Page:Boys of the Fort.djvu/221

Rh As may be surmised, the moment the evildoers were alone each accused the other of having done something to bring on exposure.

Captain Moore knew his men well, and presently he sent for Drossdell and interviewed the soldier in private.

"I am sorry to see you in such trouble as this, Drossdell," he said. "I thought you were a better soldier."

"I haven't done anything, captain."

"It is useless for you to deny it. Do you know what my men would do to you and Bicker if they learned the truth? They would rebel and hang you on the spot—and you would deserve it, too."

"Oh, captain, for the love of Heaven, don't put us in the hands of the boys!" pleaded Drossdell, turning a ghostly white.

"You and Bicker plotted to get us all sick and then let the Indians and Gilroy's gang in on us."

"I—I—"

"It is useless for you to deny it, for I heard your talk myself, and saw a letter written by Bicker to Gilroy."

"Bicker formed the plans!" cried Drossdell, breaking down completely. "He—he forced me to help him."

"Forced you?"

"Yes, captain, forced me I stood out a long