At a roll-top desk in another corner of the office the adjutant himself, a first lieutenant, was seated.
"We are recruits reporting, Sergeant," announced Hal, in a low tone.
"You have your orders with you?" asked the sergeant-major.
"Yes, Sergeant." Hal handed both sets of papers to his questioner.
At the same time each recruit was alert to salute the officer at the roll-top desk, in case he should look up. But he didn't until the battalion sergeant-major placed the papers on his desk.
"Come here, men," directed the officer.
Both rookies stepped over to his desk, halted and saluted.
"Recruit Privates Overton and Terry?" asked the adjutant, after a glance at the papers.
"Yes, sir."
The adjutant turned to examine a list that lay on his desk.