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 CHAPTER XXVIII.

THE DEMANDS OF THE ENEMY.

was an hour later, when the excitement had cooled down a little, that Captain Moore sent for Benson again. Wondering what was to follow, the old scout hurried to the room in which the young commander was transacting his business.

"I want a little talk with you in private, Benson," said the young officer.

"Yes, captain."

"I know you've been wondering why I didn't send you to Fort Prescott instead of sending Hank Leeson."

"You had a right to do as you pleased, captain."

"The truth of the matter is, Benson, I wanted you here. You brought Joe and Darry to the fort, and those two boys need looking after. We are going to have a fight, sooner or later. We may win, and if we do, all right. But if we don't"

"You want me to stand by the boys to the last?" put in the old scout quickly.

"I do, Benson; and, no matter what comes, I Rh