It was plain to see that Webb uneasily held aloof, as though
fearful of singeing his shrivelling wings. It was plain to see that the
hitherto indomitable Mrs. Wilkins was puzzled. It was not so plain to
see that there were two women at the post on whom Miss Flower's charms
made slight impression--Mesdames Blake and Ray--two wise young matrons
who were known to have few secrets from each other and no intimacies--or
rather no confidences--with any other woman at Fort Frayne--Mrs. Dade
possibly excepted.
But what they thought, their liege lords stood ready to swear to; and it
was to them Webb turned in his perplexity when it became apparent that
his young adjutant was ensnared. It was to Ray he promptly opened his
heart, as that veteran of a dozen Indian campaigns, then drawing his
fourth "fogy," came hastening out to join the commander.
"Here's confirmation of the telegram. Read that, Ray," said Webb,
handing him the despatch from Fort Beecher. "Then come with me to
Field's. He's missing."
"Missing!" cried Ray, in consternation, as he hurriedly opened the page.
"In God's name what do you mean?"
"I mean he isn't in quarters and hasn't been in bed to-night. Now I need
him--and it's two o'clock.
Pages:
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38