"Thank you, my boy. You may see what I do with it."
Rising, Lieutenant Denton crossed to an open fire that was burning low. He laid the envelope across the embers.
Prescott, too, rose, feeling that the interview was at an end.
"Just a moment more of friendly conversation, Prescott," continued the lieutenant, coming forward and taking the cadet's hand. "I want you to remember that you are not to write or send in any other letter of resignation until you have first talked it over with me. And I want you to remember that a soldier should be a man of faith as well as of honor. Further, Prescott, you may feel yourself wholly at liberty to explain, at any time, what your orders from me were that led to your catching and reporting Mr. Jordan."
"Thank you, sir; but I'm afraid I shan't be asked for any further explanations."
"Seek me, at any time, if there is anything you wish to ask me, or anything that puzzles you."
"Yes, sir; thank you."
Dick had again placed his fatigue cap on his head, and was standing rigidly at attention. They were once more tactical officer and cadet.
"That is all, Mr. Prescott, and I am very glad that you came to see me," continued the officer in charge.
Prescott saluted, received the officer's acknowledging salute, turned and left the office.