“No mention is made in any paper in Japan. The people have been kept in ignorance of the sudden wave of dislike that has gone over the continent of America, but I have my information this time from a reliable source, no less a person than the prime minister himself, who has received the information from America. He called to tell me of the censorship, and that for the present all cipher messages would be held up. He was greatly surprised that the refusal of the audience was known in America since all messages were stopped. I tried to persuade him to recall Captain Inaba, assuring him that the United States did not desire to have the Chinese battle-ships, but my efforts were in vain.” “Was he surprised to know that you had been informed of Captain Inaba’s mission?” Phil asked. “He said nothing to show his surprise,” the ambassador answered gravely, “and I can never read the faces of these Japanese diplomats. They seem to be able to hide all emotion; but he knows of Impey’s treachery.” Phil was grateful to Sydney for engaging the ambassador in conversation while he said good-bye to Helen. The night was warm, and the two walked slowly along the gravel path within the embassy enclosure. He told her of their mission, but scoffed at any idea of danger. “The whole thing depends upon our getting away without being discovered,” he told her excitedly. “You see, Taki knows that we would like to prevent Captain Inaba’s mission being successful, and the yacht is being watched by the Japanese battle-ships.” “I wish I were a man,” Helen exclaimed, glancing proudly at Phil. “What would you do?” he asked smiling happily. “I’d go with you instead of staying behind and worrying,” she replied decidedly. “We shall not be gone long,” he said hurriedly, trying to appear unconcerned, “and when we return I hope there will be no more cause for worry. Japan and the United States will become firmer friends than ever. “Good-bye, Helen,” he added, her hand in his. “It’s beastly to have to leave Japan just when we were having such a good time.” He was conscious of her ready sympathy and of a wistful look in her eyes as she bade him good-bye. Then the door opened, and the ambassador and Sydney stood upon the threshold. “I was just coming for you,” Sydney exclaimed. “Phil has no idea of time, you know,” he added pointedly to the ambassador, who chuckled at the discomfiture of the pair. “The Chinese ambassador was here this morning, and gave me this letter. He is very much disappointed at the thought of his friend Admiral Ting losing his command.” Mr. Tillotson as he spoke placed in Phil’s hand a large official document. The lad saw it was heavy and glanced inquiringly at the ambassador.