“But what does it mean?” he demanded informally of his friend Throgmorton. “What purpose has Washington in view? United States warships have visited us before, of course, for the reason stated; but I cannot help entertaining a suspicion that your government has some special motive in sending a battleship here at this time.” To this the United States minister had shrugged his shoulders. “If there is any such motive, my government has not seen fit to take me into its confidence concerning it,” he answered. “However, Mr. President, if the presence of the _Kearsarge_ in Puerto Cabero harbor is objectionable to you, I am confident that I have only to notify the state department to that effect, and Captain Cortrell will receive orders to sail before the vessel weighs anchor.” Portiforo, who, with a few exceptions, entertained a cordial dislike for gringos in general, and the citizens of the United States in particular, felt a strong inclination to have this brought about, but he was diplomat enough not to follow his wishes in the matter. “I wouldn’t think of being so discourteous to our sister republic,” he said. “Besides, I have no objection to the _Kearsarge’s_ visit, provided she does nothing to disrupt the amity existing between our two nations. Have you any idea how long she is to stay here?” Throgmorton shook his head. “My advices do not state that,” he said. “If you wish, I can cable Washington that you would like to be enlightened on that point.” “Certainly not,” the other rejoined hastily. “It is quite immaterial to me, my dear Throgmorton, how long she remains. Besides, no doubt her commander will be able to tell us what his orders are in that respect.” An anxious expression came to his face. “What kind of a man is this Captain Cortrell?” he inquired. “Can you tell me anything about him?” “He’s one of the most competent officers in the United States navy,” the minister informed him. “He was graduated from Annapolis at the head of his class, and----” “But his personality?” Portiforo interrupted impatiently. “I don’t care anything about his naval record. Does he impress you as being a conservative man, or--to use an expression, of your country--the kind that would take chances? If you will pardon me for saying so, I believe that some of your naval officers have in past instances proved themselves to be somewhat lacking in discretion and a proper regard for the niceties of international law.” “Captain Cortrell is not that kind,” Minister Throgmorton replied, with a smile. “He has a reputation for being one of the most cautious and conservative commanders in our navy, and he knows more international law than half our statesmen. You need have no fear, Mr. President, that he will commit any indiscretion which would disrupt the pleasant relations existing between our respective governments.”