"Attention!" Private Overton rapped out sharply. "You are all under arrest for over-staying your leave!"
"Forget it, and get outside as quick as you can," growled Private Dowley.
"You are all under arrest," Hal repeated firmly.
With an oath Dowley leaped up, retreated to the far end of the room and picked up a club. With this in his hand, he wheeled about, glaring angrily.
Corporal Minturn and Private Hooper were also on their feet.
"Get out of here, you little tin soldier!" roared the corporal, who appeared to have imbibed more than either of his companions.
"Come, start, you kid gun-toter," insisted Bill Hooper.
"Stop your nonsense, men," Hal replied, gazing at them steadily. "I have told you that you are under arrest."
"Floor him with that club, Dowley!" ordered Hooper.
"Won't I, though—just!" retorted Dowley, adding an oath as he leaped forward.