Steadman saluted again, and grasping his sword ran down the line, while a wave of comment and ejaculation followed just behind him.
At this moment a whistle blew inside the ferry house, and a porter slowly swung the gates open.
The colonel drew his sword.
"Attention!" said he, glancing behind him.
"Attention!" ordered the lieutenant colonel.
"Attention!" shouted the majors.
As the regiment stiffened, Steadman stepped to the head of his company.
"Good morning, Mr. Coffin," he remarked nonchalantly.
"Good morning," replied the astounded lieutenant.
Then as the order flew down the line Steadman drew his sword.