"Thought the blighter couldn't resist the temptation to try and pull my leg," he soliloquized, as he glanced into a mirror to assure himself that his appearance was fitting as captain of a British yacht.
"Boat from the Zug, sir," reported Merridew.
Harborough went on deck to receive his uninvited guests.
The Zug's gig was already alongside, manned by four hands in white-canvas suits. In the stern sheets sat von Giespert and Captain Strauss.
Von Giespert raised his cap as he came over the side. Harborough punctiliously returned the salute, but feigned to overlook the proffered hand.
"Sir Hugh Harborough, I presume," said the German.
"Mr. Borgen," rejoined Harborough.
The Hun shrugged his shoulders.
"Perhaps it would be better if I introduced myself as Herr Kaspar von Giespert," he said.
Harborough showed no surprise at the announcement.