“And then—when and where did you meet Herr Radwig?”
Everything must have its end. At last Jack had modestly related every episode with which the reader has been made acquainted. The even tone of his questioner, his piercing eyes, and the unbroken silence was beginning to weary Jack. He felt that he could hardly keep his wits about him.
Evidently the German officer noticed these signs and was patiently waiting for them. He leaned forward, and the steady monotone now gave place to a rasping, menacing gruffness.
“Who are you?” he suddenly snapped.
“An American,” came the tired reply.
“An American!” jeered the officer.
“Yes, and I’m proud of it!”
“Why should you be proud of something you could not help?”
“I don’t understand you,” replied Jack, passing his hand over his brow as if to clear away the ever increasing drowsiness.
“You don’t understand me?”