I acquiesced, but continuing, I said—
"Suppose any Power comes to the assistance of the Chinese?"
"Then we shall still fight," he replied.
"Even Russia or Germany?" I asked quickly.
"Ah, that is a different matter! Russia is dangerous—she wants so much. But, unless she is too intrusive, we shall not oppose her. We do not fear her even, though she intends to rule the East some day. She shall never rule Japan. Come with me, I have the pleasure to convoy you."
"You think the Chinese will not resist you?" I continued as we proceeded to his quarters—or rather, to the house where he had temporarily taken up his lodgings by right of sword.
"No, I do not say they will not resist; I say they will not win. We have had a very simple and easy task hitherto."
"Port Arthur is almost impregnable, I hear." He smiled,—the Japanese frequently smile.
"Ah, the Chinamen will not stay. Our preparations are already being made. In less than a week we shall secure Port Arthur. You shake your head? You will see."
When we reached the house which the officer had made his own, by conquest, temporarily, he gave orders to a soldier, who I supposed was a tailor, for he came and took my measure with his eye, and walking round me made his notes in his mind. When he had departed, my kind military friend caused me to rest, sent me food, and had my clothes removed and sent me a supply of fresh water, in which I revelled. My shaven hair caused him some amusement, but he supplied me with a cap which the useful tailor had procured, and when I awoke from my sleep next morning I found a new semi-European suit awaiting me, with some underclothing.