CHAPTER VIII
WITH THE CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS
"No other business, Sergeant?" asked Dick, one October morning, as he looked up from the desk in company office at his "top."
"Among the nineteen National Army men drafted into this regiment, sir, are three conscientious objectors who ask to be transferred to some non-fighting branch of the service."
"Send for them," ordered Dick briefly, a frown settling on his brow.
Privates Ellis, Rindle and Pitson speedily reported in the office, saluting, then standing at attention.
"You men are all conscientious objectors?" Prescott asked coldly.
"Yes, sir," said the three together.
"You all have conscientious objections to being hurt?" Prescott went on.
"I have conscientious scruples against killing a human being, sir," replied Private Ellis.