"Sergeant Hyde!" said the colonel, abruptly, "I am going to make you a sergeant-major."
"Thank you, sir," said Hyde, saluting; "I had rather not take it."
"Heavens above!" cried the colonel, fiercely. He was of the old school, and used expletives freely. "You must be an idiot!"
"I am sensible, sir, of the honour you would do me, but—"
"Nonsense, man! I insist. I must have you."
"No, sir," said Hyde, firmly, "I must decline the honour."
"Was there ever such an extraordinary fellow? Why, man alive! it will reinstate you—"
"I must beg, sir," said Hyde, hastily interrupting, and looking with intention towards the adjutant.
"Yes, yes! I understand," said the colonel. "Leave us, Mr. Smallfield; I wish to speak to Sergeant Hyde alone."
"You have my secret, Colonel Blythe," said Hyde, when the adjutant had left the room, "but I have your promise."