Part 18 (1/2)
”That is true, Cameron--till he is made to quit--and that's your job,”
said the Superintendent solemnly.
”Yes, that is my job, sir,” replied Cameron simply and with equal solemnity. ”I shall do my best.”
”We have every confidence in you, Cameron,” replied the Superintendent.
”Good-night,” he said again, shutting the door.
”Say, old man, this is too gruesome,” said Martin with fierce impatience. ”I can't see why it's up to you more than any other.”
”The Sun Dance Trail is the trail he must take to do his work. That was my patrol last year--I know it best. G.o.d knows I don't want this--”
his breath came quick--”I am not afraid--but--but there's--We have been together for such a little while, you know.” He could get no farther for a moment or two, then added quietly, ”But somehow I know--yes and she knows--bless her brave heart--it is my job. I must stay with it.”
CHAPTER VIII
THE GIRL ON NO. 1.
By the time they had reached the hotel Cameron was glad enough to go to his bed.
”You need not tell your wife, I suppose,” said the doctor.
”Tell her? Certainly!” said Cameron. ”She is with me in this. I play fair with her. Don't you fear, she is up to it.”
And so she was, and, though her face grew white as she listened to the tale, never for a moment did her courage falter.
”Doctor, is Allan all right? Tell me,” she said, her big blue eyes holding his in a steady gaze.
”Right enough, but he must have a long sleep. You must not let him stir at five.”
”Then,” said Mandy, ”I shall go to meet the train, Allan.”
”But you don't know Moira.”
”No, but I shall find her out.”
”Of course,” said Dr. Martin in a deprecating tone, ”I know Miss Cameron, but--”
”Of course you do,” cried Mandy. ”Why, that is splendid! You will go and Allan need not be disturbed. She will understand. Not a word, now, Allan. We will look after this, the doctor and I, eh, Doctor?”
”Why--eh--yes--yes certainly, of course. Why not?”
”Why not, indeed?” echoed Mandy briskly. ”She will understand.”
And thus it was arranged. Under the influence of a powder left by Dr.
Martin, Cameron, after an hour's tossing, fell into a heavy sleep.
”I am so glad you are here,” said Mandy to the doctor, as he looked in upon her. ”You are sure there is no injury?”