He seemed to hit me over the head with his bladder, and counsel me to play the fool like himself, for once in my life before I died.

I could almost hear him speaking.
"Surely a crazy dwarf out of a nightmare is more entertaining company than decayed Colonels of British Cavalry." I blew two or three puffs of my cigarette, and met my guest's eager gaze.
"I shall be happy to put myself at your disposal," said I."May I ask, without indiscretion-- ?" "No, no," he interrupted, "don't ask.

Secrecy is part of the gigantic combination.

_En galant homme_, I require of you--confidence." With an irresistible touch of mockery I said: "Professor Papadopoulos, I will be happy to follow you blindfold to the lair of whatever fire-breathing dragon you may want me to help you destroy." He rose and grasped his hat and made me a profound bow.
"You will not find me wanting in courage, Monsieur.

There is another small favour I would ask of you.