Then give us daily as much of your time as we require."

He called in one of his secretaries, gave him command briefly and in a
few minutes the man was back with an order for three hundred marks.

"This, Doctor, is your first month's living expenses. Retaining fees
are paid quarterly."

As I pocketed the check I remarked:

"Captain, personally we are total strangers. How is it that you seem
so satisfied with me?"

Again his peculiar smile was noticeable.

"That is outside our usual business procedure," he said. "I have my
instructions from above and I simply act on them."

I was young then, and curious so I asked:

"Who are those above and what are their instructions?"

No sooner had I put that question than I learned my first lesson in
the Secret Service. All traces of genial friendliness vanished from
von Tappken's face. It was stern and serious.

"My boy," he said slowly, "learn this from the start and learn it
well. Do not ask questions. Do not talk. Think! You will soon
learn that there are many unwritten laws attached to this Service."