The Barrington boy's face relaxed into a broad grin.
"Captain," said he, "what sort of an organization is this any way—a mob or a military company?"
"Now, what is the use of your asking such a question as that?" demanded the captain, rather sharply.
"Well, then, if it is a military company, I suppose you intend to be governed by military rules, do you not?"
"Of course we do, if we have brains enough to find out what those rules are."
"I have no fears on that score; and when you find out what those rules are, you will see that you have no business to let me go out on a scout as often as I please."
"What's the reason I haven't?" exclaimed the captain. "I command the company, don't I?"
"You certainly do."
"And haven't I a right to do as I please?"
"That depends upon circumstances. Do you intend to remain right here about home?"