"You will fill out these papers," Private Aldridge explained to the boys, after he had led them to the high desk. "I think all the questions are plain enough. If there are any you don't understand then ask me."
It was a race between Hal and Noll to see which could get a pen in his hand first. Then they began to write.
The first question, naturally, was as to the full name of the applicant; then followed his present age and other questions of personal history.
For some time both pens flew over the paper or paused as a new question was being considered.
When he came to the question as to which arm of the service was preferred by the applicant Noll turned to Hal to whisper:
"Is it still the infantry?" young Terry asked.
"Still and always the infantry," Hal nodded.
"All right," half sighed Noll. "I'm almost wishing for the cavalry, though, so I could ride a horse."
"The infantry is best for our plans," Hal replied.
When they had finished making out their papers Hal and Noll went back to the sergeant's desk.