CHAPTER FIVE

Taking a moment to think, Lt. Garrison decided the older man was right…with a sigh clasped the offered hand, moving slowly allowed himself to be pulled to his feet but the change in elevation did a number on his equilibrium causing him to lose his balance. Groaning he rest his forehead on the man's chest. "Maybe it would be better if I just stay here." He quietly suggested.

Actor clasped the Warden by the shoulders offering support. "No…take a minute to get your bearings and we will continue."

"He doesn't look to steady." Goniff commented quietly, the three men had been watching the interaction between Actor and Garrison

Ya got that right…did you see how pale he was and the shadows under his eyes…Casino stared thoughtfully toward Garrison. "I think the Warden has had less time to rest than we have."

Chief watched as the LT stepped back and started making his way to the room he had recommended to Actor. "He hasn't slept much at all for the past week, too much happening in too short a time it's wearing on him and the concussion isn't going to help."

Casino glanced at the Indian. How do you know he hasn't slept and just how bad is he hurt?

"I hear him moving around…too much to be resting…as to how bad the concussion is…ask Actor he's the Doctor." Chief said as he walked away, heading for the couch. Taking a seat on the sofa he stared into the fire...wondering if the LT would be fit enough to meet their informant in town. The meet was set for ten in the morning on the east side of town with a member of the French underground. "Time will tell." He spoke the words out loud but too soft for the others to pick up then tipped his head back and closed his eyes.

Actor kept an eye on the LT as the younger man walked slowly to the bed farthest from the door and sat down, elbows resting on his knees Garrison closed his eyes for a moment. With a sigh he removed his outer shirt but when he bent to pull off his boots, almost fell off the bed.

Damn! He said quietly, grabbing hold of the mattress with both hands to prevent himself from taking a nose dive to the floor.

"You better lie down before you fall down LT…I will take care of the boots." Actor moved to the man's side.

Garrison looked up, nodded slowly then stretched out on the bed. "Thanks, Actor

After removing the boots and making sure the LT was comfortably tucked beneath the bedspread, he stood for a moment examining the man's features…before taking a seat on the side of the bed. How are you feeling now.

"My stomach has settled down but the headache is worse."

"You know I cannot give you anything for the headache and I am sorry for that. Actor said quietly.

Garrison held the older man's gaze. "I know." With a sigh, he continued, rubbing lightly at his temple while he spoke,. "You'll need to take turns on guard duty tonight…even though the Germans aren't supposed to know about this place doesn't mean they don't. Read through the papers Casino found and give me a brief when you wake me in a few hours."

How did you know I would be waking you? Actor asked frowning.

"Standard for a concussion isn't it…wake the patient every few hours…Garrison smiled, I've had a few head injuries in my time and you are our unofficial Doctor on Call."

Returning the smile, Actor patted the LT on the arm and stood up, "I will make sure the men behave and a guard will be posted."

"Thanks, you're in charge for now…see you in a few." Garrison closed his eyes and a moments later his breathing evened out.

The Con man stayed a few minutes longer then made his way back to the living room, Goniff and Casino were playing a game of poker at the kitchen table and Chief sat on the couch in front of the fire eyes closed but Actor knew he wasn't sleeping, the young man's shoulders were too tense. He was proven correct when Chief spoke.

How is he? Chief didn't bother opening his eyes when he spoke…too tired but still on full alert.

Actor moved to stand in front of the hearth, leaning against the mantle he glanced at the Indian. He's worn out but you know the Warden…he will keep going until he drops…unfortunately the concussion might shorten how soon he drops. I will be in charge for the time being…can you join us over at the table and we will go over a few things."

Chief opened his eyes to stare at the Con man before getting to his feet, making his way to the kitchen he leaned against the sink, arms crossed.

What's up Actor? Casino asked as he reshuffled the cards to start a new game.

'Is the Warden alright? Goniff asked as he looked at the cards Casino had dealt him.

"Like all of us (glancing at each man) he is tired and a head injury is not going to make it any easier on him…which means guard duties fall on the four of us. Chief…you can take the first watch…Casino next, then Goniff…I will take last watch…we will limit shifts to four hours each. During which…the outside perimeter is to be checked up to 100 yards in any direction…patrol to the farthest part of the lane but stay within visual range of the house as you go. Next up is sleeping arrangements, I will share with the Warden and when my time for guard duty comes up one of you will have to take my place…we need to wake Lt. Garrison every few hours at least for the next twenty-four hours. The three of you can trade off as far as beds go, glancing at each man Actor paused. Any questions?"