"Why don't you sign?" asked the German.
"One minute," said Dick. "The writing is in Turkish characters."
"That is quite evident," remarked the Major suavely; "but that does not alter the text of the communication."
"You ought to know that all correspondence between belligerents is in French, Herr Major," said the Sub. "Under the circumstances I decline to have any truck with it."
"Truck?" asked the German in a puzzled tone. "What does that mean?"
"That I won't sign."
"Then there are other English officers who would be only too pleased to do so," suggested the Major tentatively.
"It's my opinion you're trying another of your dirty tricks," continued Dick. "No, don't get excited," he added, as the German's hand flew to his sword-hilt. "That proves what I say. I think we may as well come to an understanding."
The German backed and said a few words to his companion. It was enough to confirm Dick's suspicions, for the subaltern also laid his hand upon his sword.
With a well-directed blow the Sub planted his clenched fist squarely upon the point of the Major's chin. With hardly a sound he fell senseless upon the pile of straw.