“Did he? You knew I was not?”
Ingleborough nodded.
“What have they decided?” he asked.
“To let the matter drift for the present: only I’m to keep an eye on the scoundrel. They say that we shall all have our hands full enough directly in strengthening the town, and they’re right. I’m afraid we’re going to have a warm time.”
“Think they’ll attack us?” asked West.
“Safe to. Now’s the time for you volunteers to show what you’re made of, for I believe that the enemy will make straight for Kimberley. Our getting the diamond-fields has always been a sore point with them, and we shall have our work cut out to save them.”
“Yes,” said Ingleborough thoughtfully, “and if I’m not mistaken, you’ll have more cause to watch Anson than for smuggling. He has his knife into the company.”
“Exactly,” said Norton; “and if he can make friends with and help the enemy, he will.”
“You mean he’ll be a dangerous spy in the camp?” said West excitedly.
“That’s it, Mr West; but if he plays that game and is caught his punishment will not be a couple of years on the breakwater.”