"We were trying to get to the front, so we took the opportunity to help them load up, and just came along after we got through," said Alfred.
"Where did you get your uniforms?" he asked.
"We wore these while we were in the service," replied Ralph, and, as the latter said this, he drew out the discharge paper, and Alfred took pleasure in doing likewise.
The officer glanced at the papers, nodded his head approvingly, and said: "Those credentials are certainly creditable to you. We admire Americans, and assure you we have the utmost respect for the American boy. Do you wish to enter the service? We can use brave fellows like yourselves."
"We are trying to join the artillery," said Ralph, "but we haven't succeeded so far in getting a position."
"I am sorry I cannot be of any service to you in that direction," responded the officer, "but I can commend you to the commanding general, in submitting my report."
On leaving the building they passed a group of men, who, evidently, were discussing the incidents of the afternoon, for, as they approached, some of the men saluted them, and one of them held up his hand to stop them.
"I am requested to say that Count Le Clery wishes to see you," he said.
They looked at him in a bewildered way. "Count Le Clery, who is he?" asked Alfred.
"You will find him in the hospital, ward 8," was the reply.