That same evening (or the next) Bertram got out of the train at
Kartoffelnberg, hired a tandem and drove to the German lines. He went
straight to the General. "I shall be obliged if you will kindly tell me
the number and disposition of your forces, and how and when you propose
to advance."
He spoke in English, but the General--formerly Military Attaché at
Appenrodt's--happily understood him.
"Certainly," he replied. "Perhaps you would care to examine this map and
plan of campaign?"
Bertram thanked him, and commenced to trace them upon his spare vest.
"Don't bother to do that," said the General. "Take this set of
duplicates. The disposition of our forces is clearly marked in red ink,
and their numerical strength certified by a chartered accountant. The
only detail omitted is the number of women and children that will be
placed in the firing-line. Today's bag has not yet been reported."
An aide-de-camp galloped into the tent, flung himself from his exhausted
mule and saluted.
"In the name of our noble and august KAISER," he began, "I have the
honour to inform you that we have to-day captured 47 charwomen, 16
bedridden octogenarians and 21 babies in arms."
"_Zwanzigheit!_" exclaimed the General excitedly. "Place them in the
forefront of our brave Bogey Head Hussars, and order the advance for ten
o'clock to-morrow morning."
The aide-de-camp saluted, flung himself on to a fresh mule and galloped
hell for leather to the canteen.
"I am much obliged for the information you have given me," said Bertram
politely. "It is of paramount importance."
"You're quite welcome," remarked the General. "By-the-by, what do you
want it for?"
Our hero rapidly shaved off Wigson's moustache and drew himself up
proudly. "I am a spy," he said.
"I suspected as much," commented the General. "Kindly touch that bell on
the mantelpiece behind you."
Bertram touched it; it was as cold as ice.
"See if it will ring," suggested the General.
Bertram seized it by the handle and shook it violently. In a moment or
two it rang. A sentry entered.
"_Einzweidreivierfünf_," said the General, "and riddle him with bullets
at eight to-morrow morning."