“Well,” replied Captain Anderson dryly, “your little piracy scheme didn’t work, you see.”
The German officer controlled his temper with an effort.
“Have you a passenger by the name of Bristow aboard?”
“Oh,” said the captain, “you mean Von Blusen. We did have him aboard, in irons. I released him on parole, and he broke it. I’ll never trust another German.”
The German officer drew himself up angrily.
“Have a care, sir!” he exclaimed. “You seem to forget that I can sink you on a moment’s notice.”
“Oh, no I don’t. But I’m sure you won’t. Already you have troubles enough. I’ll thank you to dispose of your business immediately and then get off my ship.”
“I’ll have a look at your papers,” said the German shortly.
Captain Anderson led the way to his cabin.
As they talked, the passengers on deck noticed smoke upon the horizon. Save for this little blur and the German cruiser there was nothing else in sight but water.