I gather that your personation of this English baronet has been successfully carried through ?" "Up to the present, your Majesty." "Important though your work in Africa was," the Kaiser continued, "your present task is a far greater one.

I wish to speak to you for these few minutes without reserve.

First, though, drink a toast with me." From a mahogany stand at his elbow, the Kaiser drew out a long-necked bottle of Moselle, filled two very beautiful glasses, passed one to his companion and raised the other.
"To the Fatherland!" he said.
"To the Fatherland!" Dominey repeated.
They set down their glasses, empty.

The Kaiser threw back the grey military cloak which he was wearing, displaying a long row of medals and decorations.

His fingers still toyed with the stem of his wineglass.