An Emperor in the Dock

Synopsis

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1915 Excerpt: … only two who could have shed any light on the genesis of these dramatic occurrences were Douglas and Pryston. Their interview with Westra had left them with a feeling of deep distrust for the two holding their secret conclave in the Master's cabin. When they heard that cabin door open but not close again, without any sound of footsteps either coming their way or mounting the companion, these suspicions became active certainties. It seemed that the occupants of that cabin were on the listen, to hear what was going on in the saloon. Douglas and Pryston held their breath, and neither of them stirred. Then they heard a whisper, and the cabin door was softly closed, while a second or two later some one climbed the shallow stairs; but, though they watched, nothing was visible on deck through the skylight. "I'll tell you what it is," said Douglas, answering Pryston's unformulated question, "the Count has gone up to look for German ships. Several were sighted this morning in the offing. Westra ought not to allow him to sit there, ready to signal on any chance that offers." "It doesn't seem to me he can do much harm that way," said the American. "Still, by keeping an eye on him, we might make ourselves useful as detectives." "We must go warily to work. If he thinks we are anywhere around, he will take good care there is nothing to discover." Without a word, Pryston pointed to the skylight. Another gesture intimated his willingness to hoist Douglas on to his shoulders, so that through the narrow panes he could see without being seen. With a comprehending nod Douglas accepted the proposition; and in another moment there he was on the look-out, using the skylight as a kind of periscope--a splendid point of observation …