Now, during this brief but painful business, Hunston's thoughts ran right ahead of the present dilemma.
He endeavoured to realise some of the possible consequences of it.
The arrest was, he felt assured, illegal.
What then?
What could result from such a proceeding?
Would they detain him?
Could they?—that was the question.
The British ambassador might be influenced by people of the rank and position of the Harkaways.
This granted, it was easy enough for his excellency to waive legal forms and ceremonies there, and get Hunston transferred to the safe keeping of the English authorities.
At this point Hunston could not repress a shudder.