His resurrected pride had demanded that he should put himself on an
equality with the baron and advertise that equality by his exterior.
"I come inopportunely," he courteously excused himself. "My
apologies. My business could not wait. It concerns, M. de Cussy,
Captain Wolverstone of the Lachesis, whom you have placed under
arrest."
"It was I who placed him under arrest," said M. de Rivarol.
"Indeed! But I thought that M. de Cussy was Governor of
Hispaniola."
"Whilst I am here, monsieur, I am the supreme authority. It is as
well that you should understand it."
"Perfectly. But it is not possible that you are aware of the
mistake that has been made."
"Mistake, do you say?"
"I say mistake. On the whole, it is polite of me to use that word.
Also it is expedient. It will save discussions. Your people have
arrested the wrong man, M. de Rivarol. Instead of the French
officer, who used the grossest provocation, they have arrested
Captain Wolverstone. It is a matter which I beg you to reverse
without delay.
Pages:
505
506
507
508
509
510
511
512
513
514
515
516
517
518
519
520
521
522
523
524
525
526
527
528
529