“Yes; but——”
“Just so. The Elfrida’s left out. I had it left out on purpose. Not that I intend to claim exemption on that account, like the poltroon Jonson, who tried to get off on the ground that the enrolling officer had spelt his name wrong, naturally writing it ‘Johnson.’ This summons is directed to Sydney Fielding, which means me, Elfrida Sydney Fielding, since there is no other Sydney Fielding in existence, and I shall respond to it.”
“Summons! Enrolling officer! Whatever do you mean, Elfie?” inquired Erminie, in growing amazement, which was fully shared by young Ethel.
As for Britomarte, she seemed to know, or guess, the meaning of the whole affair.
“Wait a minute!” said Elfie, breaking the broad seal, and reading the letter, which was half print and half manuscript.
Her companions watched her impatiently.
“I knew it!” she exclaimed, jumping up and singing: “‘We are coming, we are coming, our Union to restore!’”
“Oh, Elfie! Elfie! are you quite distracted?” exclaimed Erminie, in distress.
“No, my dear, I am not ‘distracted;’ I am only drafted!” said Elfie.
“Drafted!” exclaimed all, in a breath.