“It’s because of the review, I suppose, sir. The lads are all tumbling up as if there was some alarm. I ain’t half dressed.”
“Alarm! Nonsense! Sha’n’t get up till the regular time.”
“Hi! Hullo, Maine!” and Captain Down’s voice was heard outside. “Are you nearly ready? Company’s all turned out.”
“Ready—no! What’s the matter?”
“Don’t quite know, but I think we are being attacked. The watch have come in with news that a strong party of the Malays are approaching by the forest path, out beyond the campong.”
“What stuff!” cried Archie, beginning to dress sleepily. “It’s the country-people coming in to see the show.—Here, you, Peter Pegg, why don’t you get a light? Who’s to see to dress?”
“Slip into your things, man,” cried the Captain irritably. “No nonsense. Recollect where we are.”
“Oh, all right,” grumbled Archie. “I know it’s only a false alarm.”
“False alarm or no, the Major was half dressed before I came on here.”
“Oh, all right,” grumbled Archie again; “I’ll manage.—Pete,” he whispered, “try to get me a cup of coffee.”