The latter’s answer was diplomatic:
“You can readily explain that to General Barras,” he answered. “My letter will show him that I did not misinform him intentionally.”
Señor Mareno thought deeply and was about to speak, but as he glanced up at the office door the minister had gone within. Then he turned and regarded the midshipmen blankly; a spark of recognition turned his face unconsciously a shade paler, then he strode away down the steps without a word.
A moment afterward Lazar confronted them.
“Mr. Perry,” he said coldly, “you have put your authority above mine. I order you and your companions to return to the ship immediately. Your mutinous conduct on La Mesa shall not pass unnoticed.”
Phil’s blood boiled with anger. His hands twitched and he controlled himself with difficulty. He glanced at his companions, who regarded him inquiringly; he saw he must obey.
As they left the legation, they pondered deeply over their predicament. Lazar would report the occurrence on La Mesa. The admiral and Captain Taylor might in their hearts be glad the lads had acted as they had, but their high positions in the navy forbade their official countenance.
Lazar might not see fit to report aught but Phil’s disobedience; in time of urgent danger on foreign soil, he, as their senior officer ashore, had ordered them to leave La Mesa and Phil had deliberately refused for himself and companions.
The penalty in the “articles of war” under which naval courts adjudged their punishments was dismissal from the service.