"Howard, I must go to the wireless station to get in touch with Washington. It will likely take all night. Do you feel safe here without me?"
"I don't see why not. The little Scotch gunner and I can change watches during the night. Did you get any news?"
"Being called to the wireless is significant of something new."
"What's the war news?" struggling to recover himself.
"The general situation appears dark just now."
"How is that—just what do you mean?" he inquired anxiously.
"To make it short, the Hun has Europe whipped to a standstill, with Russia delivered to the enemy by a Judas Iscariot. The Boche does not believe we will ever take the place of the Russian Army. He doesn't think we can or will really fight, and, of course, is making his last colossal mistake. But just now his chest is away out. He is bold and impudent and a little more irrational than usual. For that reason I would not be surprised to see some such thing reflected in these parts unless we are unusually lucky. I feel like advising extreme caution—but I will know more when I get back from the wireless station," I added, watching Howard closely.
"Wood—I can only repeat what I have said—now I believe little Jim is safe from harm, besides I have placed her beyond want. I will fight with you as long as there's an ounce of Georgia blood left in me."