“He did not come back last night.”
“Sorry to hear it,” said the lieutenant. “Means trouble—punishment. I liked Smithson.”
“Yes, sir; everyone did.”
“Perhaps he’s taken ill, and had to stay somewhere.”
Jerry was silent.
“You don’t think he has bolted?”
Jerry made no answer, and the lieutenant swung round in his chair.
“Why, you do,” he cried, excitedly. “Do you know that bolting means desertion, sir?”
“Yes, sir,” said Jerry, humbly.
“Then you’re a fool, Brigley.”