"Surely."
"Right in the middle of that you'll find the tent of the company officers. They're asleep, I guess. Sergeant Hupner is commander of the guard, and Lieutenant Prescott is officer of the day."
"Thank you. Corporal."
"Proceed!"
Two minutes later the bunkies were halted by one of the camp sentries. Then they hurried direct into camp.
At a distance of some twenty yards young Lieutenant Prescott was found seated on the ground, talking in low tones with Sergeant Hupner. The young West Pointer leaped quickly to his feet when he saw the soldier boys approaching.
"Sir," announced Hal, saluting, "we report our return to the company."
"You've completed this afternoon's duty?"
"Yes, sir—and much more."
"How more?" queried Lieutenant Dick Prescott, eyeing them closely.