Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/197

 citizens of Holland; fifty from Antwerp, true Belgians; fifty from Dunkirk, Cherbourg, or any of the ports between these two, citizens of France. The pay of these men shall begin immediately, and they are to hold themselves at my disposal in or near the ports from which they are selected, so that when I call for them at any time with my yacht, they will be ready to embark within an hour of receiving notice.

"Meanwhile, purchase and have delivered here military tents, sufficient for the shelter of two hundred men, in accordance with military rule. Having no idea myself how many men a commander puts in a tent, you will acquire this information. The tents are to be packed in one of the empty houses. Secure also cooking equipment for such a military camp. During the intervals learn from headquarters what are the duties of a coastguard man."

As Stranleigh became silent, Blake looked up, a quizzical smile on his face.

"Is that all?" he asked.

"All for the present, Mr. Blake. There is, of course, much more to follow."

"Yes; I see dimly ahead many things that may follow."

"I daresay you do. Have you any comments to offer?"