"Why, I thought he was drill-master."
"Of awkward squads—yes,"
"Then can't you see that that is another reason why we need you in that berth? We all belong to the awkward squad now. You'll have to take it. We need a drill-master, and must have some one who knows enough to keep the company's books; and that's more than that friend of Randolph's can do. I want nothing for myself, for I am not a military man. Hubbard will come in for captain without opposition. It's the place he ought to have, for he has done more for us than anybody else, and Odell and Percy will be the lieutenants. Put those in the box when the time comes."
Rodney took the ballots that were placed in his hand, and just then some one called out:
"Oh yes, oh yes, oh yes! All you Rangers fall in in single rank here in front of headquarters, and be ready to cast your votes for captain."
Rodney laughed heartily.
"That's the deputy sheriff," said the recruit with whom he had been conversing, as the two hastened toward the captain's tent. "There isn't much military about that order."
"It'll do," replied Rodney. "The boys seem to understand it, and what more do you want?"
"Now answer to your names," continued the deputy; whereupon Rodney laughed again.
"What ought he to have said?" inquired his friend.