"
It was a false card to play, for George grew obstinate at once. "Then
I'm going to be in the same box as you from the beginning. Do you
really think I am going to desert you? Hang it, you're more important
than Bardur."
"Oh, for God's sake, listen to reason," Lewis cried in despair. "You
must go at once. I can't or I would. It's our only chance. It's a
jolly good chance of death anyway, but it's a naked certainty unless you
do this. Think of the women and children and the people at home. You
may as well talk about letting the whole thing slip and getting back to
Bardur with safe skins. We must work the telegraph and then try to hold
the road with the Khautmi men, or be cowards for evermore. We're
gentlemen, and we are responsible."
"I didn't mean it that way," said George dismally. "But I want you to
come with me. I can't bear the thought of your being butchered here
alone, supposing the beggars come before we get back. You're sure there
is time?"
"You've three hours before you, but every moment is important. This is
the frontier line, and this fire will do for one of the signals. You'll
find me here. I haven't slept for days." And he yawned with feigned
drowsiness.
"Then--good-bye," said George solemnly, holding out his hand a second
time. "Remember, I'm devilish anxious about you. It's a pretty hot job
for us all; but, gad! if we pull through you get the credit.
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