"What warship do you come from?" demanded Captain Ponsberry, feeling that he had an equal right to ask questions.
"The auxiliary cruiser, Pocastra, of the Russian navy," answered the naval officer, politely.
"And where are you bound?" went on Captain Ponsberry, bluntly.
"That, sir, is a question only our commander, Captain Titorsky, can answer."
"It's queer you are steaming around in Japanese waters."
"Perhaps so." The Russian naval officer smiled in a knowing way. "Captain Ponsberry, I am sorry, but I think I shall have to inspect your papers."
Captain Ponsberry drew himself up, resolved to put on as bold a front as possible.
"This is an American ship, sir."
"Granted, but I have my orders," returned the naval officer, coldly.
"If I refuse to let you inspect the papers?"