"Sergeant," continued Captain Cortland, "I am very sorry to say that six of B Company's men have violated their pledge and have not returned from leave. Doubtless all of them are in Mason City at this moment."
"Yes, sir."
"Take a detail of six men, reporting their names to Sergeant Gray, and start with as little delay as possible for Mason City."
"Yes, sir. May I ask a question?"
"Certainly."
"If I should meet any of the missing men on their way back here shall I place them under arrest?"
"If you find them at a greater distance than one hundred yards of this camp, Sergeant, put them in arrest and take them into Mason City and back again with you."
"Very good, sir."
"And don't allow any man to have any amusement whatever in Mason City after you arrest him."
"Very good, sir."