“That’s very true,” said Joseph. “Perhaps General Atkinson intends to starve him out.”
“That’s not my way, though,” exclaimed Robert. “I’m for going right into the swamps or any other place where he may lead us. Finish it up and get it over with as soon as we can, is my idea.”
“I don’t know,” argued the more cautious Joseph. “Starving him out may take longer, but it is just as good a way in the end and we won’t lose half as many men.”
“Still,” laughed Robert, “I don’t suppose any of the officers are going to ask us for our opinion in the matter, so there isn’t much use in our talking about it.”
“You’re right, Bob,” agreed Joseph. “Who is this coming?” he exclaimed a moment later. Some man was making his way through the darkness toward their fire. It was impossible to see who it was and the prowler came all the way up to the fire without being recognized. It was then discovered that the visitor was Walt.
“I’ve come to apologize to you, Joseph,” he said, after he had made himself known. “I acted badly this afternoon and I know it. I’m sorry and I want you to shake hands with me and forgive me if you can. Will you do it?”
“Of course I will,” exclaimed Joseph at the same time putting forth his hand.
“I did lie,” continued Walt. “I acted like a coward, too, and you showed me up for what I was. I was mad at you for doing it at the time, but I got to thinking it over and decided that I deserved it all. From now on I’m going to try to make up for it, and I want your friendship and that of your brother, and Deerfoot’s, too. Do you think I stand any chance of getting it?”
“You certainly do,” said Robert heartily. This red-headed boy had a quick temper but he had also a correspondingly warm heart. He saw that Walt meant what he had said, and that was all that Robert needed. He shook hands warmly with the trapper. Deerfoot in silence also offered his hand.
“Now,” said Walt. “I’m going to ask another favor of you three. I have been ordered to carry some dispatches for General Atkinson. He told me to select my own party and I want you three as members of it. Will you go?”