But the Coreans, apparently thinking, that as I had so easily given in on the main point they could have it all their own way, went beyond all bounds of reason.
Turning to me with a most affable smile, after consulting with his colleagues, Tschai-Heuni replied,
"As you will be so good to wait for envoys of the Government here, I must ask you to wait a month, which time they will require to come down."
This was coming it rather too strong; a month where a couple of days were more than amply sufficient! So I said, very quietly, but in a tone so determined that it had an immediate effect, "Now listen to me. You ask me to wait a month doing nothing, well knowing that I am aware they can be here in a couple of days at latest. But I will give you four days including to-day; if on the morning of the fourth day no envoy has been sent here from Saoŭl I shall at once start, and proceed with the steamer to that place."
Upon which they put their heads together again, and the governor answered,—
"We are of opinion that perhaps it will not be necessary to stipulate for thirty days. If they are here within ten days, will that suit you?"
"No, you have heard what I have said. I shall wait no longer than four days."
"Well then, let it be eight days."
"Not an hour over four."
