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 it to him. As he read it Zoiloff pushed forward and entered into conversation with the men. There were only five of them, making six with the officer, as Zoiloff had said, and they were on foot. I saw him push his horse between the two at the end of the short line, and then as he chatted he coolly turned his horse broadside on the road, thus making a big gap. It was cleverly done, and he sat there saying something which made the men laugh.

"This mentions no name, sir," said the officer, looking up from the paper. "May I inquire your name?"

"Certainly. I am the Hon. Gerald Winthrop, an Englishman." The reply perplexed him.

"An Englishman? And on special service for General Kolfort? I don't wish to appear impertinent, but have you another name?"

"I am also a Roumanian Count—Count Benderoff."

"Ah!" His tone told me at once that he had had some instructions about me, and I began to prepare for emergencies. "I am placed in an awkward position, Count, but I'm afraid I cannot allow you to pass."

"My business is very urgent, lieutenant."

"The delay will probably be only a brief one. I am expecting a messenger from General Kolfort, and I thought you were probably from him. No doubt the moment he arrives you will be at liberty to proceed. But you'll understand my position."

"The consequences of stopping me may be serious."

"So may be those of allowing you to pass, Count. But in any case I have no alternative."

"But I have ridden straight from General Kolfort himself, who handed me the permit personally."