"Vulgar detentions—a day of questions—a day lost—our enemy to organise. Remember, these killers are ready to die themselves—"
"Then let us go forth now—"
"Go forth into China?" The question came mildly. "Any rickshaw coolie—"
"To the American Consulate—" Romney interrupted.
The answer remained in Romney's mind as one of the high moments of life.
"I would not accept sanctuary from a country from which I have withdrawn my allegiance."
"Then I'll stay with you here, but I think we had better join the woman—"
"Yes—"
"Just a minute—wait," Romney whispered, touching the other's sleeve. "Let them think that the tea did it. Walk heavily, on my arm, through the halls. Let your legs reel a bit. It will give us time—"
"Yes, it might give us time—"