"That remains to be proven, Sergeant. I have, of course, met the lady, and found her pleasant and agreeable as a companion. Deuced pretty too; hey, Benson? Why do you say she masquerades as McDonald's niece?"
"Because her maiden name was Carson and the Major's sister married a man named Counts."
"There might have been another marriage. Surely McDonald must know."
"Miss Molly says not, Colonel. He has known nothing of his sister for over twenty years, and accepted this woman on her word."
"Well, well! Interesting situation; hey, Benson? Like to get to the bottom myself. Damme if it don't sound like a novel. However, the thing before us right now is to discover what has become of Miss McDonald." He straightened up in his chair, then leaned across the table. "Captain Kane, make a thorough examination of McDonald's quarters first. If the girl is not found there, detail two men to accompany Sergeant Hamlin on a search of the town."
"Very well, sir; come on, Sergeant."
"Just a moment—if we find the trail leads beyond the town are we authorized to continue?"
"Certainly, yes. Adjutant, write out the order. Anything more?"
"I should prefer two men of my own troop, sir, mounted."
"Very well; see to it, Captain."