"Yes."
"And you are one of the ship's officers?"
"Yes," said Dick again.
"Well, I have no orders. I advise you to go on board, and await his
Excellency's decision."
"It will be most gratifying to learn his Excellency's decision," said
Royson, "but just at this moment I must ascertain the whereabouts of
Mr. Fenshawe and Baron von Kerber."
The lieutenant spread both hands deprecatingly.
"What is one to say?" he shrugged, arching his eyebrows and pursing his
lips, "I repeat, I have no orders."
"But you have seen them?"
"Oh, yes. They are here."
"Then will you oblige me by sending in my name to Baron von Kerber, and
saying--"
"It is impossible. Go to your ship. I speak as a friend."
"I am sure you wish to help me," persisted Dick, "but I am carrying a
message of some importance--" "Ah, from whom?"
"From a lady."
"Who is she?"
"One of the ladies of our party."
"_Ahi, crudo Amor_! You have ladies on board, then?"
"Yes, Mr. Fenshawe's granddaughter, and--a friend of hers.
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