The common people of Germany might be eating poorly and tightening their belts, but Herr Domber’s table gave no hint of lack of supplies. There was real coffee, strong and black, fruit, fish, fresh vegetables and a roast squab for each diner. Stan put aside all unpleasant thoughts and ate heartily.
While they ate, Herr Domber kept up a steady conversation. He talked about fighter planes. Stan was surprised at the things Domber revealed in a casual way. He gave a very good description of the new secret rocket which was doing so much damage to the Forts and Libs, even telling Stan how it was handled. Once in a while he would ask a question. Each time Stan matched wits against the traitor to keep from telling him anything important.
After a while Stan was convinced Domber was so sure he would never live to repeat what he had heard that he felt no need to be careful about what he told the Yank.
“I have had many guests, Dutch, Norwegian, British and now an American.” Domber beamed. “I have enjoyed each of them, and I am sure they never complained of my hospitality.”
Back of the genial manner Stan felt the cold threat of death lurking in the way the traitor looked at him. Domber was very sure of himself and of his power. Stan resolved that he was going to be one guest who fooled the Dutch Quisling.
After dinner Domber showed Stan his collection of war trophies and his laboratory and workshop. The laboratory was far more elaborate than the workshop. Stan was fascinated by the plants and animals Domber kept there. Domber laughed softly.
“I experiment much,” he said. Then he added, “I have done much with poison gas as well as with rare drugs.”
“You plan to use poison gas?” Stan asked.
“If our plans work out well, yes,” Domber said frankly. “If Minter’s work is well done and we are able to smash a large part of the British and American air power, we will launch gas attacks upon the principal English cities and later make an invasion.” He smiled slightly.
“You have the planes?” Stan asked.