Receiving the documents in question, the German commander looked them over carefully. Without comment, he handed them to a younger officer, who left the room with them, but soon returned.
"Take these people away," ordered the ober-lieutenant. "And see that you obey all orders without question," he added, to Kennor and the English couple.
When they had been left alone the ober-lieutenant rose to his feet, holding out his hand to Darrin though a bit stiffly.
"We are brothers in arms, it seems, though just now we are enemies," said the German.
"We are enemies, yes," Dave admitted, ignoring the outstretched hand. At this the German flushed, allowing his proffered hand to fall.
"You shall have all permissible courtesy while you are my prisoner, and I trust you will show the same," said the ober-lieutenant.
"I bespeak no courtesy, sir," Dave replied coolly, though without direct affront. "I quite understand that I am a prisoner of war, and, as I cannot help the fact, I will not resent it. You are going to confine me, I take it?"
"No," said the ober-lieutenant, again seating himself and picking up his pen. "You will be given quarters, and allowed some freedom as long as you do not forfeit it. You may even eat at table with us."
"Thank you," said Darrin, bowing stiffly.
"I have not yet entered your name. Be good enough to supply me with it."