"That is a matter which the courts will determine," said the Swiss lightly.
Von Stromberg shrugged and laughed unpleasantly.
"You are a very foolish young man."
Then after a moment of hesitation he took a pace forward, catching Hoffmeier by the arm and walking a few paces along the deck with him, whispering.
In the midst of the conversation the Swiss suddenly flung away.
"Bribery!" he cried hotly. "You've found the wrong man, Excellency. I will give you one minute to leave my ship, or I will take you to Switzerland and intern you."
And walking to the gangway he pointed down to where the visiting boat lay, the men at their oars.
"Your boat awaits you, Herr Lieutnant Zapp. I bid you good morning, Excellency."
Von Stromberg scowled, bit his lip and scowled again, but he followed his lieutenant down the ladder and silently entered the boat, wrapping himself in his great cape and was rowed away.
Lieutnant Hoffmeier mounted to the bridge and gave the orders for full speed ahead. Then he leaned over the rail and watched the small craft approach the German patrol-boat.