Page:Hugh Pendexter--Kings of the Missouri.djvu/168

 defense. Lander quickly narrated his experience. Bridger wheeled on the bully and demanded:

"You put him in to take the place of one of Rummy's men?"

"Had to, boss. One man shy, kicked by a mule."

"Why didn't you explain to him?"

"Didn't 'low there was any call to. Orders is orders an' he quit his post, leavin' it naked."

"I left Rummy there," broke in Lander.

"Porker, you'll act as guard after this. Papa Clair will take your place as captain. Lander, you quit your post without being relieved. It was your place to stick there till morning if necessary. You should have depended on me to see justice was done. You're fined ten dollars and three walks. I'll not take your gun as you may need it against Injuns."

Three days of walking decided Lander it would be better to fit into Bridger's machine than to try to be an independent cog. He also began to appreciate the virtue of placing the general good above any personal preference. He vowed he would never be sentenced to walk again. Yet very soon he was to find himself in trouble, and this time because his intentions were altruistic.