“By a bribe? I don’t think Kenwardine is rich,” Dick objected.
“Then it is curious that he is able to spend so much at Adexe.”
Dick frowned, for he saw what the other implied. If Kenwardine had to be supplied with money, where did it come from? It was not his business to defend the man and he must do what he could to protect British shipping, but Kenwardine was Clare’s father, and he was not going to expose him until he was sure of his guilt.
“But if he was plotting anything that would get your President into trouble, he must have known he would be found out.”
“Certainly. But suppose he imagined he might not be found out until he had done what he came to do? It would not matter then.”
Dick said nothing. He knew he was no match for the Spaniard in subtlety, but he would not be forced into helping him. He set his lips, and Don Sebastian watched him with amusement.
“Well,” said the latter, “you have my sympathy. The señorita’s eyes are bright.”
“I cannot have Miss Kenwardine mentioned,” Dick rejoined. “She has nothing to do with the matter.”
“That is agreed,” Don Sebastian answered, and leaned forward as he added in a meaning tone: “You are English and your life has been threatened by men who plot against your country. I might urge that they may try again and I could protect you; but you must see what their thinking you dangerous means. Now I want your help.”
Dick’s face was very resolute as he looked at him. “If any harm comes to the liner, I’ll do all I can. But I’ll do nothing until I know. In the meantime, can you warn the captain?”