In a few minutes the officer returned. “This way,� he said.
Tom saw seated before the fire a large man in buff-and-blue uniform. He rose, saying, “What news have you, Captain?�
“This lad, sir, brought from the town at some peril this map and sketch. It seems to be some one’s notion of an attack.�
The tall officer put the sketch aside, but as he considered the map he said, looking up: “This is Major Montresor’s own map and is invaluable. What is your name, my boy?�
“I’m a son of Colonel Markham, sir.�
“A most gallant officer. And how, my lad, did you happen to get this map?�
Tom was a little disturbed by this authoritative gentleman. Being a boy, he had, of course, been left standing, while McLane and the tall man were seated. He understood that he must stand until requested to sit, but it did add a little to a certain embarrassment, rare for Tom.
“Tell your story, Tom,� said McLane.
“Well, sir, the horses ran away, and the map was in the sleigh.� Tom stopped. Action, not speech, was his gift, then and later.
“It is not very clear, but the lad is tired.�