“Was he surprised to know that you had been informed of Captain Inaba’s mission?” Phil asked.
“He said nothing to show his surprise,” the ambassador answered gravely, “and I can never read the faces of these Japanese diplomats. They seem to be able to hide all emotion; but he knows of Impey’s treachery.”
Phil was grateful to Sydney for engaging the ambassador in conversation while he said good-bye to Helen. The night was warm, and the two walked slowly along the gravel path within the embassy enclosure.
He told her of their mission, but scoffed at any idea of danger.
“The whole thing depends upon our getting away without being discovered,” he told her excitedly. “You see, Taki knows that we would like to prevent Captain Inaba’s mission being successful, and the yacht is being watched by the Japanese battle-ships.”
“I wish I were a man,” Helen exclaimed, glancing proudly at Phil.
“What would you do?” he asked smiling happily.
“I’d go with you instead of staying behind and worrying,” she replied decidedly.
“We shall not be gone long,” he said hurriedly, trying to appear unconcerned, “and when we return I hope there will be no more cause for worry. Japan and the United States will become firmer friends than ever.
“Good-bye, Helen,” he added, her hand in his. “It’s beastly to have to leave Japan just when we were having such a good time.”