"I'm thankful you've come, Prescott."
"Mr. Prescott, if you please," interposed the officer coldly.
"I'm mighty glad you've come. Off yonder we've been hearing firing at intervals ever since daylight."
"How recently have you heard it?" queried Prescott.
"Within ten minutes."
"Thank heaven, then!" muttered the lieutenant. "The Seaforth people are holding out."
"Is it at Seaforth's?" demanded Draney, with assumed eagerness.
"So I imagine. But I must hurry on my way. Take care of yourself, Mr. Draney."
Perhaps that last bit of advice was delivered in a tone of some sarcasm. Draney appeared to feel very uneasy.
"Prescott—Mr. Prescott—aren't you going to leave some of your men here to protect this place?"