Page:Hugh Pendexter--Kings of the Missouri.djvu/165

 to be the most serious affront that could be put upon him. He tried to recall the captain's voice and identify it. He decided not to answer the next twenty-minute call. The captain would come out to see if he were asleep and he would demand an explanation and ask to be released.

Because of his increasing anger the time passed quickly.

"All's well!" called the captain, his voice sounding much nearer than it did on the first call.

The reply was made by three men, skipped Lander and after a few moments' hesitation was taken up by the fifth guard. As he had expected Lander soon heard the soft steps of some one approaching and made out a vague figure in the starlight.

"Halt!" he snapped.

"That ye, Lander?"

"I should say so. Who are you? Sounds like Rummy."

"Rummy's right," answered the captain, swaggering forward. "Why didn't ye answer my call?"

"Because I've stood one watch and am tired. I wasn't relieved. Get a man here so I can turn in."