instantly as a precautionary measure to confirm them before proceeding
to carry them out. This, however, was merely because he was suspicious
of von Staden and desired to obviate the possibility of that
individual's double-crossing the Blue Star Navigation Company.

Under the circumstances, therefore, he had considered it good policy
to appear to fall readily in line, and, the better to disarm von
Staden's watchfulness, he had demanded extra compensation. The ease
with which the bribe had been secured having crystallized his
suspicions, instantly he had cast about in his ingenious brain for a
good sound excuse for going ashore and cabling his owners. To demand
his bribe in advance and then announce that he would go ashore and
express it to those dependent upon him, in case he failed to return
and enjoy it himself, seemed to present a reason that would not be
questioned and accordingly he had done so.

Michael J. Murphy removed his uniform cap and thoughtfully scratched
his head. "Now why," he demanded of the scented night, "did Matt cable
me in care of that German firm when he must have known I would call on
the American consul in the expectation of finding a cablegram there?"
He shook his head. "They've got us winging, Michael," he soliloquized,
"so I suppose the only thing to do is to play safe, call upon the
American consul immediately if not sooner, and ask if he has a
cablegram for us."

And without further ado the worthy fellow sprang into a cab and was
whirled away to the residence of the American consul. Yes, the consul
had a cablegram for him, but it was at his office. Could Captain
Murphy not wait until morning?