“You are not to go on sentry work to-night.”

I saluted, and went away with Denham, who began to growl:

“The chief’s as cracked over it as you are. But, look here, Val, you must alter your plans.”

“I can’t,” I replied. “I shall go.”

“Of course you will; but you must reshape them so as to take me with you.”

“That’s impossible,” I replied. “But would you go?”

“Would I go? Of course. I should like the fun of it. Here, you must go and tell the chief you feel as if you can’t curry out the business properly unless you have my help.”

I looked at him, laughing.

“I say, who’s cracked now?” I said.

“Well, I believe I am—half,” he replied. “I say, Val, I would like to go with you.”