"Disappointed ambition did that."
"Disappointed ambition? Señora, we gave him no assurance of office under our regime."
"No, but he cherished the desire, and importuned you this morning to confirm it."
"Well, he received his answer." The Captain's back stiffened.
"Yes, Captain Farquharson, and he gave us his. The soldier of other days awoke."
"I should say he did! I wish his popguns had shaken into Fairbanks some of that same spirit."
The señora rose to go. "A message will bring me, Captain, when you get in touch with the Admiral."
"I am expecting each moment to hear from him. At least he can use his guns to fire signals."
Both Farquharson and Twickenham attended the lady to the street.
The holiday appearance was gone from the capital. Many of the residents had taken themselves and their families out of the possible-danger zone. The others remained well within the shadow of their own rooftrees.