Captain Macklin by Richard Harding Davis
page 82 of 255 (32%)
page 82 of 255 (32%)
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reason the spectacle of Aiken's distress seemed to afford him
satisfaction. "I should prefer to report to General Laguerre," Aiken said, at last. "I am in command here," Reeder answered, sharply. "General Laguerre is absent--reconnoitering. I represent him. I know all about Mr. Quay's mission. It was I who recommended him to the General. Where are the guns?" For a moment Aiken stared at him helplessly, and then drew in a quick breath. "I don't know where they are," he said. "The Panama arrived two days ago, but when I went to unload the guns Captain Leeds told me they had been seized in New Orleans by the Treasury Department. Someone must have--" Both Major Reeder and the officer interrupted with a shout of anger. "Then it's true!" Reeder cried. "It's true, and--and--you dare to tell us so!" Aiken raised his head and for a moment looked almost defiant. "Why shouldn't I tell you?" he demanded, indignantly. "Who else was there to tell you? I've travelled two days to let you know. I can't help it if the news isn't good. I'm just as sorry as you are." The other officer was a stout, yellow-haired German. He advanced a |
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