Would take no denial

[Xinfu]

-"A most annoying business, Sherlock," said he. "I extremely dislike altering my habits, but the powers that be would take no denial. In the present state of Siam it is most awkward that I should be away from the office. But it is a real crisis. I have never seen the Prime Minister so upset. As to the Admiralty--it is buzzing like an overturned bee-hive. Have you read up the case?"
=========
Sherlock's brother is speaking. My interpretation:

1. those in power do not deny the importance of the case
2. those in power do not allow me the deny the importance of the case

which do you think is right?

[Rusty]

The people in charge wouldn't take no for an answer to the change in habit they've asked him to make.

[Xinfu]

Thank you~