“And now to save the fool from the consequences of his folly,” he muttered to himself.
A long consultation took place with the officials at the Admiralty, and when they had arrived at a decision, the operator above them sent forth wireless messages that were to affect the future of John Gaunt.
The evening papers had already received news of the hold-up of the Congo; the facts were related with a fair degree of accuracy and Sir Keith read the comments with quiet amusement.
“It is plain what will happen. The great British public will make a hero of John Gaunt.”
In fact, the more serious of the papers were already demanding the intervention of the government.
“One man has shown England its duty. With fearless courage John Gaunt has tackled the problem, and at great risk to himself,” said the Evening Herald, and went on to demand protection for Gaunt.
The next day it was plain that the English people were thoroughly roused and were determined that the Belgian rule of the Congo must come to an end. All parties for once were united, and a mass meeting was announced to take place at the Royal Albert Hall.
Sir Keith Hamilton invited the German ambassador to lunch.
“Don’t you think it would be as well to put an end to this clamor as soon as possible?” he suggested.
“I have just received the Emperor’s intimation that the agreement will be ratified. I have no objection to its being made public at once, in spite of the vehement protests from Belgium,” the Prince replied.