At first, however, they seemed more eager to give it, talking fast and loud, and sometimes across the two young strangers who were watching every movement on the plain. But when the march down from barracks ended in another motionless line upon the green, and each girl began to pick out her friends and favourites, despite the confusing chin-straps, then it was impossible not to listen.
"Look at Mr. True," said one; "he's a mere mathematical line."
"He'd be adorable, if he wasn't such a poke," said another.
"I'd give more to see that man brought to terms!"
"What terms?"
"Unconditional surrender. Down on his knees."
"Mr. Randolph is just behind him," said the first. "And Mr. Crane is fourth from the end in B Company."
"Which is Mr. Kindred?" said Rose, turning to her.
"Second man with the cross-belt. Do you know him?" said the young lady, much surprised.
"I have met him several times."