"A truce to this exchange of puerile speeches; will you answer my question, yes or no?"
"Which question?"
"The one I asked you about the General."
"Suppose I refuse?"
"I shall know how to compel you."
"That is haughty language, Colonel."
"Which I shall support by deeds."
"I do not think so: not that I doubt your courage, Heaven forbid, for I have long known it."
"Well! What will prevent me?"
"You have not the means to carry out your wishes."