That night, when Thoms ventured back to sate his gloating eyes again upon St. Udo Brand, he sought for him in vain—his sub-officer occupied his tent.
"Where is the colonel?" asked Thoms, turning sharply on the nearest soldier.
"Gone, two hours ago."
"Gone!"
How white the sallow face blanched. How the tones quavered.
"By Heaven, I have lost him," cried Thoms, vehemently. "Where did he go?"
"On a secret embassy somewhere."
"Without me!" groaned Thoms, with a wild flash of the wolfish eyes. "He has stolen away from me—he has found me out!"