Yes; and I came away with a very hopeful feeling. But, once more, everything will depend upon yourself.... First of all, though, here is the proclamation which he handed me for you to sign. I may tell you, it is already in print and will soon be posted in the town.
The Burgomaster
Show me the proclamation.
Otto
I’ll read it to you: “A dastardly attack having been committed on an officer of the German army, if the culprit is not delivered before seven o’clock this evening precisely, the Burgomaster of the town of Stilemonde, being responsible, will be publicly shot at the hour aforesaid. If any other attempt were made, the town will be looted and set on fire; and the tenth man of all the male inhabitants will be put to death.”
The Burgomaster
He wants me to sign that, does he?
Otto
You must. Besides, he has taken your consent for granted, for your signature already appears at the foot of the sheet.
The Burgomaster