The lads had discovered quite enough. They ascended the steps and walked excitedly to the minister’s office.
“YOU SEIZED ONLY A CARGO
OF ROCKS”
Captain Taylor at once noticed the agitation on their faces.
“What’s the matter?” he inquired in alarm.
“Please come with us, sir,” Phil begged in as calm a voice as he could muster.
The captain and Lazar followed the midshipmen back to the cellar.
A cry of surprise escaped from Captain Taylor when he saw the contents of the remaining boxes.
Lazar’s face was a study. A cynical smile curled his mouth. His manner was calm. He held himself perfectly under control.
“I fear the rebels were too cunning for you, Mr. Perry,” he said casting a look, full of hatred, at the midshipman. “You thought you had arms, but you seized only a cargo of rocks.”