I told him. Then he asked me a number of questions about my service, to all of which I answered clearly and respectfully.
"You are a young sergeant-major—very young." And he turned to speak to a surgeon. Both looked at me often during this conversation. I maintained always the stiff, erect attitude of the soldier in front of his superior officer.
"You have been recommended for the military medal," at last the general said.
"Yes, sir; my captain told me that he would recommend me for the decoration."
"The recommendation has been confirmed," said the general, "and I have come to give you the medal. I thought," he went on, "that I should meet a veteran, and I find a schoolboy."
I said nothing; indeed, I did not know what to say.
"It does not matter about your age or the length of your service," the general continued; "you have won rank and distinction, and I wish you a prosperous career."
"Thanks, my general."
"Is there anything you want?"
"Yes, my general."