“Curiosity largely; thought I'd like to ask you a question or two.”

“You—you're not from the fort?”

“Nothing to do with the army; this is a private affair.”

The boy was sullen from drink, his eyes heavy.

“Then who the devil are you? I never saw you before.”

“That's very true, and my name wouldn't help any. Nevertheless, you're perfectly welcome to it. I am Jack Keith.” No expression of recognition came into the face of the other, and Keith added curtly, “Shall we talk?”

There was a moment's silence, and then Willoughby swung his feet over the edge of the bed onto the floor.

“Fire away,” he said shortly, “until I see what the game is about.”

[ [!-- H2 anchor --] ]

Chapter XVIII. Interviewing Willoughby