"That is the commander's business, and not mine."
"But I must and will see him!" His Highness persisted.
"I can only say, sir, that if you succeed in getting on the deck of this steamer, it will be my duty to have you thrown overboard, or into your barge, as the case may be," answered Mr. Boulong.
Captain Ringgold had placed himself on his knees on the divan, with his head at the after window of the cabin. He realized that Noury was in earnest, and he considered it rather mean to require the first officer to fight his battle for him. He came out of the cabin, and placed himself at the side of Mr. Boulong.
"Good-evening, Captain Ringgold," said the Pacha as soon as he saw him.
"Good-evening, sir," replied the commander coldly. "If you have any business with me, I will hear it from where you are."
"I desire to go on board of the Guardian-Mother;" and Noury seemed to have an excellent memory, for he remembered all the names.
"I cannot permit you to do so. I decline to receive you on board of my ship, or anywhere else," replied the captain firmly.
"That is an insult, sir!" protested the Moor.
"It is not intended as such, but is simply the plain statement of my position in regard to you."