Hardy glowed with admiration. Dammit but he liked this man. No cringing, no begging for quarter. Voice cool and steady.
Morely turned. Silently the hands of the priest gripped his.
“When you are shut away between dark walls, have courage, my son. Always my prayers are with you an’ I shall be waiting for your return.” The gentle voice faltered.
The two men walked to the door. With misty eyes the priest listened to the retreating crunch of their webs.
“It seems you overstep in pleading this man’s case, sergeant.”
Inspector McKenzie looked narrowly at Hardy’s earnest face.
“I have but given you a detailed report, sir. Only adding that the prisoner saved my life. I believe, twice. I have also reported what I have heard concerning him. I made inquiries at every Post on the way here. I questioned people who know him. He is honored by all.
“He has given three years of his life to the North without reward. His services are invaluable, for you know, sir, we cannot get half the physicians we need up here. He stamped out the pest at Nichikun. In other Posts, it is still raging. And Jim King, the driver, is dead, too.”
The inspector sat silent. “Bring in your prisoner,” he said finally.
Hardy saluted, left the inspector’s court. Morely raised haggard eyes, questioning.