“I should like to inquire what all this means,” I added, as the officer, finding I did not attempt to annihilate him, let go his hold of me.
“I don’t know; the warrant comes up from Middleport. I suppose it is all right.”
“Don’t stop here with him,” interposed Major Toppleton. “Take him away to jail, or some other safe place.”
By this time Colonel Wimpleton was at my side with Waddie, both of them so indignant that I was afraid that a scene would transpire on the spot. My powerful patron desired to see the warrant, and the constable, to the great disgust of the major, exhibited the document.
“All right,” said Colonel Wimpleton. “This warrant commands you to bring your prisoner before a magistrate at Middleport. Step right on board of our boat, and we will see that you are enabled to obey the command to the letter.”
“I am satisfied,” answered the constable.
“But I am not,” interposed Major Toppleton angrily.
“All aboard!” shouted Van Wolter.
“I shall do my duty as I understand it,” continued the constable, as I led the way to the deck of the Ucayga.
“It is your duty to commit him to jail,” growled the magnate of Middleport.