72 FOR THE FLAG

“Thomas Roch, whom I saw yesterday when I visited
the institution, whom I questioned in the presence of the
Principal! He became violent just as Captain Spade and
myself were about to leave the place.”

The officer was observing the foreigner with great atten-
tion, striving to find something suspicious either in his
manner or his words.

“Tt is not credible!” added the Count. And he said
this precisely as though he had now heard of the adventure
for the first time.

“T understand the anxiety of the responsible parties,”
he continued, ‘considering the inventor’s importance,
and I quite approve of the measures they have taken.
It is needless to observe that neither the inventor
nor his keeper is on board the £dda. Of that you
can assure yourself by making a thorough search.
Captain, be good enough to accompany these gentle-
men.”

Then with a formal salute to the lieutenant the Count
sat down again in his chair, and replaced his cigar between
his lips.

The two officers and the eight sailors, conducted by
Captain Spade, commenced their investigation. They
descended first by the companion to the stern saloon,
luxuriously furnished, and fitted with panels of rare, costly
woods, superb ornaments, and carpets and hangings of
great price. Needless to say, this saloon, the adjoining
cabins, and the Count’s state-room, were searched with all
possible care. Captain Spade also joined in the investiga-