76 FOR THE FLAG

of the #dda. Then they proceeded to inspect the fore-
castle and the boats. Their conviction that the #dda had
been suspected without reason was established.

The two officers had only to take leave of the Count,
and they advanced towards him.

“You will excuse us for having caused you this incon-
venience, Count d’Artigas,” the lieutenant said.

“You could only obey the orders whose execution were
confided to you, gentlemen.”

“ Besides, it was a mere formality,” the officer felt bound
to add.

By a slight movement of his head the Count indicated
that he was ready to admit that excuse.

“J had informed you, gentlemen, that I had nothing to
do with the abduction.”

“We no longer doubt it, M. le Comte, and it only
remains for us to rejoin our vessel.”

“ As you please. Has the £dda now free passage ?”

“Certainly.”

“Au revoir, gentlemen, az revoir. I am a frequent
visitor to these coasts, and I shall soon return. I hope
that when I come back you will have discovered the per-
petrators of this outrage, and reinstated Thomas Roch at
Healthful House. This result is to be desired in the
interest of the United States, and, I will add, in the
interest of humanity.”

When these words were said the officers courteously
saluted the Count, who responded bya slight inclination of
the head. Captain Spade accompanied them to the side,