CHAPTER II
BRAINS VS. BRAWN
Up Thirteenth Street came the measured tread of marching feet, and two companies of infantry turned the corner into New York Avenue. The soldiers marched with guns reversed and colors furled. A few passers-by stopped to watch the sad procession. Suddenly they were startled by peal on peal of merry laughter, which came from a bevy of girls standing in front of Stuntz's notion store. Instantly two officers left their places by the curb and walked over to the little group.
"Your pardon, ladies," said Lloyd sternly. "Why do you laugh at a soldier's funeral?"
The young girl nearest him wheeled around, and inspected Lloyd from head to foot.
"What's that to you, Mr. Yank?" she demanded impudently.
"Nothing to me, madam; but for you, perhaps, Old Capitol Prison."
"Nonsense, Lloyd," exclaimed his companion, Major Goddard. "I am sure the young ladies meant no intentional offense."
Lloyd's lips closed in a thin line, but before he could reply a girl standing in the background stepped forward and addressed him.