Page:The Jail, Experiences in 1916.pdf/32

 "I will lend you a few volumes of the paper it issued, but you will return them to me."

"Certainly, and with thanks."

I found two volumes for him.

"Mr. Kolbe, look, here is a poem Franz II; tell me what it's about", remarked the taciturn person turning to the agent.

It was a poem which had once been published in the paper called "Neruda".

"There is nothing in it. Very nice patriotic verses. About how the soldiers fight for the Emperor?" remarked Mr. Kolbe.

The taciturn person scratched his head; "Why should Mr. M. write patriotic verses? and about Franz II?"

"Lieutenant", I said shaking my finger at him, "I must point out that by your last question—"

The taciturn person reddened angrily.

"The Lord knows that my back is already aching", said the Captain coming to his assistance.

It had grown dark. The chauffeur came up to say that there was no lamp on the car and that they must go. I pulled out a number of new bundles.

"That's enough, gentlemen", announced Dr. Preminger, "we will go. What do you want to take?" he said turning to the taciturn person.

"This", he pointed to it, "and this and this." There were about eight bundles.

"There will be no room in the car, there are four of us" explained Preminger.

"Are you taking me with you?" I asked,—I had completely forgotten the volunteer officer in the next room.