"Yes, sir."
"When Sergeant Hupner returns be good enough to say to him that I wish to see him at my quarters. Any time before the call for parade will do."
"Very good, sir."
"If Private Overton is not here when Sergeant Hupner returns, any other man may deliver my message," continued Lieutenant Prescott. "That is all. Good afternoon, men."
The young lieutenant turned and strode from the squad room.
"Somehow," mused Private Hyman, "it takes West Point to turn out a real soldier, doesn't it? No matter how good a man is, or how long he spends in learning the soldier trade, he's never quite the same unless he has the West Point brand on him."
"That's nothing to do with my affair," growled Private Dowley. "Now, Kid Overton, I'll attend to your case."
"Oh, cut it, Dowley," grumbled Private Hyman. "Get out and keep out, or we'll find a blanket and give you a little excitement. Eh, boys?"
"I'm going to polish off this kid for his insults to me," insisted Dowley sulkily.
"Bring the blanket, boys," muttered Hyman wearily.