This letter he sealed, addressed, and laid aside.
He then wrote to the American Consulate, addressing the note to the Consul and Vice-Consul, saying that he committed to their care—
1st. A letter to be called for immediately by the British Consul in person, and so marked.
2d. A packet addressed to the British Consul, but not to be delivered until a week had expired.
3d. A letter to be sent to the United States Consul General in London with all speed.
4th. A telegram to be sent to Edmeston Automobile Agency in London.
5th. A letter to the same agency.
He then wrote out his telegram, wondering whether the United States Consul could put it through:
Edmeston Agency,
White Hood Lane,
London, E. C.Business of instant importance requires you all to leave for Holland immediately. Lose no time.
Signed—Rider.
Holland Line S. S. Feyenoord.
The letter was directed to the Edmeston Agency:
Dear Sirs:
Grätz and Bush must leave at once if they wish to enjoy the fishing here. The pike are biting. Four have been caught. The shooting, also, is excellent. Eight birds were killed yesterday. If Grätz and Bush do not leave within a week business in London is likely to detain them indefinitely and they will miss their holiday with little chance for another.
Tell them to take the urgent advice of a sportsman and clear out while they have the chance.
Yours with good intentions,
D. Brown Satchell
While Guild was busy writing and consigning what he had written to separate envelopes, he was aware of considerable movement and noise outside on deck—the passing to and fro of many people, whistle blasts from other craft—in fact, all the various species of bustle and noise which, aboard any steamer, indicate its approach to port.
He raised his head and tried to see, but it was still raining and the air was dull with fog.
Passengers, stewards, and officers came and went, passing through the writing-room where he sat in a corner sorting and sealing his letters. Twice, glancing up over his shoulder, he noticed a steward cleaning up, dusting and arranging the pens, ink, and writing paper on the several tables near by—one of those too busy and officious functionaries whose zeal for tips usually defeats its own ends.