I couldn’t take that. It made me mad. Clipping my words short I answered, deliberately:
“I think that would be the better plan, then. It will at least free me from the presence of a cad and a bully; and the lieutenant there will, I am sure, have the courage and justice to tell the truth of your act.”
He swore a deep oath, beside himself with rage.
“Seize him,” he shouted. “By God, seize him, and take him out and shoot him.”
I was seized by three soldiers.
“Lieutenant, you will tell Colonel Petrosch how I, his personal friend, have been condemned without a hearing.”
“Away with him,” shouted the captain, stamping with rage. The men began to lead me away.
“This is murder, and shall not be done,” cried Gatrina, jumping to her feet.
“Silence, woman,” exclaimed the bully. “Your doom is near, too.”
“I will not be silent while murder is being done. I call upon all of you to stop this murder. You, sir,” turning to the lieutenant. “You will not——”