“Now,” she continued, “since we have eight girls, we will elect a patrol leader and a corporal.”
“What are their duties, Miss Phillips?” asked Lily.
Miss Phillips smiled. “Scout Andrews,” she replied, “after this when you wish to ask a question, rise, salute me, and say ‘Captain Phillips.’ If I return the salute, then you ask your question. Now—let’s try that!”
Lily did as she was requested, and Miss Phillips explained that the duties of these officers were to get the girls out to the meetings, lead the marching, conduct opening exercises, and so forth. Frances Wright was elected patrol leader and Lily Andrews was made corporal.
“Now,” said Miss Phillips, “open your handbooks to page 44, and you will see the different ceremonies to be used. We will begin with a simple one to-night.”
After she had read the instructions aloud, she blew a series of short whistles and the girls assembled in line—with Frances at the top, and Lily next. Lily was sent to the room next door for the flag, and at the command of the Captain, the girls pledged allegiance. Then they sang one stanza of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” standing at attention. After this, led by Miss Phillips, they took the Scout oath. With their right hands raised to their foreheads, they repeated:
“On my honor I will try
To be true to God and my country.
To help others at all times.
To obey the Scout laws.”