"A cablegram from Pernambuco states specifically that the captain and crew of the Andromeda fought their way across the island of Fernando Noronha, rescued Dom De Sylva, seized a steam launch, attacked and captured the German steamship Unser Fritz, and landed the insurgent leader at Maceio. The message goes on to say that the captain's name is Coke, and that he is accompanied by his daughter.… Eh? What did you say?… Are you there?"
"Yes, I'm 'ere, or I think I am," said David with a desperate calmness. "Is that all?"
"All for the present."
"It doesn't say that Coke is a ravin', tearin', 'owlin' lunatic, does it?"
"No. Is that your view?"
Bulmer's hand gripped David's wrist. Their eyes met.
"I was thinkin' that the chap who writes these penny novelette wires might 'ave rounded up his yarn in good shape," said Verity aloud.
"But there is not the slightest doubt that something of the kind has occurred," said the voice.
"It's a put-up job!" roared David. "Them bloomin' Portygees 'ave sunk my ship, an' they're whackin' in their flam now so as to score first blow. A year-old baby 'ud see that if 'is father was a lawyer."
The sub-editor laughed.