Johnson stared at the pastor. “I’m familiar with the parables, Reverend. So forgive me if I ask whether your motive in wanting to go with my men is to find the boy or to earn absolution for not keeping your eye on him in the first place?”

The pastor flinched. “He’s twelve, Colonel. He has no one other than those of us on this march. He was in my care and I neglected him. I intend to make amends. Besides, there is an advantage in my joining the search.”

“Really? How so?”

“I may have failed him, but he does know me. He does not know these men.” The pastor swept a hand to encompass the corporal and his party. “After what he saw happen to his guardians, what do you think he might do if he sees these strangers bearing down upon him?”

There was a silence. Scott leaned in close. “He could have a point, sir. They’re fine soldiers, but they do have the look of the ruffian about them. No offence, Corporal,” he added, throwing a quick glance over his shoulder.

“None taken, sir,” Stryker responded drily.

“I’m also another pair of eyes, Colonel,” De Witt said. “And I know the place where he might have left the column. It could save time, and time is of the essence, is it not? I’m assuming your scouts would have advised us if the enemy was in the vicinity. They have not done so. There would appear to be little risk, therefore, in my joining the search.”

Johnson flicked a glance towards his second-in-command. Scott looked back at him and shrugged.

What harm could it do?

Johnson turned, collecting his thoughts. “They’ll be out overnight.”

“I’ve a warm blanket and a coat, and I have provisions in my saddlebag. I’m used to the inconvenience, Colonel, believe me.”

“And are you armed, Reverend?”

“I am, sir.”

At least you didn’t say, “the Lord will protect me”, Johnson thought. He held the pastor’s gaze for several long seconds and then sighed resignedly.

“Very well. While it goes against my better judgement, you may ride along with Corporal Stryker and his men. But know this, sir: they will make no allowances. It will be your job to keep up with them. And you will obey the corporal at all times. You understand me?”

“Perfectly, Colonel. Thank you.”

Johnson turned. “Corporal Stryker, this gentleman will assist you in the search.”

“Very good, sir.” Stryker’s face stayed neutral. Then, with a sideways glance to where the preacher had taken his wife’s hand, he enquired in a low voice, “And if we can’t find the boy, Colonel?”