"I need no diagrams to tell me that Señor Alfaro sailed into him first," said the captain. "This had been brewing for some time. I shall have to investigate after breakfast."
A little later Walter discovered Fernandez Garcia Alfaro seated upon a hatch-cover forward. At sight of his Anglo-Saxon ally the impulsive Colombian sprang to his feet and cried, with outstretched hands:
"You have saved my life! I shall never forget it, mi amigo. I have hated the North Americans, but my heart is full of affection for you."
Rather taken aback by this tribute, Walter said in a matter-of-fact manner:
"You surely piled into that fat general like a West India hurricane. I'm glad I spoiled his programme."
Alfaro's expressive face was vindictive as he exclaimed: "I have not finished with him and his infernal parrot!"
"Pooh, forget him," carelessly advised Walter, to whom this threat of vengeance sounded theatrical. "Better steer clear of this Quesada person. He looks to me like an ugly customer."
Alfaro smiled rather sheepishly as he remarked:
"It was not very diplomatic? You must think I am a funny diplomat, Goodwin."