“I have only done my duty by him, sir. Certainly I have been rather sharp with him when I have noticed a disposition on his part to hang back.”
“Perhaps he has never forgiven you for saving his life,” said the colonel, smiling.
“Oh, surely not, sir.”
“I don’t know,” said the colonel. “But think a minute.”
“I was certainly very sharp with him that time when we explored the cavern, for that was one of the occasions when he hung back as if scared. But no, no, sir; I will not suspect the man of accusing me as he has through spite. He believes he saw me run, no doubt. But I did not.”
“There, Lennox, you’ve had a long interview, and I have my despatch to write up. I have plenty to worry my head without your miserable business. Now, no rashness, mind; but I shall expect to hear of you leading your men in the very front.”
“If they will follow me, sir, I shall be there,” said Lennox quietly. “If they will not, I shall go alone.”