The bound man was still moaning feebly. Frank removed the gag from his mouth.
“Thanks,” said the man in a low voice in English. “I didn’t think I could stand that thing in my mouth another instant.”
“What’s the matter, anyhow,” demanded Frank. “Why are you kept a prisoner here?”
“It’s a long story,” was the reply, “and I haven’t time to tell you now. But I can say this much, for I don’t believe you will repeat it. I’m in the English diplomatic corps and am on an important mission. My capture must be the work of treachery. I suppose I am to be turned over to the Germans.”
“I thought diplomacy was a thing of the past,” said Frank. “Of what use is diplomacy now that practically the whole of Europe is at war?”
“That’s just it,” was the reply. “The whole of Europe is not at war. Italy is still neutral, but unless something happens she is likely to throw in her fortunes with Germany.”
“But what have you got to do with that?”
The man in the bunk was silent for a few moments.
“All I can say,” he replied finally, “is that I am supposed to see that something happens; or rather, I should say, I am to help.”
“But how did you get here?”