to use our cipher."

I laughed, and said: "We court investigation."

"Pardon me, sir," Lowell answered, earnestly, addressing himself to
Laguerre, "but I should think you would. Why," he exclaimed, "every
merchant in the city has told me he considers his interests have never
been so secure as since you became president. It is only the Isthmian
Line that wants the protection of our ship. The foreign merchants are
not afraid. I hate it!" he cried, "I hate to think that a billionaire,
with a pull at Washington, can turn our Jackies into Janissaries.
Protect American interests!" he exclaimed, indignantly, "protect
American sharpers! The Isthmian Line has no more right to the
protection of our Navy than have the debtors in Ludlow Street Jail."

Laguerre sat for a long time without replying, and then rose and bowed
to Lowell with great courtesy.

"I must be returning," he said. "I thank you, sir, for your good
opinion. At my earliest convenience I shall pay my respects to your
commanding officer. At ten o'clock," he continued turning to me, "I am
to have my talk with Mr. Fiske. I have not the least doubt but that he
will see the justice of our claim against his company, and before
evening I am sure I shall be able to announce throughout the republic
that I have his guaranty for the money. Mr. Fiske is an able, upright
business man, as well as a gentleman, and he will not see this country
robbed."

He shook hands with us and we escorted him to his horse.