My own connection with the Affaire Dreyfus dates from the time of the first trial and sentence, when the theatrical spectacle of the degradation of the unfortunate officer was the theme of universal comment. At this juncture I received a visit from Colonel ——, an officer high in the Emperor’s confidence, and at that time attached to the German Embassy in Paris.
‘I have come to you,’ he announced, as soon as we found ourselves alone, ‘by command of his Imperial Majesty the Kaiser.’
I bowed respectfully as I replied—
‘I am deeply honoured by this fresh proof of his Majesty’s confidence.’
The Colonel regarded me for a moment with some curiosity.
‘You are a sort of spy, are you not?’ he inquired.
I refused to take offence at this blunt question, so natural on the part of a soldier.
‘Each of us has his own part to play,’ I explained suavely. ‘The soldier fights with the enemy in the open field; the man of my profession has to encounter the foes who burrow underground.’
Colonel —— appeared satisfied.
‘The Kaiser trusts you; that is enough for me,’ he declared. ‘You will not dare to betray this confidence?’