So saying, the passenger saluted Fix, and returned on board the steamer.
CHAPTER VII.
Which once more shows the Futility of Passports where Policemen are concerned.
The detective quickly traversed the quay once more in the direction of the Consul's office. At his particular request he was at once ushered into the presence of the official.
"I beg your pardon," he said to the Consul abruptly, "but I have great reason to believe that my man is really on board the Mongolia." And then Mr. Fix related what had passed between him and the servant.
"Good," replied the Consul; "I should not be sorry to see the rascal's face myself; but perhaps he will not present himself here if the case stands as you believe it does. No thief likes to leave a trace behind him; and moreover, the visa to the passport is not necessary."
"If he is the sharp fellow he ought to be, he will come," replied Mr.
Fix.
"To have his passport examined?"
"Yes. Passports are no use, except to worry honest people and to facilitate the escape of rogues. I have no doubt whatever that this fellow's passport will be all right; but I hope you will not visé it all the same."
"Why not? If the passport is all regular I have no right to refuse my visa," replied the Consul.