“Now, gentlemen,” said Marie, turning to the others.
“As commander of this party,” said Lord Hastings with a smile, “I guess it is up to me, as the Americans say, to do the talking.” He gazed at the girl earnestly. “You know something of us already,” he added, “so there is no harm in putting ourselves further in your power.”
“You need have no fear that I shall betray you,” said the girl.
“I had no such thought,” responded Lord Hastings courteously. “Well, then the situation is this,” and he told her why they had come to Heligoland.
“And what is it you want of me?” said the girl, when he had concluded.
“Recalling what you told Mr. Chadwick you would do for France,” said Lord Hastings quietly, “I am here to put you to the test.”
The girl sprang to her feet and her eyes flashed for a brief instant. Then she sat down again.
“Try me,” she said quietly.
Lord Hastings nodded his satisfaction.
“Then,” said he, “can you tell me something of the fortifications of Heligoland? Can you tell me its weak spots and its strong? Can you tell me how many men there are here—how many battleships? In short, can you tell me anything that will be of value to the Allies?”