He made harsh allusions to suspicious characters and spies, and called to his guard to stand to their arms.

Instantly five youths in blue caps rushed out of the house, ranged themselves in order, and were commanded to hold their guns in readiness.

Involuntarily Anton sprang between them and his principal.
Meanwhile the man of the giant sword, on seeing that the merchant still stood quietly by the post round which he had fastened the reins, changed his murderous intent, contenting himself with assuring him that he considered him a very dangerous character, and was much inclined to shoot him as a traitor.
The merchant shrugged his shoulders, and said, with calm politeness, "You are entirely mistaken as to the object of our journey.

You can not seriously believe us to be spies, for we have just been brought to you by one of your own people, in order that we might obtain from your kindness a convoy to the capital.

I must once more request you not to detain us, as our business with the government is of a pressing nature, and I shall be obliged to make you responsible for all unnecessary delay." This address led to another volley of oaths on the part of the man in authority, who snorted violent defiance against the travelers, drank off a large glass of brandy, and finally came to a decision.