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Show BIM BA SI-II JOYCE from the chief that he should report himself there. 29 He feared the worst from the stern soldier, who spared others as little as he spared himself. And his worst forebodings were realised. Travel-s lined and w *ary, he reported himself one night at the general's quarters. Behind a table piled with papers and strewn with maps the famous soldier and his Chief of Intelligence were deep in plans and figures. was a cold one. Their greeting i " I understand, Captain Joyce," said the general, "that you have allowed a very important prisoner to slip through your fingers." "I am . rry, sir." " No doubt. But that will not mend matters. Did you ascertain an) 1mg about him before you lost him '2 " " No, sir." " How was that ? " "I could get nothing out of him, sir." " Did you try 2" " Yes, sn ' I did what I could." -‘ ""hat (I you do ? " ‘* \Vell, sir, I threatened to use physical force." "' " " " \Vhat ( (I he s: y 23 " He said nothing." \\"hat was he like :4 i" A tall man, sir. Rather a desperate character, I should think." " Any way by which we could identify him ? " *‘ A long black beard, sir. twitching his l'aee." Grey eyes. And a nervous way of " \Vell, Captain Joyce." said the general, in his stern, inflexible voice. " I cannot congratulate you upon your first exploit in the Egg) )tian army. You are aware that every English ol‘lieer in this force is a picked man. I have the whole British army from which to draw. It is necessary, therefore. that I should insist upon the very highest elliciency. It would be unfair upon the others to pass over any obvious Want ol' zeal or intelligence. You are seconded from the Royal Mallows, I understand ?" " Yes, sir." " I have no doubt that your colonel will be glad to see you l'nllilling your regimental duties again." lIilary Joyce's heart was too heavy for words. lie was silent. "I will let you know my final (lesion tomorrow morning." .loyee saluted and turned upon his heel. ‘ You can sleep upon that, you beauty, and a 5 od night's rest may it give you 1 " VIIJNI Mllsxwllm |
