But swift and direct went a despatch from the sergeant in charge at Windermere to the officer commanding D Division. The news reached Sam a day ahead of us.
To him, as the nearest magistrate, it was reported that Doctor Eliphalet P. Burrows was in custody charged with fraud, with destroying the security for his debts, and with burning the Throne cabins where he was caretaker in charge. Mr. Rams was detained on charges brought by Burrows. Constable la Mancha, riding double with the runaway wife of Inspector Sarde, was on his way to report to the O.C.D. Division.
So we were expected, and on my arrival in camp at Wild Horse Creek, I was paraded at once before my officer commanding.
"Constable," he asked, "what do you mean by bringing Mrs. Sarde into my camp?"
"The lady, sir, whom I have brought is the Señora de la Mancha."
Sam turned to the orderly corporal. "Place this man," he said, "under arrest."
I handed over my side-arms.
"Prisoner," said Sam, "you will be charged with going through the form of marriage without permission, and in defiance of regulations. You're entitled to twenty-four hours to prepare your defense."
"I don't ask a minute, sir. Whatever you do is going to be dead straight to-day or to-morrow."
"You take a grave risk playing with me," said Sam.