This will be hard to
some of you, who believe the strikers are right. But we have nothing to
do with that. We have taken our oath to preserve order and law, and we
are interested in having it done, far more than is the capitalist, for
he can buy protection, whether laws are enforced or not, while the
laboring man cannot. But if any man here is not prepared to support the
State in its duty to protect the life and property of all, by an
enforcement of the laws, I wish to know it now."
Peter stood a moment waiting, and then said, "Thank you, men."
The roll-call was made, and Peter sent off a line to headquarters,
stating that his regiment, with only eighteen reported "missing" was
mustered and ready for further orders. Then the regiment broke ranks,
and waited.
Just as two o'clock struck a despatch was handed Peter. A moment later
came the rap of the drum, and the men rose from the floor and fell in. A
few sharp, quick words were passed from mouth to mouth. Guns rose to the
shoulders with a click and a movement almost mechanical.
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