"The two men who are with me can corroborate," replied Ainley.
"That will be helpful, of course," said Anderton. "But I am not trying the case, Ainley, I am only making the necessary inquiries that I may make my report at the Post. And I had better warn you that you may have a little trouble about this matter. Things in the North here are not like they were a few years back, when any wandering white man felt himself justified in potting any Indian whose presence he considered inimical. The administration of the Territories is very tender towards the natives under its charge, and watchful of their interests. It is bound to be. Since it expects the red man to accept its laws, it can do no less than compel whites to honour them."
"Oh I know all that," said Ainley, a trifle contemptuously. "But you won't claim that the circumstances of this affair are anything but extraordinary."
"No," agreed the policeman, "I think they are very extraordinary."
Something significant in his tones caused Ainley to look at him questioningly. The policeman, whose face was like a mask, was staring into the fire, and did not catch the look. Ainley made as if to speak, then changed his mind and remained silent. After a little time Anderton spoke again.
"Seems a long time since we three men foregathered at Oxford."
"Yes," agreed Ainley, apparently relieved at the change of subject. "A good bit of water has gone down the Isis since then."
"And all the circumstances considered it is rather a coincidence that we three should meet like this in the wilderness."
"It certainly is dramatic," admitted Ainley. "Quite a Drury Lane drama."
"More so than you know, Ainley," answered Anderton quickly. "Stane, let Ainley have a look at that piece of paper you carry about with you."