“The coast!” almost shrieked Sandy.
“Yes,” returned Dick a little proudly, “we’re going straight through to the Pacific!”
CHAPTER XIII
A SCOUT RETURNS
Contrary to Dick’s expectations, Sandy did not resent being left behind. True, the young Scotchman had experienced a certain amount of regret to learn that he was to be separated from his two chums and miss the excitement and adventure of the western trip, yet this feeling passed quickly. In spite of his occasional rebellious mood and seeming stubbornness, Sandy was really a philosopher. His grumbling and complaining seldom were taken seriously. Under the surface, somewhere deep down within him, were the flowing springs of an unconquerable good nature.
He knew that it was necessary for someone to stay with Sergeant Richardson and the prisoners, and he accepted Rand’s orders unhesitatingly. Even if he couldn’t go along with Dick and Toma, he could at least prove his worth in other ways. He’d see this thing through to the finish.
Shortly after the two boys had left, Sergeant Richardson completely recovered consciousness. It was not long before he sat up and began to ask questions. He smiled a little wanly when he had been informed of Corporal Rand’s successful strategy.
“I’m glad they got La Qua. Tomorrow, Sandy, we’ll take these prisoners back to Wandley’s post. Perhaps we can find a place where we can lock them up. I’ll put a man in charge.”
“Good idea,” approved Sandy. “It isn’t far from here. At the same time, we can find out how Pearly is getting on.”
Later, the policeman walked over, a little unsteadily, to the corner where the prisoners lay.
“Well, La Qua, I’m glad to see you here. Have you anything to say for yourself?”