"Yes, he's one of my young men, though I've not seen him yet. What then?"
"Can I speak to you for a minute alone?"
"If it's on regimental business, I shall listen to you, of course; but if it's some nonsensical love affair, you must go to Colonel Sword. I never trouble myself about such matters."
"If I could see Colonel Sword, madam"—
"Why can't you see him? Go into the commandant's room. You'll find him rocking the cradle of Tippoo Wellington, my youngest son! That other box, Henicky, L. M. And who is this old man with you?" continued Mrs Sword. "Your attorney, I suppose? See that you aren't ducked at the pump before you get out, old man; for I allow no lawyers inside these walls."
"Ma'am?" enquired Mr Clam, bewildered at the sudden address of the officer in command.
"It's a fact, as you'll find; so, make haste, young woman, and Sword will settle your business."
"Captain Hope is not come on shore yet, I believe?" said the lady.
"Charlie Hope? No! he's bringing the men and baggage. Has he deserted you too? Go to Sword, I tell you; and let your legal friend retreat without beat of drum. How many chests is this, Henicky?"
The Amazonian Mrs Sword proceeded with her work, and Mr Clam stood stupified with surprise. His companion, in the mean time, proceeded as directed to the commandant's house, and in a short time found herself in presence of Colonel Sword.