“Mr. Mercer!” he called, loudly. All of the assembled soldiers, including the colonel, turned to look at him.
“What is it, Mr. Rowen?” Jim asked, quietly.
“You will kindly consider yourself under arrest for starting the stampede!” continued Rowen, still in the loud voice.
His words produced a decided sensation. The colonel looked particularly astonished. Terry groaned and nudged Don.
“What do you know about that! Jim started the stampede!”
“Mr. Mercer, did you start the stampede?” the colonel asked.
“No, sir,” replied Jim, promptly.
The colonel turned to Rowen. “What is your exact charge against Captain Mercer, Mr. Rowen?” he asked.
“I charge Captain Mercer with being absent from camp without official leave, of stampeding the horses, and of threatening a sentry in the performance of his duty!” cried Rowen.
“Those are very serious charges, Captain Mercer,” the colonel told Jim. “What have you to say to them?”