‘One would,’ I acquiesced, smiling, ‘of course, be particularly careful not to call it banishment.’
Something like a smile greeted this speech, but the Ambassador shrugged his shoulders.
‘Consider,’ said he, ‘the scenes of disorder and bloodshed!’
‘When I consider,’ I rejoined, ‘the scenes of disorder and bloodshed which passed before my eyes, when I consider the anarchy, the murder, the terrible dangers to which I, who went to Neopalia under the sanction and protection of your flag, was exposed, I perceive that the whole affair is nothing less than a European scandal.’
The Ambassador shifted in his armchair.
‘I shall, of course,’ said I, ‘prefer a claim to compensation.’
‘To compensation?’
‘Certainly. My island has been taken from me, and I have lost my money. Moreover your Governor tried to kill me.’
‘So did your wife,’ remarked the Pasha. ‘At least the lady who, as I understand, is to be your wife.’
‘I can forgive my wife. I do not propose to forgive your Government.’