"Excellency," he gasped. "You may speak."
"Thanks. I will not detain you long. Herr Rowland has chosen to bring up the question of the ownership of the money, on the ground of its contribution by people of many nationalities. My reply is that Germany recognizes but two groups of peoples on the earth, its allies and its enemies. In the one case, the money is ours because we have contributed it--in the other it is ours----" he lowered his voice and spoke the words softly--but everyone in the rooms heard him--"because--we take it."
As he finished, he turned slowly and with a significant gesture.
"Herr Rowland will bring the suit-case here--to the table."
Rowland remained immovable but his eyes narrowed and his lips compressed.
"You can hardly expect me to comply with such a request----"
Von Stromberg frowned.
"I don't request, I command," he said sharply.
Rowland's features relaxed again and he burst into a good humored laugh.
"You can't mean it, Excellency. You are too wise. It would lead to trouble--serious trouble----"