“Well.” The Major frowned and made his profile look like Wellington. “There were no planes flying,” he said. “I had to get back. The General wanted my report and this was the only way I could come. It could have been worse,” he added and he knew as he said it that he was sounding foolish to Hodges, if not to himself.
“We certainly appreciate that, Barkison. Not many people would have done it,” said the Colonel.
Major Barkison was about to say something further when the Chaplain walked up to him to say goodbye. The Major spoke with the Chaplain for a few minutes. He liked O’Mahoney but Chaplains generally did not appeal to him. They exchanged goodbyes.
“Got some good news for you, Barkison,” said the Colonel when the Chaplain had left.
“What is it?”
“You’ve been promoted, Colonel.”
Major Barkison was very happy. The congratulations which flowed in around him made up for the fear in which he had spent the past few days.
“When did it come through?” he asked finally.
“Day before yesterday. I got something for you.” The Colonel searched in one of his pockets and brought forth two silver Lt Colonel’s leaves. “I’ll pin them on,” he said. He managed to get the Major’s insignia off but his hands got cold before he could pin the new insignia on.
“Oh, hell,” said the Colonel, handing the leaves to Barkison. “Put them on later.”