Though the yacht-owner was
white with anger, he was manifestly pleased at finding Royson there.
"Ah," he said, extending his hand, "I am glad to see you. Does Miss
Fenshawe know of this outrage?"
"No, sir. I think not. Indeed, I am almost positive she has not heard
of it."
"Then why are you here?"
"Mrs. Haxton sent me with a message to Baron von Kerber."
"Mrs. Haxton probably guessed what would happen. Some scoundrel named
Alfieri, who has tried more than once to steal my poor friend's secret,
has gained the ear of the Italian foreign minister. Trumped-up
allegations have led to cabled orders for von Kerber's arrest, and
these wretched organ-grinders in uniform would have lodged every one of
us in prison if they dared. Unhappily, the Baron is an Austrian
subject, and there will be considerable delay before I can secure his
freedom. We must make for Aden at once. I will not trust the cable from
Massowah. By Jove, I have been a supporter of peace all my life, Mr.
Royson, but it is a lucky thing for this thieves' den that I have not
an armed ship now at my disposal, or I would blow their fort out of its
foundations.
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