Soundlessly we landed, soundlessly the junk disappeared; and in the same fashion we made our way towards a dark building which stood in the midst of a small garden near some huge factories.
My eyes were blinded by the glare of many electric lamps, once the door had been carefully locked after us.
I soon noticed that we were in comfortable bachelor’s quarters. The table was spread, and we courageously attacked the many delicious dishes. Over this meal we decided on our tactics.
The apartment belonged to the two young men who worked during the day at the factory. The servants were pure Chinese, which was all to the good.
My visit had to be kept secret in any case, especially as a disagreeable individual, who belonged to the “Entente,” also lived on the premises.
It was our intention to take advantage of the fear which the Chinese profess for evil spirits, and especially of their superstition in regard to mad people. Therefore, my problem was to act the part of a madman for three days.
I was given a tiny room, where I was locked in. The “boy” received detailed and sharp instructions from his master, and so I felt secure that I should not be betrayed.
Dash it all! I never thought it would be so difficult to feign madness. For three days I remained shut up in this room, raved and stamped about, sometimes dropping into a chair and staring stupidly in front of me.