"Now, Mr. Beacraft," I said, "whoever lodges above must come down; and it would be pleasanter for everybody if you carried the invitation."
"Do you propose to violate the privacy of my house?" he asked.
"I certainly do."
"Where is your warrant of authority?" he inquired, fixing his penetrating eyes on mine.
"I have my authority from the General commanding this department. My instructions are verbal--my warrant is military necessity. I fear that this explanation must satisfy you."
"It does not," he said, doggedly.
"That is unfortunate," I observed. "I will give you one more chance to answer my question. What person or persons are on the floor above?"
"Captain Butler was there; he departed yesterday with his mother and sister," replied Beacraft, maliciously.
"Is that all?"
"Miss Brant is there," he muttered.