"'A soldier takes his knocks as he gets them,' was his comment, 'but I had no expectation of taking Lieutenant Smith's place so soon.
"'Perhaps you won't need to. A night's rest will do wonders, mayhap the injury is more imaginary than real,' I said.
"'I know the effects too well to be deceived. The injury is too devilish to heal in a week or fortnight, either,' he replied, drily.
"'Why go with us at all, then?'
"'Because I'm wanted when I get there. I won't be in anybody's way, except for the riding instead of walking, and as yours is the most comfortable sleigh for an invalid, I fear, dear madam, I must crave your indulgence—Say, Manning!' he exclaimed to Harold, who just then joined us. 'I was telling your wife that Smith gives such a capital report about your sleigh that I feel like begging the privilege of occupying a part of it for the next two or three days.'
"Harold winced and flushed as well. Was he, too, getting suspicious?
"'I think that might be arranged satisfactorily, dearie,' he said to me in somewhat constrained tone.
"'That depends upon the Captain's meaning,' I replied. 'It would be too much for me to give up your seat when it is your turn to ride. But for the rest of the time it is different.'
"'Thank you,' responded Cummings. 'That is exactly what I mean.'
"So in order to secure half a loaf he asked for a whole one, and got it without demur. How could I help it?"