Herbert immediately went on to the fine marquee occupied by Colonel Le Noir.
The sentinel on duty there at once admitted him, and he passed on into the presence of the Colonel.
He saluted his superior officer with cold military etiquette, and said:
"I have come, sir, to ask of you an order to see Private Traverse Rocke, confined under the charge of sleeping on his post."
"I regret to say, Major Greyson, that it cannot be done," replied Le Noir, with ironical politeness.
"Will you have the kindness to inform me, sir, upon what pretext my reasonable request is refused?" asked Herbert, coldly.
"I deem it quite unnecessary to do so, sir," answered the Colonel, haughtily.
"Then I have no more to do here," replied Herbert, leaving the tent.
He immediately threw himself into his saddle and rode off to the Archiepiscopal palace of Tacubaya, where the General-in-Chief had fixed his headquarters.
Here he had to wait some little time before he was admitted to the presence of the gallant commander, who received him with all the stately courtesy for which that renowned officer is distinguished.