"What is the meaning of this?" he demanded.
The French officer turned upon him.
"None of your business," he replied. He turned and rapped on the door again. "Open the door," he commanded, "or I shall break it in."
"Hold on there!" said Uncle John. "I have the key to the door. Tell me what you want with those young men and I'll unlock the door."
"I am ordered to take them before General Gallieni at once," said the officer more civilly.
"The military governor!" exclaimed Uncle John.
"Exactly, monsieur," said the officer, "and now, as you have the key, will you please to unlock the door immediately?"
"But what does the general want with them?" asked Uncle John anxiously.
"I cannot say," was the reply. "Will you unlock the door or shall I be compelled to use force?"
Without further words Uncle John unlocked the door, and the officer, followed by two of his men, strode in. They approached the two lads.