“We knew nothing of this!” said the Commandant. “We are prisoners ourselves; but your news gives us hope of a speedy release, for the General is not one to let the grass grow under his feet.”
“He is not, sir!” said West. “Then you shall bring me and the man who accused me face to face.”
“The sooner the better, my lad!” said the Commandant warmly. “How soon will he be up, doctor?”
“Within a fortnight, I hope, sir!” was the reply.
“Then goodbye for the present, my lad!” said the Commandant. “Your long-delayed despatch will send a thrill of hope through all here in Kimberley, for it breathes nothing but determination to hold the Boers at bay.”
“May I say one word more, sir?” said West excitedly.
“What do you think, doctor?”
“He has said enough, sir, and if he talks much more we shall have the fever back. Well, perhaps he’ll fret if he does not get something off his mind.”
“What is it, then?” said the Commandant.
“I had a brave comrade to ride with the despatch, sir.”