"That order was given months ago. But it shall be repeated, and you can trust me, it shall be obeyed."
The two men went to the door of the villa, and stood outside in the garden. It seemed the interview was over, and the agreement made. But indeed the interview as Hillyard had planned it had hardly begun. He had a series of promises which might be kept or broken, and the keeping or breaking of them could not be checked. José Medina was very likely to be holding the common belief along that coast that Germany would surely win the war. He was in the perfect position to keep in with both sides were he so minded. It was not to content himself with general promises that Hillyard had brought the Dragonfly to Palma.
He turned suddenly towards José Medina with a broad laugh, and clapped him heartily upon the back.
"So you do not remember me, Señor José?"
Medina was puzzled. He took a step nearer to Hillyard. Then he shook his head, and apologised with a smile.
"I am to blame, señor. As a rule, my memory is not at fault. But on this occasion—yes."
Through the apology ran a wariness, some fear of a trick, some hint of an incredulity.
"Yet we have met."
"Señor, it must be so."
"Do you remember, Señor José, your first venture?" asked Hillyard.