He had vaguely heard that afternoon of a condemnation for spying, but he did not know that it had anything to do with the case of Miss Cavell, and in any event it was impossible that they would put a woman to death that night.
"Who has given you this information? Because, to come and disturb me at such an hour you must have actual information," he said.
De Leval replied: "Without doubt I consider it so, but I must refuse to tell you from whom I received the information. Besides, what difference does it make? If the information is true, our presence at this hour is justified; if it is not true, I am ready to take the consequences of my mistake."
The Baron grew irritated.
"What," he said, "is it on the hint of mere rumor that you come and disturb me at such an hour, me and these gentlemen? No, no, gentlemen, this news can not be true. Orders are never executed with such precipitation, especially when a woman is concerned. Come and see me to-morrow. Besides, how do you think that at this hour I can obtain any information? The Governor-General must certainly be sleeping."
Gibson, or one of them, suggested to him that a very simple way of finding out would be to telephone to the prison.
"Quite right," said he. "I had not thought of that."
He went out, was gone a few minutes and came back embarrassed, so they said, even a little bit ashamed, for he said:
The sad news confirmed.
"You are right, gentlemen; I have heard by telephone that Miss Cavell has been condemned and that she will be shot to-night."