Uncle John stepped forward to open it, when in stalked a group of German officers, their swords and spurs clanking and their cloaks glistening with rain-drops.

At sight of the young girl off came cap and helmet and with one accord they bowed low.
The leader was a tall, thin man with a leathern face, hooked nose and piercing gray eyes.

His breast glittered with orders.

It was von Kargenbrut, the military governor.
"Pardon our intrusion," he said in English, his harsh voice having a guttural accent.

"Which gentleman is Mr.John Merrick ?" "I am John Merrick." The eagle eyes swept over him with a swift glance.
"We owe you our apology," continued the governor, speaking as fiercely as if he were ordering Uncle John beheaded.