“There was a challenge, yes,” admitted Dave. “I declined on the ground that our regulations forbid dueling.”
“Of course you couldn’t fight,” responded the lieutenant commander. “But hadn’t you better go back to the ship and remain there as long as she lies in Yokohama?”
“And give up my vacation with Belle?”
“Don’t you realize what it means in some countries to decline a duel, Darrin? You’ll be an outcast in Tokio. For Mrs. Darrin’s sake, don’t remain ashore and let her be tormented by the studied coldness that will be shown you everywhere in Tokio.”
“They may think me a coward for not fighting, but I can’t be coward enough to run from the consequences, though I dislike to involve Belle in this.”
“Here comes Decoeur of the French Navy,” said Lieutenant Commander Emery suddenly. “I want to shake hands with him.”
Decoeur, looking slightly embarrassed, shook hands very cordially with Emery, who then rather abruptly introduced his brother officers, Mr. Darrin and Mr. Dalzell.
The French officer gave the ensigns only the shadow of a bow. His hand did not come forward. Then he passed stiffly on.
“You see,” said Emery. “You understand what the attitude in Tokio will be. Are you going to subject Mrs. Darrin to such humiliations?”
“I don’t see how I can avoid it,” replied Dave, sick at heart on Belle’s account.