"Good-morning, Mason," Browne said, as he shook hands. "I am glad that you were able to come up at once, for I want to consult you on most important business. Sit down, and let us get to work. You were not long in getting under way."
"I started directly I received your message, sir," the man replied. "Perhaps you would not mind telling me what it is I have to do."
"I'll very soon do that," Browne replied; "and, if I know anything of you, you will be glad to hear my needs. I want to see you with regard to a cruise in Eastern waters. I am tired of the English winter, and, as you are aware, I have never yet visited Japan, I've suddenly made up my mind to go out there. How soon do you think you could be ready to start?"
"For Japan, sir?" the captain replied. "Well, that's a goodish step. Might I ask, sir, how long you can give me? Are you in a very great hurry?"
"A very great hurry indeed," Browne said. "I want to get away at the shortest possible notice; in fact, the sooner you can get away, the better I shall be pleased. I know you will do all you can."
"You may be very sure of that, sir," said the captain. "If it is really necessary, I fancy I could be ready—well, shall we say?—on Monday next. Would that suit you, sir?"
"It would do admirably," said Browne. "I may count, then, on being able to sail on that day?"
"Certainly, sir," said the captain. "I will catch the next train back, and get to work without loss of time. Your own steward, I suppose, will accompany you?"
"Yes," said Browne, for he was convinced that the man was one in whose honesty and courage he could place implicit reliance, which was just what would be wanted on such a voyage.
"And how many guests will you be likely to have, sir?" inquired the captain. "I suppose you will fill all the cabins as usual?"