It was well within the specified time that a jailer again approached the cell and commanded the two lads to follow him.
“Where are you taking us?” demanded Jack.
“Count Blowinski desires your presence,” replied the guard.
The lads followed without further questioning.
They were ushered into the count’s presence in his own handsome apartments. They were rather surprised when they found the count was not alone, but their surprise was short lived, for after the guard had taken his departure, Count Blowinski addressed them immediately.
“I have this moment signed your pardons,” he said. “I have told the military authorities, who are under my supervision, that I have positive evidence you are not German spies. My word goes here yet—and will in the days to come, when the German armies have occupied Moscow.”
The count swept his arm about the room, taking in all the other figures in a single comprehensive gesture.
“These,” he said to the two lads, “are the men who are with me in this undertaking. You may speak plainly before them.”
The lads bowed to the circle of faces.
“Very well, your Excellency,” said Jack quietly.