“I am an agent of the Government and hold an order for the arrest of the Countess Bokara,” answered the leader, coming to a sudden halt when he saw me in the way armed.
“Well, you cannot execute it now.”
“My orders are imperative, sir, and you will resist me at your peril.”
“I shall resist,” said I shortly. “Where’s your order?”
“I have it, that is enough,” he replied with equal curtness.
“Produce it!”
“That is not in my instructions.”
“Then I don’t believe you have it. Leave the house before there is any further trouble.”
“I must do my duty. Georgiew,” he called to one of the two men, who had kept close to the door in fear, but now stepped up to his leader’s side.
“Who has signed your order?” asked the Countess, interposing.