He was alone! He tore open his waistcoat, his heart was beating so rapidly, and, gasping for breath, he wiped the perspiration from his forehead.
The train drew up at another station. And suddenly the officer appeared at the carriage door and jumped in, followed close behind by the two Englishmen, who were impelled by curiosity. The German sat facing the Frenchman, and, laughing still, said:
“You did not want to do what I asked you?”
M. Dubuis replied:
“No, monsieur.”
The train had just left the station.
The officer said:
“I'll cut off your mustache to fill my pipe with.”
And he put out his hand toward the Frenchman's face.
The Englishmen stared at them, retaining their previous impassive manner.