Then, as Hal and Noll both opened their doors, the soldier added:
"Major Tipton authorized me to add, sir, that the Mexican border trouble has broken out, and that you'll both march soon with your men."
CHAPTER X
ON THE SCENE OF BORDER TROUBLE
THE speed with which a soldier can dress, and do it tidily, would astonish the average civilian.
Very soon after the call had sounded at their doors Hal and Noll, their swords hanging at their left sides and their revolvers belted on, stepped in at headquarters.
"Come right in, gentlemen," called Major Tipton, from the rear office.
Lieutenant Brandon, battalion adjutant, was already with his chief.
"Your first call has come sooner than you expected," smiled Major Tipton. "Captain Foster will be here presently, and then we will go over the matter together. Ah, Foster! Come right in."
Then the orders were made clear.