The general, indeed, smiled grimly and told them in English that he was in no way responsible, whatever happened.

This was Colonel Grau's affair, but he believed, nevertheless, that the colonel was acting wisely.
The young officer, who had stood like a statue during the entire interview, was ordered to accompany the Americans to a hotel, where they must be kept under surveillance but might follow, to an extent, their own devices.

They were not to mail letters nor send telegrams.
The officer asked who should guard the suspects.
"Why not yourself, Lieutenant?
You are on detached duty, I believe ?" "At the port, Colonel." "There are too many officers at the port; it is a sinecure.

I will appoint you to guard the Americans.

You speak their language, I believe ?" The young man bowed.
"Very well; I shall hold you responsible for their safety." They were then dismissed and compelled to follow their guard from the room.
Patsy was now wild with rage and Uncle John speechless.