Page:Waylaid by Wireless - Balmer - 1909.djvu/280

Rh proposition which they proposed to me this morning.

"I appreciate that there is positively no precedent for the presentation of such a proposition to the passengers of a ship. But the situation confronting us is equally without precedent. I can see no additional danger to any one from the acceptance of this suggestion; on the other hand, it promises complete protection to many. For if you gentlemen of the 'smoking-room' choose to carry out this suggestion and take the encounters with Manling to yourselves—and Mr. Manling makes the proposed compact with you—I feel that I can absolutely insure the rest of you passengers from the visits of the masterful Mr. Manling during the rest of this voyage!"

The applause which started from the rear, where the men were gathered, swept over the salon. Anticipatory cries of "Hear! Hear!" came from the enthusiastic smoking-room crowd, as the captain nodded to Mr. Dunneston, and the Englishman arose.

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