"No; it is for me to offer you an apology," interrupted the premier quickly. Then, with many expressions of good will on both sides, the consul took his leave. Half an hour later Mr. Hamlin was received by the Prefect of Police with great ceremony.
"You are here," began the police official, "in behalf of the two young men whom we have in our charge——"
"Accused of the attempted robbery of two women last evening. I am, monsieur."
"And I am most happy to say that later investigations have made it easy for me to grant your request that they be liberated. I am now well satisfied that they are not guilty of the attempted robbery."
"Naturally not."
"But of the assault on my officers there can be no doubt. They——"
"That was surely a mistake on their part, Monsieur le Prefect."
"Yes, yes; no doubt——"
"I am too glad to hear you say that, Monsieur le Prefect. These young men, I am informed by the commanding officer of their ship, are above reproach. A grave mistake has been made."
The prefect bowed humbly.