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166 "Then let me tell you that I am an American citizen. These are my own private goods, and I place myself under your protection."

Gilbert was startled, and naturally; for he immediately felt the delicacy of his position. Yet it was not in him to shirk his duty; and, facing the three Russians, he ordered them to drop the box they had picked up.

At once all three began to talk at a rapid rate, every word being utterly unintelligible to the young lieutenant. All he could do was to point to the box with his sword and then point to the floor. But the Russians either did not or would not understand, and they started for the door with their burden.

But Gilbert was not to be circumvented; and, rushing to the doorway, he placed himself in the very centre of it, holding his sword straight in front of him.

"Can you speak Russian?" he asked of the elderly man.

"Just a little."

"Then tell them that you have placed the goods in care of the American soldiers."

As well as he was able, the elderly man did as