“Then,” said Hal calmly, “our mission is accomplished. We know where you stand. May I ask you a question?”
“Certainly.”
“Is it true that you have been able to furnish the Austrian general staff with the Grand Duke Nicholas’ plans?”
Brunnoi was silent for some moments, but at length he replied:
“I don’t mind answering that question, for you will never repeat my answer to the Grand Duke. Yes, I have furnished the Austrian general staff with important information.”
“Well,” said Chester, breaking into the conversation, “what are you going to do with us?”
“Why,” said Brunnoi, “for the present you shall be kept here as my guests–prisoners, if you prefer. After that–well, it all depends. Should the Russians come, it may be necessary to dispose of you. Therefore, you should be wise and pray for Austrian success.”
“Surely you do not mean that you would murder us?” asked Hal.
“I call it by no such name,” replied Brunnoi calmly. “Putting away an enemy is not murder.”
“Very well,” said Chester calmly. “I suppose there is no use talking about it.”