A discussion arose on this point. The sentiment seemed unanimous that the Frenchmen ought to have been able to protect themselves, but was divided on the opinion as to how far the camp was now committed to action.
“They’ll think they’ve bluffed us out, if we drop her now,” argued one side.
“It ought not to be the policy of this camp to mix up with private quarrels,” argued the other.
John Semple decided the question.
“It looks like we’re in the hole,” he admitted, “and have got to do something. Now, I tell you what I’m going to do: I’m going to have Jim here give these keskydees blank warrants that they can serve themselves, and to suit themselves.”
This ingenious solution was very highly commended.
“Unless somebody else has something to bring up, I guess that’s about all,” announced Semple.
“No inquests?” some one asked.
“Nary an inquest. This camp is gettin’ healthy. Adjourned!” And the meeting was brought to a formal conclusion by a tap of the pistol on the empty barrel.