"See that fellow? He's an old acquaintance—von Preussen, to be exact."
"Never," declared Meredith incredulously. "He wouldn't dare risk it."
"He has, at any rate," said Cumberleigh. "More, he knows we can't touch him. Logically he's on German soil, and in a German vessel that's been given safe conduct."
"I suppose you're right," admitted Kenneth regretfully. "All I can do is to report to the S.N.O."
"That may stop his little game—for he's up to some mischief, I'll be bound," said Cumberleigh. "Right-o, I'll follow you!"
The boarding-party, consisting of Meredith, Cumberleigh, a petty officer and two bluejackets, negotiated the ladder with no casualty beyond a few barked knuckles. Meredith, receiving and returning the German captain's salute, asked for the ship's papers.
"And what is Herr von Preussen doing on board?" he demanded abruptly.
"It vos mein order," replied the skipper of the Hohenhoorn. "Dis Zherman scheep."
"Quite," agreed Meredith. "At the same time I warn you that von Preussen's presence will be reported, and it would be well if he refrained from any activities that will certainly lead to trouble. Now, I'll look under hatches."
A systematic search of the holds revealed nothing in the nature of the cargo beyond what was stated in the official documents. Everything, apparently, was in order.