‘On the authority of those ribbons, my man,’ De Blacquaire answered.
‘You mistake your authority, friend Popinjay,’ said Polson. ‘I am not in your service yet.’
‘Has this man enlisted, Volnay?’ asked the Major.
‘No,’ said Volnay, ‘he hasn’t. He means to. And now I see what terms you’re on, I shall advise him very strongly, as an old friend of mine, to choose another regiment.’
‘Yes,’ said Polson. ‘I think I’ll choose another regiment. I’m not hungry for the cat-o’-nine tails, and I should earn it if I were under this brute’s command five minutes. You’d be a handsome chap in your own way, Major, if it were not for that silly sneer you’re pleased to carry about with you. But I warn you that, under any circumstances whatsoever, if you should presume upon any difference in our rank to insult me by a word, a gesture, or a look I’ll spoil your beauty for you.’
‘This man’s a friend of yours, is he, Volnay?’ said De Blacquaire, ignoring his antagonist.
‘Yes,’ said Volnay. ‘A very old friend of mine.’
‘Well, you can keep him with you. I’ve just got my appointment on the Staff. I’m off for Varna to-morrow, and I don’t suppose that I shall meet the gentleman again. I want a private word with you. If Mr. Jervase will be so kind as to relieve us of his presence.’
‘I’ll be back in a quarter of an hour,’ said Polson.
‘All right, old chap,’ Volnay answered, and made haste to add, before his old chum had left the room, ‘I’m devilish glad you’re going, De Blacquaire, and the whole regiment will share my sentiments. The mess will be a devilish sight happier without you.’