"I believe in Terry," Broderick remarked. "He's quarrelsome, but brave--and honest as a judge. I spent a lot of money in a newspaper fight to help him through this mess."
Bluxome eyed him keenly. "Yes, I know you did. I know you were sincere, too, Broderick. That's why we didn't bother you for bribing the editors. But you will get no thanks from Terry. He's against you on the slavery question. He'd kill you tomorrow if he got a chance. You or any other man that's in his way. Watch out for him."
"Nonsense," said Broderick, and walked away.
On August 18th the Vigilantes paraded for the last time. There were four artillery batteries with an armament of fifteen cannon. Then came the Executive Committee followed by two companies of dragoons, each preceded by a band; the medical staff of fifty members, the Committee of 1851, some half a hundred strong, and four regiments of infantry.
San Francisco was ablaze with decorations, vibrant with enthusiasm. Men, women, children, turned out to do the Vigilantes honor. A float symbolic of Fort Gunnybags was wildly cheered.
Benito Windham, Adrian Stanley and their families stood at the window of an office which had "B. Windham, Attorney and Counselor," inscribed upon its door. Benito had but recently passed his law examination and Alice was accordingly proud.
Broderick, who stood near her with an arm about young Robert, looked out at the pageant.
"They have been my enemies," he said, "but I take off my hat to your Committee. They have done a wondrous work, Benito lad."