“And there isn’t a man in the regiment who wouldn’t do anything for you, sir.”
“I suppose not, Smithson; but, as I was going to say, if the colonel and the major didn’t like me, I should always be in hot water, for I’m horribly stupid over the movements.—Ready?”
“Quite, sir.”
“Then let’s begin. There! I’ve forgotten it all, and I get so nervous my fingers grow quite damp. Now, then, to begin.”
Dick beat a bar, raised his flute, and blew a note.
“I beg your pardon,” said the lieutenant; “I was not quite ready. Again, please.”
A fresh start was made, and in his nervousness the officer was too soon.
Then a couple more starts were made, and the lieutenant laid down his flute.
“It’s no good!” he cried, pitifully. “I always seem to make a fool of myself in everything I attempt.”
“You only want confidence, sir,” said Dick. “Try again.”