"But man, the flesh is cut, and the bump is already the size of a hen's egg, and growing. You must have that attended to at hospital."
"I'll do what I please about that," retorted Hinkey.
"No; you'll do as you're told. You will report to First Sergeant Gray at once, and ask his permission to report at hospital without delay."
"Perhaps you think I will," came the disagreeable retort.
"I know you will," said Corporal Overton more sternly, "for it's a military order and you have no choice but to obey. And, if you think I did that purposely——"
"I don't think, Overton. I know you did."
"Then I'll post you as to your rights in the matter, Private Hinkey. When you report to Sergeant Gray for hospital permission, which you will do at once, you can also state that you believe I assaulted you purposely. Then Sergeant Gray will arrange for you to go to Captain Cortland and make regular complaint against me."
"You think I'm a fool, don't you?" jeered Hinkey.
"On that point I decline to commit myself."
"Fine to go and complain against an officers' pet and boot-lick," laughed Hinkey sullenly. "No, sir! I'll go to no officer with a charge against a favored boot-lick!"