As for the Chinese soldiers on the ramparts, none of them displayed curiosity, nor had they shown any intention of attacking the Americans. It looked as though these yellow fighting men of the governor’s did not regard it as being in any way their fight. Several of them were smoking pipes that gave off villainous odors.
Leaving a petty officer in charge, with general instructions, Dave went over to Dan’s side of the compound.
“Your husband is showing magnificent courage,” remarked Bishop Whitlock to Mrs. Darrin.
“My husband has been trained in the greatest fighting school in the world,” Belle answered, “and I am certain that he is conducting himself according to the best traditions of his training and service.”
A sailor came nimbly down with a message from Dave to the marines to open some of the food supplies and to start the preparation of a meal. In case the ladies were ready to eat, the marines were instructed to serve them first.
“How long since you Navy men have eaten?” Belle asked the sailor.
“Supper-time, last night, ma’am,” replied the sailor, grinning.
“Then we women cannot think of eating until you men are taken care of,” Belle replied, with emphasis.
“Not one of our men would eat until the ladies have eaten, ma’am,” replied the sailor respectfully. “Ask that sea-going soldier there.”
“When there are ladies with our parties, ma’am, they always have to be looked after first, ma’am,” said the marine, straightening up.