Immediately the door opened and two Germans followed by several Stewards came rushing into the saloon.
The Marquis bent over the fallen Herr Richter with a look of concern on his face.
“What has happened?” one of the Germans gasped, speaking in German.
“An unfortunate accident,” the Marquis replied. “Herr Richter was showing me his revolver, which is different from any I have yet seen, when it accidentally exploded, injuring his finger. And, as can you see, damaging the revolver itself.”
He pointed, as he spoke, to where it lay on the ground with a portion of Herr Richter’s finger. He was groaning and blood was pouring from his hand.
“Get him to a hospital,” the Marquis said in a commanding tone, “as soon as possible. He is losing a great deal of blood, which can be very dangerous.”
