"Nine miles!" he exclaimed. "That may be an easy march for seasoned troops, but my men have been three weeks on shipboard."
"Sorry, sir, but that's the shortest route."
"Thanks; we'll camp right here." The colonel was emphatic.
"In the rain?" the Englishman inquired in some surprise.
"Yes. What of it?"
"Nothing, sir; but it seems unusual, that's all."
"We're unusual people," the colonel answered dryly. "Quartermaster, get out the rubber sheets and blankets. The station platform will be our bed."
The transport officer saluted and retired.
The adjutant was weary and sleepy. He had vainly tried a stimulating Scotch or two to rouse his lagging spirit.
"Fall in, men," he shouted. "'Shun! Right dress. Quartermaster, issue the blankets, please."