“There would be no danger of that happening,” answered the captain, “for I shall send a guard ashore with the boxes, to remain at the legation. I had intended waiting until affairs became more serious, but the contents of these boxes furnishes me with sufficient reason to act at once.”
O’Neil rang up full speed and the “Vidette,” with her prize in tow, was again steaming for the entrance to the harbor.
Phil told the captain about the wounded man, but refrained from mentioning his conduct during the chase, and that kindly officer insisted on speaking to the disabled sailor.
“What is your name, my man?” he questioned sympathetically.
The engineer glanced up, showing a worried face in the light of the oil lantern.
“Joseph Craig, sir,” he answered.
The excitement of the recent incident had passed away and Phil’s thoughts now dwelt on the curious action of the engineer. Why had he tried to detain the “Vidette”? What interest could he have in the captured arms? He could arrive at but one conclusion: Joseph Craig was a tool in the hands of Lazar.
The “Vidette” and her prize were soon alongside the battle-ship, and the captain stepped on board, followed by the two boys.
Lazar’s disappointed face gave them a taste of real enjoyment, but the captain’s words quickly turned the tables.
“Send word to Mr. Penfield,” he ordered, addressing Lazar, “that I desire to send the guard for the legation ashore immediately. You will go in charge, with Midshipmen Marshall and Morrison as your assistants. The guard will consist of fifty men. They must take tenting and rations. The boxes in that black launch contain machine guns and were destined for the insurgent army; these are to be taken to the legation and your sole duty is to guard them safely.”