He went over his grievance while he handled the dangerous stuff. The boss was taking chances; that was what he meant. He was not afraid of danger. Afraid!
Hardin, buttoned up to the ears, his soft hat pulled tight over his forehead, was waiting impatiently. Here was something to be done; he coveted the activity.
“I thought you were never coming,” he grumbled.
“Let me take it!” pleaded the engineer.
“Nonsense, there is no danger.” Hardin saw personal affection in the plea. He put his hand affectionately on the man’s shoulder.
“But you are needed here.”
“The trouble is not here; it won’t be either, if we blow out the channel. Here, jump out.”
“I want to go.” Silent kept a stubborn hold on the steering gear. He felt Hardin’s place was at the levee.
“You go home and catch a nap; this is my job.” He was standing on the step. “Crank her.”
There was nothing for Silent to do but to get out. Hardin pointed the long nose of the car into the darkness. She was off like the greyhound she suggested, missing a telegraph pole by half an inch.