"Then I'll go."
The next hour was spent in general conversation, after which Captain
Rentzel arose to take his leave.
"I'm going to run off with one of your friends, Miss Schweiring," he said, indicating Hal.
The others laughed, "Oh, take him and show him about a bit, Frederick," laughed Mrs. Schweiring's husband. "Only be sure that you return him safely."
Hal followed the young captain from the house.
Half an hour later he found himself in the palatial office of the chief of the German secret service.
Hal looked carefully about the room. A long table stood in the center. This apparently was the personal property of General Rentzel. Great easy chairs were scattered about the room. There was a window at the south side, and back, in the center, against the wall, was a large safe.
"Pretty comfortable place," said Hal aloud.
"Rather," agreed the young German. "Father believes in making himself comfortable."
General Rentzel had not arrived yet, but he put in an appearance a few moments later. He manifested no surprise at sight of his son, but he eyed Hal askance.