He named a sum and I gave it him, saying that rightfully he had forfeited it by his disobedience. He counted it slowly as if to make sure it was right.
“I want to serve you still, Burgwan,” he repeated.
“I tell you I have no need for you.”
“About that Austrian Government officer, Burgwan, Captain Hanske?” It was said with sly suggestiveness.
“Well?”
“Where is he? He stayed with you and has not been seen again. No one but me knows you saw him last.”
I laughed.
“Are you threatening me?”
“No. I want to serve you. Is he dead?”
“You insolent dog. No.”