When Brooks had told De Barti that he and Pop were to blow the tree De Barti had emitted a high surprised “Blow that tree?!”
“That one.”
“That tree?!” It was impossible to comprehend. It was not a tree, it was a monument.
“Blow it, Goddamnit.”
“L-T!”
Then Doc and El Paso had moved Egan to the southern edge of the knoll top. Cherry had carried the wounded man’s ruck and weapon and had rejoined the perimeter force. Now Doc brings Hill and Frye down while El Paso leads Kinderly. Others help to bring the rucks and Doc’s gear. No one wants to bring Hayes’ body so Doc returns. McQueen brings Nahele down. He has cared for him the entire time. He would not have it any other way. The knoll top looks strangely barren. Everything except stumps and leaf debris and the giant teak have been cleared
