"Why?"
"Because the American consul is not in the town. He has gone away for a week. When he comes back, you may see him."
"Are you telling me the truth, Captain Sandoval?"
"Carajo! I will not allow you to talk to me like that."
Some words in Spanish followed, evidently an order to those who accompanied the captain and Matt.
"Stop!" commanded Matt. "Before you take me to the house of the harbor master, I have another demand to make."
"We are wasting too much time over your demands," replied the captain sternly. "The harbor master may have gone to bed if we wait too long. I do not wish to put him to any inconvenience."
"His convenience is as nothing compared to mine. If the American consul is not in town, then I ask you to take me to the British consul."
A laugh arose to the captain's lips.
"As it happens, amigo," said he, "the British consul left town with the American. Neither will be back here for a week."