“Proceed, sir,” he said.
“All right. Now, in the first place, are you connected, in any capacity, with the German government?”
“That I cannot answer,” was the reply.
“Very good! Now, then, are you aboard this ship at the command of the German government?”
“I cannot answer that question, either, sir.”
“Suit yourself. Is it not a fact that those with whom you come in contact—those who seem to be your friends—are in danger because of their associations with you?”
“I suppose you are right, sir.”
“Just as I expected,” declared Mr. Willing. “Now I’ve got this to say. Already you have been the means of getting my daughter and the colonel’s daughter into your scrapes. They have come to your assistance twice. Also Dick has been with you on one adventure. You will admit that, of course?”
“Of course, sir.”
“Good. Then here is my ultimatum: I want you to keep away from me and mine. I don’t want you to cross this threshold again; and I don’t want you to speak to any of us should you chance to encounter us. Do I make myself plain?”