“I’m sorry, Mr. Johnson,” said Jack, “but we can’t handle this message.”
“Can’t? Why not?” demanded the passenger indignantly.
“Because it is in code.”
“What’s that got to do with it?”
“While the war lasts we have instructions not to handle code messages or any despatches that are not expressed in English that is perfectly plain.”
“That’s preposterous,” sputtered the passenger angrily. “This is a message on a business matter I tell you.”
“If you’ll write it out in English, I’ll transmit it,” said Jack; “that’s what I’m here for.”
The man suddenly leaped forward. He thrust a hand in his pocket and pulled out a roll of bills.
“Can I speak to you confidentially?” he asked, turning his eyes on Raynor.
“Anything you’ve got to say you can say before my friend,” said Jack.