“I mean,” Langdon answered, raising his voice to be heard throughout the room, “that if the Chinese soldiers and these outlaws, calling themselves patriots, insist upon massacring the inoffensive foreigners and their followers, such a fire of shot and shell will be thrown into this city by the allied fleet that all property will be destroyed.”
The aged mandarin started perceptibly at hearing these menacing words; then he seemed to arrive at some conclusion, for his parchment-like face betrayed a faint smile as he motioned the pilot to be again seated.
“How will the fleet bombard Ku-Ling?” he inquired; “your ships cannot again pass the forts if I order them to fire upon you.”
“Your Excellency,” Langdon answered boldly, “has forgotten that two American monitors are now on their way to join the allied fleet. With the addition of these vessels, our ships do not fear the fire of your forts; besides you will know that if the American commander orders it our sailors can take the forts with ease by storm. Our captain is in earnest,” he urged, believing from the viceroy’s attitude that he was weakening. “If the mission on the hill which is under your protection is harmed he will at once put into effect his plans to reduce the forts and destroy your city.”
“I shall send for the general,” the viceroy finally announced. “He may be some hours in arriving, and meanwhile you may rest after your journey.”
The party arose, following the interpreter, and shortly found themselves in a plainly-furnished room, where he left them abruptly.
Langdon immediately explained his conversation with the viceroy, and expressed himself as certain that the flag of truce would be successful.
Phil had not as yet been addressed by Commander Ignacio, and naturally felt disinclined to join in the conversation. He had surprised many furtive glances from the foreign captain, and was sure they were not of good omen; however, now he smiled pleasantly at the two midshipmen, without a trace of the ill nature with which Phil felt he regarded him.
“This was my idea from the start,” Commander Ignacio exclaimed boastfully; “that fire-eating captain of yours came near getting us in a nice muddle, but I believe I shall straighten it all out.”
Phil’s anger flared into his eyes at hearing this direct slur upon Commander Hughes’ actions, but his training had taught him subordination, and he controlled the words of censure that came readily to his lips.