uiser _Buffalo_ that you contemplated a
visit to Hong Kong."

He sank back and stared, and it took Peter several moments to become
aware that the content of the remark was not nearly so important as its
pronunciation. The remark was somewhat obvious. The American consul
desired Peter to make the opening.

Peter inclined his head as he slowly digested the statement.

"I was told by Commander Eckles to report to you," he replied
respectfully, "for orders."

The American consul laid his hands firmly upon the edge of the mahogany
desk.

"My orders, Mr. Moore, are that you leave China immediately. I
trust----"

"Why?" said Peter in a dry voice.

"That is a matter which, unfortunately, I cannot discuss with you. The
order comes, I am permitted to inform you, from the highest of
diplomatic quarters. To be exact, from Peking, and from the American
ambassador, to be more specific."

It was crystal clear to Peter that the American consul was not
cognizant of what might be behind those orders from the American
ambassador; yet his face, for all of its diplomatic masking, told Peter
plainly that the American consul was not entirely averse to learning.

"Have I been interfering with the lawful pursuits of the Chinese
Empire?" he inquired ironically.

The American consul stroked his long nose pensively.

"Well--perhaps," he said. "On the whole, that is something you can
best explain yourself, Mr. Moore. If you should care to give me your
side of the question, ah----"

"I haven't a thing to say," rejoined Peter. "If the United States
Government chooses to believe that my presence is inimical to its
interests in China----"

"Pressure might have been brought to bear from another quarter."

"Quite so," admitted Peter.

"Now, if you should desire to make me acquainted with your pursuits
during the past--ah--few months, let us say, it is within the bounds of
possibility that I might somehow rescind this drastic--ah--order.
Suffice it to say, that I shall be glad to put my every power at your
aid. As you are an American, it is my duty and my pleasure, sir, if
you will permit me, to do all within my power, my somewhat restricted
power, if I may qualify that statement, to reinstate you in the good
graces of those--ah--good gentlemen in Peking."

It was all too evident that, back and beyond the friendly intentions of
this official, was a hungry desire for information regarding this young
man whose dark activities