As Barry stepped off the train he was met by the R. T. O.,
an old Imperial officer with a brisk and important military manner.
"You are the O. C. train, sir?" he inquired.
"I am, sir," replied Barry, saluting.
"You have had a hard time, I understand," said the R. T. O., drawing him
off to one side and speaking in a low tone.
"Yes sir, we HAVE had a hard time," replied Barry, "at least the men
have. This is my report, sir."
The R. T. O. took the document, opened it, glanced hurriedly through it.
"Ah," he said, "ninety-seven casualties, thirteen fatal. Very bad. Six
burned. This is truly terrible."
"There were only two soldiers burned, sir," replied Barry, "but it IS
terrible, especially when you think that the men were going on leave and
were supposed to have got quit of the danger zone."
"Very, very terrible," said the officer. "You ran off the track, I
understand."
"No, sir, it was a collision. There must have been gross carelessness,
sir," said Barry. "I trust there will be an investigation.
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