For the name of von Eckenhardt, the master-spy, was only too well known in naval circles. It was generally acknowledged that more than one carefully-planned "scoop" had gone awry owing to warnings received by the German Admiralty from the elusive secret agent.
"Are you Major Karl von Eckenhardt?" demanded Gilroy, after the officers had set the man upon his feet again.
"Absolutely a mistake. I did not know until a few moments ago that I had a double whose misdoings would be to my detriment," replied the McNab, speaking with difficulty, for the effect of the blow he had received had wellnigh deprived him of breath.
Gilroy and his companions looked enquiringly at Aubyn. Perhaps, after all, the sub. had made a mistake?
"Under the circumstances, although Mr. Aubyn has shown mistaken zeal for the Service," continued the McNab, "I am willing to forgive the outrage, and no doubt Mr. Aubyn will tender an apology. There the matter will end as far as I am concerned. If you'll excuse me, gentlemen, I will go and remove the traces of your zealous friend's super-abundant energy."
Alarmed by the crash upon the floor three menservants had hurried into the room. There they stood like automatons, each man concealing under a wooden-like expression a burning curiosity to know what had happened to their master.
"Don't let him go: watch his hands!" exclaimed Terence. "I'll accept all responsibility."
The McNab's plausibility vanished.
"Enough of this horse-play," he said vehemently. "James and you two—throw this—er—gentleman out."
"Stand back—stand back, I say!" ordered Terence, as the three flunkeys showed signs of obeying their master.