“I will see that the matter is investigated,” said Officer Tunley.
“Of course—but when? Why, in a week’s time, when everyone will have easily forgotten—no, sir, come at once.”
“I will do so; but allow me to suggest, Mr. Lawrence, that it may have been the extra bottle of Bass’ ale——”
“Do you dare, officer, to insinuate——”
“Nothing, save that Welsh rarebit, highly seasoned, and three bottles of strong ale, are likely to disturb the vision.”
“I’ll report you, sir—mark me, I’ll report you. Come, now, to my room, and if there is not a nigger baby there I’ll eat my hat.”
“Very well, sir, I will come with you.”
By the time the stateroom was reached, Jocko had fled the room, and Max had stripped the cap from its head.
The monkey sat on the table in the saloon, grinning, as if it enjoyed the joke.
The officer and Mr. Lawrence entered the stateroom.