"It is a solid vessel, and can carry soldiers?" he asked quickly, after some other remarks had passed. The Chinaman dispensed with any compliments just then; he offered us tea, but did not taste it then.
"Yes," replied the captain with deference, "she will suit for a transport. The Japanese wish for her."
The spectacles flashed at us, the fan waved, but no irritation was otherwise expressed.
"Has the Japan Government purchased the 'inside' steamer?" (screw).
"No, highness; I declined the offer. I am awaiting yours."
"Your terms for the steamship for three months, if we wish to send it with your crew to Corea?"
The captain paused a while, then he named a sum which made me look out of the window, I nearly smiled. I did not know the value of steam transports fitted for service; it meant hundreds a day! Hundreds for that small steamer and crew—and, of course, officers.
At length the transaction was completed. The tea was drunk then, not before. We bowed ourselves out, and regained the Fêng Shui, where the mate was in charge.
"Well," said the first officer, "what's happened?"
The captain told him our experiences, and mentioned the conclusions at which he had arrived.