“Most of us joined the CCC because we didn’t have any choice. The Depression got to be too much for us and our families to stand up to alone. Then we came here and saw how, by working together, we’ve got the power to change things. You want to give that up? And just to pay back a couple of people not worth our time?”

I had their attention.

“One more thing,” I added. “Here, it’s the Lundgrens’ place at risk. But maybe near your homes there’s other CCC camps trying to help your folks. You want those guys to give up when things don’t go right?

“I don’t know what it’s going to take to save the reservoir and the Lundgrens’ crops. But I think there’s not much the 597th can’t do, if we set our minds to it.”

I looked around and then threw everything into one question, knowing it was the only roll of the dice I’d get. “I’m not your junior leader anymore. I can’t tell you to do anything. But I can ask. Will you guys go with me?”

Charlie Winden walked over to his footlocker and pulled out work gloves, and Cal reached for his rain slicker.

Chapter 36

When A Barracks saw the whole of B Barracks running for the equipment sheds and garages, they came hurrying out, pulling on rain gear, calling questions. There was an excitement in the bustle and a hurrying purpose, like everyone was relieved to be back at work.

“Shovels,” I said, calling out what we’d need as I thought of it. “Get shovels, picks, all the sandbags. Drivers, be sure you’ve got full tanks of gas.”

Out of the corner of my eye I saw Compton hurrying toward me, blowing on a whistle. “What the hell are you doing back here?” he demanded. “And who told you to take over?”

“Nobody. They’re your guys.”

“Then see you remember it,” he said. He raised his voice. “Okay,” he yelled. “Listen up. I want . . .”

He ranted on, ignored by everybody. All by themselves, the guys got the equipment together, sorted themselves into the trucks, and got under way.

I jumped into the back of the last one. “Come on,” I yelled at him.

He stayed put.

Scotty and Mr. Caldwell were already at the reservoir. They were standing up on the berm, wind blowing at them, the rain that had once again started up beating into their faces. I knew they were glad to see us, but they didn’t waste words saying so.

“Just tell us how you want things shored up,” I said.