He seemed utterly unable to grasp my full meaning, to comprehend the situation.
“You mean, you would fight with us? under my command?” he asked incredulously.
“I offer my services under your orders,” I replied clearly, “and these men in gray will obey mine.”
I actually thought he would extend his hand, but some remembrance suddenly restrained him.
“I—of course, Captain Wayne,” he stammered, at length, “I—I must accept your offer. I—I am grateful for it, but I shall insist upon one thing; there must be a final settlement of the personal matter existing between us. I am not willing to waive my rights in this.”
“There is no occasion for your doing so, sir,” I answered coldly, for I considered the reference at that moment in extremely ill taste. “When our work here has been accomplished, you will find me very much at your service.”
He bowed gravely.
“I am exceedingly glad we understand each other,” he said. “May I ask the size of your command?”
“Sergeant,” I questioned, “whom have we lost?”
“Nelson vos kilt, I dinks; der Kid is not here yet, und Sands vos vounded bad.”