“Oh yes, it’s our secret, Fred.”

“And how we could scare the servants now, by hiding and groaning.”

“Till my father examined and found it all out. I shouldn’t like to look him in the face when he did.”

“No,” said Fred; “it wouldn’t be nice. I say, what stupids we should look!”

“Did you get up so early on purpose to come over here yesterday?” said Scarlett, suddenly.

“No. I was woke up by hearing Captain Miles go.”

“Captain Miles? Who is he?”

“I don’t know; an old fellow-officer of my father, I think. I say, Scarlett, I’m to be a soldier.”

Scarlett laughed, and his companion felt nettled.

“Well,” he said, “I shall grow older and stronger some day.”