I was taken to the parlor, where the furniture had been somewhat rearranged, and found myself confronting Mortimer, the officer I had heard addressed as Seldon, and Grant.

The latter was speaking vehemently: "I tell you, Colonel, this has got to be done; he is a spy, and here for some infamous purpose." "Well, I've sent for the fellow, Grant; what more do you want?
I'll give him five minutes in which to explain, and that is all.

Seldon, have the men go on ahead along the trail." "Yes, sir, they are off already." "Very well.

Have our horses outside; we can catch up within a mile or two." He wheeled sharply about, and looked at me sternly.

"Well, sir, I have very little time to waste on you at present, but I advise truthful answers.