"Yes, sir," replied Hal Overton, as the soldier boys saluted.
Lieutenant Prescott strode off down the street, a splendidly military figure in his officer's khaki uniform which, despite the hardships of the last days, he had kept almost immaculate.
"A mighty fine young officer," murmured Noll, gazing admiringly after the lieutenant.
"One of the best that they turn out of West Point, I reckon," replied Private Overton.
Then the two young privates devoted themselves to sight-seeing.
Punctually at the moment, however, both were in the lobby at the Mason House.
Lieutenant Prescott stepped in at the same moment.
"I'll register you here for a room to-night, men," he said, returning their salutes. "You will also have your evening meal in the dining room. I shall not need your services until morning. Report to me at this spot at 8.30 to-morrow morning."
"Very good, sir," replied both soldier boys, once more saluting.
"Say, a hotel meal will seem like a real luxury—what?" breathed Hal.