“Why this unseemly disturbance before the official residence of the governor?” demanded Sin Foo.
“I must see the governor immediately,” Dave replied.
“It will be impossible to see his excellency, except upon appointment,” replied the secretary. “His excellency’s presence is sacred, and is not to be invaded at will by a hasty caller with sword in hand. If you will wait here, I will ascertain if his excellency will be pleased to see you in an hour.”
“If he keeps me waiting two minutes,” Ensign Dave retorted, “I shall search this building for him.”
“At your first step inside,” Sin Foo proclaimed, “these soldiers will fire upon you. That will be the signal for all our troops to fire on your men, who are no better than unlawful invaders.”
“Ensign Dalzell!” shouted Dave, over his shoulder.
“Aye, aye, sir.”
“Rush six men here, with the machine gun from the river side of the wall!”
“Very good, sir!” came in Dan’s delighted voice.
No sooner did he comprehend than Sin Foo uttered something in Chinese. Through the squad of soldiers darted half a dozen yellow servants who instantly sought to close the door.