justice and right.”
”Good!” cried the young German. ”Listen. It's true that we have many agents abroad, but some of them have fallen under suspicion and consequently will be of no further value. We need more such men who have lived in America and know the customs, and also will not be suspected. By the way, have you an appointment for 10 o'clock?”
”Why, no,” said Hal. ”Why?”
”Will you go with me at that hour?”
”Where to?”
”To my father's quarters. He, as you know, is the chief of the secret service. As such, he has charge of the agents abroad. I thought he might make you a proposition.”
”There will be no harm if I am unable to accept, will there?” asked Hal.
”Not a bit,” replied the German heartily.
”Then I'll go.”
The next hour was spent in general conversation, after which Captain Rentzel arose to take his leave.
”I'm going to run off with one of your friends, Miss Schweiring,” he said, indicating Hal.
The others laughed, ”Oh, take him and show him about a bit, Frederick,”
laughed Mrs. Schweiring's husband. ”Only be sure that you return him safely.”
Hal followed the young captain from the house.
Half an hour later he found himself in the palatial office of the chief of the German secret service.
Hal looked carefully about the room. A long table stood in the center. This apparently was the personal property of General Rentzel.
Great easy chairs were scattered about the room. There was a window at the south side, and back, in the center, against the wall, was a large safe.
”Pretty comfortable place,” said Hal aloud.
”Rather,” agreed the young German. ”Father believes in making himself comfortable.”
General Rentzel had not arrived yet, but he put in an appearance a few moments later. He manifested no surprise at sight of his son, but he eyed Hal askance.
”I thought you young fellows had gone to look about the city,” he said.
”No, sir,” replied his son. ”I invited. Herr Block here to see you, sir.”
”You did? Why?”
The son explained as quickly as possible.
”Hm-m,” muttered the general when his son had concluded, eying Hal sharply. ”How do I know you are what you represent yourself to be, sir?” he demanded.