We ought to have a
trumpeter to herald his arrival--but the white and red ensign with the
golden crown--it's in the leather-covered trunk in my room--the one with
the most steamer labels on it--go bring it, Claiborne, and we'll throw it
to the free airs of Virginia. And be quick--they ought to be here by this
time!"
He stood in the door and watched Claiborne haul up the flag, and he made
a mockery of saluting it as it snapped out in the fresh morning air.
"The Port of Missing Men! It was designed to be extra-territorial, and
there's no treason in hauling up an alien flag," and his high spirits
returned, and he stalked back to the fireplace, chaffing Claiborne and
warning him against ever again fighting under an unknown banner.
"Here they are," called Claiborne, and flung open the door as Shirley,
her father and Baron von Marhof rode up under the billowing ensign. Dick
stepped out to meet them and answer their questions.
"Mr. Armitage is here. He has been hurt and we have sent for a doctor;
but"--and he looked at Shirley.
"If you will do me the honor to enter--all of you!" and Armitage came out
quickly and smiled upon them.
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