CHAPTER XII
HAMMERSLEY EXPLAINS
AT the sight of the tall figure of von Stromberg, Hammersley halted for the fraction of a second and then came forward into the room. He still wore his leather jacket and cap, but the wind burn on his cheeks gave his eyes, which had been protected by goggles, a singular grayness. He had had no sleep and his face was drawn in haggard lines, but his greeting showed no signs of uneasiness.
“Had I known you were awaiting me, Excellenz, I should perhaps have made quicker repairs.”
“It does not matter that you are late,” said von Stromberg quickly. “The thing of main importance is that you are here.” The General turned and made a motion to the door of the room. “I wish to be alone with Herr Hammersley. Herr Hauptmann von Winden, you are relieved from duty for the night. Herr Hauptmann Wentz, you will remain within call.”
The two officers saluted and retired and the General motioned Hammersley to approach.
“You have it?” he asked briefly.
“Yes, Excellenz. Here.”
He produced from an inner pocket a small package wrapped in oiled paper and handed it to von Stromberg.
“Ah!” He went quickly over to the table and tearing off the wrapper of the bundle opened the packet of Riz-la-Croix and found the hidden message which he
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