“That will greatly simplify everything,” the count replied. “The Kataafa warriors would declare him king. The Panu natives in such great inferiority of numbers cannot resist except with the aid of the sailors, and that could not be given as long as you refuse to join. The treaty distinctly stipulates that action may be taken unanimously. There would be no war. The next mail from home would bring the recall of this partial judge. Kataafa would remain king, and then he must soon seek annexation to our Herzovinia. I hope to see our flag hoisted over the Kapuan Islands. And of course,” he added, “you will get all the credit. The order of the Black Eagle will be yours.”
The consul’s face was now fairly beaming upon this kind prophet.
“My mind is made up,” he said. “I shall refuse to be used by those who have only selfish aims. I shall write and refuse to agree with the other consuls.”
Count Rosen smiled triumphantly as he rode his pony along the main road of Ukula.
“Carlson has been here too long,” he said to himself. “He thinks there’s nothing beyond his narrow horizon. His lonesome life has made him timid; he needed stirring to life. Herzovinia’s aims must be kept always before us. Our statesmen decided years ago to own these islands. Our money is invested here and they are a link in our colonial chain. A war! a little bloodshed! What does it matter?”
At the Kapuan firm’s store the count dismounted, giving his pony in care of a native.
Klinger, the manager, met him at the door-step. No word was spoken until they reached the office in the rear of the store and the door closed behind them.
“I see in your face you are successful,” Klinger said as the count took the proffered chair.
“Everything so far has been wonderful,” the count exclaimed. “Judge Lindsay will give the decision to Panu, Kataafa will revolt, and Carlson will refuse to do anything. The hands of our friends the enemy are tied.”
“I too have news,” Klinger said. “Kataafa has bought all the guns coming in the ‘Talofa.’ Also he has answered Judge Lindsay’s letter, that he cannot agree to give his word to remain peaceful if the decision is against him, as he considers the right to be king is his, and he has already been acknowledged king by one power. What do you think of that?” he asked delightedly.