“But what have I to do with the death of the Triple Alliance?” demanded Jack.
The German, for such Jack knew him to be, shrugged his shoulders and smiled.
“You see, we have discovered the part you played in Tripoli,” he said. “Knowing enough to be allowed to take part in such a coup, you must know a great deal more. I know that the Triple Alliance was put to death through English aid; and I know that you know it. Also I know that you know how it was done, and the names of all connected with the coup. That is what I expect you to tell me.”
“Well,” said Jack quietly, “I won’t!”
“Come now,” was the reply. “I know you know these things.”
“Admit for the sake of argument, then,” said Jack, “that I have certain information. How do you intend to extract it—against my will?”
“It does appear difficult to you, doesn’t it?” was the rejoinder. “But we have learned to manage all that with little trouble.”
“You’ll not manage me!” declared the lad.
The visitor smiled.
“Are you familiar with the weed that produces what is called the Sleeping Sickness?” he asked.