The signal was given to dismount and disrobe the horses. Within a minute the white figures gathered about a newly opened grave.
The men began to whisper excitedly to one another.
“What’s up, Steve Hoyle?” asked one of the raiders.
“It’s beyond me, sonny. The Grand Dragon of the State honours us with his presence to-night and is in command--he will no doubt explain. Have a drink.” He handed the group a flask of whiskey, and passed on.
When the men had assembled beside the shallow grave, the chaplain led in prayer.
The tall figure with the double scarlet cross on his breast removed his helmet and faced the men.
“Boys,” began John Graham, “you have assembled here to-night for the last time as members of the Invisible Empire!”
The exclamations, half incredulous, half angry, came from every direction with suddenness and unanimity which showed the men to be utterly unprepared for such an announcement.
“Yes,” the even voice went on, “I hold in my hand an official order of the Grand Wizard of the Empire, dissolving its existence for all time. Our Commander-in-chief has given the word. As loyal members of the order, we accept his message.”
“Then our parade to-night was not a defiance of these soldiers who have marched into town?” sneered a voice.
“No, Steve Hoyle, it was not. Our parade to-night was in accordance with this order of dissolution. It was our last formal appearance. Our work is done----”
Steve saw in a flash his opportunity to defeat his enemy and make himself not only the master of his Congressional District but of the state itself.
“Not by a damn sight!” snapped the big square jaw.
“You refuse as the commander of this district to obey the order of the Grand Wizard?” asked the tall quiet figure.
“I refuse, John Graham, to accept your word as the edict of God!” was the quick retort. “Our men can vote on this and decide for themselves.”
The quick responses which came from all sides showed the temper of the men. John Graham stepped in front of the big leader of the district.
“Look here, Steve Hoyle, I want no trouble with you to-night, nor in the future--but I’m going to carry this order into execution here and now.”
“Let’s see you do it!” was the defiant answer.
There was the ring of conscious authority in his tones and the men responded with sharp attention.