a
sort of supporter.

The new arrival was a man apparently a few years older than his
lieutenant, very distinguished looking for the commander of a mere
gunboat, and with a considerably more polished and affable manner than
the man who had preceded him. He raised his cap at Jack's salutation,
and said, in English:

"Good afternoon, gentlemen! I am given to understand by my lieutenant
that a most unfortunate mistake appears to have in some inexplicable
manner arisen in connection with this vessel; and I have come on board
for the purpose of putting matters right, if possible."

"You are most welcome, Senor Capitan," answered Jack cordially; "and I
shall be very pleased to render you all the assistance in my power--the
more so since I am very anxious to see as much as possible of your
beautiful island, and may perhaps remain here for some time. Indeed, I
may say that one reason for my visit to Cuba is that I have had some
idea of investing in a tobacco plantation here."

"Indeed, Senor?" observed the Spaniard. "Our information pointed to a
very different reason for your visit. As my lieutenant has already
informed you, we have been led to believe that the presence of your
yacht in Cuban waters was due to sympathy on your part with the
insurgents, and a determination to assist them by smuggling munitions of
war into the country for their use. And, as my lieutenant has also
informed you, the _Tiburon_ has been sent out specially for the purpose
of seizing the vessel."

"Yes," said Jack suavely, "your lieutenant mentioned that fact--in
somewhat emphatic language; so emphatic, indeed, that, if I may be
permitted to say so, it was almost offensive, and my captain felt bound
to adopt somewhat vigorous speech in expressing our disapproval, not
only of his behaviour, but also of that of your Government. It is not
usual, Senor, as you must know, for an Englishman, visiting a foreign
country in his own yacht, to have his vessel seized upon the strength of
a mere rumour; and you must allow me to say that, in acting as it has
done, I consider your Government has not only been precipitate, but has
also behaved in such a manner as will evoke a very strong protest from
my own. The British Government, Senor, is not wont to have its flag
fired upon without exacting ample reparation."

It was quite clear that the Spanish officer was beginning to feel
exceedingly uncomfortable. He was silent for several seconds, and
appear