“Humph! Duty! You’re pale as a ghost, man. Shaky! Wonder how you dare to come here with your deceptions. Back to the barracks with you and don’t let me see you again until you’re a well man.”
Rand smiled, saluted, and half-turned to leave the room when a thought came to him.
“No objections to my taking a stroll, sir? Think the fresh air will do me good.”
“Certainly,” said the inspector a little crisply, then turned to his work, only to raise his eyes again as Rand walked over in the direction of the door.
“Hold. Have you heard the latest news, corporal?”—more kindly.
Rand hesitated, one hand on the knob of the door.
“No, sir, I haven’t.”
“Good news. Wonderful news.” Cameron’s eyes were sparkling now. “Most astonishing too. The relief expedition left Peace River Crossing yesterday and will be here before night. Marvelous!”
Rand wondered if he had heard aright. There was a faint trace of incredulity in his voice as he answered:
“Marvelous, indeed, sir. Last year Sergeant Richardson made the trip in a little less than ten days. Who’s leading this expedition?”