As a matter of fact, when Tom came to think it over, he did not want to protest.  His captors could have taken no course that would have suited him better.  At first his heart had sunk, for he realized that the officer's purpose was to sign his death warrant.  The chances of being killed by the American shells was very great.  And then the significant word of the lieutenant that it didn't matter what happened to him, was a hint to the guards that they could murder him if they liked, and there would be no questions asked.