“Come in, gentlemen,” said Colonel Harris.
They came slowly forward and grouped themselves just inside the door.
“I’m taking over!” roared Blick. “This garrison has needed a house-cleaning for a long time and I’m just the man to do it!”
“How about the rest of you?” asked the colonel.
“Beg pardon, sir,” said one hesitantly, “but we think Colonel Blick’s probably right. I’m afraid we’re going to have to confine you for a few days. Just until after the I.G.’s visit,” he added apologetically.
“And what do you think the I.G. will say to all this?”
“Colonel Blick says we don’t have to worry about that,” said the officer. “He’s going to take care of everything.”
A look of sudden anxiety played across Harris’ face and for the first time he seemed on the verge of losing his composure.
“How?” he demanded, his voice betraying his concern.
“He didn’t say, sir,” the other replied. Harris relaxed visibly.