At any other time, when he was less weary, Fred would have noticed that.

He would have wondered at it, at least; he might even have guessed its meaning.

But now he only asked, quite idly: "Who is in command of the troops here ?" "You will soon know," said the Russian, repeating his chuckle.
Fred did, indeed, soon get the answer to his question.

They rode up to a small farmhouse, ablaze with light, late as it was.

The place was well guarded.