“Yes; that looks black against him!” said the General. “He is taken with the Boers, while those who charge him are men of trust, being chosen to bear despatches.”
“Because they were not found out, sir!” cried Anson. “There never was a worse pair of cheats and tricksters.”
“Perhaps not!” said the General. “So you were a prisoner with the Boers, my man?”
“Yes, General, and very glad to see the British troops come up and gain such a success.”
“You said that you was a dealer in mealies and corn,” growled the sergeant.
“Well, a man must do something for his living.”
“Of course,” said the General. “Well, you look simple and innocent enough.”
“I am, sir, really!” cried Anson.
“And never engaged in illicit-diamond-dealing?”
“Me, sir? Never,” cried Anson virtuously. “I was only charged by those two to save themselves! Then they got on, and I was trampled down.”