Blacklock's eye blazed dangerously.
"Mr Belke," he said, "Captain Phipps and I have pleaded very strongly that, in spite of your exceedingly ambiguous position, and the fact that you have not always been wearing uniform, you should not suffer the fate of a spy. But if you make any more remarks like your last, I warn you we shall withdraw this plea."
For the first time Eileen spoke.
"Please do not think it matters to me, Captain Blacklock——" she began.
In a whisper Phipps interrupted her.
"Eye-wash!" he said. "It's the only way to treat a Hun—show him the stick!"
The hint had certainly produced its effect. Von Belke shrugged his shoulders, and merely remarked—
"I am your prisoner. I say nothing more."
"That's distinctly wiser," said Captain Phipps, with a formidable scowl at the captive and a wink at Miss Holland.
For a few moments von Belke kept his word, and sat doggedly silent. Then suddenly he exclaimed—