"Inspect the second platoon, Lieutenant Hampton."
With that the company commander himself passed behind the backs of the men of the first platoon, looking each man over keenly.
"Private Hooper, fall out!" ordered Captain Cortland sharply.
When the captain had finished his own work, and Lieutenant Hampton had reported all men in the second platoon to be soldierly in appearance, Captain Cortland turned to Bill Hooper with a look of disapproval.
"Private Hooper, this is the third time within a month that you've failed to report in neat and soldierly appearance. Who is in charge of your squad room?"
"Sergeant Hupner, sir."
"Sergeant Hupner," resumed the captain, "what have you to say to this man's appearance?"
"I ordered him, at least a half an hour ago, sir, to clean himself up."
"Keep right after Private Hooper, Sergeant. If he fails again to keep himself as a soldier should, report him to the first sergeant."
Hooper's face burned darkly. Even honest Sergeant Hupner flushed. A shiftless soldier is a sore trial to the sergeant responsible for him.