He readily
acknowledged himself to be a newspaper writer, and admitted having
sent articles for publication through the mails. This was quite
enough; from the attitude of the military men it promised to go
hard with him. But he sprung a surprise by boldly proclaiming
himself an English citizen and warning his captors not to treat
him with the contempt or with the severity they reserved for
Americans. Curiously his words had an effect. Judgment for the
moment was suspended, and the two prisoners were led away, after
which another delay ensued.
At last O'Reilly was recalled; but when he re-entered the big room
he found General Antuna awaiting him, alone.
"Permit me to apologize for the inconvenience we have put you to,"
the comandante began.
"Then am I free?"
"You are."
"I thank you."
The general's hard eyes gleamed. "Personally I at no time put
faith in the idea that you are a powder expert," said he. "No. I
had my own suspicions and I regret to say this inquiry has not in
the least served to lessen them."
"Indeed? May I ask of what you suspect me?" Johnnie was genuinely
interested.
The general spoke with force and gravity: "Mr. O'Reilly, I believe
you to be a far greater menace to the interests of my country
than--well, than a score of dynamite experts. I believe you are a
writer.
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