"That was not his fault."
"Very well. Valats then will be captain, and the second lieutenant will succeed him. Now, is there not an under-officer who has distinguished himself?"
"All the men distinguished themselves."
"But I cannot make them all lieutenants, stupid."
"That is a fact. Well, then there is Taberly."
"Who is Taberly?"
"A brave man."
"And would his appointment be well received?"
"With applause."
"Then there will be a vacant sub-lieutenancy. Who is the oldest sergeant-major?"