"Evidently I could have but one object; to prevent your casting them off."
"But why? What right have you to do so?"
"Simply the right of might. But come," said he, looking over the company, "let us talk this matter over together. Shall we return to the castle?"
"Suppose we ascend to the cabin," said the Doctor. "There we can talk without interruption."
So, two by two, they all ascended to the sittingroom of the cabin. The Doctor and Count were the first to go up.
"I shall make a great demonstration of anger, and may talk pretty sharply, Count, but you will know my meaning," said the former, as they landed in the engine-room.
"I perfectly understand; act your part, Doctor."
When they were all seated in the sittingroom, the Doctor immediately reiterated the question:
"What is the meaning of this high-handed proceeding, Count Icanovich?"
"It simply means that I cannot consent to let you go at present, Doctor Jones."