Bob hesitated for a moment. Then he reflected that there could be no possible harm in mentioning the names of the vessels in which he had served.
"In the Mikasa and Hatsuse."
"But neither of these brought you to Yongampo."
"No."
"What was the name of the vessel that did?"
Bob again hesitated. The Kasumi was engaged in secret service. It was impossible for him to know what might be the ultimate effect of betraying her identity. In so doing he would in any case associate her commander with the expedition to Yongampo. He made his decision.
"That, if you don't mind, I'd rather not say."
When this was explained to the officers they began to talk with some excitement, and one of them thumped the table. The interpreter continued:
"The general insists on knowing the name of the vessel."
"I am sorry, sir, but I can't tell you that."