"Sir, I protest," exclaimed Tregarthen, impetuously.
"Protests are of no avail, unfortunately," replied Captain Brookes, with a suspicion of harshness in his voice. "Review the facts carefully and deliberately, and you will have to admit that what I say is true. Why do other nations, possessing little legitimate interests on the ocean, knowing full well that their seaborne commerce has hitherto been conducted without let or hindrance, suddenly decide to build huge and powerful fleets? To what purpose do they express their intention of rivalling the British fleet? Not from necessity, but from sheer wantonness. Is that not so?"
"Then you, yourself, are an Englishman?"
"I am what I am, a cosmopolitan—a pariah, if you choose to term it so. I prefer to let my identity remain a secret. Now, to put the matter bluntly, are you prepared to throw in your lot with mine for the space of not more than two years?"
"I am not. As a British officer my duties——"
"Then I must take steps to compel you."
"Compel me? You cannot."
"Mr. Tregarthen, before we talk of compulsion—though I admit I was the first to suggest such a step—pray consider the main and side issues of the question. You are bound by a solemn oath to obey your lawful sovereign, King George V. Do you think you could serve him in a better manner than by acquiring the knowledge of what this vessel is, and how she is enabled to possess such irresistible power? The Admiralty would be only too glad of a chance to gain the secret of the Olive Branch. You would to all intents and purposes become a naval attaché, with far greater prospects of gaining invaluable knowledge. Now, this is my offer: Your service for the space of not less than two years; your solemn word that you will obey my orders in all matters, provided you are not called upon to commit a hostile act against your own nation. Means will be afforded you to communicate with the authorities at the Admiralty, in which you can explain the facts under which you were compulsorily detained, and so on. Then, at the end of two years, or before, should my mission be accomplished, you will be permitted to return home, armed with the priceless secrets that are to command universal peace. Is that clear?"
"And the alternative?"
"I do not wish to discuss the alternative beyond saying what I have already stated." Then, seeing that Tregarthen was on the point of giving a direct refusal, Captain Brookes interposed:—