“Was the tank full when you rolled her out?”
“Yes, sir. I rechecked. She was full up.” The corporal was positive.
“Did you gas her up immediately before the flight?”
“No, we always gas up as soon as the Spits come in, so they’ll be ready without delay. Sometimes they go right back up.”
Stan nodded. He had known that. “Was the squad out for breakfast?”
A sergeant spoke up. “Yes, sir. Lieutenant Garret sent us all out together. Squad Four was on duty down the line and could keep an eye on things and shove out for us if a call came.”
“He went with you?”
“Yes, he walked as far as his mess with us.”
Stan smiled. “Thanks,” he said. “My gas turned out a bit short and I got a ducking in the channel.”
He saw the men begin eying each other when he said that. He turned and walked away. Garret had fixed himself a slick alibi. Stan was sure he would have little luck cracking it. As he neared the door Arch Garret entered.