"It is, of course, quite impossible for us to permit Russian officials or soldiers to make an arrest on our side of the line!" "A matter of courtesy--" began Suvaroff.
"Pardon again," said the German, very softly.

"Just at this moment courtesy must be suspended.

With a general mobilization in effect upon both sides--" Suvaroff suppressed the angry exclamation that was on his lips.

For a moment, however, he seemed about to repeat his order, though his men had halted at the sight of German bayonets.
"I should regret a disturbance," said the German, still speaking in his quiet voice.

"My orders are to permit my men to do nothing that might bring on a clash, for just now the firing of a single shot would make war certain.