"I wish you would admit him."
"Into the ranks?"
"Yes."
"My dear Ira, you forget that we may have to fight."
"I don't."
"What use would Eben be in a fight? He could run."
"That is just it; he might be serviceable when you wanted a message sent."
"I will see him."
Ira went to the door.
"Come in, Eben. The colonel will talk to you."