“Smell him, Corporal.”
Sniff, sniff, from the Corporal, accompanied by a mild chuckle from the remains of the strong squad.
“Silence in the ranks!” roared the Sergeant.—“Well, Corporal Dart? Report.”
“Onions, Sergeant; not drink.”
“Faugh! Lucky for you, Private Smithers, for there’s going to be no mercy next time you are caught.”
“Well, but, Sergeant, this is now, and it aren’t next time.”
“Silence! A man who is going on duty must keep his tongue still. Now then, you know the word and what’s your duty. Sentry-go until you are relieved. Strict watch up and down the river, for no boat is to land. If the enemy come, take him prisoner; but you are not to fire without cause.”
“Without what, Sergeant?”
“Cause, idiot. Don’t you know your own language?”
Plosh!