Finally they returned to the after-deck to review the convalescents who were lounging there in their cushioned deck-chairs.
"Where is the German, Lieutenant Elbl ?" inquired the general, looking around with sudden suspicion.
"In the captain's room," replied Beth.

"Would you like to see him ?" "If you please." The group moved forward to the room occupied by Captain Carg.

The door and windows stood open and reclining upon a couch inside was the maimed German, with Carg sitting beside him.

Both were solemnly smoking their pipes.
The captain rose as the general entered, while Elbl gave his visitor a military salute.
"So you are better ?" asked the Frenchman.
Beth repeated this in English to Carg, who repeated it in German to Elbl.

Yes, the wounded man was doing very well.
"Will you keep him here much longer ?" was the next question, directed to Mr.Merrick.
"I think so," was the reply.