The Tagus in the immediate vicinity of the practice ship was thronged with vessels of all classes, attracted to the spot by the royal visit, and it was observed at once that the assassin’s chances for escape, if he was an expert swimmer, were good.
There was commotion on board the neighboring craft, and many false alarms, but no certain sign of the Englishman’s presence.
When the excited crowd on the _Monongahela_ turned inboard again, they found a group of officers and cadets surrounding Clif, who was calmly standing in the center while the surgeon fastened a temporary bandage round a bleeding cut in his right arm.
The king had been hurried to the cabin by his suite and Captain Brookes. A moment later he emerged and joined the group surrounding Clif.
“I want to see the brave American boy who saved my life,” he insisted. “It was he who foiled that assassin and he shall have my heartfelt thanks.”
“But, your majesty,” implored one of his military staff, in Portuguese, “there may be other wretches on board. They may make another attempt on you.”
“Then keep every one at a distance,” was the retort. “Act rather than talk. It is strange you and your comrades did not prevent that man from making his attempt. What has been done to capture him?”
“Word was sent ashore at once, sire. A launch is even now on the way with instructions to the chief of police and the general in charge of the district. The assassin will be in prison before dark.”
“See that he is!” exclaimed the king, imperiously.
Turning to Clif he extended both his hands and added in excellent English:
“My brave lad, I thank you. I deplore the wound you have received in my service.”
“It is nothing, sir,” replied Clif, simply.
“A king’s life nothing?” smiled his majesty. “Ah, that is a democratic principle. It is American. I admire your cleverness and bravery. You will hear from me.”
He turned away, after learning from the surgeon that Clif’s wound was a mere scratch, and, surrounded by his suite, left the ship.
A wild cheer greeted him as he entered the barge, and there was every sign of joy at his escape.
As soon as the barge was clear of the _Monongahela_, Captain Brookes, ever mindful of his duty, gave orders to man yards and fire a second salute.