The girl looked from Ted to Barrows, and then at her father.
"That is not the question, sir. He represents the army in his person when he comes to you on the army's business."
"Well, I can't fight the whole army," said Ted, laughing, "but I can certainly take care of myself in all ordinary matters."
Barrows half rose in his chair as if he was going to resent Ted's remark.
"Sit down, Barrows," said the colonel explosively. "The young man is right as far as that is concerned. Now, sir, I've half a mind not to accept your beef at all. I consider that you have not properly filled the contract."
"I certainly have," said Ted stoutly. "The beef was on the government reservation fifteen minutes before the time limit according to the acknowledgment of Lieutenant Barrows himself."
"I said no such thing," almost shouted the lieutenant.
"Be careful," said Ted. "That is giving me the lie direct. Several of my men heard you say so."
"Mr. Barrows, please be quiet," said Miss Croffut. "I shall go in."
"I beg your pardon, Miss Croffut," said Ted, rising and bowing. "I had no intention of carrying on a quarrel in your presence. Colonel, I shall be glad to discuss this matter with you in your office if you wish, but not here. I have no quarrel with you, and I do not propose to, if I can avoid it."