He strolled over to the tent, joked condescendingly with the guard who stood before it, and announced that the Captain had said he might talk to the prisoners.
"I did not," said the Captain unexpectedly at his shoulder.

"I said you couldn't.

After the trial, you can collect what's coming to you, Mr.Wilson.That is," he added hastily, "in case Allen should be convicted.

If he ain't, you can do as you please." He looked full at the guard.

"Shoot any man that attempts to enter that tent or talk to the prisoners without my permission, Shorty," he directed, and turned his back on Bill.
Bill did not permit one muscle of his face to twitch.