Though Challoner's face was calm, Clarke inferred some anxiety to find his nephew, and answered cautiously: "It would be possible, but whether a party sent up could strike the others' trail is a different matter."
"Very well," said Challoner; "we'll talk of it again. Go on with what you wished to say."
He was suspicious, for his visitor's looks were not in his favour, and the man gave him a keen glance.
"It concerns your nephew's earlier history."
"That is of most importance to himself and me. It can't interest you."
"It interests me very much," Clarke rejoined with an ironical smile. "I must ask you to let me tell you what I know."
Challoner, who thought he had better learn it, consented, and Clarke gave him what he admitted was a very accurate account of the action on the Indian frontier.
"Now," he concluded, "the question, Who gave the order to retreat? is of vital importance to you."
"In a sense, it has been answered."
"I think incorrectly."