XXIX
THE SOLDIER'S OUTFIT—THE UNIFORM
The uniform helps to change a variegated mass of men into an army. A regiment would not look anything like what it does were it not for the uniform.
It is the kilts that not only have a history but that give the Highlanders their glorious influence. The Scotchman thinks the kilties are the only soldiers, and one can respect his enthusiasm, for great deeds have been done by the troops from the land of the heather.
The uniform puts the finishing touch on a soldier.
I have seen the boys take the oath, but it was after they visited the storehouse and came out in the glory of the khaki, with their swagger stick, that you saw written all over them, "I'm a soldier of the king."
That uniform is the badge of service. Every one who wears it is a marked man. His uniform proclaims him. He does not need a tag.
A girl was once converted at some church meetings, and she went up to an old member and with shining face, said, "Oh, Mr. Blank, I am a Christian, and I wish you were one too." The old man flushed and said, "My dear little girl, I have been a Christian for forty years." "Oh, I'm sorry," she said, "I'm sorry I spoke. I never knew."
He was a Christian but nobody knew. He lacked the marks.
But a soldier, once he dons the uniform, is at once known.