"Sir," said Mr. Bisse, crestfallen, "I must write to my principals for further instructions."
"That will probably be your best course. Good-morning, sir."
Mr. Bisse wrote accordingly. Meanwhile he made another attempt to assert his authority. He went to the quay, looked about him with satisfaction at the proofs and evidences of brisk trade, and entered the counting-house where the clerks were at work.
"My name," he said pompously, "is Bisse, Mr. Stephen Bisse, attorney-at-law. I am here as attorney for the Right Honourable the Earl of Fylingdale."
"What do you want?" asked the chief clerk.
"You will at once show me your ledgers, your day books, and the books used by you in your daily business."
"You must go to Mr. Redman, sir. His office is beside the customhouse. Without his permission we can do nothing for you."
Mr. Redman had been before him, you see.
"You refuse me, at your peril," said Mr. Bisse. "I am——"
"You will go out of the counting-house, sir," said the chief clerk, "and you will leave the quay. We take our orders from Mr. Redman in place of Captain Crowle."