“Can you put us in touch with some means whereby we can secure passage on a vessel leaving for the United States?” asked Ned.
“I am afraid that is impossible for the present,” slowly replied the other, with apparent reluctance. “We like your company, you see. We also are favored with the presence of one of your countrymen,” here he indicated Mackinder, “who has consented to pay us a brief visit.”
“Pardon me, sir!” stated Mackinder, half rising. “These are not countrymen of mine! I must disclaim that honor!”
“So-o-o?” drawled the other. “Then you do not know them?”
“No!” stated Mackinder positively. “They are strangers to me!”
“Then you did not mean what you said a few moments ago?”
“I was mistaken!” replied the other, briefly.
“As you please,” responded the commander with a wave of his hand. “Perhaps I misunderstood your statements concerning them!”
An order was given to the officer who had conducted the boys to the cabin. The German language was used. Saluting the officer approached Mackinder. Without a word that gentleman rose and stepped from the room.
As Mackinder was conducted from the apartment the commander motioned the boys to seats about the table. He smiled at them kindly.