Smith was quick in making preparations for the reception in the great hall. But the captain of the submarine reached the landing steps before the party in the palace was ready for him. The Queen hurried into the hall and took her seat on a chair which Smith placed for her. Konrad Karl ran to warn his Corinne to stay in her room and keep the door locked. Smith went to summon Donovan. Gorman, eager now and full of curiosity, stood at the door of the hall to watch the landing of the German officer. As the Queen took her seat he turned to her.
“Hullo,” he said, “it’s our old friend von Moll.”
“That man!” said the Queen.
“Funny to think of his turning up here again,” said Gorman. “Hope he’ll keep sober this time.”
Von Moll was sober enough at the moment. He stood very erect, very stern, most awe-inspiring while his men landed, six of them, all armed. Then he tramped up the steps. He halted for a minute on the terrace where the flagstaff was. He gave an order. One of his men drew a knife from a sheath and cut the flag halyard. The Stars and Stripes crumpled up and fluttered down the wind.
Gorman turned to the Queen again.
“Your flag’s gone,” he said. “Von Moll appears to be in a bit of a temper.”
Then he stepped out of the hall and went forward down the path. He held out his hand to von Moll.
“How are you?” he said. “Perfectly beastly day, isn’t it? Any news?”
Von Moll marched on, taking no notice whatever of his friendly greeting. Gorman, smiling pleasantly, followed him towards the hall.