This work is constantly being done by the army, so that the military officials will have complete information about every part of our big country, not only for use in times of peace, but in time of war, should we ever be invaded by a foreign foe.
Behold then, early one morning, Ned, Bob and Jerry, the latter in command, with four other men, ready for the practice hike.
“You will use your discretion, Corporal,” Captain Trainer had said to Jerry. “If an emergency occurs, and you have to remain out all night, seek the best shelter you can. You have your dog tents, and you have rations enough until after breakfast to-morrow. If you should need more you are empowered to requisition them, giving a proper receipt for them, payment to be made later.”
“Yes, sir!”
Jerry saluted and marched his men down the road, not a little proud of his mission.
There was nothing remarkable about the hike. Hundreds of other squads had done the same thing, and had brought back good maps. Jerry wanted to do the same.
Everything went well. They reached their objective, had supper, and camped for the night. And then their troubles began. For no sooner were they snug in their shelter tents than a violent storm came up, with thunder and lightning, and two of the tents, low as they were, blew over.
“Say, this is fierce!” exclaimed Bob, for the tent he and Ned were under had gone down. “Can’t we find some other shelter?”
Jerry came out into the storm and darkness to look about. He realized that he was responsible for the comfort of his men.